For many families, Memorial Day means a much-needed long weekend or an excuse to grill and pack a picnic. If you don’t already, this year take a minute to teach kids why they have that extra day off school. Read on for facts about Memorial Day and how to explain it to the kiddos.
Frank McKenna via Unsplash
Start with the Basic Facts about Memorial Day
In a nutshell, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in military service. Originally called Decoration Day because a procession would lead to a cemetery where the graves of fallen soldiers would be decorated with flowers—a common practice among people for generations before it “caught on” as an official holiday. It didn’t become an official US holiday until 1966. After World War I, the holiday was changed to honor all those who had died during military service (not just during the Civil War). In 1971 congress changed the date to be the last Monday in May to ensure a three-day weekend.
What is remembering?
Playing a simple memory game with the kids, or talking about any person, place or event you remember can help start the conversation about remembrance.
What is the military?
Ask the kiddos if they’ve heard of the Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines and Coast Guard.This is the military. The military is part of our government and is made up of people who have agreed to join the Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines or Coast Guard, to become part of this branch of the government. They are trained for many situations, including emergencies at home. Their goal is to protect people who live in their country (and elsewhere).
Do you know the difference between them and what special skills or equipment they use? (As in airplanes, naval ships, etc.)
Kids can draw or find items in the house that represent the different military branches.
Know Your Kids
If you’ve already talked with your kids about death, you can use comparisons with how you remember a deceased family member or if you have a family member serving in the military, you can help make the connection to the significance of the holiday. Unlike Veteran’s Day, which is a day to thank any veteran—living or dead—Memorial Day is a tribute to the many men and women who have served the country and died during service. This does not mean they died in a war, but rather that they served.
Visiting a cemetery is a common way to pay tribute, and many cities and towns across America still have Memorial Day parades that lead to the cemetery where flowers are laid on the military graves. If your town doesn’t, we’re betting you can still find a military grave (or a few dozen) in your local cemetery. Bring a few flowers or small flags, and go looking.
Learn More Facts about Memorial Day
The US suffered a great many lives lost in the Civil War. On May 1, 1865, African-Americans in Charleston held a remembrance parade and rally followed by picnicking, military drills for the public and speeches—one of the first examples of our modern traditions. Not long after, General John Logan, a commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, made an official declaration that fallen Civil War soldiers would be honored on Decoration Day, which would be held on May 30th, 1868. Throughout the country, flowers, mementos and other decorations were placed in cemeteries and on graves. At Arlington National Cemetery, the first Decoration Day included a speech by General James Garfield (who would later become the 20th president of the US) and the decorating of 20,000 graves by the more than 5,000 people who had gathered.
Why May 30th? It seems it was a “safe” day, as it didn’t have any connection to an existing battle’s anniversary. More than two dozen towns lay claim to the first Memorial Day. In 1966 then-President Lyndon Johnson said officially it was Waterloo, NY but the debate remains. New York was, however, the first state to recognize the day officially (in 1873). Eventually, it became the last Monday in May, rather than May 30th.
Wearing red poppies in honor of the men and women who have died in combat was started in the 1920s by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Today buying a red paper poppy for your lapel goes to help the efforts of the VFW, the American Legion and other military support groups. The poppy comes from the poem “In Flander’s Field” by WWI Col. John McCrae, who wrote it in response to his sorrow over seeing row after row of soldier’s graves.
Boston families are lucky that we have tons of gorgeous national parks in New England that are just a road trip away. They make planning a last-minute spring break getaway easy. So pack your sense of adventure and a few other vacay essentials because these National Parks near Boston are bursting with mountains, caves and waterfalls to explore. Plus many are hosting special events for National Parks Week (starting April 16) that are worth the drive. Ready, set, plan!
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers trails along the granite shoreline that seem to rise from the sea. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about lobsters or search for harbor seals. The cool freshwater lakes and frothy saltwater tidal invite exploring, and there's plenty of yummy lobster dinners within reach. Acadia offers families dozens of activities beyond hiking, though the hiking is both excellent and most often very family-friendly. Pack your bikes for rides along the network of carriage roads, and blow your kids' minds at Thunder Hole, a partially submerged cave that booms about an hour before high tide.
Good to Know: While there is plenty to do for visitors of all ages and abilities, much of Acadia’s landscape is very rugged. If you’ve got wee ones in tow, a child’s backpack carrier just might save the trip. Late summer and early fall offer warm days, fewer crowds and typically chilly evenings, making it the perfect time for a visit.
Airbnb nearby: Minutes away from Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, this charming modern home sits on five acres of land. Grill out, cook lobsters and let the kids enjoy the great outdoors. Be sure to bring your bikes, too!
Vermont's picturesque landscapes are legendary, so it's no surprise that this 500-acre park is on our list. Covered bridges and wide carriage trails, mountain pastures and peaceful ponds set the mood for family hikes around the park's 20 miles of trails. The mansion tours offered though the park help to break things up for kids looking to duck inside from spring showers. Like so many of the area's national parks, kids can earn a junior ranger badge here, too.
Airbnb nearby: Stay in this elegant log cabin, playfully named KAB-IN, to keep your family in touch with the natural world. It sleeps six in its 5 bedrooms and offers families space and privacy in a wooded setting that's still close to town. Or add an elegantly refinished barn to your family adventure. Trust us, this place really shines.
Lighthouses, miles and miles of beaches and seafood joints around every corner await your visit to Cape Cod. Head to the Cape Cod Children's Museum in Mashpee if you need some indoor time, or take a bike ride on the Shining Sea Bikeway when the temps allow. Check out this beach guide when you are ready for a day on the sand. Hint: there are even some areas of beach you can drive on.
Airbnb nearby: This classic Cape Cod cottage is totally cute and a great spot to stay on the Bay side of the cape. Or, go for this Truro home that has to-die-for views.
Made up of 34 islands and peninsulas, Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is an urban oasis just minutes from Boston’s city center. Hop aboard a park ferry and discover islands rich with opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation and learning. You can pick up the ferry to the Harbor Islands in Boston or Hingham.
Georges Island, which encompasses 53 acres, is the largest and most popular Boston Harbor Island accessible by ferry. The main attraction at Georges Island is Fort Warren, a national historic landmark. Take a ranger-led tour of the island to hear about its history including the haunting by the Lady in Black.
Airbnb nearby: If you plan to take the ferry from Hingham, this beachfront home on Nantasket would be a great spot to spend some time. It sleeps 10 and you can take the ferry from there to downtown Boston in just over 20 minutes.
Immerse your family in majestic beauty when you visit the White Mountain National Forest. Running from eastern New Hampshire up into Maine, it's got excellent hiking trails and camping spots for families. From easy strolls to challenging hikes that should be saved for your kid's older years, finding a trail that's the right pace for your family is pretty much a piece of cake. Although fall is an ideal time to visit this heavily treed area, the park is just starting to wake up in spring, so you're bound to see blooms, birds and rushing rivers.
Airbnb nearby: Spend your vacation lounging along the river when you book this cabin getaway that sleeps seven, or enjoy lakeside living (think: boating, canoeing and SUPing) when you reserve this serene house.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
iStock
Chances are you know someone who has hiked some of the Appalachian Trail (or maybe you have), as it's a super popular activity for New England college students. But it doesn't have to be the months-long hiking extravaganza when you bring along the kids. In fact, there are several areas of the trail that are well suited to day hikes so families can enjoy the beauty of the area without having to plan, pack and carry all that gear.
Airbnb nearby: This lakeside cabin is a great home base for exploring the trail nearby. You'll be just two hours from Boston but you'll feel so far away as you take in all the nature that surrounds the property.
Niagra Falls is one spot that the kids should definitely see. It's beyond amazing!
Bear Mountain State Park is a popular destination for New York city families looking for a quick getaway. In addition to hiking trails for all levels, there is a lake with boat rentals, a swimming pool, an ice rink in the winter, and a Trailside Zoo that's open seven days a week.
For history buffs, Gettysburg, the site of a key turning point in the Civil War, is a key destination. The war's bloodiest battle, it is of course the inspiration for Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The military park has its own visitor center and museum, and it's recommended you hit the museum before heading to the battlefield.
Bursting with epic waterfalls, spectacular views, fields of wildflowers, and quiet wooded areas for a family picnic, Shenandoah National Park is a great option for families.
Assateague Island National Seashore has sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays. Oh, and you might even see some wild horses too.
Great Falls Park offers many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, we recognize local luminaries who have shaped DC’s history through the arts, politics activism and more. Scroll down for some of the most influential Washington women who have shaped our city’s deep history.
Kamala Harris
A 1986 graduate of Howard University with degrees in political science and economics, Harris was inaugurated as vice president in 2021. She is the United States' first female vice president, the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, and the first Black and first Asian American vice president.
Eleanor Holmes Norton
US House Office of Photography
Eleanor is a native Washingtonian who was very active in the Civil Rights movement. She is now DC’s delegate to Congress. The District’s tireless nonvoting representative serves on committees, introduces legislation, and speaks on the House floor; however, she is not permitted to vote on the final passage of any legislation, since DC is not a State.
Muriel Bowser
Lorie Shaull
Bowser has been mayor of the District of Columbia since 2015. She is the second female mayor of the DC after Sharon Pratt, and the first woman to be reelected to that position. A lifelong Washingtonian, Bowser attended Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA for her undergraduate degree and then returned to DC to obtain a masters from American University's School of Public Affairs. Bowser is responsible for Black Lives Matter Plaza, the two-block-long section of Downtown Washington, DC. Written in striking yellow paint, the words "Black Lives Matter" run down the blocks near the White House. She is also known for her tireless work in trying to make DC the 51st State.
While she is mostly known as the founder of the American Red Cross, Clara also served as a clerk in the US Patent Office. This was the first time a woman had received a substantial federal clerkship and at a salary equal to what a man would earn. She was a hospital nurse in the American Civil War and is noteworthy for doing humanitarian work and civil rights advocacy at a time before women had the right to vote.
Lucy Burns
Library of Congress
One of the leaders of the National Woman’s Party in the early 1900s, Burns was arrested six times and led a hunger strike at the Occoquan Workhouse. She is remembered for being a fervid advocate for women’s rights. She retired from public life with the passage of the 19th amendment.
