“Emily’s a baby! Emily’s a baby!” chanted my twins’ 1st-grade classmate.
“I’m not a baby. I’m 4 years old,” my preschooler rebutted matter-of-factly. Thank goodness she has thick skin.
Unfortunately, my two-year-old is a sponge for good and bad behavior, so she parroted back, “Emily’s a baby!”
“I’m not a baby. You’re the baby,” Emily replied. “You’re two.”
“I’m not a baby. I’m a big girl. I’m two and-a-half,” my toddler insisted.
The other day, my two-year-old even went so far as to march around the apartment, exclaiming, “I’m bigger than you!” to all siblings and parents in sight. At 35″, that clearly wasn’t true. But it highlights the yearning my littlest one has to measure up to her older siblings as she transitions from baby to child.
My older kids understand that sometimes it’s appropriate to give their sister what she’s crying for or grabbing at just because she’s little. But as her third birthday approaches, she can’t play that card much longer, especially when she, herself, insists that she’s a big girl.
As the youngest of four children, my two-year-old often defaults into the baby category in my mind. I catch myself being more lenient with her than I was when my others were her age. (I don’t force her to finish her veggies. I reserve the spot on my lap for her. She hordes family toys as her own and we let it slide.) I’m realizing more and more that my defiant little cave woman needs some clear boundaries and behavioral standards appropriate for a nearly three-year-old.
As a result, I have been determined to cut out the remaining vestiges of babyhood before my daughter begins preschool in the fall. That means phasing out:
Pacifiers
Naps
Strollers
Diapers
Apparently being a big kid loses its charm when it means saying goodbye to what has been present your entire life. My two-year-old has been caught in the no-man’s land of toddlerhood, where her words can’t quite keep up with the whirlwind of emotions that comes with being tugged in two directions. The result? Plenty of tantrums and my older kids giving her the nickname “Boss Baby.”
One minute she’d be staking her claim on big-kid status. Then the next, she’d pop out of the bathtub and plead, “Wrap me up and rock me like a baby. Sing ‘Rock-a-Bye Baby.’” When it came it strollers and naps, my daughter wanted to be a big kid. But when it came to pacifiers and diapers, she wanted to be a baby.
We crossed pacifiers and naps off the list in a 1-2 punch. Thankfully a few minutes of tears, lullabies, and extra tuck-me-ins at bedtime was all it took to break out of the dependence on her pacifier. Ever since then, she has refused her nap, popping out of bed incessantly without the motivating comfort of a pacifier to keep her horizontal. No naps meant surrendering the hour of “me time” I would use to recharge in the afternoon, but at least it was one less item to tackle before September.
A gust of wind that nearly toppled our stroller with my toddler in it left her afraid to use the stroller for a week. While she does ask to use it periodically, that week of walking or bussing to various outings revealed just how capable she is of striding out. She can walk 10 blocks or more with gusto when she sets her mind to it, insisting that we leave the stroller at home. Now I see that, when I’m ready to bite the bullet and not have the stroller along to carry our gear, my daughter will be more than ready to walk independently.
So that leaves potty training as our current focus. I’ve heard that kids can hang onto their diapers as a final connection to their babyhood, and that seems to be the case for us.
When picking out underwear and bringing the little pink potty out of storage didn’t motivate my daughter enough to let go of her diapers, I realized we would need to take a cold turkey approach.
As we watched the last pack of diapers dwindle, we talked about how the daytime diapers were almost gone and soon she would get to wear undies all day long just like Mommy and her big sisters.
And so, one day we found ourselves heading out to playgroup wearing the final diaper. We set my phone alarm to play music for our hourly “potty dance” on the way to the bathroom. After an entire morning holding everything in, the age-old M&M bribery trick worked its wonders as she squeezed a few drops of pee into her tiny potty. We were so excited, we all ate celebratory M&Ms (which had the added bonus of getting my older kids on board as cheerleaders in the potty-training process).
My 6-year-old daughter had the brilliant idea of creating a sticker chart for her little sister—which turned out way cooler than if I had made one myself—and posted it on the fridge. I had thought about trying a chart, but it seemed like too much work for something I didn’t think would have much motivating power. Boy was I wrong. Adding stickers has become the biggest incentive of all.
