If you never celebrate the holiday season without your favorite Hallmark Channel movies, then you’ll be excited to learn that you can get your hands on a Monopoly Hallmark Channel game.
The game is laid out just like the original Monopoly, but with “properties” based on Hallmark Channel movies, like a Christmas tree farm and a bed and breakfast.
The game tokens are also inspired by the films, with items like ice skates and a diamond ring for players to choose from. You can build on your properties by purchasing cottages and inns in place of the traditional hotels and houses.
The game is priced at $39.99 and is available for purchase at Hallmark online.
Chicago’s terrain is flat as far as the eye can see, making it tricky to use that ski gear collecting dust. The options to ski near Chicago are few and far between. But, in a little over an hour, you can hit mountainous slopes at one of the area’s best ski destinations. Read on to plan your winter family-friendly romp in the snow at Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin.
But First, the Basics
Wisconsin’s Wilmot Mountain, part of Vail Resorts (yes, that Vail), is accessibly located halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. If you or your kids have never skied, Wilmot's ski lessons will have you flying down the mountain in no time. Don’t worry about buying gear, Wilmot Mountain can set you up with high-quality skiing and snowboarding equipment, including helmets.
Priority is given to season passholders for the 2021-22 season, which begins Dec. 3. In addition, reservations are required, so plan early!
Here’s What’s to Expect
Wilmot has been around since circa 1938 but the entire resort recently experienced a facelift. Skiers and boarders can now enjoy upgraded towers and chairs, rope tows, an expanded terrain park, and beginner area conveyor lifts. Plus, the base lodge was upgraded to include up-to-date décor with extra seating and improved dining options. Families with small children will love the ski and snowboard school, which during non-COVID times includes an indoor playspace.
All About Equipment Rental
The experts in the rental shop will hook your family up with everything they need to be successful on the slopes. Skis and poles, as well as snowboards and boots, of varying sizes for adults and children, may be rented. We recommend helmet usage while out adventuring and the shop can rent them to you, as well.
Learn How to Ski
All ages can take group or private lessons to either start from scratch or get a refresher on skiing and snowboarding. This season, no more than 6 students will be allowed per group class, face coverings are required, a health screening will be completed upon arrival and all lessons will meet outdoors to allow for distancing.
Something for the Non-Skiers of the Group
Whether you choose to stay off of skis and boards or want to add something extra, snow tubing is also available. You'll find it just down the road from the skiing/snowboarding area. Dress warm—it’s windy—wear goggles for comfort and visibility, and prepare for a fun nighttime adventure on the 22-lane tubing area. The best part: you won’t have to drag the tube—or yourself—back up the hill. A conveyor belt will do that for you. Afterward, warm up in the tubing lodge and enjoy snacks and hot cocoa.
Reserve in Advance to Play
Lift tickets will not be available to purchase in-person for the 2020-21 season, reservations must be made online or via the call center. This will help keep skiers safe by minimizing lines at the ticket window. It is expected that because of limited capacity, lift tickets will be in high demand and will sell out. So, plan early!
Kids ages 4 and under are eligible for a free lift ticket. It is not necessary to make a reservation for them in advance, simply go to the resort ticket office and pick up a pass.
Good to Know
While lodging isn’t available at Wilmot Mountain, there are several nearby options, including Dragonfly Bed and Breakfast, Hampton Inn & Suites Kenosha, Candlewood Suites Kenosha, The Cove of Lake Geneva, and Best Western Plus Antioch Hotel and Suites.
So, what are you waiting for? Gear up, head out, and have an adventuresome time with your family this winter at Wilmot Mountain!
Summer travel season is here and it’s time to turn your California Dreams into weekend warrior reality! We have a massive list of California road trip ideas that will have you exploring National Parks, castles, wine country, the gorgeous Highway 1 coastline, the redwoods, desert delights and more. Read on for our top picks for California family road trips you’ve simply got to take with your kids NOW.
Northern California
Mendocino
Mendocino Grove
Miles of gorgeous coastline, redwood forests galore and even some wine tasting for the grown ups make Mendocino the ideal spot for your next long weekend. Ride a horse along the shore or feed some giraffes at B. Bryan Preserve. Beaches like Bowling Ball Beach and Glass Beach are unlike anything you've seen before. Be sure to stop by Frankie's Ice Cream and Pizza for a slice of mushroom pizza followed by a cone topped with candy cap mushroom ice cream when you are in downtown Mendocino. Reserve a cottage at the Point Arena Lighthouse to hear the waves crashing or go for glamping at Mendocino Grove.
Read all about this gorgeous area of CA coastline here.
Mammoth Lakes
Josh Wray Photography
The Eastern Sierra is an epic family destination any time of year. Get a bird's eye view of this gorgeous area via SkyTime Helicopter Air Tours. Or, pack the snacks and hike one of these trails (Heart Lake is particularly kid-friendly). Ride the scenic gondola to the top and enjoy lunch on the summit (bonus: kids ride free!). The Sierra Nevada Resort offers a quintessential mountain town lodging experience or stay in the Village at the Westin where you can easily access all the shops and restaurants in the area.
If visiting the state capital was on your bucket list, now you have good reason to go. Sacramento offers lots of family friendly adventures for folks who’ve got train lovers, plane flyers and fairy catchers in the family. The Sacramento History Museum walking tour takes you back in time to the mid 1800s when gold was plentiful and women were scarce. Fairytale Town is the ideal stop for toddlers where they can run the crooked mile, slide down the Old Woman’s shoe, sit on King Arthur’s throne and pet the farm animals. And the perfect way to end the day? At one of the many confectioner’s shops. Aww, sweet Sacramento.
For more information on what to do and where to stay, click here.
Our Managing Editor grew up in this quaint little town in the foothills of Northern California, located only about an hour and a half from Sacramento. A true Gold Rush town, Nevada City still maintains its Victorian-era charm thanks to the entire downtown being zoned a historic district. This keeps chain restaurants and shops away creating a diverse array of food, sweets and artisanal wares. Don't miss Mountain Pastimes, just off the main drag, a toy store that has been in operation since our editor was a kid, and the gift shop at Bonanza, the local market's gift shop stocked with colorful Chinese merchandise including tea, lanterns and more. Wander up one side of Broad St. and down the other, sampling wares along the way.
Nevada CIty hosts scores of events, including the annual Victorian Christmas and the Nevada City Classic Bicycle Race—closing off the streets for cars and allowing pedestrians a European-worthy promenade. In the summer, you'll find purple skies full of stars, farmers markets, camping spots and swimming. Autumn brings radiant colors and countless trails to explore. All year round, you'll find a town full of artists, aging hippies rubbing elbows with conservatives, great coffee and a new generation of forward-thinking artisans and entrepreneurs.
Whether you live in the Bay Area and are looking for some time in the snow, or you head there in summer for some gorgeous hikes and lake time, Lake Tahoe is definitely a destination that all CA kids need to check out. Summer brings bike rides along the East Short Trail at Incline Village that just opened last year, as well as loads of live music opportunities on both the North and South Shore. When winter is here it's all about snow sports with Tahoe Donner a favorite for tubing and sledding. The Ritz-Carlton and Resort at Squaw Creek are some of our North Shore favorites for lodging, while the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel provides a prime location on the South Shore.
