Spring break is here. Summer is coming. And for moms with kiddos on school break, that means one thing: swimming. But as much as we love splashing with our little ones, the struggle is real. Between chasing after the kids and jumping in with them, finding the right swimsuit cover-up can lead us straight down the street to Old Oversized T-Shirt Lane. We’ve all been there—trying to wrangle our little ones while simultaneously trying to look okay and, y’know, not fall out of any part of our swimsuit at the pool. These mom-approved Amazon swimsuit cover-ups are gonna be a game-changer.
Swimsuit cover-ups the ultimate mom hack to make us feel more comfortable and confident while still enjoying the sun and water. And let’s be honest, they’re often much cuter than our actual swimsuits (unless you follow our swimsuit guide, in which case, they’ll be equally as cute). Regardless, something to throw on during swim days are a must. So, in honor of all the swim-loving moms and their splashy babes out there, we’ve put together a list of the best mom swimsuit cover-ups from our favorite partner in parenting: Amazon. Snag one or three—we’re going to be ready for anything this summer. We’re moms, afterall. We have to be.
Collared V-Neck Cover-Up Shirt
If you're into cover-ups that don't have to look like cover-ups, this pullover collared v-neck shirt is perfect! Available in multiple colors.
Yes, the user reviews suggest there's a bit of a learning curve for throwing it on, but it's a super popular cover-up that really is really comfy once you get the hang of it!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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Especially when we’re rolling up on the holidays, it makes total sense to start thinking about bumping up your home security. When you’re making travel plans, when your kids are home during school break, when you’re hosting loved ones, making sure you feel like your home is as secure as possible. Of course, no one can guarantee safety. But with DIY home security systems, taking steps to have an extra eye on the people and things you love most is super easy.
Another bonus of DIY home security systems? You can easily customize them. Whether you’re interested in a couple of cameras that you can tap into on your phone, or looking for a full top-to-bottom setup with door sensors, doorbells, and keypads, these systems let you decide what’s best for you. Below are some great options (and some bonus Black Friday deals).
Started by 3 former Amazon employees, Wyze launched with the idea that smart home products should be accessible to everyone. Today, their first product, the Wyze Cam OG, is still one of their most popular, but they’ve added a ton of different options. Indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, garage door controllers, and even an app-controlled camera car, plus security monitoring plans. Wyze offers some of the most cost-effective home security products out there. They also offer lifestyle products like keypad locks and sprinkler automation, so your whole home can be Wyze smart. Right now, get up to 50% off your favorite Wyze products.
There’s a really good chance you’ve heard of SimpliSafe. They’ve been around since 2006, and currently work to protect more than 4 million homes in the U.S. and United Kingdom. Their products are designed to blend into your home with clean, minimal lines that disappear into the background. SimpliSafe offers full 24/7 monitoring, standard monitoring, and self-monitoring plans at super reasonable prices, and you can customize your system with everything from key fobs to smart locks and glass-break sensors. And this Black Friday, take 60% off a new system + get a free outdoor camera with Fast Protect monitoring.
The original Ring Video Doorbell has been making sure no one misses Taco Night since 2012, but they’ve expanded over the years. Every product they make is designed to work together within your own home, as well as connect you with your neighbors and neighborhood happenings through their app. Video doorbells, alarm systems, car systems, and the option of a live Virtual Security Guard make Ring one of the most customizable systems out there. For Black Friday, save up to 50% on select Ring devices.
Cove is one of the newer kids on the block, launching in 2018 with the idea that home security systems should be simple and priced fairly. The Cove Hub is at the heart of it all, connecting all your home sensors to Cove’s monitoring systems. It uses an ethernet system so you don’t have to rely completely on wi-fi, and installation is designed to take around 30 minutes. Customize it with glass-break sensors, door sensors, and indoor/outdoor cameras. Right now, take 65% off equipment + get a free outdoor camera.
What can’t Google do, right? They have a ton of offerings from cellular to audio, but they also offer door locks, cameras, and video doorbells that work together. You can keep an eye on your home at all times, get notified of deliveries, and use the Google Nest Hub to keep it all connected. Google also lets you select front door or outdoor monitoring, so you can decide what system works best for your home. Some of Google’s best deals of the year are happening this Black Friday, too.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
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.
Everything you need to know about the best places to eat, play, and stay in the Palm Springs with kids
Palm Springs is an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and relaxing getaway from Los Angeles—whether it’s just for the weekend or during a school break. With its year-round sunshine and its unique desert landscape, outdoor activities and cultural attractions, there’s something for all ages to enjoy in Palm Springs. For outdoor fun, families can explore the many hiking trails and bike paths that line the valley. For a break from the sun, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers a scenic ride up to the top of Mount San Jacinto. From there, you can explore miles of hiking trails, picnic areas and panoramic views. If your family prefers a more leisurely pace, there are a variety of kid-friendly pools and water parks throughout the city. Families with younger children will appreciate the numerous attractions and activities for kids in Palm Springs. From the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, and the Palm Springs Air Museum. From glamping destinations and luxury resort hotels, to fun adventures and where to grab the best bbq, here are our favorite places to eat, play, and stay when we head to Palm Springs with kids.
The Best Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids
1. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Kate Loweth
For an up-close look at some real desert critters, this zoo plus botanical garden focuses on wildlife from North America and Africa. You can tour exhibits like a replica of a Northeast African village and get personal with some Nigerian dwarf goats. The new Rhino Safari is a spot you'll definitely want to visit and it's right near the giraffes (pay $8 for a chance to feed them!).
Catch some knowledgeable animal chats, feed the giraffes, ride the endangered animal carousel, and explore the vast array of trails that loop through the Sonoran Desert (FYI: the trails are closed in the summer). And finally, plan to spend at least 30 minutes checking out one of the best outdoor G-scale model train exhibits we've ever seen.
Good to Know: Arrive early, when it’s still cool out, you’re likely to catch more animals in action (they prefer to lounge around when the sun’s high in the sky) except for nocturnal animals like the big cats, who tend to come out closer to sunset. When it gets hot, head to the air-conditioned Discovery Center.
47900 Portola Ave. Palm Desert, CA Online: livingdesert.org
Related: Animal Encounters near LA for Kids Wild about Animals
This roadside attraction is impossible to miss on your way into Palm Springs, but we recommend reserving this stop for when you are on your way out of town, headed back to Los Angeles. Touted as the world’s biggest dinosaur museum, you can check out giant robotic dinosaurs (don’t worry, they’re more kitschy than terrifying) for a fee. Let the little ones climb into the mouth of a huge model T-Rex (now in themed paint-suits!), ride the animatronic Brontosaurus, and then search through the sand at the Dino Dig to win a prize.
Good to Know: Stop by on a Sat. or Sun. between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., to score a dinosaur-themed ice cream treat from The Wafflesaurus Truck.
