ML Interest Tag: all-access

Go Here Now: Quarry Park Adventures in Rocklin

by Kate Loweth

If you have little adventure seekers in your crew, then head east to the city of Rocklin to check out the new adventure course that’s a guaranteed day of fun. Zip lines, rope swings, rock walls and more—this massive outdoor paradise is just waiting to welcome mini adrenaline junkies. We checked it out and have the full scoop below!

Quarry Park

The city of Rocklin is just past Sacramento on Highway 80, about two hours from San Francisco. Quarry Park gets its name from the park’s history as a granite quarry, supplying granite to the California State Capitol Building. This 5 1/2-acre adventure park features activities for adults, teens and kids of all ages.

The Activities

Thrill-seekers suit up in harnesses and undergo gear training at Ground School before they head to their choice of activities. At one end of the park is the large aerial adventure challenge course where guests traverse an obstacle course requiring concentration and balance. Different levels are available, head to the third story for the biggest challenges. The good news is this is a choose-your-own difficulty course with many options along the way and skilled guides to help you out if you get stuck.

In addition to some smaller zip lines on the challenge course, guests can race their friends on the Big Gun Zip Lines—a set of three zip lines that are each 1,200 feet in length. Taking you over the quarry to the start of the aerial adventure course, these zip lines are a definite kid favorite.

Perhaps the most heart-stopping of activities is the Cliff Hanger Free Fall. Jump from the rim of the quarry to the floor below, if you dare! The free fall device slows your decent and ups the excitement.

Rock climbers can test their skills on the wall near the aerial adventure course. This spot is great for the little ones as the minimum weight is 40 lbs. here. You can also clip on to the Via Ferrata and make your way along the walls of the quarry horizontally.

Quarry Kidz Kove

Don’t worry, the younger set isn’t left out of all the adventures at Quarry Park. Head to Kidz Kove where they can literally spend hours climbing rope bridges, swinging on zip line seats and pretending they are spiders on a massive web.

Parents can plant themselves at a shady picnic table and relax as the kids tire themselves out. You can even reserve a table for your next birthday party or school soiree. This fully-enclosed area does not require kids to wear harnesses or helmets.

Just past the climbing structure is the Miners’ Maze. Wind your way through to see if you can make it to the center before you encounter one of the boulders.

Quinn Quarry Lake

Right next to the climbing structure is a small lake with calm waters. Take out a pedal boat when you need a bit of a break from the action. A parent is required to ride along with kids.

The Details

Quarry Park Adventures is open for the season on a daily basis. Start times are available in 15-minute increments and the number of adventurers is limited per time period so there’s aren’t a ton of people on the course at one time.

They have free lockers for you to use while you are on the course and often there is a food truck or snow cone truck there for purchasing snacks. You must weigh between 70-250 lbs. to do the zipline and other activities in the quarry, except the rock climbing which has a minimum weight of 40 lbs.

Tickets:
All Access: $44.99/4 hours, $29.99/2 hours
Single ride: $9.99
Rock climb ticket: $9.99/hour (40-250 lbs)
Quarry Kids Kove: $9.99/hour for kids ages 3-13.
Kidz Adventure Package: $18.99/2 hours includes Quarry Kids Kove and rock climbing

5255 Pacific Street
Rocklin, CA
Online: quarrypark.com

—photos and story by Kate Loweth

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This Big Change Is Coming to More Airports Across the Country

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Nearly every rom-com of the early ‘90s has that airport scene where the lead rushes past security to stop their true love from flying away forever. For years that moment has only been a reality in movies, but that is starting to change as more airports are relaxing their security.

Airports around the country are beginning to change their policies to allow non-ticketed visitors through security. Tampa International Airport just announced that it will join two other major airports, Pittsburgh International Airport and Seattle Tacoma, in allowing visitors to pass through airport security even if they won’t be boarding an airplane.

“Now families, foodies or even couples looking for a unique date experience can come try our chargrilled oysters at Ulele, sample locally brewed beer at Cigar City and shop for unique gifts and items at our duty-free and fine retail stores without having to buy a ticket,” the airport’s CEO, Joe Lopano, said in a statement.

Of course there are still safety restrictions in place. Visitors wishing to enter the terminal must register online at least 24 hours in advance. If approved, they are able to visit any time from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., after passing through security with a valid photo ID. Currently the All Access program is only available on Saturdays, but if it’s successful the airport plans to expand it to additional days.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Rawpixel

 

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The World’s Biggest Bounce House Is Coming to a City Near You

by Karly Wood

The Big Bounce America has made an exciting announcement: The World’s Biggest Bounce House is going on tour! From March through November, you can get your bounce on in over 40 cities in 25 states.