From the Redwood Forest. . . this land was made for you and me! Kids must see our most famous tree sometime before you head off to college. Muir Woods National Monument is one of the last old-growth redwood forests on the planet and one of the only native salmon runs in California. Plus, there’s more than a few opportunities for your tiny treehugger to duck into a massive tree hollow and ham it up for your Instagram feed. Sequoia Sempervirens are the tallest—and one of the oldest—living things on earth. Fun fact: the tallest tree in Muir Woods is over 250 feet and most trees are between 600 to 800 years old. The oldest tree is thought to be about 1,200 years young, which is merely middle-age for redwoods. This outing may inspire your family to take your next trip to the Gulf Stream waters and really explore our whole country.
Gorgeous views, hikes galore, dark skies for stargazing and tons of interesting history await your visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Stop at the Visitor Center when you enter the park to watch the short video about the area's volcanic history and to learn what trails are open for business. Then make your way farther into the park to stop at the bubbling mud pots with the very distinct (and horrible) smell of sulfur. Don't forget that all fourth graders get free access to the national parks for a whole year through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
If you want a cabin camping experience inside the park, book a spot at Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Here you can go horseback riding, hiking and swimming in the hot spring-fed swimming pool as the sun goes down.
Head north past Redding and you'll make your way to the tranquil county of Siskiyou that extends to the California-Oregon border. Here you'll find gorgeous hikes like the Hedge Creek Falls Trail in Dunsmuir and the McCloud Falls Trail. Spend some time fishing for trout and exploring all of the outdoor adventure that the area has to offer. When you want to stay the night, we love the vintage cabooses turned into sleeping compartments at Railroad Park in Dunsmuir.
San Francisco is unlike any other California city you'll come across. You'll find a densely-populated metropolis full of amazing dining experiences, parks around every turn, the epic Golden Gate Bridges, beaches for exploring and so much more. Head to PIER 39 to see the sea lions and eat some chowder, ride the Cable Cars to Chinatown for dim sum and then cross the bridge to the Marin Headlands to see the city from the other side.
Wine Country may sound like romantic parent getaway, but it also has loads to offer families. TrainTown in Sonoma and the Epicenter Sports and Entertainment Complex in Santa Rosa are two kid destinations that you can't miss in between the sips. Sign up for a safari and stay the night at Safari West. Grab some delicious grub at Boon Fly Café in Napa. And oh, yeah, there are plenty of wineries that are ready with some grape juice, crayons and lawn games to keep their smallest patrons entertained. There are even kid-friendly eateries and lodging if you are looking to make it a long weekend or even a week-long getaway. In other words, you don't have to wait until the wee ones are otherwise occupied for a wine getaway.
Yosemite National Park is one of the oldest nature preserves in the US, and also one of the most majestic. If you’ve never been, it may be hard to know where to start your visit, but we know where to find the best trails for small hikers, which activities will thrill the most and which lodging is best for tired little toes. There are miles of valley to explore but the most kid-friendly paths are near the bottom. We recommend starting with the Sentinel Meadow Loop for amazing views of Half Dome reflected in the Merced River. It’s a 2.25-mile walk, great for strollers and offering lots of bathrooms, and a snap to stop off at Yosemite Valley Store for snacks before or after the trek. Looking for a little more of a challenge with a huge payoff? The Bridal Veil Falls hike may only be ½ mile out and back and stroller accessible but it is a little steep. A huge bonus is that the waterfall runs year-round, unlike many others which dry out in mid to late summer months.
When you’re ready to rest your head, there are options for every price point and rugged-loving level. Evergreen Lodge is pretty much our favorite spot (ever) as it has all of the kid-perks you look for and tons of relaxation opportunities for the parents. The splurge-worthy Ahwahnee Hotel is a world-renowned, four-diamond hotel, but for families, we love Tenaya Lodge, located just outside the park's Mariposa Grove South Entrance. Get rustic at Curry Village with a tent or enjoy a cabin or private room equipped with electricity, bathrooms and maid service.
This mesmerizing stretch of the California coast is the perfect addition to your California road trip. Camping spots along here have epic views and you can wake to the sounds of the crashing waves without having to turn on your sound machine. Julia Pheiffer Burns State Park is a great destination for a picnic and some hiking to waterfalls. As long as you don't have any car sickness-prone kids, Highway 1 is a gorgeous drive and an excellent choice for CA road trips.
A Central Coast adventure has many animals to delight young nature lovers. Start at the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery, which covers over six miles of beach near Point Piedras Blancas. The viewing areas are open daily, are wheelchair and stroller accessible and are free. You can see elephant seals mating and pupping and then see the (relatively) tiny babies. Don’t forget jackets, as the best time to see babies is January & February, and if you’re warm enough, you can spend all day here.
Nearby is Hearst Castle with 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. On the tram up to the castle, keep an eye out the window for zebras! Last stop is down to Pismo Beach (a great little beach town with many family and budget friendly hotels, not to mention amazing cinnamon buns) and the largest Monarch Butterfly Grove in the state. Docents are available for talks, as are telescopes to better spot the insects chilling in clusters in Eucalyptus trees. Look closely. At first glance, the butterfly tree clusters look like dried leaves, but then they start to move and you realize the trees are actually made of butterfly wings!
Dubbed the ‘Danish Capital of America,’ Solvang (which means sunny field in Danish) is in the lush wine country of Santa Ynez Valley. Located just 125 miles north of Los Angeles, this quaint town has a vibe and aesthetic reminiscent of a European fairy tale. Kids will love the whimsical Danish heritage that infuses downtown—which is complete with Danish style architecture, thatched roofs, and windmills.
While the town still has plenty of kitschy charm worth checking out (like Paula's Pancake House and a Viking-themed playground), there are also plenty of top-notch restaurants, boutique hotels, tucked-away tasting rooms and carefully curated shops to explore. On your way in or out of town, you'll also want to squeeze in a stop at Ostrichland USA, where kids can feed the big birds.
Santa Barbara, also known as 'The American Riviera,' is a gorgeous locale that makes you feel like you're a world away in paradise. From the pristine beaches to the serene mountains and lush vineyards, there's plenty to explore. Families can have the best of both worlds relaxing and unwinding as well as taking in city life. Book a stay at the oceanfront Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara for first class accommodations. Visit MOXI,: The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation to inspire and educate kids. Don't miss the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to delve deeper into the flora and fauna that make Santa Barbara so special. You'll also find plenty of delicious dining options throughout the city. We like Helena Avenue Bakery for lunch and Monkeyshine for a delightful dessert. Save time to bask in the sun at Butterfly Beach and to enjoy some water activities like whale watching or kayaking.
Called the 'Alps' of Southern California, Lake Arrowhead is perfectly poised in the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest. This idyllic mountain locale offers families respite from big city life, via a return to nature complete with adventures like water and snow skiing, hiking, biking and fishing amidst glorious scenery. Stay at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for the best Lake access. It's the perfect retreat in any weather. You'll find Lake Arrowhead to be a wonderful escape during all seasons, depending on your preference of snow skiing or enjoying water activities.