Mary McLeod Bethune
State Archives of Florida
As president of the National Association of Colored Women, Ms. Bethune purchased a property at 1318 Vermont Ave., which became the first black controlled organization to be headquartered in the District! She was also invited by Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Herbert Hoover to lead on issues relating to children’s health. She later formed a coalition called the Federal Council of Negro Affairs which advised President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
Shirley Horn
Bruno Bernard
A singer and pianist who was born in DC, Shirley teamed up with dozens of jazz greats including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie and Wynton Marsalis. She was nominated for nine Grammy Awards winning in 1999 for Best Jazz Vocal Performance. Encouraged by her grandmother, Horn began piano lessons at the age of four. She studied piano and composition at Howard University.
Chita Rivera
Kingkongphoto via Wikipedia
Also born in DC, Rivera is a singer, dancer and actor who starred in Broadway musicals including Anita in West Side Story, Chicago, and the title role in Kiss of the Spider Woman. She is a three-time Tony Award recipient and is the first Hispanic woman and the first Latino American to receive a Kennedy Center Honor and is a recipient the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Denyce Graves
John Mathew Smith via Wikipedia
Famous opera singer, Denyce Graves was born in Washington, DC, and was raised by her mother on Galveston St. SW., in the Bellevue section of the District. She graduated from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and studied voice at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and the New England Conservatory. The Mezzo Soprano is recognized worldwide as one of today's most exciting vocal stars and continues to gather unparalleled popular and critical acclaim in performances.
Helen Hayes
Wikipedia
Hayes was born in Washington, DC in 1900. She was an actress whose career spanned 80 years. She is one of a handful of people to be an EGOT (recipient of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony). Hayes received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Ronald Reagan in 1986 and was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1988. The annual Helen Hayes Awards, which have recognized excellence in professional theatre in greater Washington, DC, since 1984, are her namesake.
Sharon Pratt
Wikipedia
A native Washingtonian, Ms. Pratt is an American attorney and politician who was the third mayor of the District of Columbia from 1991 to 1995. Most notably, she is the first African-American woman to hold that position.
Is there really anything better than spring in Georgia? Except for the pollen, it’s pretty close to perfect. So if you’re looking for ways to scratch that “get outside and leap for joy” itch, you should consider visiting one of Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites. With a new travel-tracking passport and innovative takes on camping—not to mention incredible hikes and beachside boardwalks—they might be our favorite family destination this season. Interested in which ones we love the most? Check out our 10 favorite Georgia State Parks, and start planning!
New Travel-Tracking Passport
Explorers on a mission to visit all of Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites have a new way of tracking their travels. This keepsake passport allows guests to document their journey as they explore the state from mountains to marshes. Produced by the Friends of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites, the passport is available for $12.99 in park gift shops. If you're planning on working your way through Georgia's State Parks, you'll definitely want to grab one of these.
Pack the tent and build cherished memories while roasting gooey s’mores. Camping encourages the entire family to enjoy the simple pleasures of swapping stories while looking up at the stars. And for those of us who aren't super into tent camping, all campgrounds have water and electric hookups, plus hot showers. Many offer sewage hookups for RVs.
Families looking for a unique and affordable getaway should check out the Georgia State Park's yurts. These funky wood and canvas structures are a blend between a tent and cabin, with furniture inside and fire rings outside. Guests can even walk to nearby hot showers. Yurts are available at Cloudland Canyon, High Falls, Fort Yargo, Sweetwater Creek and Tugaloo state parks. Plans are underway to add a yurt village at Red Top Mountain this year. GaStateParks.org/Unique Accommodations
Cabins and cottages surrounded by beautiful scenery come with fully equipped kitchens, screened porches and a wide range of activities right outside the door. Bring your four-legged family members along when you reserve a dog-friendly cabin in advance. At Georgia State Parks’ cabins, the price you are given includes everything, so no extra cleaning fees will be required, making for an even more affordable stay.
Just for the Kids
Ranger Programs are incredible experiences for the whole family and include full-moon hikes, guided kayak excursions, campfire singalongs, archery classes, wildlife encounters and colonial reenactments, scavenger hunts and sunset cruises. There are plenty of interactive experiences that will satisfy guests of all interests, ages, and skill levels.
Kids can become a Junior Ranger by working towards earning 59 site-specific Junior Ranger badges. Guests of any age can receive a badge and become a certified Junior Ranger. Inside each book there are fun and exciting missions to complete to experience nature first-hand, explore Georgia's fascinating history and enjoy outdoor recreational activities. Junior Rangers can learn about alligators in South Georgia, about forts along the coast, or about bears and hemlock trees in North Georgia. Through activity books or ranger-led camps, they will experience nature first-hand and explore Georgia's fascinating history.
While You're There...
Hike through Georgia with your kids to discover the wonders of nature through their eyes. Georgia’s State Parks offer a variety of hiking and biking paths, from easy paved loops to challenging backcountry trails. Families will experience Georgia’s diverse landscape as well, with canyons and waterfalls, salt marshes and streams. Energetic explorers can join one of many State Parks Clubs, including Canyon Climbers Club and Muddy Spokes Club, while wearing a members-only t-shirt.
Grab your rod and reel and head out for a day of fishing at parks like High Falls or Seminole. There is no fee for casting a line, but a license is required for ages 16 and older. For families who would like to take their adventure up a notch, many state parks rent boats by the hour.
Head to a State Historic Site to mix entertainment with education. Children can explore colonial times at Fort Morris and Fort King George, or Civil War bunkers at Fort McAllister. To learn about Native American history, visit Kolomoki Mounds, New Echota, Chief Vann House and Etowah Indian Mounds.
Paddle through Georgia’s waterways in canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and aqua cycles, which may be rented or visitors may bring their own. Many parks offer guided tours, including Stephen C. Foster’s tour of the mysterious Okefenokee Swamp. For a challenge, join the Park Paddlers Club which takes explorers to six state park waterways. Plus, you get a members-only shirt.
All photos courtesy of Georgia Department of Natural Resources
Spring has sprung in NYC, and that means the city is soon going to be full of flowers. From cherry trees in Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, to displays of daffodils, tulips and more at parks in every borough, Mother Nature is giving us lots of reasons to get out of the house with kids and soak up some sun. Read on to find out where, and when to catch the best spring flowers in bloom in NYC.
Manhattan
Central Park
Samuel Stone Pixabay
Central Park's massive size and diverse topography provides a wide variety of places to see flowers in bloom.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir Bridle Path: In early and mid-April you'll find a stunning display of cherry trees in bloom along the reservoir. Enter at 90th and Fifth at the Engineers' Gate and walk north.
Pilgrim Hill: Popular with sledders in winter, this spot at E. 72nd and Fifth is also a prime place to see Yoshino cherry trees in bloom in mid-April.
Swedish Cottage (Marionette Theater): This famous venue is charming any time of year, but in April and May, when the surrounding landscape is dotted tulips, daffodils and other spring bulbs, it looks straight out of a fairy tale. Find it on the Park's west side near 79th Street.
Cherry Hill: A gentle slope named for the trees that bloom delicate white and pink flowers Cherry Hill overlooks the park's lake. It's mid-park at 72nd Street.
If you're looking for something specific, check out the Central Park Conservancy's Bloom & Tree Guide, which you can search by plant, type, month and more.
Riverside Park
Janet Lombardo
This large park along the west side of Manhattan runs from 72nd Street up to 158th Street, and you can find lots of fabulous displays at various points. Check out:
Sakura Park at 122nd St: Named for the cherry trees you'll find in bloom here, usually in mid-April
83rd Street: near Mt. Tom and Warsaw Ghetto Memorial
91st Street, at the Promenade: The Garden People’s Garden is a community garden that has been maintained by volunteers for decades And if you keep walking north, you’ll come up to Crabapple Grove, which has gorgeous blossoms in the spring)
Hudson River Park
Max Guliani for Hudson River Park
Spanning 550 acres along the west side of Manhattan (from the northern end of Battery Park City to W. 59th Street in Hell's Kitchen), Hudson River Park offers four miles of waterside recreation.
Find out what's in bloom at any given time in the park with the Hudson River Park Conservancy's Bloom Guide, which you can find here.
March typically brings Star Magnolias and Saucer Magnolias, and cherry trees should be blooming in early April, along with tulips. (You can see 2021's bloom timetable here.)
Another spot to catch some cherry trees in bloom is Randall's Island. The island's display is so impressive there is a Cherry Blossom Festival here, as well. (No plans for a 2021 fest though.) The cherry trees of different species start blooming in early April and continue through the month and into May. You can see a guide to the Island's cherry tree bloom here.
Sprawling over 600 acres, this Olmsted & Vaux urban green space includes open spaces, woodsy enclaves and waterside spots. (Not to mention lots of places to play.)
You can see what's in bloom in Prospect Park thanks to the Prospect Park Alliance's spring bloom guide.
Highlights include:
Grand Army Plaza: Early spring brings early-blooming cherry trees, tulips and daffodils; later you'll see Eastern redbuds, and pink, late-blooming cherry trees.
LeFrak Center at Lakeside: Find an early spring display of bright yellow and orange Witch Hazel here. With warmer temps in April comes a profusion of white blossoms from Serviceberry, Chokeberry, Witch Alder, and Foxglove Beardtongue. Late spring brings a final act of flowering dogwoods and dewberries.
Litchfield Villa: In front of this stately pre-Civil War era mansion on Prospect Park West, you'll find Carmen’s Garden, which features an impressive tulip display in April. May brings pink and white blossoms of crabapple and hawthorn trees, with an assist from colorful annuals. In back of the building you'll find Korean dogwood trees with cream-colored flowers.
Long Meadow: A popular spot for lounging, sunbathing and picnicking, the Long Meadow is also home to several kids of fragrant flowering trees. At the north end, peach and white magnolia and dogwood trees bloom in early spring, and later lilacs bloom along with hanging yellowwood blooms.
Not too far from Prospect Park is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, home to one of the biggest cherry blossom festivals in the city, which takes place in mid-April. No word on if that is happening in 2022, but hours are extended from April 15-May 15 to allow extra time to enjoy the cherry blossoms. (Want to know when the trees will bloom? It's not an exact science, but this may help. Many continue into May. For the latest on what trees have bloomed check out this bloom tracker which is updated daily.)