The event will feature the world’s largest bounce house and two new attractions for 2019: a space-themed land and a 900+ foot long obstacle course! The tour launched Mar. 22 in Boca Raton and guarantees family fun for everyone. Keep reading to get all the details!

The tour will feature several attractions, including the bounce castle, The Giant and airSPACE. You’ll find a basketball court, giant slide, and a massive ball pit at the bounce house as your rock out to a world-class DJ. Over at The Giant, perfect your ninja skills on a 900+ foot long inflatable obstacle course that is great for kids (and adults) of all ages.

New this year, you won’t want to miss the space-themed inflatable, airSPACE. With a five-person race slide and a fifty-foot-wide play space for little bouncers, your family won’t be able to get enough of the fun alongside the friendly aliens, spaceships, and planets.

Spectators will not need a ticket––watching is free! However, any parent accompanying their child will need to purchase a ticket. Children three and under require a parent, while kiddos four and older jumping in a Junior or Bigger Kids session can bounce solo.

Tickets are already on sale and start at $16 for toddlers, $24 for big kids and $28 for adult all-access passes for three hours. Choose between Family Sessions and Adult-only (16 years and older) and check out upcoming locations by visiting Big Bounce America. Don’t wait––it will sell out!

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of The Big Bounce America

 

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Blast Off to Space: A Family Guide to Adler Planetarium

by Wendy Altschuler

Which planet is the hottest in our solar system? Is there a planet made out of diamonds? What’s the difference between a meteorite and an asteroid? Is space silent? These questions, and more, can be answered by visiting the Adler Planetarium, the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Located along Lake Michigan on Museum Campus, Adler sits near other Chicago favorites: Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum of Natural History and Soldier Field. For all-things-Adler, read our guide to make the most of your mission.

Where to start

Why, the exhibits, of course! Families can spend hours exploring the exhibits—no kidding. It’s easy to lose track of time while wandering and wondering. Hands-on activities abound—from working the controls on a two-story rocket to getting an insider’s peek at the Space Station or manipulating a rover, here’s just a taste of what you’ll find:

Our Solar System – Get your hands on a meteorite that traveled millions of miles and crashed into Earth, leaving a huge crater in the Arizona desert. Touch a Moon rock and hear why footprints last so long up there (and it’s not because mom or dad isn’t there to wipe them up). Feel a piece of Mars and learn about the robotic rover that’s doing a bit of investigating on the red planet’s surface. And, before you move on, make your own mini crater using the Crater Maker.

The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time – Go back to the very beginning to see how galaxies, stars, planets and even the atoms in your body were created as the Universe expanded. Travel billions of light years from our Solar System to investigate some of the most diverse and beautiful objects in deep space in ultra-high resolution from the world’s most advanced telescopes.

Mission Moon – Experience America’s very first steps in space through the eyes of Captain Lovell and his family, with all its twists and turns, setbacks and successes. In this exhibit, you’ll learn how the U.S. became the first nation to put a man on the Moon, what it’s really like to be an astronaut and why it takes a team to explore these unchartered worlds. It’s the story of a national hero, who started off as boy in Wisconsin who loved rockets that turned into man whose supportive family helped him become extraordinary.

What is a Planet? – Weigh in on whether you think Pluto got a raw deal being demoted to dwarf planet status. If Pluto isn’t a planet, then what is? What makes a planet a planet? Our accepted definition has changed drastically in the last 500 years. Explore artifacts from Adler’s collection that show how planets aren’t what they used to be, witness how everyone from astronomers to the general public reacted to Pluto’s reclassification in 2006 and find out what qualifies as a planet today.

Planet Explorers – Kids ages 3-8, turned junior space explorers, can take charge in this modern-day adventure. They will enter a world where they can climb, crawl, play and learn what it takes to be a part of a mission to outer space. They’ll likely be ready for naps after taking control of a two-story rocket, visiting a Space Station to see how everyday objects work different in space, take a stroll though the unknown in the Planet Explorers Spacewalk Experience and search for signs of life on Planet X.

Astronomy in Culture – Stargazers in ancient cultures used spectacular tools such as the armillary sphere, the astrolabe, the pocket sundial, and the cannon dial to understand the Universe and to organize their daily lives. Travel back in time to understand these curious tools, as well as the people who developed and used them. Pretend your always-connected smartphone doesn’t exist for a minute and imagine how an astrolabe could help you find your way home long before GPS was dreamed up.

The Historic Atwood Sphere – Chicago’s first-born planetarium, is something that you’ll think of long after you leave the museum. How else will you get the chance to see what Chicago’s night sky looked like back in 1913? Nearly 700 holes are drilled into the metal globe, creating constellations that a guide will point out to you with a laser pointer once you’re secure inside the orb.