Carlsbad has it all when it comes to a family-friendly vacation destination. LEGOLAND is poised to open LEGO Movie World this spring, which will make the beloved theme park even more awesome! You can't beat South Carlsbad State Beach for swimming, surfing, picnicking and picturesque views. The Flower Fields come alive with rainbow blooms as far as the eye can see from Mar. 1-May 10 and Carlsbad Village offers local shopping and dining experiences the whole fam will love.
There's nothing like roaming among sky high, towering trees to give you a new perspective on life. And isn't that what traveling is all about? Take your little sprouts to explore Sequoia National Park for the ultimate immersion into nature. Book a stay at Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of the Park and you'll enjoy easy access to all of the area's attractions including the Giant Forest Grove of the Big Trees and Giant Forest Museum, Big Trees Trail and Wolverton Recreation Area. Walk among the world's largest trees and spy the creatures that call this forest home. You can also opt to camp among them at Bearpaw High Sierra Camp®.
Ojai is a quaint and charming town set in a valley in the Topatopa Mountains 75 miles north of Los Angeles. It's just a quick car trip, but you'll feel you've left city life far behind. Unplug and bask in nature with all the creature comforts by staying in one of the modern bohemian Airstreams at Caravan Outpost. Grab lunch at Hip Vegan Cafe and bike along the car-free Ojai Valley Trail. Let kids be kids at Libbey Park located in the center of town, and then browse the cute local boutiques and galleries. You can also visit Ojai for the day and go a little further north to stay in Santa Barbara.
Renowned for being a righteous skiing & snowboarding destination in the winter, Big Bear is also beautiful (and a lot less crowded) during the fall, spring and summer. Nature fans and lovers of the great outdoors will be spoiled for choice in this scenic locale. Ride the Alpine Slide, or hop on the Miss Liberty for a boat tour of Big Bear Lake, get up close and personal with animals at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo or go ziplining or mountain biking. This small town has a ton to offer in way of adventurous fun.
More details on a fabulous family itinerary may be found here.
The twisty tree shapes, Cholla cactus forests, and blobby boulders in Joshua Tree make wonderful Dr. Seuss-style memories for your kiddos on this desert adventure. For a quick day trip from the incredibly kid-friendly Palm Springs, stick to exhibitions along the main roads; for a hike, the one-mile loop trail through Hidden Valley is a good introduction for little ones. Start your adventure at the West entrance, then work your way along the road exiting the park at the South. The most scenic sections will be located close to the road at the beginning of the trip. If you really want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the place for several days, think about staying at these little private pods at the Bonita Domes.
This quaint, old-fashioned mountain town and historical district is as American as apple pie––which it's famous for too. Julian was put on the map during the gold rush in the 1870's and the nostalgic vibe is what continues to make this locale a charming throwback to the simpler times of yesteryear. Families can pan for gold at Julian Mining Company, sip apple cider while exploring the many bakeries and shops that line Main St., or go off the beaten path to hike or go fishing. If you're in town during apple picking season, head to Apple Starr Orchard for bushels of fun. There are year-round festivities and festivals in this bucolic locale, from Grape Stomps and Apple Days to Country Christmas and Gold Rush Days––as well as impromptu entertainment that crops on Main St. like gunfight skits on Sundays! Don't leave without an apple pie or two to-go from Julian Pie Company and some candied or caramel apples from Candied Apple Pastry.
Get even more details on what to do in Julian here.
The Channel Islands
Meghan Rose
Cruise across the sunny sea through a shroud of fog to emerge on your own Galapagos-like sanctuary; one of the pristine Channel Islands. Santa Cruz is probably the best island for a first visit, as it’s the largest and offers the most amenities. But if you’re traveling with bigger kids, Anacapa is a beautiful and wild adventure. Either island turns into a pristine nature visit for kids of all ages where on the boat over you can see dolphins and whales and when you get to the island you can see the mice and dwarf fox that call the island home. When you get to Santa Cruz, which is the only island with running water and a visitor center, you can take a hike with the naturalist volunteer who takes the boat ride over with you, and learn all about the history of the island from the Chumash settlers to the ranchers who raised cattle here as well as the island’s new life as a National Park. If your family is adventurous or has been to the islands before, consider booking a kayak tour or camping on the island.
Word is getting out about all the good things this up and coming sleepy town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains has to offer, so plan a trip before the crowds get 'wild.' A go-to destination for hikers and rock climbers, visit the Idyllwild Nature Center to find the excursion that's best for your family. Idyllwild also offers great glamping and bed and breakfast options and respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Be sure to dine amongst the trees at Gastrognome or head to Cafe Aroma for a sophisticated and comforting meal made with local ingredients and play a game of checkers on the checkerboard tables while fueling up at Higher Grounds Coffee. The town also boasts charming shops including Sky Island Organics local marketplace and Candy Cupboard.
With its slew awesome kid-friendly museums (including favorites like Kidspace, The California Science Center, LACMA and Getty), plus miles of beaches, iconic restaurants, and can't-miss tourist spots (we're looking at you Rodeo Dr.), Los Angeles is the kind of city you could spend a few days in and still only scratch the surface. It's a city you can keep coming back to again and agin—which is why we've got a long list of things to do with kids in LA that you can start making your way through, one unforgettable experience at a time!
A true oasis in the desert, the celebrity playground of the '60s has become a popular destination for families seeking sunshine and stunning hotel pools, plus natural beauty (hello, Joshua Tree and the can't-miss Living Desert Zoo and Gardens), and a dose of mid-century style. During the winter months, you can also experience snow by way of the Palm Spring Aerial Tram that climbs 2.5 miles up into the San Jacinto Mountains. Throughout the year, you can also visit the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert and the Palm Springs Air Museum. These air-conditioned spots are the perfect place to beat the heat in the afternoon.
Editor’s Note: We’re making every effort to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, sometimes closures occur at the last minute due to circumstances beyond our control, such as the spread of Covid-19. At the time of press, the destinations below were taking reservations. Stay safe!
Got “getaway” on your mind? Consider a rural retreat for the ultimate socially-distant family vacation. Rural farm stays offer a resort-like experience off-grid. Your kids will enjoy a host of activities — like hiking, fishing, feeding farm animals and more — free of the peopley part of an actual resort. Scroll down for our places to bunk with cows, sheep and bison.
Buffalo truly roam on this private 72-acre little piece of heaven. You can watch the sunrise over the Smoky Mountains or cheer on the herd of buffalo as they come in for their morning oats. You might even get to enjoy a hot cup of coffee on one of the decks of the gorgeous log cabins. Located in Clyde, North Carolina, the property is a quick drive from Asheville (25 miles) – Maggie Valley and Waynesville are only 12 miles away. Your family will love all the local fun if you want to leave the farm. But there’s no need. You’ll have everything you need right there. Want to take work or school on the road? Trinity Bison Ranch has got you covered with a strong wi-fi connection.
The owners of this beautiful homestead are passionate about the animals they raise, the food they grow and the relaxing getaway they provide. Their organic farm houses rabbits, chickens, pigs, turkeys, goats and an adorable 2-bedroom cottage with everything you need for a fun family vacation. Your kids will love feeding their goats and chickens. PandA Homestead offers the possibility to see how food is raised and grown and how it is all possible without using heavy machinery and chemicals. Grab your camera because the newest Virginia LOVE sign is on their beautiful farmland. It is such a fun photo op.