Early spring brings lots of other gorgeous blooms though: the garden's display of magnolia trees is gorgeous and luxurious, and you can see many, many spring bulbs here, such as daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops and tiny dutch irises. Also in April, the tulip display around the garden's central pool is striking.
Lilacs start in April and go through June, depending on the variety.
990 Washington Ave. Crown Heights 718-623-7200 Online: bbg.org
Green-wood Cemetery
Amy Nieporent
Founded in 1838 and now a National Historic Landmark, Green-wood Cemetery welcomes the public seven days a week. Its 478 acres are filled with natural beauty in the form of towering trees, flowering shrubs, blooming perennials and returning bulbs. It is another place you'll find gorgeous cherry trees in bloom in April and May; look for them in the areas of Valley Water and Battle Hill. To make navigating the cemetery easier, download the Green-wood app, which includes maps and lots of info and media (video, audio) on the history, nature and art of the Landmark.
500 25th St. 718-210-3080 Windsor Terrace Online: green-wood.com
As one would expect, the New York Botanical Garden is a spectacular place to see spring (and summer!) blooms. (The Garden's annual Orchid Show, featuring Jeff Leatham's Kaleidoscope, is also on display until May 1.)
The Garden's impressive collection of daffodils numbers is literally the hundreds of thousands, and you can find the yellow flowers in several places here. and don’t miss In April, Daffodil Hill is covered with them, and you'll find many antique cultivars that were planted in the early 20th century. The Rock Garden is home to tiny species of daffodils no more than three inches high, still more varieties can be found on the Daylily/Daffodil Walk, and Daffodil Valley is where the Murray Liasson Narcissus Collection is located. See how far along the daffodil bloom is with the Garden's Daffodil Tracker.
You'll find all kinds of spring-flowering trees here, including crabapple, magnolia and cherry trees, and Mother's Day is about when the NYBG Azalea Garden puts on an amazing display. (You can follow the azalea bloom with this tracker.)
The lilac collection, which blooms in early and late spring thanks to a wide variety of plants, dates to 1896 and has been a popular draw for more than a hundred years. It was expanded in 2016.
This public garden and cultural center in the Bronx has extended its hours for spring from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. It's a pleasure to visit any season, but spring highlights are tulips, magnolias, trillium and glory-of-the-snow.
Wav Hill hosts many programs for kids and families including weekly family art projects, bird-watching, and more.
Note that you must reserve tickets in advance to visit Wave Hill.
Spring at The Queens Botanical Garden brings blooming cherry trees on Cherry Circle, magnolias on Magnolia Path, vibrant displays of daffodils and tulips, viburnum, dogwood, eastern redbud and more. To see what's blooming when, click here.
Not too far from the Queens Botanical Garden is Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the former site of the 1939 and 1964 World's Fair. The park's impressive Unisphere is surrounded by scores of flowering trees throughout April, and there's lots more to explore once you've taken in the display. Check out the New York Hall of Science, the Queens Museum, the Queens Zoo,
This 83-acre campus on Staten Island is home to numerous cultural institutions and gardens, including The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden (NYCSG), one of two authentic classical outdoor Chinese gardens built in the United States. Built entirely with architectural elements created in Suzhou, China, the NYCSG puts on a beautiful show in spring with flowering magnolias, cherries, mahonia, jasmine, and redbud. Much of Snug Harbor is free to explore, but admission to NYCSG is $5 per person, with kids under five admitted for free. (Staten Island residents are free the first Saturday of every month.)
Another must with kids is the Connie Gretz Secret Garden, an enclosed space with a shrub maze and three towers that resemble castle turrets. It is inspired by the book The Secret Garden and admission is $3 for kids and free for adults accompanied by a child. (It recently has only been open on Sundays.)
Need more to explore? Check out the Staten Island Museum, the Staten Island Children’s Museum and the Noble Maritime Collection, all of which are also at Snug Harbor.
1000 Richmond Terr. 718-425-3504 Staten Island Online: snug-harbor.org
Big-ticket attractions like Zoo Atlanta, The World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium and The Children’s Museum of Atlanta are all concentrated Downtown, but don’t let that fool you. Buckhead and Brookhaven are brimming with kid-friendly museums and activities throughout the year. Whether you want to check out a Civil War-era farm or get an ice cream cone from a train’s caboose, North ITP has plenty for you to check out. Keep reading for our favorite places to take the kids in Buckhead and Brookhaven, below.
Over 33 acres of curated gardens, four historic houses, varied programming, and a range of signature and temporary exhibitions housed in the Atlanta History Museum are yours for enjoyment at the Atlanta History Center, in Buckhead. Atlanta’s oldest surviving farmhouse at Smith Farm was built in the 1840s for the family of Robert Hiram Smith, and today, you can explore it and other buildings—including the dairy, blacksmith shop, smokehouse, corncrib, chicken coop, and barn, as well as the vegetable, herb, field, and enslaved peoples' gardens. Just up the hill you'll find Atlanta's Swan House, constructed in 1928 at the end of the Jazz Age, which was the home of Mr. Edward and Mrs. Emily Inman. In the History Center, you'll find contemporary exhibits about Jim Crowe laws and segregation, the 1996 Olympics, and a robust history of the state.
Don't Miss: Just outside the Swan House you'll find the children's Victorian Dollhouse, constructed by the Inman family for their daughters. And if you get hungry, make a stop in the oh-so-fancy Swan Coach House, where your manners will be most appreciated.
Chastain Park has 268 acres filled with a pool, a horse park, a golf course, trails, tennis courts, and most notably, an epic (and shaded) playground that recently enjoyed a $2.8 million overhaul. Nestled into six acres of wooded hills and grassy playing areas, the playground includes plenty of boulders and tree stumps to entice even the most grass stain-averse parents and kids—not to mention a tree house that will make every dad’s back yard aspirations seem attainable. In addition to the usual playground constructs, Chastain's playground is complete with an outdoor piano, drums, and chimes. There's a pavilion, restrooms, and the entire playground is wheelchair accessible.
135 W. Wieuca Rd. N.W. (between Lake Forrest Dr. & Pool Rd.)
It’s a plane! It’s a playground! It’s the Peachtree-Dekalb Airport Park! Your crew will love a trip to PDK, with its playground, picnic area, and air strip observation stadium. Please direct your eyes to our manual and fasten your seat belts for some high-flying fun.
Don't Miss: No trip to the PDK Airport Park is complete without two things: grabbing a burger from the Downwind Restaurant, and getting a scoop of ice cream from The Frosty Caboose, nearby. The Caboose is a retired train car that's been outfitted as an ice cream shop. Serving Greenwood's ice cream—an Atlanta favorite—make sure you plan your trip around the Caboose's hours of operations.
This mega shopping district attracts families every day with its green space, restaurants and shops. It is home to tons of events, many of which are fun for kids like Holiday on the Town in December, the Best of Town Brookhaven in the spring, and Movies on the Town during the summer. The area has its share of upscale restaurants, as well as several restaurants comfortable for people with kids like Lucky’s, The Flying Biscuit and Moe’s Southwest Grill.
Nestled in Atlanta’s North Buckhead neighborhood, Blue Heron Nature Preserve is home to the 3-mile Blueway Trail which allows visitors to experience 30 acres of woodlands, wetlands, riparian areas and meadows – all without leaving the city.
Good to Know: If you're looking for a break from all the screen time, BHNP offers 9 weeks of summer camp, filled with hands-on activities focused on discovery, exploration, creativity and a connectedness to nature within its 30-acre greenspace. Each week of summer camp at Blue Heron, educators will explore a new theme that will get campers digging in the dirt, flipping over rocks, building forts and wading in the creek.
It’s never too early (or too late) to talk to your kids about racism, diversity and equality. If you’re having a hard time finding the right way to approach the topic, let literature lend a helping hand. From autobiographical picture books to powerful first-person fiction, we’ve carefully curated some of our favorite books that’ll spark conversations about everything from the immigrant experience to Black History to give kids (and parents) perspective. Keep reading and start listening.
Black Girls Unbossed
The famous activists we know today started their journeys when they were young––just like the Black girls highlighted in this new book by Khristy Lauren Adams. These young world changers are starting organizations to help those in need, leading racial advocacy efforts, creating apps to aid in mental health issues and so much more, all born out of their own life experiences.
From activist, professor and father Ibram X. Kendi, this lovely picture book will help you and your kids learn about cultivating a more equitable world by following nine simple steps. We love this new and powerful read; it is filled with thoughtful rhymes and beautiful, bold illustrations.
Little Feminist's 3-board-books geared toward early readers (like babies!) all feature photos of REAL families with poems to build vocabulary & connection. The three books include HAIR which showcases race and ethnicity; FAMILIES which includes families in all their variations and showcases gender and sexuality; and ON-THE-GO which includes many forms of abilities, mobility and bodies
This little book packs a big punch! Featuring forty trailblazing women in African-American history, each entry is accompanied by a beautiful illustration. From pilot Bessie Coleman to crooner Nina Simone to poets, inventors, athletes and more, this book will inspire children of any gender to be bold, beautiful and make history.
Recommended age: 3 & up, but we think you should read it to your baby.
Told with the flow of a Native American narrative, this book tells the tale of those who were usurped, who watched their lands be stripped away and witnessed the enslavement of their people. But, they remembered, found solidarity with other oppressed people and despite all, persisted.
Sesame Street has been teaching kids that diversity is beautiful for over 50 years, so it'll come as no surprise that your favorite muppets star in this great book about racism for kids. Elmo and his friends show us that even though we might look different on the outside, on the inside we all have the same needs, feelings and desires.
Follow two families, one white, one black as they each discuss the shooting of a Black man by the police in their town. It touches on subjects like violence, social injustice, racial profiling and entitlement. The lovely illustrations and positive messaging tackle the tough subject matter in just the right way.
Sometimes the easiest way to get your point across is to just SAY IT. That's what this book by father, thinker and entrepreneur Jelani Memory. With simple text, bold images that explain what racism is, how it makes people feel and how to spot it when it happens, this must-have book lays it all out so that even young kids can start to listen and learn.
Brad Meltzer’s latest release in his Ordinary People Change the World series, we learn the story of Harriet Tubman and her bravery as she fought to abolish slavery. She helped hundreds of African Americans escape slavery and find freedom through the Underground Railroad. This is one book that will inspire your kids to become heroes themselves.