Two weeks and a few dozen accidents later, with my patience worn thin and our M&M supply depleted, we celebrated a major potty-training milestone today. Perhaps in honor of my husband’s birthday and the plate full of cake she gobbled down, my daughter called us all over to present a birthday present only a parent of a toddler could fully appreciate: a poop, perfectly placed in the big potty.
That deposit secured her big-kid status in my book. Check it off the list, and bake that birthday cake. Three years old, here we come!
Kristin Van de Water is a former journalist and teacher who relies on humor, faith, and her mom crew to get her through the day. Raising four kids in a two-bedroom NYC apartment, Kristin is always on the lookout for life hacks to save time, space, money, and her sanity.
You can get just about everything on Amazon—including a house! So if you’re looking to add a she-shed, outdoor man cave, backyard retreat, or just up the fancy ante with your very own guest house, the mega-online retailer has one for you.
Before you hire an architect and contractor, check out these Amazon options. And yes, some of them come with free shipping too!
Allwood Sommersby Garden House
This tiny house sells for $8,360 and includes free shipping (but it's not eligible for Amazon Prime).
Lillevilla Escape
At $4,990 plus free shipping, this wood cabin pick is at the lower end of the small backyard house spectrum.
Allwood Arlanda XL
The contemporary style will spruce up your yard—for a cool $9,790 (and free shipping!).
Allwood Claudia
With windows galore, this tiny backyard guest house ($8,250 plus free shipping) is perfect for picturesque yards.
Allwood Summerlight Cabin
This light (in color, not weight) wood cabin sells for $6,950. And again, it comes with free shipping.
Last summer the world held their collective breath as 12 boys from a youth Thai soccer team and their 25-year-old coach were rescued from the flooded Tham Luang caves. Nearly a year later, Netflix and SK Global Entertainment (the production company behind the wildly successful film Crazy Rich Asians) announced that a small-screen adaptation of the story is in the works!
While there’s no information on whether the true story of the soccer team will take the form of a full-length feature film or series, Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M. Chu and Bad Genius director Nattawut Poonpiriya are on board to helm the production.
Chu said, in a press statement, “Like the rest of the world, we were riveted by the news of the Thaicave rescue. With the entire globe watching, this tragic human drama transformed into a beautiful, inspirational story of human beings saving other human beings. Not only did this show the best of the human spirit overcoming even the worst of circumstances, it proved that we are stronger when we work together.”
Director Poonpiriya also added, “This is an opportunity for me as a filmmaker––and also a Thai citizen––to write a Thank you letter to the rest of the world.”
Even though there are no script specifics, Erika North, Director of International Originals at Netflix, said “The story combines so many unique local and universal themes which connected people from all walks of life, from all around the world. Thailand is a very important country for Netflix and we are looking forward to bringing this inspiring local but globally-resonant story of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds to life, once again, for global audiences.”
So when can you expect to see the film or possible series come to life? As of now, there is no current release date, so stay tuned!
If the home of America’s favorite cave-dwelling cartoon characters is on your family’s travel bucket list, then you’d better act fast. Bedrock City, the iconic Flintstones roadside attraction, is about to go the way of the dinosaurs.
This page right out of history is about to be history as Bedrock City, the Flintstones-themed attraction in Arizona, prepares to shut down after this summer. The park—which has been open and family run since the 1970s—was bought earlier this year by developers.
Before it is completely gone, developer Troy Morris plans to give fans one last chance to visit Bedrock City. The spot, which is a popular detour for travelers heading to the Grand Canyon, will reopen its diner, gift shop and RV park in June for one last summer before it’s closed for good.
While it will be sad to say farewell to Fred, Wilma, Barney and Betty, it’s not all bad news. The 30-acre property will be redeveloped into a new theme park called Raptor Ranch, which will be perfect for young travelers once its built. The new attraction will feature at least a few remnants of its pre-historic predecessor as Morris says he plans to keep Bedrock City’s brontosaurus slide, which will be the centerpiece of a playground. The total renovation will take up to five years to complete.
What have you Googled this past year? It’s time for Google’s “Year in Search 2018” video, and the results won’t disappoint. The last 365 days were filled with some pretty amazing and just plain rad moments. Most strikingly, families and kids took front and center in Google’s recap of 2018.
This year’s recap montage opens with moving clip of a baby hearing his mother’s voice for the first time—and it only gets more inspirational from there. (Grab your tissues. You’re going to need them.)