23332 Felton Dr.
Capron, VA
434-658-0516
Online: pandahomestead.com
Conveniently located in the heart of Lancaster County’s Amish country, Verdant View Farm is the perfect setting for your family to explore a family-owned farm, interact with farm animals, enjoy local hospitality, and taste homegrown foods. Join in on some seriously fun morning chores – milk a cow, feed a calf and venture inside the chicken coop. Play fetch with the farm border collie, cuddle adorable kittens, stroll around the farm, or relax while watching the cows graze in the pasture. Wave to the train engineer as the Strasburg Rail Road passes through the farm fields. Or, get your own tickets to ride a real steam engine. Overnight accommodations include a farm-to-table breakfast, featuring homegrown and locally sourced foods.
429 Strasburg Rd.
Paradise, PA
717-687-7353
Online: verdantview.com
The owners of Rocky Acre Farm have seamlessly run a bed-and-breakfast style experience alongside a working farm for over 50 years. Rooms are clean and well-equipped, with most having bunk beds and queen beds together so families can share quarters. The farm attracts visitors who often make this their home away from home, coming year after year (and some multiple times a year). Breakfasts are homemade and hearty and often include pancakes, waffles, fresh farm eggs, sausage, homemade jams and baked treats. Kids will enjoy getting hands-on experience collecting eggs, tending to baby calves, and helping with basic farm chores. Other amenities include an onsite playground and hayrides.
COVID-19 Update: Additional tables have been added to outdoor areas to allow for social distancing while dining. There is also gloves and hand sanitizer located on the farm.
1020 Pinkerton Rd. Mount Joy, PA 717-653-4449 Online: rockyacre.com
Feed the flock of chickens, gather eggs, swim and fish in the ponds, hike, and wake to the rooster’s crow (if that happens before your little ones wake up). Willet Ponds Farm offers clean accommodations for your vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. More than a place to stay: an Appalachian farm experience. It’s all about the farm, and the peaceful, educational experience your family will have together. Interact with a few farm animal favorites: Josephine the pot-bellied pig, Penelope the long-eared donkey, several horses and some very friendly dogs. Treat yourself to the simple joys in life down on this 100-acre farm.
The owners of this sustainable farm (think free range animals) affectionately call the Belle Meade a holistic retreat. Set on nearly 140 acres, you are sure to find an activity to capture the heart and mind of each and every person in your brood. There is an outdoor pool for little ones, an old fashioned swimming pond with a floating deck and rope swing for the bigger kids and a hot tub for moms and dads. For those wishing to get their hands dirty, you can help tend to pigs, horses, cattle, chicken and rabbits. Nearby you’ll find hiking and canoeing in Shenandoah National Park. Breakfast, which is included with room reservations, is made from locally sourced foods and farm fresh ingredients. Rates for single rooms start at $160; there are four guest rooms in the main house. A separate cottage rents for $210 a night.
353 F.T. Valley Rd. Sperryville, VA 540-987-9748 Online: bellemeade.net
This West Virginia Inn offers the opportunity to roam 450 acres, 150 of which are utilized as a farm. You and your kids will discover horses, llamas and cattle. A gentle hike up the mountain gives visitor’s a chance to gaze down on a fresh, green valley, which is a refreshing sight for those used to the congestion and development of the DC metro area. Other outdoor activities include biking, trout fishing, and star gazing. For those struggling to completely unplug, the onsite community center offers movies, books and arcade games. Room reservations include a breakfast buffet and start at $129.
This farm is home to chickens, cows and bees. School aged kids will enjoy the hands-on workshops offered (almost) every Wednesday at this Highland County farm. Guests can learn about a range of topics, like beekeeping, seed saving, mushroom cultivating and more. The Institute suggests a Tuesday and Wednesday evening stay for those wishing to attend a workshop. Classes are an additional small fee and include meals. A continental breakfast is included; guests who stay midweek are also welcome to participate in family style meals at no additional charge. The property’s lodge, which accommodates up to 8 people, can be rented for $250 a night. Rooms can also be rented individually.
Berriedale holds an unusual title. It’s the only farm in the United States that is protected by both land and breed conservation. You’ll find The George Washington National Forest to the east of this little hamlet and the Highland Wildlife Management Area to the west. The farm itself is home to heritage cattle, which means these cows are on the brink of going extinct. Berriedale is a great place for kids to learn about the importance of breed diversity in our agriculture system. It’s also ideal for families that want to “get away from it all.” You won’t get cell reception here. Or have access to a television. The log cabin accommodations are rustic (but they do have electricity).
10245 Cowpasture River Rd. Williamsville, VA 540-925-2308 Online: berriedalefarms.com
This working cattle farm is just an hour west of DC, in Loudoun County. Built nearly 300 years ago, this rural retreat boasts over 200 acres to explore. Spend your summer days playing lawn games, exploring the gardens, taking a dip in the swimming pool or fishing in the pond. While there isn’t a lot of hands-on opportunities at Oakland, nearby JK Community Farm, which provides organic food for children, families and seniors in need through donations to hunger relief organizations and shelters, offers those interested in hands-on farm work a chance to volunteer. Guests can rent the oldest section of the house, Log House Suite (starting at $125).
Dropped the ball on planning the family vacation? Slammed at work and can’t get away? Working on a budget right now? Reminder: you don’t need to go anywhere—you live in the best city world! What your family needs is a staycation: splurge on a fun, family-friendly hotel in midtown close to many of the city’s tourist attractions; see what all the fuss is about in Brooklyn (Brownstone or Williamsburg editions); explore downtown like a tourist or tres chic fashionista, or just stay at home and enjoy the city in the summer. We’ve got ideas for your best NYC staycation ever. Read on to find your vaca in your own backyard!
For a Magical Princess Experience: Lotte NY
Mimi O'Connor
Take a staycation in magical Midtown with Lotte NY's Palace Princess Package. Available in the deluxe section of the hotel "The Towers", the experience begins when you check-in at a special area reserved for guests of the "hotel within a hotel" behind glass doors. And then, the moment, when your princess enters the room and spies a perfectly pink princess dress, complete with light-up tiara artfully laid out for her on the bed. (Our princess almost passed out.) On the table, a personalize card welcoming the palace princess is set out, complete with a trio of cupcakes, pink, crown-shaped cookies, and a chocolate sculpture surrounded by gourmet bon bons. (Our room had a big mirror, which was made good use of.) The views looking down on the magnificent St. Patrick's Cathedral and midtown aren't too shabby, either. Rates start at $260
Staycation destinations: Truly in the center of it all, Lotte NY is two blocks from Rockefeller Center and all that it offers—American Girl Place, a LEGO store, FAO Schwarz, and of course, during the holidays, the famous tree, and skating rink, and iconic decorations. Radio City Music Hall is also nearby
To Explore Hipster HQ: The Williamsburg Hotel
Williamsburg Hotel
There are a couple of very good (and, of course, very chic) options in Williamsburg, The Williamsburg Hotel and The William Vale. Both offer stylishly-appointed rooms, rooftop pools, and amazing views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. (Both are also running staycation promotions right now!) The Williamsburg Hotel has the added bonus of being pet-friendly, and the service of shuttling guests around the 'hood in a Tuk-tuk. The William Vale has the Turf Club, a pop-up seasonal rooftop with games, music, and sunset views.