Imagine walking into a room and seeing no one like you? Whether your skin is different, you walk differently, you talk differently, you wear different clothes, there are many reasons to feel different. This lovely rhyming story is all about being inclusive, and it encourages kids to be comfortable in their own skin and savor what is unique about them.
Like the “I Am” series, the Little People, Big Dreams series explores amazing men and women of history, from artists to scientists to activists, teaching kids that one person can make a difference. This book covers the inspiring Maya Angelou’s journey, from a traumatic childhood to one of the world’s best-loved authors. If you thought you knew who Maya Angelou is, you are in for a treat: this book will leave you even more in awe than you already were. Written by Lisbeth Kaiser and illustrated by Leire Salaberria.
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. Vibrant, stained-glass like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is. Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities.
Recommended age: Suggested age, 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book.
Celebrate the life and voice of poet Gwendolyn Brooks with this thoughtful story that combines both Brooks' legacy with her life story. Known for being one of the most foremost poets on the Black experience and the role of women in society, Gwendolyn Brooks went from a young child writing all the time to become the first Black author to win the Pulitzer Prize and authoring 20 books of poetry, two autobiographies and one novel. Celebrated author and children's librarian Alice Faye Duncan makes Brooks come to life on the page for the young reader.
The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist
Amazon
Audrey was arrested! Cynthia Levinson brings this true tale of the youngest known child to be arrested at a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama. Kids will cheer for Audrey, equality and the rights of all children. Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton.
Written by President Barack Obama as a letter to his own daughters, this is the story of 13 key players in American history. From Jackie Robinson to Georgia O’Keefe to George Washington, Obama illustrates how his own children—and all kids—have these heroic traits in themselves. Uplifting and encouraging, your kids will gain an understanding of the history of the United States and know that “yes!” they can. Illustrated by Loren Long.
The summer of 1963 was an important time in America. Not only did Martin Luther King Jr.'s March on Washington take place, but the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Maryland became desegregated and open to everyone. As the first African-American child to ride the carousel at the park that day, co-author Sharon Langley shares her story in this new book all about how a community came together for positive change.
Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans
Amazon
If you want to talk about Black History with your kids, this book will take you back to the beginning. Told from the point of view of a 100-year-old African-American woman, Heart and Soul takes kids on a journey through the history of slavery to Jim Crow laws to the quest for equality and freedom in our schools and beyond. It teaches them about the reality and the inspiring truth: the men, women and children of all colors who rallied to change education laws and end segregation and who fight still for truth, justice and the true American way. Kadir Nelson is an award-winning author and illustrator, whose honors include the Coretta Scott King Author and Illustrator Award.
Who was Katherine Johnson? This book will tell you: she is said to be one of the greatest minds of all time! She worked in the 1950s for the NASA space program and was such a brilliant mathematician that she figured out the math needed to send a rocket to the moon in her head. She didn't even use a computer or a calculator. This book will teach kids about her early life as a child growing up in a small town in Virginia that didn't even have a high school for African Americans (schools were segregated then), how her family moved to a town with a high school she could attend, and about her incredible career as a scientist and mathematics marvel.
Did you know the first success school desegregation case took place in Southern California? 23 years before the historical Brown v. Board of Education case there was the little-known case of Roberto Alvarez v. the Board of Trustees of the Lemon Grove School District. This lovely bilingual storybook tells the tale of one immigrant community and its fight for equal rights.
Mia Yang has a few secrets: she lives in a motel, her parents clean the motel rooms and hide immigrants, and she wants to be a writer, not a mathematician. Loosely based on author Kelly Yang's childhood, this powerful story addresses poverty, systemic racism, stereotypes and more. Although this story takes place in the '90s, many of the heartbreaking stories told here remain true for immigrants and minorities today.
Afro-Puerto Rican immigrant and hero Aturo Schomburg was a law clerk with a passion: he collected books, letters, art and music from Africa and the African diaspora. When the collection got too big for his own shelves, he turned to the New York Public Library where, in 1905, he curated a collection known then as the "Negro Division." Not only does this book take you through the life and times of the amazing Arturo Schomburg, but it also details critical and often overlooked African Americans and African American history throughout major events in the forming of the United States of America, including revolutionaries, the woman who wrote poems in praise of George Washington, the powerful writings of Frederick Douglass and the whitewashing of African history. A must-read for kids from all walks of life.
42 Is Not Just a Number: The Odyssey of Jackie Robinson, American Hero
Candlewick Press
Jackie Robinson was an all-star from a young age: baseball, basketball, football, he excelled at them all. With talent like that, it seemed likely he'd go pro except for one thing: the color of his skin. So Jackie joined the Negro Leagues, setting records and impressing the manager of the major league team, the Brooklyn Dodgers. In 1946, Jackie became the first African American EVER to play in MLB. He faced cruelty, protests and violence. But he persisted: he displayed courage, determination, restraint and an incredible ability to win the game. This detailed chapter book will help parents and kids alike to remember never give up.
This Newbery Award-winning book follows Katie and her family as they leave Iowa and move to Deep South Georgia in the 1950s. One of only 31 Japanese-American families in town, Katie, her older sister Lynn and hard-working parents will encounter racism at school and at work and when tragedy befalls the family, Katie must stay strong for everyone. A sobering historical fiction tale worth reading.
This Book Is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do The Work
Quarto
New in January of 2020, author Tiffany Jewell aims to dismantle racism by helping readers understand the origins of racism, current racism in our society and how to stand up against racial oppression. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression and it includes 20 powerfully effective activities to get you thinking and help you learn and grow.
Recommended age: The publisher list ages 11+ but we think every family should own a copy of this and read it together.
Loving vs. Virginia: A Documentary Novel of the Landmark Civil Rights Case
Chronicle Books
This book for older readers tells the story of a landmark civil rights case. Richard and Mildred Loving met in 1955 in Caroline County, Virginia, during a time when segregation, prejudice, injustice and cruelty were the norm. They fell in love and their love was at the heart of the Supreme Court case that legalized marriages between races.
In this Newbery honor book, you'll meet 12-year-old Jude, who has left her seaside home in Syria to escape the country's brutal civil war. She and her mother leave her father and brother behind as they head for Cinncinati to stay with relatives. Jude will experience being labeled as "Middle Eastern" for the first time, but she'll also discover new friends, a school musical that's worth taking the risk and finally understand that home can be in more than one place.
16-year-old Starr Carter is constantly trying to find the balance between the fancy prep school she attends and the poor neighborhood in which she lives. When she witnesses the death of her childhood friend at the hands of the police, that balance is shattered. The protests, the hate and the confusion that follow are achingly similar to current events. A heartbreaking tale, this poignant first-person narrative is a great way to start or continue a conversation with your tween about the Black Lives Matter movement.
From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change.
Boston is known as a place of innovation, creativity and activism, thanks in part to many of the ceiling-shattering women that called the Boston home. We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the accomplishments of 15 of these pioneering women. Read on to inspire the next generation.
Isabella Stewart Gardner
Wikimedia Commons
Art collector and philanthropist: 1840-1924
This unconventional socialite some called "Isabella of Boston" is known as the eclectic curator of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum that opened in 1903. But you can tell the kids she almost caused a panic when she wore a hat that read, "Oh, you Red Sox" to a Boston Symphony Orchestra concert in 1912.
Mindy Kaling
Wikimedia Commons
Actor, writer and producer: 1979-
At the age of 24, this Cambridge-born actor was the only female on an eight-person writing team for The Office. She wrote 26 of the shows episodes (the most of any writer), and went on to win multiple Emmys for her work. She continues to break ground with shows she created like Champions and Never Have I Ever.
Ayanna Pressley
Wikimedia Commons
Politician: 1974-
In 2010, Ayanna Pressley became the first Black woman elected as an at-large member of the Boston City Council. In 2019 she became the first Black woman elected to Congress from Massachusetts. She has represented the state as the U.S. representative for Massachusetts's 7th congressional district since then.
Susan B. Anthony
Wikimedia Commons
Social reformer and women's rights activist: 1820-1906
Born in Adams, MA into a Quaker family committed to social equality, Susan B. Anthony began her passion by collecting anti-slavery petitions at the age of 17. She went on to champion the rights of women and enslaved people with other like-minded women such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Jessie "Little Doe" Baird
Algonquin Couple, an 18th-century watercolor by an unknown artist. Courtesy of the City of Montreal Records Management & Archives, Montreal, Canada.
Linguist
Jessie "Little Doe" Baird is a linguist who helped revive the Algonquian language of her ancestors that had not been spoken for more than 150 years. She has been the co-founder and director of the Wôpanâak Language Reclamation Project in Mashpee, MA, since 1993. As a citizen of the Mashpee Tribe of the Wampanoag Nation, she started to create a dictionary in 1996 chronicling the tribe’s ancestral language as part of a research fellowship with MIT. The dictionary holds more than 11,000 words.
Clara Barton
Wikimedia Commons
Pioneering Nurse: 1821-1912
Born in North Oxford, MA, Clara Barton was a pioneering American nurse who founded the American Red Cross. She was self taught and provided nursing care during the Civil War. During a time when women did not have the right to vote, Clara Barton was known for her humanitarian work and civil rights advocacy.
Callie Crossley
Wikimedia Commons
Media commentator and radio show host: 1951-
Callie Crossley is a Boston-based radio and tv host, commentator and public speaker. In 2013 she began hosting radio program Under the Radar with Callie Crossley and continues to contribute to WGBH Radio's "Boston Public Radio".
Amelia Earhart
Wikimedia Commons
Aviation pioneer: 1897-disapppeared 1937, declared dead 1939
Amelia Earhart is perhaps most well known as the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. She set a number of other records during her lifetime and wrote books documenting her flying experiences. During an attempt to be the first woman to circumnavigate the globe in 1937, Earhart's plane disappeared over the Pacific Ocean. She and navigator Fred Noonan were declared dead over a year later, but significant interest in their disappearance still exists today.
Gwen Ifill
Wikimedia Commons
Journalist and Television Newscaster: 1955-2016
In 1999, Gwen Ifill became the first Black person and first woman to moderate a major television news-analysis show, Washington Week in Review. She was a journalist, newscaster and author, and became co-anchor of the PBS NewsHour in 2013 until her death in 2016, part of the first all-female team to anchor a national nightly news program.