50770 Seminole Dr. Cabazon, CA Online: cabazondinosaurs.com
Related: Dinosaur Bucket List for Kids Who Love These Ancient Beasts
The twisty tree shapes, Cholla cactus forests and blobby boulders in Joshua Tree make wonderful Dr. Suess-style memories for your kids. For a quick day trip, stick to the exhibitions along the main roads. We recommend entering via the south entrance and exiting via the west entrance (or vice versa). This way you can hit up all the hot spots and stop for some hiking along the way. We especially love stopping at the White Tank Campground and hiking to Arch Rock. It is a super easy hike and there were tons of boulders for climbing.
Good to Know: You'll want to make sure you have gassed up your car before you head to the park as gas stations are few and far between near the park entrances. Bring food, water and sunscreen with you, check the weather before you go and do yourself a favor and pay your entrance fee online in advance. You'll save yourself a major headache and avoid the line at the park entrance. If you're looking for the quintessential Joshua Tree photo opp, you'll want to know that most of the official Joshua trees are located near the west entrance (side note: they aren't even trees at all, just a tree-like version of the yucca plant).
Check out their "Current Conditions" page for closures as well as their calendar page where you can catch a "Ranger Chat" for an in-depth expert view of what happens in this national park.
Joshua Tree Visitor Center 6554 Park Blvd. Joshua Tree, CA Online: nps.org
Related: More National Parks to Visit near Los Angeles
4. Footgolf
That's not a typo—footgolf is a thing and almost any age can play making this a must-do for a family-friendly activity in Palm Springs. Rather than swing a club, you kick around a soccer ball and try and make it into the 21"-sized holes. It's golf crossed with soccer if you will. You can rent soccer balls on site (no need to bring your own) as well as a golf cart—which let's face it, is half the fun for the little ones.
38995 Desert Willow Dr. Palm Desert, CA Online: desertwillow.com
You've seen that giant windmill farm in the Coachella Valley, en route to Palm Springs plenty of times, but how much do you really know about the iconic site? For $49 per car (up to five people) you can take a self-guided driving tour and learn how windmills work, why there are so many in the desert, and how much electricity they produce. The tour consists of 10 stops, with two additional (optional) stops off property.
62950 20th Ave. Palm Springs, CA Online: windmilltours.com
6. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Even pool-obsessed kids can sometimes have enough sunny splash time. Try a favorite, midday break with a change of scenery and climate. This tramway, built in the 60s, will take you and yours 2.5 miles above the desert floor into the San Jacinto mountains and the snowy wilderness awaiting at the top. Kids will love the rotating tram, which guarantees spectacular views no matter where you’re seated. There are dining options at the top so don't worry if your brood gets hungry.
If there is snow, you can have a snowball fight, go sledding, snow-shoeing or cross-country skiing before descending back to the balmy poolside oasis of your hotel. (Check out our aerial tram guide for the tricks of a perfect trip). Even when it's not snowy, it's a lot cooler at the top, and fun for kids to explore the hiking and walking trails, and take in the jaw-dropping views.
Altitude sickness can occur so pay attention to your body, drink lots of water and if you or your kids are afraid of heights, this may not be the experience for you. It's not for the faint of heart but totally worth it once you get to the top.
If your kids get tired of the hotel pool or you've rented a place without a spot to splash, head over to the Palm Desert Aquatic Center where non-residents can take advantage of the various pools, multiple slides, diving boards, and a variety of play features on site that are designed to delight water lovers of all ages.
73751 Magnesia Falls Dr. Palm Desert, CA Online: pdpool.com
Expected to Reopen 2023: Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert
While the museum has been forced to close due to the pandemic-related challenges, the plan is to reopen the museum in 2022 through community support and fundraising efforts. Keep your eye on the developments as this is a gem of a spot for kids, especially when it's too hot to stay outside. If you'd like to donate and support this valley institution, visit cdmod.org
Nestled on 45 acres of lush landscape with epic mountain views, splash-loving kids will go gaga over HyTides, the Hyatt Regency’s brand new water park with 30-foot dueling water slides, lazy river and splash pad. For kids that don’t meet the water slide requirement, there’s another water slide just for them! With plenty of dining options, a spa and tennis courts for the parents, this spot has the foundation for an epic weekend (or even longer) stay.
See what a weekend looks like when you stay at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa.
44600 Indian Wells Lane
Indian Wells, CA Online: hyatt.com
2. JW Marriott in Palm Desert
This sprawling resort is the kind of spot that is perfect for multi-generational stays thanks to fantastic amenities that appeal to everyone in the family. Of course there’s the well-known spa and golf courses, but kids will love the recent addition of California’s largest indoor “Entertainment Zone” full of arcade games and a bowling alley—a must-go option when the heat gets to be a bit much.
Don’t miss feeding the flamingos on the front lawn (look for the babies!) or swing by the free-to-enter aviary where parrots and other tropical birds happily chirp (and sometimes talk). Reserve a gondola ride around the property and then disembark at Mikado—a Japanese steakhouse that serves mouth-watering food along with a side of fun and flying shrimp. At night, you can hang out in the lobby for cocktails and listen to live music. And, do not, we repeat, do not miss out on night swimming. The whole family will love splashing around under the night sky full of stars. There’s so much happening on site, that there’s really no reason to leave the property if you don’t want to—delivering a perfect family vacation whether it’s just for the weekend or for a bit longer.
Insider Tip: Ask for a major suite—you can connect additional rooms which makes it convenient if coming with a larger group.
74-855 Country Club Dr.
Palm Desert, CA Online: marriott.com
Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs
3. Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs
The hotel chain's first west coast location, Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs marries the mid-century Palm Springs aesthetic with Margaritaville’s casual-luxe island feel. There are two pools on the property, two restaurants and it boasts the area's largest resort spa (when you are ready for some kid-free time). It's also located within minutes of downtown, placing you and your family in the middle of the town's action. Read more all about our visit to Margaritaville Resort with kids.
1600 North Indian Canyon Dr. Palm Springs Online: tinybeans.com
Located just south of Indian Wells, this is one of the biggest and most family-friendly resorts around with cabanas, poolside food, and beverage service. Everyone will love the 41 pools and 53 hot spas, as well as the 5 resort golf courses designed by PGA biggies like Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman. This secluded resort is not only family-friendly but it’s also pet-friendly with activities to enhance your pet’s stay as well. Want to know more?
PS: We’ve got the inside scoop on why kids and adults love La Quinta Resort & Club.
49-499 Eisenhower Dr.
La Quinta, CA Online: laquintaresort.com
With the largest pool in the Palm Springs area, this resort has families in mind. The zero-entry pool and sandy beach is awesome for the little ones while the wide expanse of the rest of the pool means the bigger kids have the freedom to swim until they are exhausted.
Prepare for great eats at Sirocco Pizza Company, making fireside s’mores treats by the outdoor fire pits, lots of ping pong tournaments and of course, comfy and generously-sized accommodations. Plus there’s a kid’s club for some parental downtime. Check out more reasons to stay at this family-friendly resort near Palm Springs.
44-400 Indian Wells Ln.