Community Design Lab – Visitors can test different materials to find out which would survive the journey to 100,000 feet above Earth’s surface, build a DIY telescope-mount for smartphones and become an instant astrophotographer by testing it on real telescopes and explore daily scientific challenges developed by Adler experts. With marshmallows, popsicle sticks, duct tape, shaving cream and a steady supply of bubble wrap and cardboard, the design possibilities are endless!

See a Show

Seeing a well-made show is all a part of the experience at the planetarium. Six 30-minute shows that explore space and our knowledge of it through time, are currently available:

Planet Nine – Tagalong with Mike Brown and his CalTech team as they uncover dwarf worlds like the stunningly bright Eris; Haumea, an egg-shaped object rotating a break-neck speeds; and Sedna, whose orbit takes it deep into the far reaches of the Solar System. Join in on the hunt for the ninth planet at the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii.

Imagine the Moon – With Adler’s newest sky show, you’ll explore how the Moon as influenced human creativity, learning and exploration since we first looked at they sky via inspired storytelling and stunning imagery.

One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure – Elmo’s friend Hu Hu Zhu notices Sesame Street looks a bit different from his home in China. But when he looks up to the sky, the great human connecter, he feels immediately at home. With the wisdom of Big Bird, the friends learn about the Sun, the Moon and the Big Dipper, then blast off to the moon. Join them as they sing songs about space and celebrate the sky that is shared by all.

Destination Solar System – Dig deep in your imagination and imagine the year is 2096, space tourism is absolutely on the boom and you’ve signed up for a quick trip around the Solar System. Your guides in this live show are Jesse, a lovable rookie tour guide who can’t wait to show you the wonders of your celestial neighborhood, and Max, the much more experienced—if slightly grumpy—shipboard computer. With Max at the controls and Jesse chatting you up, you’ll soar through the Asteroid Belt, explore the moons of Jupiter and Saturn and hover over the surface of the sun. So, just your average day.

Welcome to the Universe – Get a clear picture of your place in this vast and mysterious universe, with its network of exploding stars, swirling galaxies, orbiting planets, black holes and strange and unknown yet to be deciphered.

Skywatch Live – We’re lucky to have Adler right in our city limits, but the bright lights and big city make it tough to see the twinkle in the sky. A live presenter will turn down the city lights and crank up the stars to show you the night sky over Chicago like you’ve never seen it before. Learn how to navigate by starlight, meet the stars behind your favorite constellations, and witness the incomprehensible vastness of the Universe.

Events and Special Programming

The museum is full of fun space-themed happenings that will light up your experience. Some of these events are one-time only, like the free-with-admission Pop-Up Programs that focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics), held throughout the year.

Young Explorers Mondays – Enables families with kids ages 2-6 to explore deeper through hands-on activities, story time and more. Held on Mondays, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sun Salutations Yoga – Stretch and slacken during a Vinyasa Flow yoga class, held once a month from 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., in the Grainger Sky Theater. Imagine a star-filled sky lighting up overhead as you roll around a yoga mat with your kids (ages 10 & up). Museum admission is included in the price for Sun Salutations Yoga, feel free to explore afterward.

Doane at Dusk – Adler’s Doane Observatory is home to one of the coolest aperature telescopes in the world. At Doane at Dusk, you can see celestial objects trillions of miles away, like the moon and planets—even though you’re in a bustling and bright metropolis! Adler Astronomers are on deck at this free nighttime after-hours viewing session.

Camps – Adler’s camps will spark the scientific curiosity in everyone from the itty-bitty youngest campers to all the way up to 10th grade as they learn about the skills of science exploration. With tools like telescopes, programmable robots, and high-altitude balloons—and new friends around every corner—your kids will share adventures of cosmic proportions with their peers. Young space and technology enthusiasts will engage their imaginations, show their creative side and navigate their Universe together just like scientists.

After Dark Series – Grab your favorite guy or gal on the third Thursday of every month and swing down to the The Adler After Dark series, which is exclusively for adults 21 & over and features a different theme each time. Periodically, they host a family-friendly version of the After Dark program, so be on the lookout. The events sell out fast, so be sure to order tickets ahead of time.

Earth Fest – In honor of Earth Day, which happens annually on April 22, Adler hosts a day of celebrating all things Earth. Check their calendar for exact dates. When Earth Day falls on a weekday, they typically celebrate the weekend prior or after the date and on a weekend that does not conflict with Easter.

Noshes and Keepsakes

When you need a break, and fuel, grab a bite at Galileo’s Café, which serves sandwiches, soups, salads and flatbreads. You’ll recharge while enjoying lovely views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. This is also a great place to sneak out onto the outside deck for a photo. (Other great photo opportunities are on the lawn east of the building and in front of the out-of-doors sculptures: Spiral Galaxy, Man Enters the Cosmos and America’s Courtyard.)