Both you and the kids get the royal treatment at The Peninsula. Parents can get pampered at the acclaimed spa and lounge at the rooftop pool (It's just the right temperature and is surrounded by comfy loungers topped with puffy bright white towels and to-die-for views.) Your kids won’t feel shortchanged, either, as every little one who checks in receives a gift bag with a stuffed Peninsula bear (bedecked in the same hat the doormen wear), a sticker book and activity packets. The Camp Peninsula package includes a Camp Peninsula tent pitched right inside your suite. Clement, the in-hotel restaurant has a kid's kids menu so everyone will enjoy mealtime.
Staycation destinations: In addition to Rock Center, The Penninsula is also very close to the Museum of Modern Art. You can also hop over to The Plaza for a proper tea or Eloise event, or for something completely different, head a few blocks east and hop the tram to Roosevelt Island.
For Milk & Cookies & American Girl: Omni Berkshire Place
Omni Berkshire Hotel
Talk about family-friendly!: midtown hotel Omni Berkshire Place welcomes kids with milk and cookies on the first night of their stay. Other perks for kids include an Omni Kids Club backpack, loaded with games and things to keep the little ones busy, as well as a kids menu. Is there an American Girl doll living in your house? Check out the American Girl Dream package, with a doll bed and breakfast for two.
21 E. 52nd St. Midtown 212-753-5800 Online: omnihotels.com
Staycation destinations: This is another good option to put you in the center of the midtown tourist action of Rock Center and the surrounding area.
For Sleek Affordable Accommodations Near Times Square: ROW NYC
Looking for a fun, family hotel in Times Square? ROW NYC has a cool vibe and decor, an attached food hall with lots of tasty options, and the “Row Pass” which gets you discounts on NYC family-friendly places like Dave & Busters, Sugar Factory, and souvenir shops. Family specials include the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum package, which gives you a discounted room rate, two tickets to the museum and a complimentary Intrepid souvenir. You can also cook together at the Row NYC Pizza Academy, where families can book a three-hour pizza-making class at Keste Fulton. This NYC hotel package includes a complimentary car service and complimentary breakfast at the hotel restaurant, District M.
Staycation destinations: Check out Ripley's Believe it Or Not or Madame Tussaud's. And good news: Times Square is now full of kid-friendly places to eat—we rounded them up here!
For Fun Digs Near Brownstone Brooklyn: Nu Hotel Brooklyn
Nu Hotel Brooklyn
Never spent time in Brownstone Brooklyn and want to see what all the fuss is about? Check in at Nu Hotel and start exploring. The hotel is centrally-located near the cute brownstone neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights and beyond, with the added bonus of being near the transit hub of downtown Brooklyn. Accommodations for families include rooms with two double beds, and a bunk bed suite that sleeps four. Other perks include cool murals on select walls and free bike use.
Wisconsin’s Door County has long been a playground for Chicagoans in summer. We flock there for the lush green wilderness, watersports, idyllic Lake Michigan views, cozy cabins and inns, quaint small-town shopping, fish boils, breweries and wineries, cheese curds—the list could go on endlessly. But the fun doesn’t stop when the temps drop. The crowds shrink drastically in winter, which makes it perfect for a relaxing and serene getaway for those that enjoy winter play and aren’t phased by the cooler temps. Read on for a few of our favorite wintertime activities in Door County and start planning a couples-only retreat (pssst. . . perhaps for Valentine’s Day?).
PLAY IN THE SNOW
Fat Tire Biking
Destination Door County
Renting a fat tire bike is a great way to kick off your morning or combat a post-lunch food coma. The traction and low pressure of a fat tire bike floats you across terrain that would otherwise be unrideable: sand, mud, wet rocks or dense snow are conquerable.
Across the street from the entrance to Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, you'll find Nor Door Sports & Cyclery. For about $10 an hour you can rent a bike and climb Skyline Road to Sven's Bluff. The stone fences and open meadows you see on your way are remnants from long-ago farms. If you time it right, you can hit the top for golden hour in late afternoon to catch spectacular views of the winter shoreline as the sun clocks out.
Newport State Park protects 11 miles of rugged Lake Michigan shoreline near the northeast end of Door Peninsula and offers fat bike trails.
Fat Biking Tips:
Put a shot of alcohol in your water bottle to keep it from freezing if the temps are below 32 degrees.
Wear booties over your shoes and thick gloves. If you layer the right way, you'll stay warm even on the coldest of days.
It's counter-intuitive, but stay seated even when climbing a hill. Your bike needs your weight on the back tire to keep its traction.
Ice Skating
Destination Door County
Grab your partner's hand and glide weightlessly across the ice at Sister Bay Ice Rink. The outdoor rink has skate rentals, fires going to warm fingers and toes in-between figure 8s and concessions. While in Sister Bay, we'd also recommend a stop into Wild Tomato for made-from-scratch wood-fired pizza.
TASTE LOCAL FLAVORS
Wine Tasting
Destination Door County
When you hear "Wisconsin," you likely think of beer and cheese. But wine-making is growing rapidly in the state and Door County is seeing a lot of this action. The mixture of the soil and grape varieties uniquely found in Door County creates tastes you won't find anywhere else. You can plan a whole weekend vacation around following the 8-winery Door County Wine Trail. Most are open through the winter with precautionary restrictions related to COVID, but be sure to check with each winery before planning a visit.
One of the most visited wineries, receiving over 60k guests per year, is the award-winning Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery in Sturgeon Bay. Each of their wines has received recognition and awards in international competitions. Facility tours have been halted during COVID, but you can still enjoy a tasting.
The largest winery in Door County is Door Peninsula. Their wine tours are not currently running, but their tasting sessions with more than 60 different wines and ciders are still available. Their shop filled with jams, spreads, oils, cheeses and home accessories is a great spot to grab gifts for friends.
We also recommend family-owned Door 44 wines for their friendly and knowledgeable ownership and staff, on top of robust and varied wine choices. They don't serve food onsite, but they do have prepacked items you can purchase and take to your table.
A cold-weather-themed must-do is to try an ice wine from the region. The grapes for these wines are frozen while still on the vine, and then pressed while still frozen. The sugars in the grapes do not freeze, but the water does. This results in very concentrated sugars and acids being extracted and the water staying behind as frozen ice. It's labor-intensive and the yields are small, but the resulting dessert wine is well worth the trouble.
Morning Fuel-Up
Door County Coffee & Tea
Beignets may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Door County, but Big Easy Bagel and Beignet will soon change that. Make them a first stop in the morning before you head out for adventuring for this french classic dusted in powdered sugar. For something a little less sweet, their menu offers build-your-own sandwiches, breakfast burritos and pizzas, biscuit sliders and more.
Door County Coffee & Tea is located across the street from Door Peninsula Winery and is open for breakfast and lunch, or when you just need a quick caffeine jolt. Their shop is filled with gourmet foods and home decor and you can watch the roasting process in action on most weekdays.
Lunch & Dinner Joints
Community-style fish boils are a decades-long tradition in Door county. Locally caught whitefish is boiled on an open fire in a large metal kettle and is typically served alongside potatoes and onions. It's a must-do while in the region to get the full local experience and The White Gull Inn, with it's warmth and charm dating back to 1896, is a great place to indulge.