Indian Wells, CA Online: renhotels.com
7. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort in Rancho Mirage
One word: Splashtopia. Sounds awesome, right? And it is. This knock-your-socks-off water feature, nearly two acres big, has two 100-foot water slides, a 425-foot lazy river, a jacuzzi with cliff views and a sandy beach. You can spend all day, every day here—just order food from Splash Grill and you’re good to go.
If little eaters would prefer something more familiar, check out the River complex shopping and dining complex across the street that has restaurants like Cheesecake Factory and P.F. Chang’s. Also, there’s a movie theater in case you want to catch a flick after a day of fun in the sun.
Come for the mountain views or the fantastic golf courses, or just to unwind with your family (pets included!). Enjoy three pools, including a 75-foot water slide, play some tennis (they offer kids lessons), rent a bike or de-stress with a relaxing spa treatment.
For an ultra-hip stay, this resort is both boho-chic and kid-friendly, in that artsy, "I woke up like this" sort of way. Bring some marshmallows to roast on the outdoor fireplaces, play with your pooch in the dog park out back, or take the kids for a short bike ride downtown for some vintage clothes shopping and plan to rock your retro finds poolside.
701 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA Online:acehotel.com
Want to avoid hotels? Palm Springs has plenty of short-term rentals and this is home one of favorites. The fully renovated 1960s pad has 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, and room enough for 10 guests. The decor is modern, yet warm with a whimsical bedroom featuring two twin beds for kids. There's also a pool and fire pit for outside fun.
Another Airbnb option, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is a bright and cheery retreat with a large pool, BBQ area and bocce ball court. Added bonus: There's an indoor rec room featuring a ping pong table and gaming console that kids will love.
Go here first thing in the morning for an authentic diner that delivers a fantastic breakfast. The coffee is strong and the pancakes are fluffy (the kid's Cub Cake is too cute!). Go early since lines can form out the door but lollipops are handed out with a smile for all. If you can stand the wait, get the German Pancake. There’s a reason everyone raves about them.
1030 E. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA Online:eatatelmers.com
2. Sherman’s Deli
Big breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, both kosher (and not) can be found at both Sherman’s Deli locations. Try the hot corned beef (it's famous for a reason). And save room for one of the beautiful desserts in the display case.
401 E Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA Online:shermansdeli.com
3. Cheeky’s
A spot to see and be seen. The mouth-watering, seasonal, made from scratch menu changes weekly as this restaurant strives to use the freshest, locally grown, organic ingredients. FYI: Expect long waits if you get there late (but totally worth it).
622 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA Online:cheekysps.com
A simple burger might be the best bet in the middle or at the end of a long day, so try Tyler’s Burger stand. It’s popular, so go well before your crew gets hangry.
For a uniquely Palm Springs experience, consider a stop at The Shields Date Garden (just look for the larger-than-life knight in shining armor) and The Walk at Shields—where, for $5 a person (kids under 12 are free), you can stroll along a garden path that meanders through a 17-acre date farm. After, hit the gift shop to peruse offerings like locally grown dates, date crystals (like sugar), date granola, and must-try date shakes (we’re sensing a theme). Feeling hungrier thanks to the walk? Grab breakfast or lunch at The Cafe at Shields, open from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
A sweet treat in downtown Palm Springs, not only is it the best toffee you’ll ever taste—no joke—the whole business was started by two teen friends who wanted to make money for a class trip. Great life lesson for kids, unbelievable toffee for everyone: it’s a win-win. If you want, catch the factory tour in Rancho Mirage.
Good to Know: Craving the toffee treat but not heading to the desert anytime soon? They have a retail location at the Century City Mall.
The next time you’ve got a school break on the schedule, book a room at one of the best hotels in Boston for families and play tourist for a change
Planning the perfect vacation or getaway can be pretty stressful, and sometimes that can detract from the fun. But family fun is our goal and we are here to help. Boston has some of the best destinations and activities to visit with the family year-round, so skip the stress of planning a family getaway and take a Boston staycation instead. With the upcoming school break approaching, you will definitely want to keep some of the best hotels in Boston for families in mind as easy destinations for a well-deserved family reset.
Looking for relaxation with all the perks of a sophisticated, first-class experience? You’d better reserve your stay at the Omni Boston Hotel. Located in the Seaport, this is one of Boston’s newest hotels and features many great ways to keep your family refreshed and entertained. You can take the kids for a swim on the rooftop pool that overlooks South Boston, then treat yourself to an afternoon at the Breve Spa before heading to dinner. Speaking of which, the Omni Boston Hotel has seven great dining options from a bar and grill to a Mediterranean restaurant, Kestra.
Insider Tip: They are also currently offering a Winter Warm Up special in which you can get 15% off if you book your stay before February 26, 2023, plus a $15 dining credit. All great reasons to book a family staycation here for the February break.
Staycation destinations: The Omni Boston Hotel is a short 3-minute drive from the Boston Children’s Museum and a six-minute drive to the New England Aquarium and the historic Faneuil Hall.
Another luxurious family-friendly hotel in Boston to keep in mind is the Omni Parker House. With cozy, modern rooms and surrounded by a plethora of shopping boutiques and cafes, the family will be well rested after a day of activities. The Omni Parker House has four great dining options, including Parker’s Restaurant where you can indulge in the best Boston cream pies around. You can even have it delivered directly to your room as a treat for the kids. They won’t want to go home after getting such royalty treatment.
Staycation destinations: The Omni Parker House is a three minute walk to Boston Common where you and the family can walk the Freedom Trail and even go ice skating at Frog Pond. If your staycation falls on February 22, 2023 you can catch the Children’s Winter Festival, a free event, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can enjoy the live music, children’s activities and treats, and giveaways. Be sure to bring some hot cocoa to keep you warm.
Maybe a Boston staycation isn’t what you have in mind. That’s okay. Do some light packing and get the kids excited for a trip down the coast to Cape Cod and check into the Chatham Bars Inn. Even during the winter months, there’s plenty of activities to keep the family busy, such as yoga, cooking, and painting classes, and even wine tasting. There’s a game room at the Main Inn where kids can spend hours playing complimentary games like ping pong, air hockey, and video games. A special menu is available with classic kids’ favorites like burgers, truffle dogs, and fries to keep the kids fueled while they play.
Staycation destinations: Sailing trips to the Chatham Lighthouse and North Beach Island are available several times a day and whale watching in the Atlantic is a great way to see some oceanic wildlife. Please note, these activities are offered only from May through October.
Do you have music enthusiasts and baseball fanatics in the family? Then the Verb Hotel will surely be one of the best hotels in Boston for your family. Located directly across from Fenway, this won’t be your typical, quiet getaway. There’s so much to do within and outside of the hotel. The interior is decorated with retro, music-themed décor and other collectibles. There is an indoor pool to splash in year-round. There’s also a vinyl library and record players in each room so you can jam out to your favorite rock n’ roll classics. Head over to the Hojoko Japanese Tavern for a sushi dinner after your adventures for the day are over.