Margaret H. Marshall
Wikimedia Commons
Chief Justice: 1944-
Margaret H. Marshall was the first female chief justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. In 2003 she wrote the ground-breaking decision in Goodridge v. Department of Public Health that declared that the Massachusetts constitution does not permit the state to deny citizens the right to same-sex marriage.
Maria Mitchell
Wikimedia Commons
Astronomer: 1818-1889
Originally from Nantucket, Maria Mitchell became the first woman elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1848, a year after discovering "Miss Mitchell's Comet," which made her famous and helped her become the first professional female astronomer
Dr. Elizabeth G. Nabel
Wikimedia Commons
Physician
Elizabeth Nabel is an American cardiologist and the current President of Brigham Health and Brigham and Women's Hospital, a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and the Chief Health and Medical Adviser to the National Football League. Her work has produced 17 patents and more than 250 scientific publications.
Phillis Wheatley Peters
Wikimedia Commons
Poet: 1753-1784
Born in West Africa, Phillis Wheatley Peters was sold into slavery at the age of seven or eight and transported to North America. She was enslaved by the Wheatley family of Boston. After she learned to read and write, they encouraged her poetry when they saw her talent. On a trip to London with her master's son, she was able to secure the patrons needed to publish her collection of poems: Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral on September 1, 1773. She was the first African-American author of a published book of poetry.
Ann Hobson Pilot
Ann Hobson Pilot
Harpist: 1943-
Ann Hobson Pilot began studying the harp at age 14 and received her bachelor's degree in music from the Cleveland Institute of Music. In 1966 she became the first Black member of the National Symphony Orchestra. She became the first Black woman to join the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1969. After 40 years with the BSO, Ms. Pilot retired at the end of the 2009 season.
If the only thing getting you through the winter is planning your next family beach vacation, we fully support you. We’ve rounded up our favorite beaches for low-key summer fun. From building a sand castle to family surfing lessons, these spots in Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico and California (among others) are sure to please. Read on to check out all the beaches that should be on your (sand) bucket list this summer and beyond.
Port Aransas & Mustang Island - TX
Courtesy Port Aransas/Mustang Island Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce
Voted as one of Vacation Critic’s 2019 Best Beaches for Families, Port Aransas (known as Port A to locals) has made a full recovery since being battered by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Located on 18 miles of beachfront on Mustang Island, there’s no end to the fun for families. You can go birding at one of six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, take the ferry to San Jose Island, a former ranch that is now an uninhabited wildlife preserve that’s perfect for a day trip, play with the kids on Port A beaches like Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore. If you vacation in Port A in July, be sure to catch the Gulf Coast’s oldest fishing tournament the Annual Deep Sea Roundup. As far as food goes, this fishing mecca has 11 different restaurants that’ll cook up what you catch that very day.
From hotels to vacation rentals, lodging abounds. A few best-bet spots are the re-invented Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Club—not only is there a restaurant and pool on the property, but the resort offers one of the nicest beaches on the island—the Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences, which is nestled among 50 acres of protected dunes along Mustang Island and offers amenities like a beach club, bike rentals and restaurants, and Cinnamon Shore, which offers a ton of family activities like Movie Night at Town Center, S'mores night, surfing lessons and shrimp boils on the beach.
Nestled between the world’s second-largest barrier reef and an expansive nature preserve lies the tiny fishing village of Puerto Morelos. Home to just 1,200 year-round residents, you’ll find fresh seafood restaurants along the beach and people browsing through colorful shops, enjoying live music on the weekends and admiring the nearly century-old leaning lighthouse. It's the ideal location for a family trip or parents-only vacay.
What to do: It might be hard to choose between swimming in one of the nearby cenotes, snorkeling on the barrier reef (we loved the Lighthouse Tours two-hour tour), or visiting ancient Mayan Ruins. A highlight for families is Crococun, a local wildlife center filled with crocodiles, parrots, turtles, iguanas, spider monkeys and more. Each tour is guided by a biologist; kids will be able to hold a baby crocodile, feed deer and turtles, plus there’s a picnic/playground area that’s perfect for fueling up after seeing all the animals.
Where to stay: The ideal spot to stay during your visit is Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, a five-star resort that feels more like a home than a hotel. One of the things we loved about the Grand Residences Rivera Cancun is that it’s made up of all suite-style rooms, which means you have choices: You can book anything from a one-to three-bedroom suite that comes equipped with everything from a small kitchenette to a full kitchen/laundry with extra murphy beds in the living room. There’s a mix of oceanfront views and resort views, and all of the suites are pristine, with decor inspired by the local culture.
If you’re looking for ocean waves, the scent of funnel cake and saltwater taffy, all while trying to find the very best tourist t-shirt, let us be your guide. Seeped in classic American culture, Ocean City, Maryland is the perfect spot for a quintessential beach boardwalk experience. Full of family fun (even in the shoulder season), history and sunshine.
What to do: During the summer months (which sees 300,000 people on an average weekend), visitors can enjoy the 26th Street Movies on the Beach series, concerts, surfing contests, family beach Olympics and festivals galore. If you want to skip the crowds, the fall and the holiday season offer plenty of fun too, like the Sunfest—an art festival with music, food and vendors, the Great Pumpkin Race, Halloween Beach Maze, Light-Up Downtown Winter Festival, and, of course, fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Where to stay: Hyatt Place is a great pick for families. It opened its doors in the fall of 2018; there are 105 rooms (56 of them are oceanfront), an indoor and outdoor pool, a buffet breakfast serving cage-free eggs, all-natural bacon, steel-cut oats, fruit, pastries and other kid-friendly food. In the summer and shoulder seasons, you'll find make-your-own sundaes on Fridays, and in the summer there's face painting, children’s entertainers and Mermaid Mondays.
If something a little more exotic is on your radar for your next family vacation, Tahiti should be at the top of your list! With low-cost, direct flights on French Bee available from SFO, it’s an easy getaway to another world. You won’t have the crowds of other island destinations and the kids will love learning some Tahitian and French phrases while you are on your tropical family vacation.
What to do: Tahiti is full of gorgeous beaches that are practically deserted, a totally different experience from other island spots like Hawaii. In addition, you can learn about the history and culture of this island community with island tours and food tasting experiences.
Where to stay: If you plan to stay on the island of Tahiti for the duration of your visit, you'll want to head to the Tahiti Pearl Beach Resort to enjoy the black sand of Matavai Bay. Located just a 15-minute drive from downtown Papeete, you'll love the relaxed tranquility that this hotel offers. Rooms include outdoor lanai balconies with water views and there are suites for families who need more room.
If you are up for a bit more adventure, book some time at Le Taha'a Resort and Spa. To get there, fly from Tahiti to the island of Raiatea where the resort will pick you up in a boat to take you to your island paradise. In addition to traditional overwater suites (which can sleep a couple plus one child), Le Taha'a offers massive beach villas to accommodate families. These villas are right on the beach and have a private plunge pool, air conditioning, outdoor shower and tub, free WiFi and a huge bathroom.
If you are looking for a totally relaxed island vibe, definitely put Punta Cana on your beach vacation list. Because Punta Cana is in the Caribbean, the weather is beautiful all year round. If you’re looking to chill in this hotspot during a quieter, less crowded time, consider traveling March-May when the highs average in the low 80s. Hurricane season is June-November, but your chance of getting gorgeous weather is better than average. The warmest months on the island are June-September.
What to do: Ocean Adventures’ 3-hour Caribbean Pirates adventure will have you snorkeling with sharks and interacting with stingrays at Shark Island, exploring coral reefs and following treasure maps. Just don’t get too comfortable—you never know when rival pirates will attack. Included in the price is unlimited beverages, hotel pickup and drop-off, fruits and light snacks. As a bonus, kids come along for free.
Where to stay: The circle is the universal symbol of wholeness and perfection and all-inclusive The Grand Reserve at Paradisus by Melia Hotels in Punta Cana—with its circular design, classy but approachable vibe and an overall aura that magically expels stress—crushes that perfection goal. The Grand Reserve wants you to have a think-free vacation, so the experience is all-inclusive. And, keep in mind, Melia Hotels is hyper-focused on shattering the perception that runs rampant about all-inclusive vacations by offering guests an unparalleled luxurious experience.
Family vacations are one of those things you’ll never regret, but finding an affordable getaway that promises adventure, sandy beaches and culture all in one? It’s not impossible and you don’t even need a passport when you visit St. Petersburg, Florida (or St. Pete, as the locals know it).
What to do: The perfect formula for a family vacation is to find at least one thing that makes each person happy. Or you can go to the beach (which makes everyone happy at once). St. Pete Beach is one of the most beautiful and accessible beaches in Florida (home to many gorgeous beaches!). Located on the Gulf of Mexico side (just a short ride away from the heart of St. Petersburg), the kids can scoop and splash all day, you can chill in a cabana (bring along that novel! We packed two!) or go paddle boarding and parasailing, all without having to so much as hop in the car. There’s truly something for everyone.
Where to stay: St. Pete Beach has no shortage of beach-front or just-off-the-beach properties, from budget motels to grandiose palaces. Where you stay can make or break a family vaycay, but don’t get overwhelmed: just book a room at the Sirata Beach Resort. Not only is it affordable (rooms start at just $159 a night) it’s right on the beach and extremely family-friendly. They just completed a renovation in January of 2019 and parents will find the rooms spacious and comfy, many with kitchenettes and awesome views of the Gulf of Mexico.
If you’re in search of a low-key, relaxed-but-elegant retreat for the family (that’s also conveniently located in paradise) Turks & Caicos’ Providenciales is calling.
What to do: One of the main things to do here, is nothing, in the very best way. Relax on the stunning white sand beaches while the kids splash in the breathtaking and mild turquoise waters. When you’re ready for some action, dive in with some snorkeling at the third-largest barrier reef in the world. (We like Caicos Dream Tours for a day trip to a good spot: you’ll love the staff, the kids will love shooting down the slide off the side of the boat.) You can also explore the island’s mangrove forests, gliding by baby turtles, colorful fish, lemon sharks and other friendly sea creatures, and take in myriad tropical birds; we recommend the mom and pop business WaterPlay TCI, who knows what kids like because they have one.