For a taste of home, Sonny's Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria in Sturgeon Bay holds the title for the #1 spot in Door County for Chicago-style pizza. They also serve Napoletana-style pizza and have an impressive selection of pasta and salads. After dinner, we recommend a stop into Bridge Up Brewing Co., a small-batch brewery on the 1st floor that uses local ingredients with a wide range of flavor profiles.
BUY FROM LOCAL ARTISTS
Plum Bottom Gallery
Destination Door County
A fun way to remember your trip for years to come is by purchasing something special for your home from a local artist. Plum Bottom Gallery is a family-run art gallery that sits on 20 acres in Egg Harbor. They represent 100 artists from across the county that specialize in hand-crafted jewelry, paintings, pottery, metalwork, fiber, glass and printmaking. In addition, their resident artists have studios onsite where they create their one-of-a-kind pieces.
WHERE TO STAY
Door County Cabins @ Plum Bottom
Airbnb
Door County Cabins at Plum Bottom offers three different sleeping options in Egg Harbor, a cabin, a cottage and a treehouse located on 20 acres amidst rolling prairies and woods. The 3-bedroom cabin is a great option for multiple couples as it features two king suites and a queen bedroom with an attached bathroom.
When in Egg Harbor, be sure to stop into Big Easy for fresh beignets that will make you feel like you woke up in New Orleans.
Landmark Resort
Landmark Resort
The Landmark Resort is hidden in 40 wooded acres sprawling along a wooded bluff with panoramic views of the Bay of Green Bay. Their one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites are spacious and comfortable and include a fully-equipped kitchen, living room and a deck or patio. For summertime visits, they have 3 outdoor pools and 1 indoor pool that is open 24/7, year-round.
Located on the north end of the property is Landmark's onsite restaurant, Carrington Pub & Grill, where you'll find a good dinner selection of salads, steaks, fish and American classics.
The White Gull Inn
Destination Door County
The White Gull Inn is a picturesque bed and breakfast loaded with charm and character located in the bayside village of Fish Creek. The property features meticulously maintained rooms, suites and cottages, some with fireplaces and whirlpools. They're famous for their traditional fish boil featuring Lake Michigan whitefish. Even if you don't stay at the Inn, stop in for breakfast, lunch, candelight dinners and the fish boils which are open to the public year-round.
START PLANNING
Plan Your Route
Door County is on the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, which follows state highways around Lake Michigan through Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. The tour is roughly 1,100 miles long and would take roughly 14.5 hours without stops. While that might be ambitious for a quick weekend away, you can enjoy bits of the tour on your way to Door County.
For a taste of the tour, we recommend jumping off 43 in Manitowoc and driving old 42 along the lake through Two Rivers, Kewaunee and Algoma. It adds a few minutes to your trip, but the drive through classic midwestern waterfront towns is worth the minor inconvenience.
Mike Romer Photography
Pack your weekend full of snow-filled activities, or just enjoy the calm, quiet beauty of Door County. For more help crafting your perfect trip, visit doorcounty.com.
— Maria Chambers
Photos courtesy of Destination Door County. This trip was paid for by Door County Visitor Bureau but all opinions belong to the author.
Now you can spend the night in Harry Potter’s childhood home. The IRL home, known as the De Vere House, is listed on Airbnb—and it’s only $142 per night!
The home, which is located in the medieval village of Lavenham (in England, of course), has one bedroom, one shared bath and is the perfect size for two guests. The scenic Suffolk county area boasts more than 300 protected heritage properties and was featured as Godric’s Hollow in the Harry Potter film series.
According to the Airbnb listing, “De Vere House is a highly acclaimed former Five Star and Gold Award bed and breakfast accommodation is re-opening now with Air B&B and offers stunning facilities. ”
Not only is this a gem for Potter fans, but this house is also a must-see for history buffs. The De Vere House website lists the home’s notable past. Along with a visit from King Henry VII in 1498, the home also held the sister and youngest brother of Charles II and James II in 1651 when they were under house arrest.
Visit Airbnb here to rent the house for the night!
Families have a lot of choices when it comes to finding the best hotel in New York City. Hotels in Manhattan—including hotels in Times Square and hotels in Midtown—hotels with family suites for really big groups, and of course, hotels for budgets of all size. We’ve rounded up the best NYC hotels for families right here, so you and the kids can get the rest you need to explore the city from dawn ’til dusk. Find your family-friendly hotel match and get booking!
Concorde Hotel
Concorde Hotel NYC
If you're spending time in the city with young kids, you couldn't find a better location than the Concorde Hotel. It's easily walkable to some city landmarks that kids love: The Nintendo Store, American Girl Doll, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park. The junior suite offers an incredible amount of space, wraparound windows giving you an incredible view of the city, and sleeping arrangements that accommodate the whole family. The 24-hour coffee/hot chocolate station will be a hit. This is a cozy hotel with a friendly staff and a great location. Couldn't ask for anything more.
Looking for a fun, family hotel in Times Square? ROW NYC has a cool vibe and decor, an attached food hall with lots of tasty options, and the “Row Pass” which gets you discounts on NYC family-friendly places like Dave & Busters, Sugar Factory, and souvenir shops. Family specials include the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum package, which gives you a discounted room rate, two tickets to the museum and a complimentary Intrepid souvenir. You can also cook together at the Row NYC Pizza Academy, where families can book a three-hour pizza-making class at Keste Fulton. This NYC hotel package includes a complimentary car service and complimentary breakfast at the hotel restaurant, District M.
For a five-star family-friendly hotel in midtown Manhattan, head to the Peninsula, where you can book adjoining suites and rooms (and get a discounted rate on the second one). Nearby attractions for families include Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the Museum of Modern Art. For an extra special stay, book the Camp Peninsula experience, which includes a cute tent pitched in the room, s’mores, a picnic at the hotel’s glass-enclosed swimming pool, a kids’ amenities set, and scavenger hunt adventure.
700 5th Ave. New York, NY 10019 212-956-2888 Website: peninsula.com Hotel Peninsula location google maps
Kimpton Ink48 Hotel
Kimpton Ink48 Hotel
Located on NYC's West Side in Hell's Kitchen, Ink48 is near Times Square but not in it, providing a little space between you and the bright lights; it's also near Chelsea Piers, Hudson Yards, and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and has great views of Midtown and the Hudson River. Family-friendly hotel features include a welcome gift for kids upon arrival, a pet-friendly policy, bikes and scooters for use, and Osme bath products, gentle for baby and young kids' skin. For families traveling with very young ones, child safety kits are available (outlet covers, toilet latches, etc.), as well as cribs, playards, strollers, and more.
653 11th Ave. New York, NY 10036 212-757-0088 Website: ink48.com Kimpton Ink48 Hotel location google maps
This midtown Manhattan hotel is great for families thanks to a location two blocks from Central Park and one block from the subway. In addition to offering family suites, Loews Regency New York is ready for your children with kid's menus and dining activities, cribs, nightlights, and child-proofing supplies, and guides to getting the most out of New York City with kids. There's a restaurant on site, as well as a coffee shop for a quick pastry and morning beverage. The best news? Kids under 18 stay free.