2018 was quite the year—and Google wanted to capture and share all the good that happened over the past 12 months. The “Year in Search” includes clips from the dramatic rescue of the Thai soccer team trapped in a cave for two weeks to Americans doing our civic duty and proudly voting on Election Day.
We celebrated the crazy-good moments of inclusion in Hollywood, from Crazy Rich Asians to the lasting impact of Black Panther and “Wakanda forever!” We celebrated all the little moments, from singing out loud (like the so-sweet seven-year-old who showed off some serious vocal chops while belting out the National Anthem) to all kinds of dancing gone viral.
As the video comes to a close, Google shows us some moving military family reunions ends with a poignant quote from the late, great Anthony Bourdain: “Life is good. The world is filled with people doing the best they can, you know? Who love their kids and who would like to live their lives with a little dignity and hope—just like everybody else.”
Watch the video below—and make sure you’ve got those tissues handy.
Wow—what a year! And here’s to great things for you and yours in 2019.
By now, you probably already know that baby number three has arrived for Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West. That is, unless you’ve been hiding out in a WiFi-less cave. The couple, who welcomed their daughter via surrogate on January 16, already have two children. But that’s not keeping them from buying brand-new gadgets, gizmos and more for their third kiddo.
So what’s on Kim K’s baby gear wish list? In a recent Snapchat video the reality star said, “You guys, I’m in baby heaven here. I got so many amazing things.” Among these “amazing things” were Aden + Anais baby bubble bath and an Aden + Anais Serenity Star 5-in-1 electronic system (it has a room temp indicator, sound machine, nightlight, clock and feeding diary).
Along with these baby faves, Kim also seemed pretty impressed by one other awesome item. “It’s called My Brest Friend, and it is the best nursing pillow on the planet.” She also added that it is, “the most necessary thing of my life.”
There you have it. The best of the best — straight from Kim’s Snapchat!
What’s your favorite baby item? Tell us in the comments below.
If your kids love getting down and dirty, then spelunking is a great way to let them play in the dirt while learning about science.Spelunking is a fancy way of saying “underground cave exploration,” and our area has some of the most amazing caves in the country.Limestone rock formations create a landscape that will take your breath away. And if you’re lucky, you’ll glimpse a few cave crickets—all white crickets that live completely in the dark. Different caves offer different experiences. Some you can easily walk through without getting dirty, while others let you don a hard hat and a head lamp as you squeeze through narrow, muddy spaces. Whatever your preference, here are some that are open year-round and well worth exploring.
Photo: Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns Originally discovered in 1878, Luray Caverns is the largest series of caverns in the Eastern US, featuring multiple rooms filled with amazing stalactites and stalagmites. Some rooms have ceilings that are 10 stories high. Luray is a popular tourist spot, and if you’re looking for an easy caving experience (Grandma can do it!) then this is your spot. Don’t miss the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a stalactite formation that sings when you gently tap it. There are other fun things here too, including a garden
maze, rope adventure park, and the Luray Valley Museum.
101 Cave Hill Rd. (Luray, Va) 340-743-6551 Cost: $14 and up
Online: luraycaverns.com
Lost World Caverns If you’ve experienced some of the easier caving tours and you’re interested in a more adventurous experience, then take the Wild Cave Tour at Lost World Caverns. These tours let you explore the undeveloped parts of the cavern with an expert guide who leads you on an unforgettable 4-hour trip through more than a mile of chambers and passageways. This tour requires some strength and agility as you negotiate narrow spaces with names such as The Birth Canal, The Squeeze Box and The Drain. You’ll get up-close and personal with some spectacular formations. No special equipment is needed. Lost World provides helmets, lights, knee pads and gloves. Be sure to wear athletic clothes and expect to emerge from this tour covered in a whole lot of mud.
907 Lost World Rd. (Lewisburg, Wv)
304-645-6677
Cost: $6 kids 6-12; $12 adults; $79 for Wild Tours (must be 10 and up) Online:lostworldcaverns.com
Photo: Shenandoah Caverns
Shenandoah Caverns Like Luray, Shenandoah offers an easy caving experience (they even have an elevator). Take a guided one-hour tour through 17 amazing rooms and see some truly unique formations, including the infamous Bacon Room, where limestone formations look exactly like sizzling pieces of bacon (really), as well as the gorgeous Rainbow Lake where your little ones will squeal at the pink and purple light display. The caverns are a comfortable 54 degree year round. There’s also a museum and café here. Combine your tour with a scenic drive through the Shenandoah Valley for the ultimate above and below ground experience.