Staycation destinations: A short, twelve minute car ride from the Verb Hotel will bring you to the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum. A free, Winter Wonders event will be taking place at the museum on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where kids can experiment in engineering snowflakes using pipe cleaners and other geometric shapes. There will be other winter and water-themed activities. You can also head to Mother’s Rest Playground which is a short walk from the hotel for a crisp day of physical activity. Make sure to dress in layers.
The Great Wolf Lodge is really one of the best family staycation destinations in Massachusetts. Offering a huge indoor waterpark and lots of kid-friendly activities throughout the day, you’re going to have to make sure to book your stay for at least a few nights so the kids get their fill of fun. This wolf-themed resort has fun arts and crafts time, yoga for kids and adults, trivia, and even dance parties. But the real winner is definitely the waterpark. There’s also seven different dining options located right in the Lodge so you really won’t need to leave during your whole stay until it’s time to go home.
Staycation destinations: Once the kids have had their share of water fun, head over to Howlin’ Timbers Play Park (inside the Lodge), where they can choose from activities like mini golf, rock climbing, and bowling.
150 Great Wolf Dr.
Fitchburg, MA Online:greatwolf.com
The Boston Marriott Long Wharf Hotel is probably one of the most family-friendly hotels in Boston, and will easily make for a memorable staycation. With stunning views of the waterfront and large rooms with a modern aesthetic, your kids will be asking to stay an extra night for all the comfort! Go for an early swim in the indoor, heated pool that’s surrounded by windows to give you a beautiful view of the harbor at sunrise and throughout the day. Enjoy a casual dinner at the hotel’s own restaurant, Waterline, or explore the many dining options in the area. Simply watching the ships coming into the harbor from your personal room or catching up on your family’s favorite shows will give you the reset you need.
Staycation destinations: The Boston Marriott Long Wharf is located at the heart of Boston, with attractions like the New England Aquarium, The Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, and the Boston Public Market just a short walk away.
A kid-friendly and luxurious experience is not an easy combination to come by, but the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston brings you just that. Each child is greeted with a free toy of their choice as a welcome gift, that alone will probably be a highlight in the start of their staycation. The hotel features a heated indoor pool on the eighth floor and massage services that you can request to be done in your own room. Feeling pampered yet? The hotel also offers in-room and pool-side dining, so kick your feet up as much as you want (or as much as the kids will allow).
Staycation destinations: For any shopping you want to do during your staycation in Boston, this hotel is a short distance from Copley Place and the Prudential Center. You can also check out Boston Common and the Museum of Fine Arts, which is hosting a number of events in February, like the Lunar New Year Celebration on February 2, 2023. Kids can pick up a Chinese brush painting art kit at the event and enjoy Vietnamese music and dance.
Try these seven tips and find the best price for your next plane ticket
Family vacations mean special memories and a ton of fun, but the price tag for airfare often creates barriers to the perfect getaway. The days of stalking last-minute flight deals are over. Now, it’s all about planning, flexibility, and a little luck. Also, you must be decisive and book when the prices drop because those rarely last. So, get ready to plan your next family vacation and save money on airfare whenever you book a ticket.
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Stay Flexible
Yes, we get it; the dates aren't flexible if you plan to travel over the holidays or during a school break. But if you have the option to stay flexible, airfare often goes up and down depending on your travel dates. Scott Keyes, co-owner of Scott's Cheap Flights, explains that Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday are the cheapest days to travel. Conversely, Friday and Sunday are usually the most expensive days. Also, he talks about the importance of flipping your vacation planning around. Search for destinations with inexpensive airfare first, then pick your dates based on the prices. Again, it's all about flexibility.
Book Flights at the Right Time
You've heard timing is everything. Well, with airfare, that is true. Veteran travelers know the best day to buy plane tickets used to be Tuesday. But according to Expedia, Sunday is the prime day for buying the cheapest plane tickets in 2023. However, book on Friday, and you may spend as much as 15% more on international and 5% on domestic flights. Either way, save that money by booking your flights on a good day. Also, you'll find the best prices 1-3 months before a domestic flight and anywhere from 2-10 months before an international flight.
Watch Flight Deals (and book!)
Track your destination, dates, and prices via Google Flights, Momondo, etc. You can set email and text alerts to get all the price changes in real-time. The tricky part is knowing when to break out the credit card. The good news, most airlines give you a 24-hour grace period to cancel your ticket after booking. But be sure to read the fine print before you finalize your reservations, and go for it while the prices are low.
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Sign up for Fare Alerts
In a time when every tip and hack is available all over the internet for free, it is difficult to think about paying for an alert subscription. It is worth it. Deal alert websites and newsletters charge a fee to provide real-time deal alerts based on your travel interests and parameters. You can set your notifications to fit your schedule and needs. Websites like Scott's Cheap Flights and Thrifty Traveler offer instant deals, alerts, and elusive error fares. These websites are the perfect place to start if you are ready to book your flights at a moment's notice.
Put Your Money to Work
Search Facebook for groups with thousands of members teaching everyone else how to earn free travel through travel-centric credit cards. Unfortunately, sometimes the how-tos of credit card points read like a college textbook. But the work is worth it in the end. Hotel credit cards are a great option if you often book both airfare and hotels together. For instance, the Hyatt Visa Card includes free nights each year and an excellent point-for-dollar match.
Secret Hack: Get Near Your Destination and Travel from There
Start by finding the best price for airfare from your starting location to anywhere on the same continent as your final destination. For example, it is often cheaper to fly a budget airline like Ryanair from place to place in Europe or take a bus to your final destination in South America. Get creative to find the best price, and stay flexible throughout the planning process.
Consider Budget Airlines
Flying is a means to an end. You want to save your money for the fun you are going to have in your destination, not on the flight. Check out airlines like French bee (which offers direct flights to Paris and Tahiti from the US for cheap) in addition to the more well-known carriers. They may not have all the frills of the larger airlines but they'll get you where you need to go with more money in your pocket.
Looking for something to do with the kids to prevent boredom over winter break in New York City? Look no further!
We’re deep in the NYC holiday season, and that means the kids will be off from school for more than a week soon. (NYC public schools are off from December 24 to January 2.) You won’t want to stay at home when there’s so much to do in NYC while the kids are off from school! Check out fun things for kids to do in NYC over the winter break, both indoor and out.
There's so much to do this holiday season that we made a huge list of over 80 events, many of which are completely free. Find something perfect for your fam in our roundup, which includes Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa celebrations, photos with Santa, explorations of nature, ice skating, Nutcracker and holiday shows, and so much more. During the winter break, you can take your pick of activities, whether you want to make gingerbread houses with Taste Buds Kitchen, do some caroling at Washington Square Park, or join a Kwanzaa dance party at the Staten Island Children's Museum—to name just a handful of the many options.
School's out, but it's cold outside… it's the perfect time to head to a museum! NYC has a huge selection of museums, and many of them are designed in a way that's meant to engage the whole family, from the smallest tot all the way up to grandma and grandpa. Some of our favorite kid-friendly museums include the NY Hall of Science, where touching the exhibits is a part of the fun and learning experience, as well as the younger-child-oriented Children's Museums in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Staten Island. For more ideas, check out our favorite NYC museum exhibits in this roundup. Or, find a museum that offers free admission for a more affordable day out by scrolling to the last section in our monthly free events post.