540 Park Ave. New York, NY 10065 212-759-4100 Website: loewshotels.com Loews Regency New York Hotel location google maps
For apartment-style suites near Chelsea, Madison Square Park, Macy's, and the Empire State Building, consider Hyatt House. The pet-friendly, residence-like accommodations offer peace and quiet, as well as laundry machines—a major score for families visiting NYC—kitchens in each suite, and a 24-hour "H Market" with prepared foods and more when you're in a bind. There's also free breakfast featuring an omelet bar. Best of all? The Borrows Menu, offering a variety of items available to borrow, from a jumbo coffee maker, white noise machine and child night light to outlet covers, a crib, high chair and even games like UNO, checkers, dominoes, chess, Connect Four, Sorry and Monopoly.
815 Sixth Ave. New York, NY 212-513-0001 Website: hyatt.com Hyatt House New York/Chelsea google maps
A family-friendly hotel in Midtown, the Omni Berkshire Place welcomes kids with milk and cookies on the first night of their stay. Other perks for kids include an Omni Kids Club backpack, loaded with games and things to keep the little ones busy, as well as a kids menu. For an extra special treat, there's the American Girl Dream package, with a doll bed and breakfast for two. For you? Babysitting services, 18 connecting suites for two-bedroom accommodations, and proximity to scores of attractions in Midtown Manhattan and beyond, including Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the Museum of Modern Art.
21 E. 52nd St. New York, NY 10022 212-753-5800 Website: omnihotels.com Omni Berkshire Place location google maps
Gardens Suites Hotel By Affinia
Gardens Suites Hotel By Affinia
This recently renovated all-suite hotel is perfect for families, with large suites, full kitchens, and lots of family-friendly perks. The new Affinia Junior program includes coloring sheets and crayons for kids, kid-friendly snacks and treats, “Family Fun” chests filled with board games, and help for parents such as strollers, pack and plays, and high chairs. Add-ons include an Affinia Junior sportpack full of goodies including colorable pillow, glow in the dark flashlight, and animal temporary hand tattoos (for an additional $49); and an Affinia Junior Fresh Direct Kit (for an additional $52). For even more fun, book in advance the Starry Night Camp-in experience (complete with teepee), or an in-room sparkle spa soiree.
215 E. 64th St. New York, NY 10065 866-233-4642 Website: affinia.com Gardens Suites Hotel By Affinia location google maps
Nu Hotel Brooklyn
Nu Hotel Brooklyn
Brooklyn is a very family-friendly borough, so it makes sense it’s got a hotel that’s great for traveling with kids. Another spot with a hip vibe, Nu Hotel is centrally located near the cute brownstones neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights and beyond, the transit hub of downtown Brooklyn, and popular spots like Brooklyn Bridge Park, the New York City Transit Museum, and the Brooklyn Bridge itself. Accommodations for families include rooms with two double beds, and a bunk bed suite that sleeps four. Other perks include cool murals on select walls and free bike use.
Lotte New York Palace provides you space to spread out in the Palace Family Suites. These family-friendly midtown accommodations have two bathrooms, multiple seating areas, and lots of closet space. Kids will love the American Girl Place Package (the hotel is a block from the flagship in Rockefeller Center), which includes a sweet treat and an American Girl doll bed to take home. Baseball nuts will like Palace Pinstripe Package, featuring up to 50% off accommodations and tickets to select Yankees home games, a Yankees welcome gift, complimentary pre- or post-game drinks & more. And during the holidays, kids can write letters to Santa, drop them in a mailbox on site, and get a personal response during their stay. Santa himself also drops by during the season for story time.
455 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10022 212-888-7000 Website: lottenypalace.com Lotte New York Palace location google maps
Fun, funky, and affordable, this family-friendly hotel is south of Times Square, near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. Tryp offers free breakfast, casual dining, rooms with bunk beds, and family suites for large groups that can sleep up to eight people. We especially like the Tryp Theater suite, with a bunk bed, two LED tv screens, funky carpet, 18-foot ceilings and blue skylight.
345 W. 35th St. New York, NY 10001 212-600-2440 website: tryphotelnyc.com Tryp by Wyndham Times Square South location google maps
It’s official: New York City is a great place for families—to live and to visit! That’s why you’ll find lots of family friendly hotels in the city, from hotels with family suites, to ones with perks for the kids (and parents!) For a home base near many of NYC’s top attractions, a midtown hotel is often a great choice. Read on for our picks for the best NYC Midtown hotels for families, for your incoming friends and family, or your next staycation!
A few blocks south of Times Square but still near the action of midtown (Penn Station and Madison Square Garden are close by) Tryp by Wyndham Times Square South is fun, funky, and affordable. This family-friendly hotel offers free breakfast, casual dining, rooms with bunk beds, and family suites for large groups that can sleep up to eight people. We especially like the Tryp Theater suite, with a bunk bed, two LED tv screens, funky carpet, 18-foot ceilings and blue skylight.
345 W. 35th St. New York, NY 10001 212-600-2440 Online: tryphotelnyc.com Tryp by Wyndham Times Square South location google maps
A bit uptown from the action in Times Square, JW Marriott Essex House New York is family-friendly hotel in midtown with NYC sophistication. Art Deco decor and details (the elevators!) and a location right on Central Park, near Fifth Avenue shopping makes this a choice for a classic New York stay. If you need hotels with family suites, you can find them here, along with free wifi, and even a pet-friendly policy. The hotel also offers a Family By JW package in its family suites and connected rooms that includes perks such as a custom JW Camper tent set up in the room, an NYC Activity Guide and curated children's tour of Central Park, a daily in-room dining experience, and an NYC family outing arranged by the hotel's concierge.
160 Central Park West New York, NY 10019 212-247-0300 Online: marriott.com JW Marriott Essex House New York location on google maps
Midtown hotel ROW NYC is a great choice for families visiting New York City. It's just off of Times Square, has a cool vibe and decor, and an attached food hall with lots of tasty options for a quick and easy bite. The hotel's “Row Pass” gets you discounts on NYC family-friendly places like Dave & Busters and souvenir shops. For foodie families, the Row NYC Pizza Academy offers a three-hour pizza-making class at Keste Fulton, with a complimentary car service and complimentary breakfast at the hotel restaurant, District M.
Ink48 is near Times Square but not in it, providing a little space between you and the bright lights. Located on NYC's West Side in Hell's Kitchen, it's near Chelsea Piers, Hudson Yards, and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum; it also provides great views of Midtown and the Hudson River. Family-friendly hotel features include a welcome gift for kids upon arrival, a pet-friendly policy, bikes and scooters for use, and Osme bath products, gentle for baby and young kids' skin. Traveling with a baby? This family-friendly hotel has child safety kits available (outlet covers, toilet latches, etc.), as well as cribs, playards, strollers, and more.
653 11th Ave. New York, NY 10036 212-757-0088 Online: ink48.com Kimpton Ink48 Hotel location google maps
Talk about family-friendly!: midtown hotel Omni Berkshire Place welcomes kids with milk and cookies on the first night of their stay. Other perks for kids include an Omni Kids Club backpack, loaded with games and things to keep the little ones busy, as well as a kids menu. Is there an American Girl doll living in your house? Check out the American Girl Dream package, with a doll bed and breakfast for two. Parents will love babysitting services, 18 connecting suites for two-bedroom accommodations, and the hotel's prime location, close to attractions in Midtown Manhattan and beyond, including Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the Museum of Modern Art.