261 Caverns Rd. (Quicksurg, Va) Cost: $12 for kids, 6-12; $24 for adults, $21; under 5 free Online:shenandoahcaverns.com
Grand Caverns As one of the the oldest operating caves, Grand Caverns beneath the Shenandoah Valley has an impressive array of limestone shield formations and other features such as flowstone, stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll also find lots of other fun activities here, including swimming, fishing, hikingand mini-golf, all in a beautiful park setting. On the first Saturday in October, you can attend the Fall Festival,as well as a fancy ball in the Grand Ballroom. On the first Saturday in December, you can experience Caroling Caverns when carolers sing Christmas carols throughout the caves.
5 Grand Caverns Blvd. (Grottoes, Va) 540-249-5705 Cost: $11 for kids 6-12; $20 for adults; under 6 free Online: grandcaverns.com
Photo: Endless Caverns
Endless Caverns If you’d like a weekend camping getaway with an added caving adventure, then Endless Caverns is your place. The property maintains 148 wooded pull-through and back-in RV sites, along with a large swimming pool and hiking trails. The six-mile long cave that rests at the foot of Virginia’s Massanutten Mountain features a 75-minute guided tour through tunnels, channels, and beautiful rock formations by knowledgeable guides who share unique geological and historical facts.
1800 Endless Caverns Rd. (New Market, Va) 540-896-2283 Cost: $9 for kids 4–12; $20 for adults; under 3/free Online: endlesscaverns.com
Crystal Grottoes Caverns Overall, Crystal Grottoes is smaller and less busy than the better known Virginia caves, but it has more formations per square foot than any other cave known to man. It’s also the only cave in the whole state of Maryland. Located near Boonsboro, a quaint town just 63 miles outside of D.C., you can combine a caving trip with stops at several important civil war sites, a hike on the nearby Appalachian Trail, or some antique shopping for a fun weekend excursion.
19821 Shepherdstown Pike (Boonsboro, Md) 301-432-6336 Cost: $10 for kids 11 and under; $20 for adults (cash only) Online: crystalgrottoescaverns.com
Have you been spelunking at any of these caves? Tell us about your experience below.
Toy trends come and go, but one that has stood the test of time: LEGO bricks. Building LEGO creations is something the whole family can get into, but you’ve probably noticed building a stockpile is spendy. Enter a new trend: the resale shop. These small businesses are popping up all over the Bay. They offer everything from new and used LEGO sets, hard-to-find pieces, and bulk sales. Read on to find out how you can save big.
Bricks and Minifigs
This locally-owned franchise is the only Bricks and Minifigs in all of California and we’re so lucky it’s nearby. They have a huge selection of LEGO and DUPLO sets and minifigs. They also have classes, camps, and super fun party packages for LEGO lovers of all ages. The family that runs it is super knowledgeable and they’re eager to help you get the right pieces.
King Bricks
This self-described LEGO Hobby Store will buy, sell, and trade. Tucked above a restaurant in downtown Concord, this spot is only open on weekends. But they offer great deals and personalized service. It’s a great spot to check out if you have a specific project in mind. And if not, check out the LEGO art for inspiration.
2045 Mt. Diablo St., Suite107
Concord, Ca
925-297-5464 www.kingbricks.com
The Brick Hutt
A father and son opened the Brick Hutt as a way to spend more time together. It’s now grown into a place where families from all over the Bay come to play, explore, and learn all about LEGO. You can find sets and bulk LEGO bricks with a huge variety of price points. Before you make the drive, beware they’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The Collectors Cave
You’ll find a variety of collectible toys in this eclectic shop, including new and vintage LEGO sets. You’ll probably even find some of the sets you had when you were a kid! The super-friendly staff can help guide you and your family to the perfect purchase.
Toy-Go-Round
Toy-Go-Round has all kinds of new and used toys, which includes a great selection of LEGO products. Their stock changes often, but you can always find plenty for the LEGO-lover. In the past, they’ve had sets for sale, as well as bagged loose bricks—perfect for building your stash!