For space ice cream, astronaut suits, geodes, books on astronomy and Adler Planetarium patches, visit the Adler Store. Bonus: the proceeds from your purchases help STEM education and scientific research.

Best Time to Visit

Adler is open every day, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with extended hours during spring break and summer. That means from Memorial Day to Labor Day, you can visit 9 a.m.-6 p.m. We recommend visiting early and during the week to avoid crowds. You might also consider planning your visit around one of Adler’s special after-hours events. Keep in mind that a visit during a school break, over the weekend or a day that is free for Illinois residents will likely result in more museum goers, also there to explore.

Admission

A number of admission packages and membership options exist depending on what your goals are while at the museum. If you want to go big and do it all, the Anytime All-Access Pass is your best bet. You’ll have access to all exhibits, shows and the Historic Atwood Sphere. Adults are $34.95 and kids are $29.95.

General Admission, which includes museum entry is $12 for adults and $8 for children.

If you plan on visiting several Chicago attractions, consider the Chicago CityPASS, which will give you a big discount overall.

Illinois residents can enjoy free General Admission on select days throughout the year—check the website for updates and timing. Illinois teachers (pre-K through 12) and active military personnel receive free General Admission with proper identification. Adler is also proud to participate in Museums for All, which provides Basic Pass admission for up to 8 people for $1/guest for anyone who qualifies for state food assistance and is in possession of an EBT card.

Bring Adler Home With You

If you visit the Education tab of Adler Planetarium’s website, you will find lots of hands-on STEAM projects—simple and challenging—that you can do at home such as: Make Your Own Lava Lamp, Microorganism Environment Experiment and Float an Egg Challenge.

Adler Planetarium
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus
Online: adlerplanetarium.org

— Wendy Altschuler

Photos: courtesy of Adler Planetarium

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Plan a Family Date Night Dining with Little Diner’s Crew

by Maria Chambers

Moms and dads rejoice! We’re here to save you (and your kids!) from the standard kid’s meals and uninspired and unhealthy menu choices. Created by Chicago parents for Chicago parents, Little Diner’s Crew will soon become your go-to for a family date night out grabbing grub. Read on to learn how they got started, their mission and how you can snag a spot at the table. Grab your bibs and read on!

photo: Nicole De Khors

How did Little Diner’s Crew get its start?
Driven by a passion for experiencing restaurants that expose them to new flavors using quality ingredients, husband and wife duo D.C. and Alayna Crenshaw created Little Diner’s Crew. The stimulus for the concept was a desire to share their love of food exploration with their two boys, after a brief stint on the dreaded mac-n-cheese and chicken tender circuit.

What is the goal of Little Diner’s Crew?
The mission of LDC is 3 fold. They want to provide kids the opportunity to try new foods from around the globe, give chefs a forum to educate kids about the food they eat, where it comes from and how it’s prepared and, lastly, they want to bring families together to enjoy a unique dining experience.

photo: Little Diner’s Crew

What are the membership details?
There are several membership options, all of which include a passport that allows members to document their culinary journey and access to free appreciation events and tastings. Passports can also be used to redeem LDC perks at participating restaurants and partners.

Members will receive email alerts about free tastings, discounts and invites to openings from partner restaurants as part of the LDC Perks. You will also enjoy non-food perks such as family events, services and products.

Annual Eat Membership: $95/year per child, does not include cost of meals

Monthly Travel Membership: $9.99/month per child, does not include cost of meals

Explore All Access Membership: $29.95/month per child, includes cost of meals, additional exclusive Explore Member events, 1 complimentary child guest at an event per quarter

Family Membership: $150/month for 2 adults and 2 kids, includes cost of meals and exclusive Family Membership events.

photo: Little Diner’s Crew

Walk me through the event, please!
First of all, it’s important to note that LDC events start promptly. So, be sure to plan ahead so you can arrive on time—no small task for parents, we know! A different restaurant will be featured each gathering and have included such notables as Carnivale, Naoki Sushi, Riva and RPM. When you arrive, you’ll check in with an LDC rep and have your passport stamped. The dining experience will include either the Chef, GM or owner discussing different aspects of the restaurant’s history, menu and cuisine. The menu for kids and adults is exactly the same, but the portions are smaller for the kids. Also important to know, kids dine alone with their peers, while parents enjoy adult time nearby.

How old do my kids have to be to join the Crew?
LDC is best suited for kids ages 4-12 and their hungry chauffeurs (a.k.a. parents).

How do we stay looped in on events?
Good question! Be sure to keep tabs on their website to get the 411.