21 E. 52nd St. New York, NY 10022 212-753-5800 Online: omnihotels.com Omni Berkshire Place location google maps
It’s hard to get more more in the center of it all than Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan. This NYC midtown hotel looks out onto Times Square, and is close to lots of popular New York City attractions—Broadway theaters, Rockefeller Center, Madam Tussaud’s—and virtually every subway line. Adjoining room packages, two-for-one breakfast, on-site parking, a kid’s menu, and amazing views of Times Square make it one of the best NYC hotels for families—especially ones on a budget. (Want to watch the Times Square ball drop on New Year’s Eve? This hotel has primo “seats” and packages.)
If you need a place a family can spread out and stay a while, consider this recently renovated all-suite hotel, where you'll find large suites, full kitchens, and lots of family-friendly perks. The new Affinia Junior program will help kids feel at home, with coloring sheets and crayons, kid-friendly snacks and treats, “Family Fun” chests filled with board games, and help for parents such as strollers, pack and plays, and high chairs. The midtown hotel also offers add-on goodies, food, and experiences, including an Affinia Junior sportpack full of fun gear such as a colorable pillow, glow in the dark flashlight, and animal temporary hand tattoos (for an additional $49); and an Affinia Junior Fresh Direct Kit (for an additional $52). For even more fun, book in advance the Starry Night Camp-in experience (complete with teepee), or an in-room sparkle spa soiree.
215 E. 64th St. New York, NY 10065 866-233-4642 Online: affinia.com Gardens Suites Hotel By Affinia location google maps
The Peninsula is a five-star family-friendly hotel in midtown Manhattan where you can book adjoining suites and rooms (and get a discounted rate on the second one). Nearby attractions the whole family will love include Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the Museum of Modern Art. This hotel also offers the Camp Peninsula experience, which includes a cute tent pitched in the room, s’mores, a picnic at the hotel’s glass-enclosed swimming pool, a kids’ amenities set, and scavenger hunt adventure.
700 5th Ave. New York, NY 10019 212-956-2888 Online: peninsula.com Hotel Peninsula location google maps
There’s always a ton to accomplish when hosting a child’s birthday celebration at home. Planning the menu and party theme, decorating, figuring out games, party favors and goodie bags. Serving a spread, cutting the cake, opening presents and keeping the kids occupied. For our daughter’s 5th birthday we took a different route. One that didn’t require putting anyone on edge planning, but invited everyone to the edge of their seats—buckled in, of course.
So how does a child really want to celebrate their birthday? Simply ask. Our birthday girl wanted to meet her favorite Sesame Street Characters. Instead of the typical party theme, we booked a Sesame Place® soiree. Little did we know this family road trip would have a surprise twist.
Our GPS lead the way from the Crayola Experience in Easton to Sesame Place in Langhorne, a visit to Lancaster County to sample ice cream and iced teas at the Turkey Hill Experience, then off to the haunted streets and battlefields of Gettysburg. Our multi-destination getaway through Pennsylvania was packed with spontaneous family-friendly stops offering experiences we’ll never forget. Check out the highlights from this amazing road trip and parenting pointers we learned along the way.
This was the perfect spot to stop en-route to stretch little legs. Situated in the heart of Easton, oversized Crayola crayons and markers welcomed us to the colorful warehouse featuring more than 20 hands-on creative exhibits. Visit weekdays for easy admission with fewer crowds. Design crayon labels, dance through raining wax and bring artwork to life through color magic. The kids can climb a two-story playground, model clay figures, create dripping wax spin art and melt crayons into molds to form wearable rings and race cars. Families can even watch a live crayon making demonstration during the Crayola Factory Show. What’s more impressive is their gigantic gift shop, the Crayola Store, offering excellent art sets, cool clothing, souvenirs and so much more.
2. Sesame Place®100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047
Take a thrilling kid-friendly amusement park, pair it with some wet water park fun and your favorite furry costumed characters from the award-winning Sesame Street television show and you’ve got Sesame Place®, located on the outskirts of Philadelphia in Langhorne. Even more awesome, Sesame Place® is the first theme park in the world to become a Certified Autism Center. Go for great values by purchasing parking passes, a Kids FREE Hotel Package and the Dine with Elmo & Friends experience online in advance of your visit. They even offer special birthday party packages for easy and unique celebrations. Arrive early weekdays for close parking, shorter lines and access to water park lounge chairs. Wear swimsuits in with tennis shoes and socks or water shoes, and fill a backpack with sunscreen, extra clothes, towels, drinks and snacks. Start dry on the rides, enjoy lunch in an air-conditioned facility, then get wet during the afternoon parade when the water park is less crowded. Towards evening, change into dry clothes, sing, dance and clap along with Elmo the Musical and the Let’s Play Together live shows, get hugs and snap photos with characters found in the 1-2-3 Smile With Me and Sesame Neighborhood Hopscotch areas of the park, then lay towels down and end the day with an evening parade before the park closes.
The Turkey Hill Experience provided the perfect mid-way pit-stop on our journey through Pennsylvania. Here we got the scoop on how Turkey Hill ice cream and iced teas are made and cooled down tasting a variety of flavor samples. After the samples settled in, the kids burned off energy exploring a vintage milk truck, milked mechanical cows and enjoyed free reign of the playground ball pit area. We snapped fun family photos inside an oversized ice cream tub and created virtual flavors, pint product packaging and ice cream commercials at special interactive exhibits. Guests can up their experience with advance reservations creating one of a kind ice cream flavors in the Turkey Hill Taste Lab and tasting teas from around the world at Tea Discovery.
We went off the beaten path for our last stop, journeying through historic Gettysburg for an overnight stay at James Gettys Hotel followed by outdoor exploration in and around Gettysburg National Military Park. Dating to 1804, James Gettys Hotel, located in Downtown Gettysburg, is a historic boutique hotel offering a traditional bed and breakfast twist. With only twelve suites, we were lucky to secure spacious accommodations perfect for our family of four. We explored the historic downtown neighborhood peppered with plaques designating historic homes and a nearby recreation park perfect for the kids. Just a short drive away we hiked battlefield trails, strolled through spooky Sachs covered bridge, visited Soldiers National Monument and saluted our forefathers at the memorial marking the site of Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Gettysburg Address. Gettysburg is absolutely worth revisiting when our kids get older, to experience their unique overnight accommodations, ghostly tours and haunted excursions.
Taking a different route to celebrate our birthday girl created the most memorable family road trip we’ve ever experienced. Together we covered miles of history, had some outdoor amusement park fun, sampled scrumptious ice cream and colored to our heart’s content. Our daughter’s birthday was anything but ordinary. This was a road trip through Pennsylvania providing adventures both adults and kids alike can appreciate.
As managing director of two children—19-months apart in age on purpose—Sara has hands-on experience in human development, specializing in potty pushing, breaking up baby fights and wrestling kids into car seats. When there's a moment to look away, she's writing for the web, blogging and building websites.