1361 Solano Ave
Albany, Ca
510-527-1363
All images courtesy the author
Do you have any favorite LEGO memories from your childhood?
Just a short drive away from both Portland and Seattle, the Olympic National Coastline and Kalaloch Lodge lies waiting for outdoor-loving families ready to explore, adventure and relax. If whale watching, tide pooling, witnessing a living tree hover above the earth and watching the sun set on the ocean while enjoying delectable meals prepared by a professional chef sounds like the ideal getaway for your clan, read on to find out more about this stunning Washington coast destination.
Located in the Olympic National Park on Washington’s scenic west coast, Kalaloch beach is approximately 3.5 hours from both Seattle and Portland by car making it a reasonable trek for families with young ones. Unsurprisingly, with immediate access to both the coastline and the nearby Hoh Rainforest, it is one of the most visited areas of the Olympic National Park. Weather you and your little explorers enjoy animal spotting, treks on trails through trees or playing in the sand and exploring sea life, there are plenty of activities to fill a weekend or week-long travel itinerary with. By the time you return home you are guaranteed to feel equal parts inspired, relaxed and rejuvenated.
Stay
Kalaloch Lodge If getting away from city life and cozying up with your family by the beach in a remote lodge or cabin setting sounds like bliss, then Kalaloch Lodge is everything you have been dreaming of. Set on a bluff overlooking the ocean, all accommodations are surrounded by both evergreen forests with winding trails and beautiful beaches.
The Lodge Experience
For families looking for more of a resort experience, the main lodge is a perfect choice. The Main Lodge Rooms come in a variety of sizes with either one or two queen beds featuring a custom-made Pendleton blanket. If you choose to stay in the Lodge View Rooms, you will enjoy a stunning view of Kalalach Creek and the ocean as well. Upgrade your stay to the Kalaloch Room or Becker’s Room and your family will have more than enough space for an extended stay with a king bed, sofa sleeper and table and a variety of added amenities.
Staying at the lodge comes with the added benefit of a public sitting area where you can grab a complimentary coffee and relax by a roaring fireplace before you head out on adventures for the day. When you your clan gets hungry, you simply head to the lodge’s Creekside Restaurant to grab your meal before heading out.
A Cabin Stay If your tribe prefers extra space and privacy, or if you have a four legged family member who joins you on your travels, then the Kalaloch Lodge Cabins are just what you need. There are a variety of cabins to choose from and most come with kitchenettes or full kitchens. There are units that also have wood burning stoves equipped with a complementary bundle of wood each night for that extra outdoorsy feel. Cabins are designed to accomodate groups of six to ten people, and some are duplex style and share walls.
All Accommodations Wherever you stay, you can expect to enjoy daily housekeeping, a private bathroom and standard amenities like a coffee maker, alarm clock and walking sticks. Kalaloch Lodge is dedicated to offering a true retreat experience as such they do not offer in-room hones, TVs or WiFi, so get ready to unplug and relax.
Where: 157151 US-101, Forks, Wa Rates: $205/night to $360/night Phone: 866-662-9928 Online:thekalalochlodge.com
photo: Annette Benedetti
Explore
The Tree of Life (AKA Tree Root Cave) Kalaloch beach is home to a mystery that will make both you and your littlest skeptics believe in magic and even miracles. Located on the beach just north of Kalaloch Lodge, this wondrous Sitka spruce tree hovers above a small cave that has been carved into the side of a cliff by erosion cause by a small stream that runs into the ocean. To any passerby the running water appears to flow into the cave from the roots of the tree itself, which are for the most part unattached to soil.
While the tree is attached to soil by a couple of thin roots, the fact that it is still thriving and sprouting new green leaves is astonishing. Only a short, 10 minute hike from the lodge, your young nature lovers will love the trek and the photos you’ll get beneath this amazement are well worth the energy it takes to get to it.
photo: Annette Benedetti
Ruby Beach With a system of beaches (none like the other), there are an endless number of ocean front adventures to go on. Ruby Beach is one of the most well known of the nearby beaches and it is name comes from it’s reddish colored sand and rocky beach. The hike from the parking area down to the ocean is short and easy for even the smallest members of your crew, but gives you a chance to peer at wildlife and enjoy sweeping views of the the mountains, rainforests and wilderness.