— Maria Chambers

Photos courtesy of Little Diner’s Crew

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Why the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real Should Be on Your Family Vaycay List

by Maria Chambers

The circle is the universal symbol of wholeness and perfection and all-inclusive The Grand Reserve at Paradisus by Melia Hotels in Punta Cana—with its circular design, classy but approachable vibe and an overall aura that magically expels stress—crushes that perfection goal. Winter, spring, summer or fall, there’s no bad time to make the easy trek to the Dominican Republic, so let us show you why you’ll want to be one of the first to family-bond in these uber-cool Caribbean digs.

photo: The Grand Reserve from above via Maria Chambers

The Need-to-Know Room Specs
The Grand Reserve wants you to have a think-free vacation, so the experience is all-inclusive. And, keep in mind, Melia Hotels is hyper-focused on shattering the perception that runs rampant about all-inclusive vacations by offering guests an unparalleled luxurious experience.

photo: The Grand Reserve kitchen via Maria Chambers

The resort has 288 expansive, brand new suites ranging from 800 to over 3,000 square feet. Suites feature either one or two bedrooms with living and dining spaces, making them ideal for entertaining or having adult-only time after kids slip off to dreamland. Families will also enjoy the soaking tubs and walk-in showers, private balconies with hydro-massage whirlpool tubs and outdoor relaxation spaces. A family-favorite is the swim-up suites with one or two bedrooms and direct access to an exclusive pool with lush garden areas and a solarium.

photo: Greyerbaby via Pixabay

On-Site Activities
Let’s be honest. All the kids care about is where to find the giant sandbox called beach and a cannonball-worthy pool. Guests of The Grand Reserve have access to the Beach Club along the vibrant Bavaro Beach via hotel shuttle or short walk, a large pool in the hotel’s center and Blast! AquaFun Park, a kid’s adventure park with games and slides.

While parents can hop in the pool for a bit of Woga (water yoga, of course), kids can work their sillies out at Rhythm & Moves. This fun-fueled class helps kids explore how their bodies move to music and develops self-awareness, balance, coordination, and concentration skills as they interpret music and groove to the sweet beats.

Schedule a break from family time in favor of an afternoon spent at one of the three spas or simply relax poolside with a book while the kids play the day away at the Kids Club. Trained Kids Club staff lead the kids in group and crafting activities, 5 p.m. daily rock climbing and bungee jumping, help them tend to a small garden, take them swimming and feed them lunch from a kid-friendly (but healthy) buffet. Their facilities and planned activities are likely to rival any you’ve experienced before in cleanliness, organization and scope.

Where to Dine
The dining options are almost endless—ranging from flip flops and beach coverup casual to sophisticated—and the food is prepared with all ages in mind. With 14 restaurants on site and 24-hour room service, there’s no chance you’ll find yourself feeling hungry. Onsite you’ll find a gourmet market, an impossibly cool steakhouse, ceviche and sushi bars, teppanyaki and robatayaki tables, as well as two new concepts for Melia: a classic American sports bar and a modern take on your classic cigar bar with a premium selection of cigars, liqueurs and artisanal cocktails.

Stay at One, Play at 3
A stay at The Grand Reserve means guests get an all-access pass to the facilities, services and restaurants at the neighboring The Reserve and Paradisus Palma Real resorts. Both are accessible via golf cart shuttle or a 10-minute walk along paths. Combined, the additional two resorts add to your experience 15 restaurants including Passions by Martin Berasategui, who holds ten Michelin stars, YHI Spa and YHI Spa Oriental Garden, 5 pools and complimentary Life Enriching Experiences (think wine tastings and sushi-making classes).

photo: Ocean Adventure’s Pirate Adventure via Maria Chambers

Where to Play Outside of the Resort
While there’s enough to keep you entertained on property, a change of scenery and island exploration is never a bad idea. And, why not let pirates show you the lay of the land? Ocean Adventures’ 3-hour Caribbean Pirates adventure will have you snorkeling with sharks and interacting with stingrays at Shark Island, exploring coral reef and following treasure maps. Just don’t get too comfortable—you never know when rival pirates will attack. Included in the price is unlimited beverages, hotel pickup and drop-off, fruits and light snacks. As a bonus, kids come along for free.

photo: Heli tour via Maria Chambers

An ocean-side snooze, toes dug deep in the sand is a not-so-shabby way to tick off another dreamy day, nor is taking to the skies to survey the ocean blues and lush landscapes. Gain a full appreciation for the beauty of the Dominican with a birds-eye view on a helicopter tour with Punta Cana Helicopters. Options range from 10 to 40-minute sightseeing tours to adventure eco tours that include ziplining, refreshing dips in natural pools and a 2-hour boogie ride.