Where to stay: For understated elegance and stunning natural beauty, head to luxury resort The Shore Club, the first resort on pristine Long Bay Beach. The Shore Club is refined, but not at all stuffy, making it a fantastic retreat for families wanting to spend some quality time together. Choose from one of the four pools on the property, where you can graze on fare like sushi and fish tacos and relax in a cabana, as kids splash around and play with inflatables. The beach is a short stroll away, with waters shallow, calm, and perfect for testing out the kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and more.
If you’re looking to find a happy medium between a sophisticated oceanside retreat and a kid friendly, beachy resort, Nassau's Baha Mar, located on stunning Cable Beach, is the spot. You can all have fun and relax here, with a mix of curated restaurants offering top-notch cuisine (all with kids’ menus), a truly engaging Explorer’s Club for kids, and the Caribbean’s largest casino, which—shocker—has windows with some very nice views. (Have you ever been in a casino with windows? Probably not.)
What to do: Kids love pools, and there are a whopping 11 pools on site. Each has its own vibe, with some that cater to adults for either partying or enjoying a child-free zone, but more than a few are primo spots for playing the day away. Kids (and parents) will love “Dean’s Blue Hole”, where they can leap from two “cliffs” into the pool, and then swim over to The Grotto to get an underwater view of schools of fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays through an aquarium-style wall of glass. Steps away is the beach, where guests can enjoy complimentary use of kayaks, snorkeling gear, floating lounges, and water hammocks. For fun on dry land, head to The BEACH Sanctuary (where those sea turtles, nurse sharks, and stingrays live) to observe the daily feedings of the animals at no cost, or book an interactive experience to get up close. And don’t miss the birds: Baha Mar’s The Aviary is the place to meet and feed beautiful tropical feathered friends, and the free, daily Flamingo Parade showcases the resort’s stunning pink flock.
Where to stay: Baha Mar is home to three hotels: The Grand Hyatt, luxury property Rosewood, and the contemporary and comfortable SLS—all of which have access to the resort’s amenities. We stayed at SLS, and loved its combination of chic surroundings, thoughtful design (charging ports next to the bed FTW), and superior yet warm and welcoming service. Stylish residence suites make staying as a family a delight, with a spacious living room, equipped kitchens, a washer/dryer, and dreamy beds.
Bump the Florida Keys to the top of your beach list for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters and a rich array of activities, food and culture—all without a passport.
What to do: A sleepier Keys town, Key Largo has plenty of amenities along Hwy 1. Hit Mrs. Mac’s Kitchenfor a super kid-friendly environment, great food and your perfect first Florida Keys vaycay photo opp. If you have a few hours to spare, it’s well worth a stop to go swimming or even snorkeling excursion at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Snorkeling tours are about 2.5 hours long, as are the glass-bottom boat tours. You can book everything at the park or in advance online if you want to guarantee your window.
Where to stay:Make Hawks Cay Resort in Duck Key your home base, and venture to nearby Marathon Key and Key West for day trips. There are 5 pools + hot tubs and a salt-water swimming lagoon. The resort has a ton of daily, exciting activities for kids (like diving for jewels with the Pirate Queen Priscilla or swimming with the resident Mermaid, Coral). There’s an entire, well-stocked, craftacular Camp Hawk area that’s just a 30-second dash to a Pirate Ship splash pad (and another pool). There’s also a soccer field, playground and an 18-hole Putt-Putt course.
For a change-of-scenery experience, hit Michigan’s beach towns in Harbor Country and further north. These beach communities have tons of secrets to discover, the greatest of which are mild temperatures, freshwater and a nostalgic vibe.
Where to go: In western Michigan, New Buffalo's blueberry picking can't be beaten July, and a trip to the Warren Dunes State Park before it gets too hot to conquer the massive dunes is definitely in order. Just up the road, the Silver Beach Center is a kiddie haven with a hand-painted giant carousel, Michigan's tallest kaleidoscope, and the Curious Kids' Museum, which is colorful and engaging enough to give Chicago museums a run for their money. For a different, tasty type of adventure, go a bit farther afield to Coloma and pick ripe cherries and peaches at Fruit Acres Farm Market.
Where to stay: In Holland, the Lake Ranch Resort is the only spot where you can stay on the water. It’s a 10-minute drive from downtown Holland and rooms range from two people up to 10. You can also check out the Holiday Inn and Conference Center that has cots and cribs, a game room, and babysitting services available... not to mention a Michigan-shaped heated pool.
You can’t go wrong planning a family vacation to Cancun. The travel time from anywhere in the U.S. is reasonable, even with young kids in tow. The beaches are pristine, the weather is a dream, and it offers activities whether you like to dig your toes in the sand for non-stop beach bumming or explore morning, noon and night. Be sure to check out the two ruin sites of Tulum (it's the only ruins with a gorgeous ocean view, so bring along a swimsuit to take a quick plunge in the sea) and Chichen Itza (also known as El Castillo, it was designated as one of the seven wonders of the world in 2007).
For hanging your hat, Panama Jack Resorts Cancun has two outdoor swimming pools, a stunning beach with water so clear you’ll think you’re in a bathtub, Camp Jack with supervised activities for ages 4-12, a waterpark with slides and splash zones, ocean-view mini golf and water park, live entertainment, movie nights and #Hashtag teen zone with video games and activities for ages 12-17. They also offer after-hours babysitting so you can schedule a kid-free date night.
While Charleston isn't located precisely on the beach, nearby Isle of Palms certainly is. Offering the best of both worlds—history and exploration as well as unsurpassed nature and pristine beaches—Isle of Palms is the perfect spot for an active family looking to mix up their beach vacation with a bit of culture.
What to See: In Charleston, take a stroll to view the mansions of The Battery, then change your perspective and see the fair city by boat from the Charleston Harbor. Boone Hall Plantation, with its colonnade of live oaks and perfectly preserved farm, won't disappoint, and a tour of Fort Sumter, where the Civil War erupted, will satisfy your history requirement.
For an epic family adventure unlike any other, head to Dubai for glamour and culture through jaw-dropping architecture, extravagant theme parks and resorts, man-made islands and an abundance of markets and culinary delights. Dubai offers an array of memorable experiences for everyone. And with direct service to Dubai on Emirates, it’s easier than ever to experience this city and emirate in the Middle East.
What to do: Book a Sundown Dune Dinner Safari with Arabian Adventures for a desert excursion that will take you cruising over the sand dunes in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Head to Dubai Parks and Resorts—the Middle East’s largest integrated leisure and theme park destination—for more than 100 indoor and outdoor rides and attractions at three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and LEGOLAND Dubai, and one water park: LEGOLAND Water Park.
Right where the 101 hooks up with Highway 1 in California, you’ll find the small town of Morro Bay that offers the perfect spot for a long weekend with the kids. Full of beach days and a totally chill vibe, you can slow down, get to know the welcoming locals and enjoy some of the best seafood that the Pacific Ocean provides.
What to do: Spend some time getting to know Morro Bay from the water. Reserve a spot on a three-hour whale watching tour or one-hour harbor tour. The whale watch tour takes you out past the calm harbor waters to see if you can spot gray or humpback whales that come to feed on the abundant sea life offshore. Or, on land, explore downtown Morro Bay's life-sized chess board or pick up a surrey at Farmer’s Kites and Surreys and head out along the bike path to check out Morro Rock up close.
Where to eat: With easy access to super fresh seafood, Morro Bay is a seafood lover's paradise. The Bayside Cafe has some of the best no-frills dining in the area. The California Chowder in a bread bowl is a crowd favorite. This side-by-side combo of clam chowder and green chile soup is the perfect balance of spice and the sea. Save room for their boysenberry crisp, generously topped with whipped cream, it’s not to be missed!
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, St. Lucia offers a diverse landscape, with volcanic, mountainous terrain, lush green vegetation and rainforest.
What to do: Board a catamaran and stop at several snorkeling spots to explore life below the surface. A favorite stop is Sugar Beach (Val des Pitons), as you can walk into the protected snorkeling area from the beach (a bonus for kids who are afraid of jumping off a boat). St. Lucia has one of the best kitesurfing beaches in the world (The best months are November through July.). Whether you’re a spectator (so much fun to watch!), a beginner or a seasoned kitesurfer, there’s a beach and teacher for you. Plus, kids over eight years old can enjoy a complimentary introductory kitesurfing lesson which includes flying a trainer kite on the beach.
Where to stay:Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa has a ton of perks for families (all-inclusive resort, proximity to the airport, a kids’ club, petting zoo, heavenly spa treatments). Kids have free reign on the 40-acre campus, which includes a lazy river and multiple water slides, a paintball zone, a petting zoo with rescued animals and an exclusive kids camp Cocoland Kids Club, that includes a mini zip line and mini rock climbing wall.
Located on the west central coast of Florida, Clearwater Beach offers miles of white sugar sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and a laid-back resort town vibe. The coastal gem, which has been named number one beach in America many times over, is reminiscent of a tropical island destination because of its subtropical climate, warm gentle waters and year-round sun.
What to do: Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and meet rescued dolphins, Winter and Hope, and Herald the sea turtle (aka Mavis) from the Dolphin Tale movies and learn about the aquarium's dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sick and injured marine animals back into the wild, public education, conservation and research. Take a sunset cruise and learn interesting facts about the natural wonders of the Gulf Coast and hit the Dolphin Trail. In the midst of Clearwater Beach is where you find Pier 60, an iconic 1,080-foot fishing pier and recreational park. If you’ve got a crew of little anglers, stop into the pier bait house and pick up everything you’ll need to reel in mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel, flounder or other fish (depending on the time of year). The pier’s nightly Sunsets at Pier 60 festival offers a carnival-like atmosphere with street performers, artisans, musicians and local artists two hours before sunset and two hours after sunset, and is the perfect way to cap off a day at Clearwater Beach!
Where to stay: Centrally located in the heart of Clearwater Beach is where you will find the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach. This gorgeous resort, which opened its doors in 2017, boasts 343 luxuriously appointed guest rooms with spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. For Dolphin Tale fans, the resort offers a unique feature: Winter the Dolphin-themed bunk rooms which include bunk beds for the kids and a king bed for mom and dad. Book this room and a portion of the cost will be donated back to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to support the care of Winter and other rescued marine animals. Other amenities include a spacious pool overlooking the beach, a full-service spa (which welcomes kids ages 13 & up), a 24-hour fitness center, multiple dining options, easy access to Beach Walk and Pier 60 and complimentary use of the clamshell cabanas and lounge chairs on the beach in front of the resort.