Young visitors can entertain themselves for hours exploring the driftwood piles and discovering sculptures made of man-made stacked rocks. Ruby Beach is also perfect for bird watching or, if you make there at low tide. your kids can explore tide pools and get up close and personal with mystical looking sea urchins, beautiful starfish, crusty crabs and tiny fish.
photo: Annette Benedetti
Tide Pooling & Whale Watching Ruby Beach is just one of the areas that offers arguably the most entertaining and educational beach activity for kids and adults alike: tide pooling. The tide pools near Kalaloch are known for having some of the most fascinating creatures and crustaceans to be found. Some of the best beaches for tide pooling (other than Ruby Beach) include Beach 4, Second Beach, Third Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall. Make sure to pick up a map of the local beach areas at Kalaloch Lodge before heading out on your tide pool adventure.
Once you choose your beach, get ready to get a sneak peak into the lives of seas stars, pricklebacks, brittle stars, clams, sea snails and barnacles. Remember to follow tide pooling rules: watch your step and stay off the sea life, touch gently, don’t remove anything from the tide pools, and leave only footprints.
While whale watching isn’t a year-round activity, if you plan your trip to Kalaloch during the peak season you are in for the show of a lifetime. May is considered peak whale watching season, but you can potentially catch a glimpse of the majestic gray whales from the shores or from your cabin or lodge room windows during the months of April, October and November as they journey up and down the Pacific Coast. While you are looking for whales, keep little and big eyes peeled and your cameras ready for seals, sea otters and even orcas!
photo: Annette Benedetti
Eat
Creekside Restaurant
All of your family’s seaside adventuring is sure to work up big appetites. Luckily the Creekside Restaurant, located inside Kalaloch Lodge, has something yummy for everyone in your clan. If you like seasonal seafood dishes and fresh local food, this diner will not disappoint. Dungeness crab cakes and lemongrass manila clams are just the delicious start of what this classy but comfortably joint has to offer on their menu. Try their Washington cheese plate, a grilled New York strip or indulge in Dungeness crab mac & Beecher’s Cheese. And the folks at this establishment haven’t forgot the little ones, their children’s menu has kid favorites like grilled cheese, hamburgers, and linguini pasta.
What is your family’s favorite seaside retreat? Share it with us in the comment section below.
—Annette Benedetti
This trip was paid for by Delaware North but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
When most people think of taking the family to New York on vacation, the Big Apple is the first thing that comes to mind. But if your family isn’t keen on the hustle and bustle of the big city, the state has so much more to offer. From getting drenched in the waters of monstrous falls and battle reenactments to art-infused afternoons at the museums and creeping through dark caves, our guide takes your tribe from Niagara to Buffalo on the best New York family getaway you could imagine.
photo: Annette Benedetti
Niagara, NY
The city of Niagara is located at the international boundary between the United States and Canada and offers wide array of activities geared toward families throughout the year. Stunning parks with walking and biking trails that that wind throughout the Niagara Gorge provide hours of leisurely enjoyment and plenty of space for children of all ages to run and play. And if you are looking to plan some unforgettable activities for the family to enjoy, there’s plenty to consider including the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, and Fort Niagara.
photo: Annette Benedetti
EXPLORE
Cave of the Winds This tour ensures that the kids will never forget the majesty or power of Niagara Falls. Plan on getting wet even after your don your yellow rain poncho because this experience takes you into the great falls stormy mist zone.
Your adventure starts with an elevator ride that lowers you 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge where you then make your way through a short cave-like tunnel to a small post where staff members give visitors ponchos and sandals for the trek. You and the kids then make your way along wooden walkways to a series of decks that run along Niagara River and gradually bring you closer to the fall’s gushing waters.
The Hurricane Deck is your final stop and lands you just a few feet from storm-like conditions caused by the rush of Bridal Veil Falls—the closest you can get to the actual falls. You can stay as long as you like and take in the spectacle. Bring something to protect your camera and electronic devices from getting wet. Expect to leave soaked and feeling exhilarated!
Maid of the Mist If your kids love boat rides then there is no better way to experience the Niagara Gorge then by climbing aboard a Maid of the Mist Boat for a tour. This adventure is one-of-a-kind experience and takes you on board a double-decker ship that is 80 feet long, weighs 145 tons and is powered by two 350-horsepower diesel engines.