Governors Island is open year round for the second year, which means the Winter Village is back! The winter wonderland includes a 7,500-square-foot ice skating rink open Thursdays through Sundays as well as all DOE holidays—so you can skate all winter break! Plus, Thursday skating is free (though it's first-come, first-serve, no registration is available). The Winter Village also has plenty of fun to keep the family busy when they're not on the ice including lawn games, fire pits (Thursdays through Sundays), sled and bike rentals from Blazing Saddles, holiday lights galore, and a rotating selection of food trucks that offer bites and beverages for sale.
Part of the fun of the holiday season is the decor. After all, there are entire tours done of the most festively decked-out houses in NYC! Why not bring the festivities to your lunch, as well? These 11 restaurants have some of the most Christmassy, over-the-top decorations to fill you with holiday cheer and brighten up the whole family's dining experience. This holiday break, enjoy your meals in a cozy rooftop glass cabin, eat at the bedazzled Rolf’s Bar & Restaurant, and more.
Winter break is a great time to put on your hiking boots and go explore. Head out of the city for a daycation in the wintery landscapes and attractions within driving (or train) distance from the center of the city. Places like Bear Mountain, the Storm King Art Center, and Sleepy Hollow are all within two hours of NYC and make for excellent day trips even in the cold of winter. We have a whole list of other great winter family day trips to get you inspired, as well as a list of some great hikes that are even better when made in the winter.
If you prefer to stay indoors, you could always pay a visit to an indoor family hot spot like the American Dream Mall for indoor winter sports, ice skating, a water park, and amusement park, and stores a plenty, or the Liberty Science Center to take a Holiday Adventure complete with a snowflake maze, sock skating rink, winter train ride, laser light and music show, dance party, and more.
Take advantage of the early evening hours by visiting a light show. There are spectacular light attractions within and outside the city, where whimsical sculptures are lit by thousands upon thousands of twinkling lights for a mesmerizing experience. Some light shows let you wander around among the lights, while others let you stay in the warmth of the car and drive through amazing displays. Check out our roundup of this year's most dazzling light shows here!
Can't get enough of those hikes we mentioned in the previous section, or just have a family that thrives outdoors no matter the weather? NYC's parks and outdoor spaces have plenty of offerings to keep you going out and exploring nature throughout the winter break. Check out the NYC Parks page for events during the break, and you're sure to find something to lure the fam to the great outdoors. Whether you're avid or amateur bird watchers, want to hone your yoga and dance skills al-fresco, or just want to take a hike closer to home, the city's got you covered.
Train enthusiasts young and old will enjoy the train shows NYC has lined up this year. Marvel at model trains zipping through an enchanting display of more than 175 famous New York landmarks at the New York Botanical Garden, or check out the historic collection of model trains over the years at the NY Historical Society. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can take a ride on an actual train heading to the "North Pole," complete with hot cocoa, performances, and visits from Santa himself!
There's always something to do at your local library. Public libraries in NYC are like community centers, from free art or coding classes, to read-alongs and magic shows.Libraries across all the city's boroughs are closed on Christmas weekend (Sat.-Mon. in Brooklyn and Queens, Fri.-Sun. in the other boroughs) and New Year's weekend (Sat.-Mon. everywhere). This means you can visit during the holiday week for events like bilingual storytimes, STEAM-oriented crafting and designing workshops, kid coding sessions, book clubs for different age groups, and so much more.
While there's plenty to do around the city this winter break, you may still want to avoid kids bouncing off the walls on days when you need a break. On those days, you can keep kids engaged and active by sending them to a mini-camp at one of the many locations that offer winter break camp around the city. For instance, Speak Italy is offering a three-day mini-camp, where kids will cook, draw, sing, and more. Book a day (or a few) at Aviator's mini-camp and rest easy knowing your kids are climbing, skating, leaping, and tumbling in the space's excellent physical education center. If your child prefers to create and design, The Fashion Class offers kids ages 6-12 a fashion and design themed winter camp, which will see kids design, sketch, and sew their very own wearable garment.
These three are just the tip of the iceberg of NYC's vast offering of winter camps—check with nearby schools, community centers, afterschool programs, and other kid-oriented spaces to find a camp that'll suit your child's needs and likes.
Ever wanted to step into a painting, swim in a sea of ball pit balls, or help Batman capture a villain? You can do all that and more at NYC's many special experiences and pop-up exhibits. There are many to choose from, but here are our favorites:
Sloomoo Institute lets kids play with deliciously scented and textured slimes, and even design their own concoction at the slime bar.
Cricket's Candy Creation gives kids the tools and know-how to make their own edible creations. The space's Sweet Snowflake Celebrations event has many winter- and holiday-themed treats to discover.
Color Factory is an interactive exhibit that plays with colors, with vibrant and whimsical rooms themed around different hues—including a "Slide into the Blue" ballpit room.
Wonderland Dreams is an immersive exhibit that turns the space itself into a work of art inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
Batman x SPYSCAPE is a spy-gadget-filled experience where you help Batman stop a criminal empire from taking over Gotham City.
The circus is back in town for a limited time, so head out to the ring to witness some spectacular shows! The Big Apple Circus is celebrating its 45th anniversary through January 1st, featuring incredible acrobatics, hilarious antics, and an entertaining experience for the whole family. Or, head to the Circus Abyssinia for something a bit different: a high-flying act inspired by Ethiopian runner Derartu Tulu’s 1992 gold medal Olympic win.
Freshmade is coming to your home—both literally and virtually! If you live in Manhattan or Monmouth County, NJ, you can book a cooking class for the little ones in your very own kitchen. Or, join from anywhere with Freshmade's online classes and cook as a family along with the instructors. From curries to flatbreads, classes focus on using fresh and in-season ingredients to make delicious meals that anyone can whip up.
Before the winter break sneaks up on you and the kids have nothing to do, check out these book-worthy winter camps in San Diego that are all about fun
Keeping kids entertained amidst the holiday buzz and extended school break isn’t always easy. Thankfully, winter camps are in full swing throughout San Diego. With options from surfing to junior theater to park ranger activities, these winter camps in San Diego will keep your little one inspired and engaged throughout the break. If you need even more ideas on how to bust boredom all season long, check out our 100 things to do in San Diego guide.
Kick it out! Young athletes can burn energy and improve their soccer skills at this fun and engaging outdoor camp. Your young Ronaldo or Rapinoe will improve his/her technical skills like dribbling, passing and receiving, shooting and finishing, speed, agility, defensive positioning and more. Kids play small and large-sided games to further develop their skills in game situations while learning from expert coaches. Players are encouraged to test the waters, fail, correct, and succeed. So, sign them up for soccer and feel confident that they're learning life skills along with that in-step drive.