Best Time to Explore the DR
Because Punta Cana is in the Caribbean, the weather is beautiful all year round. If you’re looking to chill in this hotspot during a quieter, less crowded time, consider traveling March-May when the highs average in the low 80s. Hurricane season is June-November, but your chance of getting gorgeous weather is better than average. The warmest months on the island are June-September. If you’re considering visiting during peak season, December-February, it’s advised to plan several months out.

Travel tips

  • Electric outlets are the same as in the US and Canada, so no need to worry about bringing adapters for all those electronics you won’t need because you’ll be outside soaking up the sunshine!
  • The language spoken on the island is Spanish, but most resort employees are fluent in English, so communicating won’t be a problem. But, hey! It’d be a good time to test out those two years of Spanish your parents made you take in high school, si?
  • Shuttles are available from the Punta Cana Airport, which is about 25 miles south of the resort. Be sure to schedule this through the resort prior to your arrival.
  • Set expectations—some kids dream of shell collecting when you tell them a beach vacation is on the horizon. You won’t likely find shells of any significance on Punta Cana’s beaches.
  • The selection of sunscreens is limited, so if you have a favorite or have kids with sensitive skin, consider bringing your own from home.
  • The residents of Dominican are welcoming to tourists and warm in spirit, especially the Melia staff, so don’t be afraid to sidle up to a local for good chats.

The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real
Playa de Bávaro
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Online: melia.com

—Maria Chambers

Photos and renderings provided by The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real unless otherwise noted

This trip was paid for by Melia Hotels International and all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

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Do You Share Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Accounts? Here’s What You Should Know

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Do you share your online accounts with others? If so, you’re not alone. With so many different streaming service platforms it can be tempting to share access with family and friends to cut down on costs, but is sharing online streaming accounts really safe?

According to a new study by Country Financial, three our of four Americans share their streaming service accounts, like Netflix, Hulu and Spotify, or other online or mobile app accounts, including Amazon Prime and Uber. Entertainment services were the most widely shared with at least one other person, while younger adults were most likely to use shared services.

Photo: John Schnobrich via Unsplash

Disney is getting ready to jump into the world of streaming services next year, joining an already crowded pool of offerings including Netflix, Amazon and Hulu—which means adding yet another subscription fee to your budget. To avoid paying to watch your kids’ favorite shows, you might consider sharing an account with other family members, but is that the best idea?

On the upside sharing an account, can save you more than you might think. According to a separate survey by Waterstone Management Group, 84 percent of consumers underestimate what they spend on monthly expenses. On average people estimated that they spend $111 per month on subscription services, but the actual average is $237. Sharing accounts could significantly cut down on those costs.

Photo: Charles DeLuvio via Unsplash

The downside to sharing, however, is safety. Along with sharing an account, comes sharing passwords, which might not seem like a big deal to do with family and close friends…but what if they decide to share the love even more and give access to others? Then your password, which you likely use for other secure accounts, isn’t exactly secure anymore.

Not to mention the fact that sharing likely violates the Terms of Service agreement, a.k.a. all that fine print that you scrolled through without reading. If you’re caught, there’s a good chance you’ll lose all access to your online account. While sharing is clearly common practice, it’s important to take safety precautions.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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All You Ever Wanted to Know about Chicago’s CityPass

by Maria Chambers

We’re rounding the bases on the fun and games of a Chicago summer and looming at home plate is the first day of school. Boo! If visiting all the museums the city has to offer was on your must-do, to-do list and you haven’t quite gotten around to it, may we suggest a CityPass? What’s that you ask? Well, read on and we’ll fill you in on all the nitty-gritty details.

First things first, what is it? 
CityPass is a booklet containing VIP admission tickets into some the city’s most iconic destinations. You skip the lines and head straight to the attraction — and save some serious dough while you’re at it.

photo: Shedd Aquarium

What attractions are included?
Shedd Aquarium — Dive in deep to everyone’s favorite aquarium. CityPass includes priority entry, including Waters of the World, Amazon Rising, Wild Reef, Abbott Oceanarium, Polar Play Zone, special exhibits, an aquatic presentation and Stingray Touch (May-Oct), plus a 4-D Experience. CityPass holders can also upgrade to visit the Penguin Encounter for an additional $40, get a behind-the-scenes tour for $20 and receive 10% off purchases of $25 or more in the gift stores and 10% off photo purchases.