Once everyone is aboard, the ship slowly navigates its way into the heart of the raging currents and swirling mists created by the falls. On a perfect day with sunbursts and a little bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of one or two or even three rainbows off the bow, alongside or even above the ship.
Like the Cave of Winds tour, you will be given a poncho to wear though you will most likely stay a bit dryer. The ride lasts approximately a half hour and is acceptable for children of all ages.
Open spring through fall (See website for exact dates).
Cost: $18.25/adult, $10.65/child (6-12 yrs old), Free for children 5 years and under.
Online: maidofthemist.com
Fort Niagara Your young historian will be thrilled as they travel back in time to the 18th century when the fight for control over North America was raging. Your family will have the opportunity to walk through the original buildings where French, British, Native American and American soldiers resided and worked during the 18th to the 20th centuries. You can take your time and peruse exhibits with a wide variety of artifacts or go the livelier rout and take a guided tour.
Guided tours include live reenactments that sometimes include musket and artillery firing demonstrations and artisans hard at work dressed in authentic wares. By the time you leave the fort you will be well versed on Frontier life at Niagara and quite possibly even feel like you lived it yourself.
Open year round (excluding some holidays: see website)
Cost: $12.00 adult, $8.00/child (6-12 yrs old), Free for children 5 years and under.
Online: oldfortniagara.org
EAT
Michael’s Italian Restaurant From pasta to pizza to chicken wings, there’s something for everyone in the family at this Italian spot. With an atmosphere that is family friendly, an abundance of food choices and prices that won’t thin out your vacation stash; Michaels is an obvious stop to fill those bellies and refuel for more adventures.
Legends Bar & Grill This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and they pride themselves on incorporating local and homemade ingredients into their dishes. They make sure your family gets to experience authentic Western New York food, just how the locals like it and you will love it. Choose from menu favorites like the BBQ pulled portk sandwich, NY Strip Steak, or spaghetti & Meatballs. It’s the perfect stop morning, noon or night.
Giacomo If you are looking for a place to rest your head after a full day of activities that offers a bit of luxury but still feels family friendly, consider the Giacomo. Located walking distance from the Falls, Cave of the Winds, Mad of the Mist and the State Park, this Hotel provides luxury features, generous sized rooms with high ceilings, oversized bathrooms, Italian linens and fresh cookies when it’s time to tuck the littles in bed.
If you want to take your vacation experience to the next level, or if your vacation is a childless, romantic getaway—you can reserve a room with a fireplace or Jacuzzi. After you wind down from your active day you can make your way up to the hotel’s beautiful Skyview Lounge which is located on the 19th floor and offers striking views and tasty cocktails. Prices run from $123 per/night up.
Niagara Falls Airport is the closest airport to fly into if you want to start your vacation in Niagara falls. It is located at 2035 Niagara Falls Blvd. and can be found online at niagarafallsairport.com.
Traveling by taxi is the most efficient way to get from the airport to your accommodations or to travel to anything that is not walking distance. Consider contacting Niagara Falls Taxi by calling 1-800-363-4900 or visit them online at niagarafallstaxi.com.
From the Giacomo, many attractions are walkable.
Photo: Annette Benedetti
Buffalo, NY
Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Buffalo is only a quick drive away from Niagara and offers a bit more of an urban experience. Once there you are sure to be struck by the city’s unique architecture, which conjures its history as an industrial capital in the early 20th century. Here too you will find a multitude of tours, activities and museums to choose from when planning out your days. To round out your family getaway with a little bit of adventure and a whole lot of art we recommend visiting The Albright-Knox Art Gallery, going on the Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride and taking a Buffalo River History Tour.
photo: Annette Benedetti
EXPLORE
The Albright-Knox Art Gallery Be warned, if you have a little Picasso or a big art fanatic in your family, you might need to block a whole day off just for a visit to this museum. The Albright –Knox Art Gallery has collected art for over 150 years and is known for having one of the world’s most impressive collections of modern and contemporary art, which include paintings and sculptures.
While roaming the building, you can expect to see an actual Picasso during your visit and will likely get lost in the wide-ranging exhibits and collections that span some of the most important moments in art throughout history. Impressionism, Post-impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism and many other movements are all represented in artworks by masters such as Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse, and Georgia O’Keef.