With miles of wide, flat beaches, bike trails through Spanish-moss-covered live oaks, and wildlife interactions at world-class facilities, Jekyll Island is a family vacation jackpot only four-and-a-half hours from Atlanta. One of Georgia's barrier islands, it was once a privately owned island by industrial era millionaires who used it as a sporting club. It is now one of Georgia's most untouched barrier islands—thanks to a stipulation that it should remain no more than 30% developed when it was sold to the State of Georgia in 1947 and established as a State Park. Stay at the Jekyll Island Club Resort the recently revitalized historic resort, for an experience that is as family-friendly as it is charming.
What to do: For the beach lovers, Jekyll Island offers wide, flat beaches that are particularly appealing to kiddos for their endless supply of castle-ready sand that doesn't seem to invade swimsuits and swim diapers as much as the fluffy white dunes found at the Gulf. And while many of the beaches on Jekyll Island are sure to please, don't pass up a chance to take the littles to Driftwood Beach.
Where to eat: While the island's developed space is limited, there are still plenty of dining options for families. Playground-side pizza at Red Bug Motors Pizza is served up hot and al fresco, Zachary's River House overlooks the Jekyll River, and Tortuga Jacks dishes solid Mexican food and live music nightly. Additional options can be found at the newly developed Beach Village (The Jekyll Market—complete with a deli, bbq and ice cream options—Fuse Frozen Yogurt, and the Jekyll Island Seafood Company, to name a few) and in the historic district.
If pristine white-sand beaches, a vibrant culinary scene and activities galore sound like the perfect recipe for your family’s next vacay, look no further than Sarasota. Located on the southwestern coast of Florida, Sarasota is one of Florida’s primary Gulf Coast cities that offers a little something for everyone and warm, year-round temps—making it the ideal destination for fun and sun any time of the year.
Where to stay: Finding a luxury resort property that is also family friendly can come with many challenges. But The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota totally hits the mark by offering a sophisticated yet casual Gulf Coast vibe along with impeccable service, sophisticated surroundings, top-notch cuisine and activities and experiences for all ages.
What to do: In addition to gorgeous beaches and waterfront activities, Sarasota offers a variety of family attractions. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is recognized as the official State Arts Museum of Florida and should definitely be at the top of your must-do list. Located just a few miles west of the Sarasota airport, The Ringling sits on 66 acres of bayfront property and houses The Ringling Museum of Art which includes 21 galleries of paintings, Cypriot antiques, Asian art, American paintings and contemporary art collected by American circus owner, developer and art collector John Ringling and his wife Mable.
When it comes to taking a vacation with kids, built-in entertainment is like hitting the parenting lottery. And, with the re-imagined kids club at the Iberostar Paraíso complex in Playa Paraíso, Mexico, your crew will hardly notice the crystal blue waters and powdery sand beaches. They'll be too busy with their mini-chef challenges, hanging out at a cool facility just for guests ages 4-17, cruising the lazy river, playing capture the flag, doing escape room challenges.
What to do: There are plenty of activities every day: beach volleyball, pool games, archery, group workouts and more. The hotel design was inspired by the local Mayan culture (there are even real artifacts around the resort), and the grounds themselves are gorgeous, with peacocks strutting, iguana hanging around and coati just about everywhere.
If you’re looking for a tropical family destination that’s as easy to access as it is to navigate once you’re there, look no further than The Abacos. An island getaway in the Bahamas that beckons with powdery white beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, The Abacos offer both thrills and relaxation to delight everyone in the family.
Where to eat: When in Rome, eat spaghetti. When in The Abacos, eat seafood. Bahamian food is simple, delicious, and fresh. Keep an eye out for conch salad, a diced concoction with fresh conch, peppers, onions and lime juice, and don’t miss a chance to eat grilled spiny lobster—smaller in size than regular lobsters but twice as sweet. Firefly Bar & Grill at Firefly Sunset Resort on Elbow Cay serves a lobster quesadilla that you’ll write home about, while Nipper’s—known for its epic Sunday parties—serves both lightly fried lobster and conch fillets “burgers” that you won’t want to miss.
Where to stay: While home rentals and resorts are available throughout The Abacos, staying on Marsh Harbor affords guests an easy transfer from the airport and proximity to the Albury’s ferry dock. The Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina is ideally situated near restaurants in Marsh Harbour—and the on-property restaurant, Angler's, is excellent.
The state of Maine has many wonderful unassuming kid-centric beaches—it’s hard to list just one.
What to do: If you want to be sure that you’ll have a beach mostly all to yourself, check out Laudholm Beach in Wells, which is accessible via a short hike on Barrier Beach Trail. Part of Wells National estuarine research reserve, this beach is flanked by dunes and rewarded with soft uncrowded sands. You’ll notice plenty of birds, and if you walk north to the mouth of the Little River, you’ll see the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Reserve.
In Georgetown, you’ll find Reid State Park, just north of Bath. Full of sandy coastlines, marshes, grassy mounds, tidal rivers and a lagoon, you’ll find all sorts of sea life here—sand dollars, crabs, and the like.
What to eat: Either bring a picnic or plan on visiting a restaurant along the way and enjoying fresh lobster.
Wisconsin and the Midwest may not be top of mind when thinking of great beach vacations, but Door County, with its 300 miles of shoreline (53 Lake Michigan beaches) and waterfront villages, is worth a look-see for your next family-friendly beach vacation.
What to do: For starters, check out School House Beach. Located about seven miles north of Door Peninsula, the beach isn't made of sand, but instead, it’s covered in smooth, super round, foot-massaging limestone rocks. You can hike to Mountain Park Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the island and surrounding lake; golf at Deer Run Golf Course; and hop on the ferry and cruise over to Rock Island where you’ll find a sandy beach and Wisconsin’s oldest lighthouse, Pottawatomie Lighthouse. Also, no trip to Washington Island is complete without a stop at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm & Shop, the largest lavender farm in the Midwest. Here you’ll find a quaint bistro, open for lunch, tours and demonstrations on the working farm and a large shop full of take-home treasures. Read more about Door County here.
Where to stay: Check travelwisconsin.com for a plethora of lodging options (waterfront cabins, historic hotels, boutique properties, tiny bed and breakfasts, camping—you name it, they have it.).
Cruise along the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, and you’ll reach Astoria, Seaside, Pacific City, Cannon Beach and more.
What to do: USA Today lists Astoria among one of the best Oregon coasts worth a visit (there’s a great riverfront trolley you can take here). Beyond historical landmarks and shipwrecks sit Astoria Column and the Garden of Surging Waves. You’ll also find lots of art galleries and cinematic nostalgia (Goonies was filmed near here.) Cannon Beach is popular for families and offers bird and whale watching and water activities like surfing and boating. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is another cool place to explore. This rolling-hills beach with giant dunes covers nearly 40 miles—it’s the largest dune expanse in North America. Of course, you’ll find lots of activities suited to the area: ATV riding, hiking, camping, etc.
Beachgoers have long known about South Carolina for soaking up vitamin sea, so the challenge here is finding the less populated beaches to enjoy with your family in tow.
What to do: Consider Kiawah Island, a coastal island off South Carolina with 10 miles of clean beaches and nearly 10,000 acres of natural woodlands. On Kiawah, the wide, mellow beach is lined by mostly townhomes and private residences, so there’s a homey vibe. You can rent bicycles, kayaks, shop in the quaint village center or walk the miles of paved trails perfect for spotting gators, fish and other creatures. Charleston is about 45 minutes away, perfect for a day trip to check out the historical sites and the amazing homes of Rainbow Row.
What to eat: Seafood joints are plenteous in the area, so take advantage of the local offerings. Red’s Ice House, on nearby Johns Island, has reasonably priced eats and amazing sunset views.
This easy to get to spot on the southern tip of Baja California Península is affordable and full of great beaches.
What to do: A quieter crescent-shaped beach is Playa Santa Maria. This bay is protected and has a great marine sanctuary, snorkeling above tropical and bright fish, swimming and a pinkish sandy beach. Chilleno Beach is a delight for families looking for great snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. There are several reefs, home to over 80 species of marine life. The beaches all along Los Cabos afford travelers whale and dolphin watching opportunities, bring some binoculars along with you and keep your peepers out for turtles. Kids will love watching the fishing boats return in the afternoon. Punta Palmilla is also a fantastic option, with its long and fat bay, swimming, snorkeling and natural beauty.
Where to stay: Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences with its family-centric atmosphere, large pools with beautiful views and delicious dining options (including fun guacamole-making classes) is an ideal family-friendly option. The beaches all along Los Cabos afford travelers whale and dolphin watching opportunities, bring some binoculars along with you.
This quintessential beach town and picturesque locale boast a laid-back vibe where you and the fam can soak up the seaside fun and plenty of adventures from taking a dip in a lagoon or whale watching to cruising the town and the shore on bikes––with the added perk that everything in the heart of Redondo is accessible via a short bicycle ride. Visit the Pier—originally built in 1889, and reconstructed in 1995—there are dozens of souvenir shops and food vendors and locals dub it a west coast “Coney Island” filled with novelties including funnel cakes, churros, popcorn and the freshest seafood in town. Head to the Seaside Lagoon for play time—this large saltwater lagoon boasts play equipment, lifeguard supervision, a snack bar with food from Ruby’s Restaurant, volleyball courts and both sand and grassy areas to set up shop. Finally, don't leave without feeding the turtles and climbing trees at Hopkins Wilderness Park. This 11-acre park is perfect for kids who love to climb trees. The site has four ecological habitats: forest, meadows, streams and a pond filled with turtles you can feed. Pack a picnic and soak up the serenity.
From lighthouse climbs to sea turtle sightings, the six coastal towns that make up the Brunswick Islands are teeming with just as much laid-back and low-key fun offshore as it is onshore. Adventure seekers can zipline at Shallotte River Swamp Park, while foodies can get a crash course in Calabash-style seafood.