Skydeck Chicago — Leave your fear of heights at home to treat yourself to unparalleled 360-degree views of up to 50 miles and four states from the top of the Willis Tower (a.k.a. the 2nd tallest building in the Western Hemisphere). High speed elevators moving at 1600 feet per second whisk you quickly to the top where you’ll step out on The Ledge, glass floor balconies 103 floors over Chicago. CityPass holders receive 10% off any gift store purchases of $25 or more.

photo: The Field Museum

The Field Museum — Where else can you get 4.6 billion years of history in one place? Travel the world and back in time, visit SUE, the world’s largest T. Rex, descend into an ancient Egyptian tomb and explore over 10,000 years of Chinese history and culture. CityPass gets you VIP entry and an All-Access Pass, including admission to all permanent and regularly priced exhibitions, plus your choice of one 3D film. Upgrade to visit the temporary exhibit, Jurassic World: The Exhibition, based on the blockbuster film for $11/adult and $7/children. You also receive 10% off purchases of $25 or more in the Museum Store.

Museum of Science and Industry OR 360 Chicago — Pick between the largest science museum in the country, MSI, and 360 Chicago, which provides magnificent views of the skyline, beaches and water from 1000 feet up in the John Hancock.  CityPass holders get express entry admission to John Hancock or MSI entry for Science Storms, U-505 Submarine exhibit, YOU! The Experience, and more, plus one special timed-entry experience (MSI Theater film, Coal Mine, Fab Lab, or a special exhibit) and a Motion Simulator Ride. At MSI, you can upgrade your CityPass to include the U-505 Submarine Onboard Tour for $12/adult and $9/ages 3-11 and receive 10% off gift story, eatery and photo purchases. At 360 Chicago, you get a $1 discount on the Tilt, which is a glass box that tilts you over the city for a slightly terrifying view like no other, and 10% off any one purchase at Architect’s Corner Cafe and Bar.

photo: Art Institute of Chicago

Adler Planetarium OR Art Institute of Chicago — Explore space at America’s first planetarium or view the greatest Impressionist collection outside of Paris. Tough choice. If you choose Adler, you get unlimited VIP access to all shows, including the latest sky show, Planet Nine, exhibitions and experiences. You also save 10% at the Adler Store and at Cafe Galileo’s. Head to the Art Institute of Chicago and get Fast Pass admission to permanent collection and non-ticketed special exhibitions and audio tour.

photo: Adler Planetarium

What is the cost of a CityPass and how much does it save me?
Depending on what combination of attractions you choose, you can save up to 53% on admission. A CityPass for adults is $99.75 and $84.74 for ages 3-11. If you have a child that falls under the age limit of a CityPass purchase, you may be required to wait in line to get a child’s admission ticket at the attraction.

How do you purchase a CityPass
You can purchase online and choose between a printable voucher, mobile voucher or have a booklet shipped to you. Easy-peasy.

photo: Museum of Science and Industry

How do you redeem a voucher?
If you choose a printed or mobile voucher versus having a booklet shipped to you, take the voucher to the first attraction you choose to visit and they’ll exchange it for a CityPass booklet. Just beware that you may run into a line exchanging your voucher during peak times. Also, be sure to bring your ID as some attractions may ask for verification.

Does it expire and are there refunds?
The short answer is yes and yes. Vouchers must be redeemed within 6 months of purchase. Each CityPass booklet has the expiration date printed on the inside cover. Once you use your CityPass booklet at the first attraction, the booklet is valid for 9 more consecutive days. You can get a refund on a CityPass purchase if returned within 365 days of original purchase by going online, as long as you haven’t redeemed any portion of the CityPass. You can also exchange any expired but unused CityPASS booklet for a current CityPASS booklet for up to 365 days after the printed expiration date on the inside cover.

photo: Skydeck Chicago

Final good-to-knows:

  • Think of a CityPass as cash, if it gets lost or stolen, there is no refund or replacement possible.
  • CityPASS booklets, cards and vouchers are non-transferable so they can not be transferred to or shared with anyone else.
  • When ordering a voucher, be sure to provide the first and last name of the person who will be redeeming the voucher for the CityPass. Important tidbit to remember if you’re making a voucher purchase as a gift.
  • There are no blackout dates, but you’ll want to check with each attraction before you visit to make sure there are no private events or exhibits closed for maintenance .
  • If you purchase from citypass.com, you may choose what order to visit the attractions. If you purchase from another website or company, there may be restrictions, so be sure to read the fine print.

photo: 360 Chicago

Location and hours of attractions

Shedd Aquarium
1200 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Museum Campus
Hours: (Summer) daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; (Winter) Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat-Sun & Holidays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
312-939-2438
Online: sheddaquarium.org
Best time to visit: Wed.-Fri. before 11 a.m. has the smallest crowds and arriving early ensures the best selection of show times for the aquatic presentation (which often sells out).

Skydeck Chicago
233 S. Wacker Dr.
The Loop
Hours: (Mar.-Sept.) daily, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; (Oct.-Feb.) daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
312-875-9696
Online: theskydeck.com
Best time to visit: Right before sunset each day for twilight and evening views.