This museum is incredibly kid-friendly and offers art activities including the ArtCart where kids and families can explore interactive art activities in various special exhibitions. There are free drop-in art activities every first Friday of the month that are perfect for keeping little hands busy as well as family fun tours.
Open year round, Tue.-Sun. (See website for hours)
Cost: $18/adult, $9/child 6-18, Free for children 5 & under.
Online: albrightknox.org
photo: Annette Benedetti
Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride Infuse a little bit of creepy into your vacation with a walk through the Lockport Caves followed by a quick boat ride. This 70-minute guided tour starts by taking you back in time where you explore the historic Flight of Five Erie Canal locks 67-71, which were constructed in 1838.
Next, you then travel by foot until you come to the ruins of a water tunnel that was constructed during the Industrial Revolution. You then enter the 1600-foot waterpower tunnel, which was blasted out of solid rock and provided waterpower to three industries. As you wander through the cave you will see stalactites, flow stone, and various geological formations and artifacts, which is sure to thrill any young scientist.
The tunnel is completely dark for some of the tour and dimly lit for the rest. The guide talks you through the history surrounding the making and purpose of the tunnel while you walk to the end of the foot path where you then board a small boat and complete the tour as your drift to the true end of the tunnel and back to the foot path.
Open seasonally (See website for dates and hours)
Cost: $15/adult, $10/child (5-12 years), $3/child 4 years and under
Online: lockportcave.com
Photo: Annette Benedetti
Buffalo River History Tour Choose from three exceptional 90-minute narrated boat tours all of which that take you through Buffalo River History. Your little river rats will be thrilled when they board thdouble-deckerer boats and get the opportunity to see the giant structures that were responsible for the cities growth.
There are seats available and you are welcome to sit an move around as needed except when going under bridges, which requires everyone to take a seat briefly. As you make your way down the river you will be amazed by the towering buildings that were once full of purpose and employed many Buffalo citizens. From mills to grain silos to coal fired kilns that have long since been abandon, the visual spectacle will keep even the youngest members of your crew transfixed.
Open seasonally (See website for dates and hours)
Cost: See website
Online: Buffaloriverhistory.com
EAT
The Westin Buffalo hotel is home to two family-friendly restaurants Jakes Cafe and Patina 250 that have plenty of menu items your kids will love. Jakes diner offers yummy breakfast foods like delectable french toast and burgers that will blow your mind for lunch or dinner. You’ll find delicious omelets and a smoked salmon board as well as jumbo lump crab cakes and salmon at the high-end Patina 250. Both places offer meal options littles will love and welcome guests both young and old.Prices run from $145 per/night up.
The Westin Buffalo This all-new hotel opened just this past September and is a dream option for families looking for the perfect place to stay. The rooms are bright, well-appointed and deluxe without being so stuffy that kids feel unwelcome. Each room features a signature Heavenly Bed—the name fits the experience you have as you sink into the mattress at the end of the day. The hotel also provides a Heavenly Crib upon request, revealing it’s true family-friendly nature
In-room entertainment includes a flat screen Television, movies and high-speed Internet. If you are the kind of parent who needs to sneak in a workout when you are on vacation, you will love the fitness facilities. And if you forgot to pack your gear don’t worry, they have a gear-lending program that lets you check out shoes and an outfit.
For the perfect breakfast, lunch and dinner experience, The Westin Buffalo is home to two kid-friendly restaurants: Jakes Cafe and Patina 250. Jakes Cafe offers yummy breakfast foods like french toast. For lunch and dinner try one of their burgers (they are guaranteed to blow your mind). If you feel like a fancier dining experience, try Patina 250 where you’ll find delicious omelets and a smoked salmon board as well as jumbo lump crab cakes.
Both places offer meal options littles will love and welcome guests both young and old. Prices run from $145 per/night up.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a good airport to fly into if you are traveling in from a long distance away. It is located at 4200 Genesee St. in Buffalo and can be found online at buffaloairport.com.
Traveling by taxi is the most efficient way to get from the airport to your accommodations or to travel to anything that is not walking distance. Consider contacting Buffalo Experss Taxi Service by calling 1-716-435-6338 or visit them online at buffaloexpresstaxi.com.
What’s your favorite activity in Buffalo? Share in the comments below.
—Annette Benedetti
This trip was paid for by Delaware North but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