Ride the wave this winter! Whether it’s a one-day or three-day camp you are looking for, surf’s up. Teaching kids (5 and older) how to surf is the best way for your little grom to spend the holiday break. Beginners to advanced students are welcome and will learn the basics, etiquette, wave selection and ocean safety. So, sign up and hit the beach.
If you have a teen or pre-teen that loves mangas, comic books, art and storytelling, check out Little Fish Art Camps. The camps are specialized, highly engaging experiences designed to inspire young artists.
A purr-fect camp for animal lovers! Campers age preschool through 6th grade can play with the animals at the Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Winter Critter Camp. Even more, create crafts and get your team spirit on with group activities. With camps offered in Dec. and Jan., there are plenty of times to choose from. Also, discover how animals adapt and survive winter, where they live, and how they move. Then, bonus time, explore the relationships that critters have with humans (you!).
Dates: Dec. 19-Jan. 6 (No camp on Dec. 26 & Jan. 2) Time: Preschool 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; K-6th, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (Extended care is available.) Cost: $75/day for pre-school; $95/day fro K-6
The sparks will fly during the winter camps offered at Camp Fire. Nestled in the paths of Balboa Park, campers enjoy activities ranging from archery, hiking, low ropes challenge courses, park ranger activities, nature crafts and much more. Camp Fire’s goal is to provide kids with the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice and discover who they are through outdoor games, songs, and self-growth skills. Campers are divided into the following age groups: ages 5-7, ages 8-10, ages 11-13 and 9th-12th grade.
Dates: Dec. 19–22; Dec. 27–30; Jan. 3–6 Time: Times vary Cost: $288-$335 (See website for details)
Camp CaHiTo 3101 Balboa Dr. San Diego Online: campcahito.org
6. Fleet Science Center Camps
Young Einsteins, rejoice! The Fleet Science Center has two weeks of winter camp on offer from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Curious scientists in grades 1-3 will experience an array of educational, hands-on activities like designing, testing and retesting as you build tall towers, bridges and structures or develop mechanical toys and learn basic programming skills to direct a small robot through an obstacle course. Always fun and educational. Also, be sure to check out their year-round camps for younger kids.
Dates: Dec. 19-22 & Dec. 27-30 Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $200 for members; $225 for non-members
Calling young thespians! These theater classes are ideal for both students that are used to the spotlight and those new to the stage. Elementary students will enjoy fun-filled days rotating through classes in drama, music, dance and a specialty subject.
Whether you have a budding rock star (ages 4-7) or an intermediate band player (7+) this local Encinitas camp will be singing their tune. Your musical camper will learn to play and appreciate music at a whole new level. During camp, bands will receive coaching from experienced musicians. They'll offer tips and instructions to individual students who want to build their skills. Kids get to truly experience what it's like to be in a rock band.
Dates: Dec. 26-30 Time: 9:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Cost: Varies, see website for details
San Diego’s very own Balboa Park is one of the top attractions in all of California. On a visit to this National Historic Landmark, you’ll find 17 museums to explore, carousels and trains to ride, towers to climb, scavenger hunts, lots of playgrounds, and fun community-wide events throughout the year. Read on for our ultimate guide on what not to miss on your next excursion to this 1,200-acre urban cultural park.
Explore Unbeatable Museums
For budding scientists who like to get hands-on, check out the changing exhibits at the Fleet Science Center. Have a train-obsessed kid? Watch the model trains run the tracks through tunnels, towns and over bridges at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. Stomp and roar with the dinosaurs, open drawers full of butterflies and specimens of all kinds and behold the gemstones dug from the earth at the San Diego Natural History Museum. If your kiddos love cars, planes or rocket ships, you’ve got to take them to the San Diego Automotive Museum and the San Diego Air & Space Museum; they’re right next to each other.
Good To Know: Each of these museums has either a special kid’s play section, storytimes, classes and school break camps.
Whiz around the historic Balboa Park Carousel and try your hand at the ring toss game to win a free ride. All but two of the wooden carousel zoo animals are original from its creation in 1910. Hop aboard the Balboa Park Mini Train next door for a ½ mile ride through a man-made jungle and go through the wishing tunnel. If you go during the winter you’ll see it all dressed up in holiday lights. The train and carousel are towards the zoo; park in the Spanish Village parking lot just south of the carousel.
Hours: Open on weekends, holidays, school breaks and summers.
Climb the California Tower
Go where most people don’t even know you can at Balboa Park…up! Climb the secret staircase inside the California Tower at the Museum of Us. A guide will narrate the tour and lead your group up to the mid-level of the tower for unparalleled views that you didn’t even know were possible. Afterward, stroll around the interactive exhibits of the museum for a fun-filled way to experience this unique museum.
Good To Know: This is allowed for ages 6+, buy your timed tickets online.
Stop in at the Visitor’s Center and ask for the Junior Ranger Scavenger Hunt page, or download it from your computer before your next visit. This will take you all over Balboa Park, learning and seeing things you never knew, even if you’re a seasoned visitor. Older kids will answer the questions and younger kids will cross off their Bingo photos. Return these sheets to the Visitor’s Center and receive your free Junior Ranger Badges.
Good To Know: Depending on your kids’ endurance and walkability energy, this may take several visits to complete. You’ll find restaurants and food stands all over so stop and give those little feet a break in between your scavenging.
After all this exploring, find a playground nearby and let the kids run around for a bit. The closest playground is at Pepper Grove, just south of the Fleet Science Center parking lot. If you’re on the west side of Balboa Park, closer to the Museum of Us, walk across the Cabrillo Bridge and north along Sixth Ave. to the Sixth Avenue Playground. You may want to drive over since it’s a far walk for littles. Way over on the east side of Balboa Park near Morley Field is the Nature Exploration Area. This is a fun all natural play area with large rocks to jump across, logs and dried palm fronds to make forts with and sliced tree stumps that can double as pizza. Two other playgrounds are nearby, one is behind the Bud Kearns Memorial Swimming Pool and the other is the Bird Park Playground at the very northeastern corner.
Good To Know: The only ones with bathrooms nearby are at Pepper Grove and Bud Kearns Swimming Pool.
Balboa Park has over 13 beautifully landscaped gardens in all varieties for you to stroll through, sit in the shade, watch butterflies or smell the sweet roses. The Cherry Blossoms bloom every March at the Japanese Friendship Garden, the roses peak April-June at the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden and there’s usually a butterfly release once a year at the Zoro Butterfly Garden. You’ll find plenty of other gardens to stroll through that are perfect for a relaxing picnic or just to get in touch with nature.
All of the gardens are free to stroll about except for the Japanese Friendship Garden has an entrance fee. This is a beautiful relaxing stroll to take little explorers on before or after a museum visit. Park behind the Spreckels Organ Pavilion––the closest point to the Garden. Kiddos love to look at (and count) the giant Koi fish and jump across the rocks in the stream. Stop for tea time at the Tea Pavilion and order a teriyaki bowl and mochi ice cream too. There’s a lovely outdoor patio outside to sit, eat and enjoy the ambiance.