The Field Museum
1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Museum Campus
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; last admission at 4 p.m.
312-922-9410
Online: fieldmuseum.org
Best time to visit: Prior to 11 a.m. to avoid heavy crowds.

Museum of Science and Industry
5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Hyde Park
Hours: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
773-684-1414
Online: msichicago.org
Best time to visit: Mondays are the least crowded.

360 Chicago – John Hancock Center
875 N. Michigan Ave.
Mag Mile
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
312-654-2892
Online: 360chicago.com
Best time to visit: First thing in the morning for the quickest trip to the top. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least crowded.

Adler Planetarium
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Museum Campus
Hours: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
312-922-7827
Online: adlerplanetarium.org
Best time to visit: Experts are on-hand to answer questions at the Space Visualization Laboratory daily between noon-1 p.m. and 2 p.m.-3 p.m.

Art Institute of Chicago
111 S. Michigan Ave.
The Loop
Hours: Mon.-Wed. & Fri-Sun, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
312-443-3600
Online: artic.edu
Best time to visit: Free guided tours are available daily at noon.

Have you explored the city using CityPass? We’d love to hear your tips and tricks in the Comments below!

— Maria Chambers

photos: courtesy of CityPass

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Go West! Two New Places to Play in West Seattle

by Helen Walker Green

West Seattle already has tons of activities for families, but now there’s two more reasons to go west—an awesome new play area at Lincoln Park and a new bike playground your little pedalhead is going to love. Sound like fun? Read on to find out why you need to give ’em both a spin this winter.

photo: King County Parks

Hit the Road

Test Your Skills
They may not be ready for the busy streets just yet, but there’s a great place in West Seattle for little cyclists to test drive their road skills and bigger cyclists to brush up on them. The White Center Bike Playground (the first one in our state) has stop signs, intersections, a one-way street and even a roundabout for kids to navigate—all in a safe car-free environment.

photo: Aaron Moy

A Community Project
Based on Denmark’s Trafiklegepladsen (traffic playgrounds) – a big hit with European families – this bike playground was very much a community project. Cascade Bicycle Club, the YES! Foundation of White Center and White Center Community Development Association all worked together with King County Parks to bring it to life. The park was designed, pro bono, by Alta Planning and Design and funded by a King County Parks grant and donations. It’s a great example of how a community can work together to build something that families can enjoy for years to come.

photo: King County Parks

Give it a Spin
Rain or shine, dust off those training wheels and two-wheelers and learn the rules of the road. Cascade Bicycle Club says the bike park is designed for all ages and abilities (grownups included). In an effort to make this a new community hangout, the Club hopes to have its members there on weekends to loan bikes and helmets for anyone who wants to try it out. Psst! The goal is to have summer camps here too, so keep an eye on the Cascade Bicycle Club website for more info.

photo: Cascade Bicycle Club Facebook page 

Good to Know
If all that cycling makes you peckish, check out some great neighborhood eats and activities in White Center. Psst! You can even catch a game of disc golf right next door to the bike playground.

White Center Bike Playground
Dick Thurnau Memorial Park (formerly Lakewood Park)
11050 10th Ave. S.W.
Seattle Wa 98146
Online: kingcountyparks.org/2016/10/03/bike-playground-dick-thurnau-memorial-park or map it

Into the Woods

Slides and Ladders and Ropes. Oh My!
Like any good hideaway in the woods, Lincoln Park’s brand new north play area is full of exciting things for your crew to explore. Which route will you take down from the tree house? The slide-winder, curvy slide, ladder or ropes? Kids of all ages will love traversing between the three awesome play structures linked together by rope bridges. And little ones will especially love the pint-sized Lincoln Park Club House!

photo: Kristina Moy

Other fun activities include a group saucer swing (jump in with buddies), big and little kid swings, a sand pit and a super-fun, speedy zip line!

photo: Kristina Moy

Designed for All Abilities 
Explorer West Middle School students helped the designers make sure the playground was accessible for all kids. Some of the design elements include a raised platform on the zip line so tykes of all sizes can easily hop on, as well as an all-access sand table and a small alcove for sensory sensitive kids.

photo: Richard Green

Extra Perks 
To make this playground even more appealing to all ages, the park designers included interactive information on all the birds you can spot in Lincoln Park, with photos by West Seattle photographers Trileigh Tucker and Mark Ahlness. Psst… be on the lookout for fun character artwork hidden in the play area as well. Can you spot a friendly raccoon and an owl?

Lincoln Park North Play Area (next to the wading pool)
8011 Fauntleroy Way S.W.
Seattle, Wa 98136
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/lincoln-park or map it

Have you visited these two new West Seattle playgrounds? Tell us about your adventures in the Comments below!

— Helen Walker Green

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