Good To Know: Kids 6 and under are FREE at the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Tip: Family memberships are inexpensive here and they’re part of the American Horticultural Society reciprocal garden membership program. Membership at one AHS garden will get you free reciprocal admission into other participating garden museums across the nation.
Seasonal Fun
Balboa Park celebrates all year long with various holiday and cultural traditions. The main event was December Nights, drawing thousands of people to experience the park lit up and serving up foods, treats and fun for the holiday. This has changed due the pandemic, but hopefully they’ll bring this back up to its glory soon. Halloween is another fun time to celebrate at the park with trick-or-treat stands, costume contests and sometimes a pumpkin drop. The summer brings Balboa Park After Dark and Food Truck Fridays with live entertainment and kids activities. On Sundays, experience a new cultural tradition each week at the International Cottages. Check the events calendar for other fun events throughout the year!
Balboa Park has plenty of food and drink options to get you through a day of play. Their coffee carts will start your day, the food vendors will keep you going and their casual and sit down restaurants will help you refuel. Here's where to eat and drink your way around Balboa Park.
Start your day with some caffeine options at Daniel’s Coffee inside Spanish Village, at Prado Perk coffee stand next to the Prado Restaurant and at the Craft Café inside the Mingei Museum.
More recently this past year have seen food vendors selling hot dogs, popcorn, churros and other quick grab-n-go snacks. You’ll find these lined up along the main walkways and in the center in front of the San Diego Museum of Art.
If you’re looking for something quick and casual to fill up the kiddos, try these museums’ quick-casual cafes: Craveology inside the Fleet Science, The Flying Squirrel Café inside The San Diego Natural History Museum, Flight Path Grill inside the San Diego Air & Space Museum, Café in the Park just upstairs from the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, the Tea Pavilion next to the Japanese Friendship Garden and Lady Carolyn’s Pub is open one-hour prior to performances at the Old Globe Theater.
For sit-down dining options to enjoy as a date-night or to linger over table service while you rest your feet from all the walking, you’ll find plenty of culinary treasures. Head over to Panama 66 for outdoor dining and wander the hidden outdoor sculpture garden while you wait for your food to arrive. The Prado is Balboa Park’s finest dining restaurant that’s perfect for a special occasion or to make any day extra special. Artifact is the newest restaurant located inside the recently renovated Mingei Museum, where you’ll find carefully crafted dishes from all over the world to delight your taste buds.
Winter break is just around the corner, which means the kids will be home for a few weeks with plenty of free time to fill. This spells “opportunity”—either to spend some extra cash or, better yet—to make some.
Nurture your daughter’s inner entrepreneur by encouraging her to earn some extra coin with one of these eight money-making endeavors.
Pet Sitting
Getting paid to take care of pets without the commitment of having one? Sounds like a perfect way for an animal lover to make a few bucks during this time of year. A lot of families go out of town during winter break, either to spend the holidays with relatives, go skiing or head south for a few days of warmer weather. A simple Facebook post and maybe some flyers around the neighborhood listing your daughter’s availability and rates may be all it takes to drum up some pet-sitting business.
Wrapping Gifts
While many people are flexing their Amazon Prime memberships right now, they may find themselves needing a little support once all those gifts are delivered. If your daughter is a bit of a perfectionist and loves to make things look pretty, she could offer her gift-wrapping services for friends, family and neighbors, charging either per gift or per hour. Bonus points if she can make her own cute gift tags to sell to those who need them.
Helping Host a Party
‘Tis the season for gatherings and parties, now through early January. If your daughter is either comfortable making her way around the kitchen or making small talk with strangers, she could offer her services as a behind-the-scenes mini hostess (helping prepare food, serve beverages, clean dishes, etc.) or offer to greet guests as they arrive and take their coats. She could also keep the little ones entertained and occupied in a playroom (if kids are invited) so the adults can enjoy their time together uninterrupted. Have her advertise her hosting skills via social media, email and through word of mouth (that means you, Mom and Dad).
Making & Selling Candy (or Other DIY Gifts)
Nothing says “holiday season” better than delicious, mouthwatering sweet treats. You and your daughter can take advantage of this time of year by learning how to make some simple candies and selling them via social media. In fact, you can let your friends try them first for free and then ask them to spread the word that you’re making more and taking orders.
Teaching Other Kids
Does your daughter have a hobby she’s especially good at? Or a subject in school that she excels in? Tutoring is a great way to make some extra money as well as new friends, connections and teaching skills that may come in handy down the road. Learning doesn’t have to be confined to the walls of a classroom and during a school break, parents may be especially interested in taking advantage of the downtime by hiring a tutor.
Host a Parent’s Night Out/Babysitting
Whether they’re holiday gift shopping, attending a party or just spending time at home decorating/cooking for upcoming festivities (and wish to be uninterrupted), many parents might appreciate having a time and place they can drop their kids off without having to call a babysitter. You and your daughter can advertise a Parent’s Night Out via social media and take reservations for parents to bring their kids to your place for an evening of good old-fashioned kid-centric fun, including games, special treats and maybe a holiday classic like Elf or Frosty the Snowman. This is also a great way to drum up potential babysitting business for the years to come.
Hot Cocoa Stand
Who says lemonade is the only beverage that deserves a stand? Weather permitting, of course, help your daughter set up an outdoor hot cocoa stand with thermoses full of chocolatey goodness, to-go cups with lids and assorted toppings, like marshmallows, crushed candy canes and whipped cream. She can advertise it via social media, but if you live in a fairly high-trafficked area, she may get quite a few customers just based on the appeal and ingenuity of the idea.
Household Helper
From shoveling snow to taking down holiday decorations, from de-icing sidewalks to cleaning up after a New Year’s Eve party, your daughter can advertise an hourly rate for her services to help other families “get stuff done” during what’s typically a chaotic time of year. She could list the types of chores she’s willing to take on, the dates she’s available to help, maybe partner up with a friend or two and create a fun name for their little cleaning crew—there are all kinds of ways to make a “handy girl” service work. And busy parents may line up to pay for the much-needed extra pairs of hands.
Like these ideas? Check out these girls who’ve turned their money-making ideas into business opportunities.
I've always built businesses, from a childhood gummy bear business to adult gigs at IMAX and Coupons.com. I founded The Startup Squad to help girls reach their potential and my book series, The Startup Squad, is published by Macmillan. I live in Silicon Valley with my wife and two daughters.
Visiting the largest science museum in the western hemisphere isn’t as formidable as it sounds. Although Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) has over 400,000-square-feet of exhibit space, you’ll find that the halls are organized well, and many docents are around to assist. Plus, there’s indoor parking attached to the museum, leading you right into the Entry Hall to start your adventure. Read on and let us help you navigate this local treasure.
Where to Start During a MSI Visit
Grab a museum map and make an action plan for what you’d like to see and do. MSI has more than 35,000 artifacts and several permanent and traveling exhibits—you’ll likely need to prioritize your interests. Exhibits that should top your list include:
Coal Mine – Still cool after all these years, is the museum’s first-ever exhibit, Coal Mine. Since 1933, this guest-favorite has given an insider look down the mineshaft, along the rails and through the walls of a true-to-life coal mine. The experience includes an engaging tour of mining methods and machinery, starting with a feels-real descent that’ll leave you wondering where to punch your time card.
Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle – Another oldie, but goodie is film actress Colleen Moore’s gorgeous dream home, in which she spared no expense on detail. But don’t expect a monster mansion, she thought small when coming up with her big idea. When developing her project, she assembled industry colleagues to craft this miniature home that toured the country during the Great Depression to raise funds for children’s charities.
photo: Wired to Wear,JB Spector \ Museum of Science & Industry
Wired to Wear – The temporary exhibit showcases how digital technology is transforming clothes to enhance our lives. From making us healthier, stronger and safer to helping us see in the dark, express our emotions or even soar through the air at 32mph, you’ll see the merging of technology and the human body on display.
Genetics and Baby Chicks Hatchery – Gain a more in-depth understanding of the building blocks of life and watch as new life emerges covered in fuzzy cuteness in the form of baby chicks.
Science Storms – In one of the most visually stunning exhibits at the museum, kids can walk through a spinning vortex of water vapor, while also having some of the most thought-about weather-related science questions asked and answered.
U-505 Submarine – Wind your way to the bottom floor of the museum and get ready to stand in awe at the sheer size of the craft that cruised the waters of the Atlantic, before it was blown to the surface and captured on June 4, 1944. Get a peek at the cramped living quarters on an interactive walk through this giant piece of wartime history. Walking the outside of the submarine is free with general admission, but the optional on-board tour is an additional charge.
Numbers in Nature: A Mirror Maze – If you pay attention closely, you’ll notice that patterns surround us in nature. The veins on a leaf, the spots on an animal, patterns inspire us at both conscious and subconscious levels. Maybe you think math isn’t your thing, but Numbers in Nature may just be the key to unlocking a new love.
All Board the Silver Streak: Pioneer Zephyr– Take a sleek ride back to 1934 when a squeaky-clean new train named for the Greek god of wind began its dawn-til-dusk ride from Denver to Chicago. In just over 13 hours, it ushered its first passengers in a shiny Art Deco style that was soon to be mirrored in everyday items from transport to toasters.
Events and Experiences to Keep in Mind
Check the website for current happenings—there is always something new going on at MSI. From juried art exhibits and black creativity programming that celebrate Black History Month to thought-provoking films in the dome theater and flight simulators to guided behind-the-scenes tours or hands-on creative activities, MSI has it all. Some reoccurring events that are extra special:
Black Creativity Innovation Studio – During February’s Black History Month, unleash your creative genius and turn everyday materials into solutions for big challenges using design thinking and the innovation process, using the studio to design and test your own prototype. The Innovator Gallery showcases how African-American scientists, engineers, tech professionals and healthcare leaders are transforming our city.
Black Creativity: Juried Art – Established in 1970, the Juried Art Exhibition is the nation’s longest-running exhibition of African-American Art, presenting more than 100 works of art from emerging and established African American artists. This art exhibit can also be viewed during February’s Black History Month.
Dream It, Design It, Fab It – All the cool STEM input you receive walking around MSI might inspire you to try your hand at creating. The Wanger Family Fab Lab has all the materials you need to dream, design and make items that run the spectrum of practical to whimsical using cutting edge equipment.
Robot Block Party– In celebration of April’s National Robotics Week, check out the cool ‘bots designed by Chicago-area students and amateur teams, and interact with state-of-the-art robots.
U-505 Experience – For a deeper dive into the U-505, scope out this chance to experience the sub and the story of its thrilling capture on a two-hour, private group tour.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light – You’ll be tempted to sing “Oh, Christmas Tree” more than 50 times as you walk through the museum’s stunning display of ethnically diverse trees that celebrate cultures and traditions from China to Denmark. The biggest and brightest tree is their four-story centerpiece that stands tall in the domed Rotunda twinkling with more than 30,000 lights and ornaments. You’ll find this display when you visit during the holiday season.
Shops and Restaurants
Four shops are available in the museum, with the Museum Store at Entry Hall being the largest. You’ll find all sorts of gizmos and gadgets throughout MSI, or you can purchase items online. Professional photos can also be bought at the Museum Photo Studio. Also, for a special treat to take home, look out for the four Mold-A-Rama stations throughout the museum—choose from a steam train, submarine, space shuttle or a tractor.
Loads of dining options are available—check out The Brain Food Court, Museum Café and Finnigan’s Ice Cream Parlor or purchase snacks in one of the many vending machines.
Spend the Night: MSI Snoozeum
After museum hours for the public end, the real special-event fun begins. Surprise your kids (ages 6-12) with a museum sleepover. You’ll explore the exhibits without the normal daytime crowds, build and create science-focused objects, complete a scavenger hunt, interact with real scientists, and then, when the evening is over, you’ll snuggle deep in your sleeping bags in a special spot. Select sleepover dates are available throughout the year—reserve online or by calling the museum.
Parents Night Out
Adults, ages 21 and over, can attend MSI Afterhours. Each event includes adult beverages and new themed programming, while also giving access to the classic and newest exhibits after the daytime guests have gone home.
photo: Summer Brain Games, JB Spector/Museum of Science and Industry
Halt that Summer Slide with Summer Brain Games
Summer Brain Games will be back for its 9th year in June! This program helps kids explore the connection between science and play, guiding them to make their own toys with science-based activities that are available for free on MSI’s website. Register online to receive emails with detailed instructions for each at-home activity that can be done with very little adult supervision, using easy-to-find supplies.
Tips and Tricks
Purchasing your admission tickets online from the comforts of home is rewarded with a discounted rate. If you’re planning on seeing an extra add-on exhibit or two, it would behoove you to purchase these tickets ahead of time as well. Not only will you have more jingle in your pocket, but it will also save you from waiting in line once you arrive.
Members of MSI enjoy free admission, coat check, stroller service, members-only events and access to the Members Lounge for tea and coffee. You’ll also receive discounted rates for exhibits, museum shops, restaurants, parking and for admission at other participating museums worldwide. Not to mention, your membership purchase can be claimed on taxes as a donation.
MSI offers free days to Illinois residents 52 days out of the year—check the website for specific dates—and free admission for active military, veterans, Chicago firefighters, police officers and Illinois teachers.
What About Nursing Moms?
Moms are free to breastfeed or bottle-feed their babies, with or without cover, in any public space of the Museum. However, if you’d like a quiet spot, there is a nursing space within the Idea Factory Exhibit.
Best Time to Visit
MSI is open every day, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., with extended hours on some days, so check their calendar prior to visiting. We recommend visiting early and during the week to avoid crowds. Keep in mind that a visit during a school break, over the weekend or on a free day for Illinois residents will likely result in more museum-goers.
How to Get There
MSI, open daily from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., is located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, between Lake Michigan and the University of Chicago. The museum parking garage, located at E. 57th Street and S. Cornell Avenue, is the most convenient way to access the museum (parking is free for family memberships).
Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., Hyde Park Online: msichicago.org