Where to stay: You won’t find any high-rise hotels here, the better to catch the amazing sunset views. Make it a double (or triple) family vacation by renting out one of the many beach houses available on Brunswick Islands. Check out Holden Beach Properties or Brunswick Island Realty for your home away from home.
Naming your daughter (or your son) after your own fierce grandma or your favorite famous female in history is a way to let your kiddos know from Day One you believe in them. Read on for next-level baby name inspiration!
Amanda Gorman: Amanda made history when she became not only the youngest poet to read her poem at the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, but she also became the first National Youth Poet Laureate at just 22. Amanda's poem, "The Hill We Climb" called for hope, unity and a nation to heal without hiding from the harsh realities of injustice and the past.
Alice Eastwood: Born in Canada, Eastwood is best known for her work as a renowned (and self-taught!) botanist who, in 1906—after the big earthquake in San Francisco—she rescued 1497 irreplaceable botanical specimens from the Cal Academy before it fell to flames. There are 17 plant species (and two plant genera) named for her. She also hiked Mt. Shasta by herself and published over 300 scientific articles in her lifetime.
Wikimedia Commons
Anna May Wong: The first Chinese-American movie star and the first Asian-American actress to gain international fame, she used her influence to fight against the rampant racism in Hollywood, especially the offensive depiction of Chinese characters, usually played by white actors.
Amelia Earhart: The first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, she also set an altitude record and became the first person to fly solo across the Pacific from Honolulu, HI.
Bobbi Gibb
Bessie Coleman: In 1922, Bessie Coleman became the first African American and Native American woman pilot in the United States. Born in Texas to a sharecropper father, she was accepted into the Caudron Brothers' School of Aviation in Le Crotoy, France and received her international pilot's license in 1921. She tragically died in a plane crash on April 30, 1926. Ida B. Wells performed her funeral service in Chicago, and in 1931, the Challenger Pilots’ Association of Chicago started a tradition of flying over Coleman’s grave every year.
Billie Jean King: A world-renowned tennis player, Billie can count 39 World Grand Slams and three years as captain of the United States tennis team at the Federation Cup among her numerous ground-breaking accomplishments. Known as a long-time advocate for gender equality and social justice, at the age of 29, Ms. King fought and beat Bobby Griggs (he was 55 at the time) in a legendary tennis match—Battle of the Sexes. Ms. King was inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987 and the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1990.
Bobbi Gibb: In 1966, Bobbi Gibb wanted to run the Boston Marathon, but when she was denied entry for being a woman she did what all self-respecting women at the time did: she defied authority and ran anyway! Gibb waited a few yards away from the starting point, pulled a black hoodie over her head so no one would recognize her, and after several hundred runners began the race she jumped in! And not only did Bobbi run the race, but she finished it in 3 hours and 20 minutes (unofficially). That’s just one hour behind the winner and ahead of half the male runners. Check out this cool picture book based on Gibb’s Boston Marathon story.
Deb Haaland: In 2018, Debra Anne Haaland became one of the first Native American women elected to Congress (along with Sharice Davids). She is the former chair of the Democratic Party of New Mexico and a member of the Laguna Pueblo people. She is also an attorney and 35th generation New Mexican.
Dolores Huerta: Huerta worked side-by-side with famous labor and farmworker advocate Cesar Chavez to help protect agricultural and immigrant workers’ rights. She founded the Agricultural Workers Association and co-founded United Farm Workers and continues to fight for the rights of Latinos and women.
Dolly Parton: Born in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, Dolly Parton grew up one of 12 children in extreme poverty. Her family was very involved in their church, and she began performing as a child. She moved to Nashville after graduating from high school and found initial success as a songwriter. Her first number-one hit was the iconic "I Will Always Love You." She saw more success in the '70s and continued to make her way in the music industry with a success that has lasted for decades. Parton is not only a musical icon, but she also co-owns The Dollywood Company and founded The Dollywood Foundation, which raises scholarship funds for high school kids and also manages The Imagination Library, a program that distributes free books to kids up to the age of five.
Durga Banerjee: The first woman pilot in India, she became an official pilot for Indian Airlines in 1966. She was also the first woman ever to fly the Tornado A-200.
Frida Kahlo: Mexican-born Kahlo was just 18 with hopes of becoming a doctor when she suffered a serious injury from a traffic accident. Confined to her bed, she began painting. Her works remain today as some of the most impressive, iconic and recognizable art in history.
Florence Nightingale: Considered the founder of modern nursing herself, she organized care of wounded soldiers during the Crimean War (1853-1856). She became known as a manager and trainer of nurses who advocated for sanitary conditions in hospitals, and a holistic approach to treatment (that rest and good nutrition were key to recovery and good health). So if you want a kiddo who will wash her hands and eat her veggies, this is the name for you.
James S. Davis via Wikimedia
Gloria Steinem: Activist, feminist, journalist, founder of Ms. Magazine and champion of women’s rights, she’s considered one of the pioneers of the American feminist movement.
Greta Thunberg: Countless kids and young adults are trying to change the world. Swedish teen activist Greta Thunberg is the founder of the Fridays for Future movement and has already inspired many to stand up for their beliefs. She was named Time’s 2019 Person of the Year, and 2020 marked the second year in a row the 17-year-old was nominated for the Nobel peace prize.
Grace Hopper: Grace Brewster Murray Hopper (1906-1992) was one of the first computer programmers ever in the United States. A Navy Rear Admiral, in 1944 she worked on the Harvard Mark I Computer and invented the first compiler for computer programming language. In other words, she figured out how to explain computer code to mere humans (and how to program a computer to do what humans want). In the 1940s!!! She continued working for the Navy and later for other government agencies as a high-ranking official.
Gwendolyn Brooks: One of the most highly celebrated poets of all time, Gwendolyn was the first Black author ever to win the Pulitzer Prize. She wrote 20 books of poetry, two autobiographies and one novel. She was also Poet Laureate to the State of Illinois and the poetry consultant to the Library of Congress.
Hedy Lamarr: Not only was Hedy a famous Hollywood actress, but she is also credited with inventing Wi-Fi. Her groundbreaking work on spread spectrum technology is what modern-day digital communications are based on.
Harriet Tubman: Find major inspiration for doing the right thing, even when the wrong thing is the norm, by teaching your kiddos about the incredible, unflappable Harriet Tubman. Born into slavery in 1822, she emancipated herself at the age of 27 and went on to be instrumental in helping dozens of other slaves find freedom using the Underground Railroad—the system of secret safehouse and waystations from the south to the north. Tubman was an armed scout and spy during the Civil War, an early suffragist (advocate for women’s rights) and a humanitarian. She established a home for elderly African-Americans, where she later resided. Today, you can visit Harriet Tubman National Historical Park which includes her home, a visitor’s center, the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged, and the church she raised funds to build. Her burial site is nearby.
Wikimedia Commons
Kamala Harris: Kamala Harris made history on Jan. 21, 2021, by being sworn in as Vice President as the first woman, the first Black woman, and the first South Asian woman to be elected into the second-highest office in the nation. Long before her presidential aspirations, she was the first woman and person of color to serve as San Francisco district attorney, the first woman and first Black attorney general of California and the first Black senator from California. If you want to raise a fierce fighter who shatters glass ceilings, this name is sure to inspire.
Jane Goodall: Possibly the most famous primatologist in the entire world, Goodall’s work with chimpanzees changed the way we view them and our relationship with (and part in the destruction of) their habitat.
Lella Lombardi: She was Italian and she was a Formula One race car driver. If that’s not reason enough to worship her, she raced in 17 Grands Prix and was the only female driver in history to finish in the top six.
Queen Liliuokalani: The last reigning monarch over the Kingdom of Hawaii, she was imprisoned in her own home in Honolulu after the rebellion attempt to overthrow the Hawaiian monarchy by U.S. soldiers and her attempts to refuse the annexation of Hawaii to the United States. Her birth name was Lydia Liliʻu Loloku Walania Wewehi Kamakaʻeha.
Mae C. Jemison: On June 4, 1987, Mae C. Jemison became the first African-American woman to enter the space program. On Sep. 12, 1992, she joined the crew of seven astronauts on the Endeavour, becoming the first African-American woman in space. Born in Decatur, Alabama and raised mostly in Chicago, Il, Jemison holds multiple awards and degrees including a B.S. in biomedical engineering and an M.D. She has worked as a medical doctor (including in the Peace Corps). As a child, Jemison spent a lot of time in her school library, reading especially books about space.
Malala Yousafzai: Want to raise a child that isn’t afraid to fight against inequality and injustice? Name your kid Malala after this brave young woman. Malala was shot in the head at age 15 after refusing to stay at home when the Taliban declared that girls could not attend school. After surviving the gunshot wound, she devoted her life to helping girls and women get the education they deserve. She won a Nobel Peace Prize winner and wrote her own children's picture book.
Margaret Atwood: She might be best known for her feminist science fiction novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, but that’s only one of her 16 novels! She is a prolific author whose stories address gender, identity, religion and myth all at once. She is the winner of numerous awards in both poetry and fiction. We like the name Atwood for a gender-neutral vibe, too.
Marie Curie: A physicist and chemist who was not only the first woman ever to win a Nobel Prize, she was also the first person and only woman to win it twice, once for Chemistry and once for Physics. Her pioneering work includes the theory of radioactivity and discovering not one but two elements (radium and polonium).
Maya Angelou: Born Marguerite Annie Johnson, her brother nicknamed her Maya. After a difficult childhood, she found release in her writing. She was the first African American cable car operator in San Francisco, was a waitress for many years and later became an actress, singer, dancer, activist, professor and (most famously) a poet and writer. She was awarded numerous prestigious awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Nichelle Nichols: Born Grace Dell Nichols (also an awesome name), Nichelle’s impressive career includes singing with Duke Ellington and playing Lt. Uhura on the Star Trek television series and movies. What you might not know is that she ran a company called Women in Motion which worked with NASA to recruit minority and female astronauts, scientists and personnel for NASA. She has served on the board for the National Space Society since the 1980s and has been a tireless advocate for exploring the final frontier.
Rachel Carson: Ensure your little one grows up to be a nature lover and defender of all creatures great and small by naming them after this fearless woman who helped end the use of DDT and other harmful chemicals in our environment. Her hard work and dedication also jump-started a grassroots campaign that eventually led to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Her presence in the global fight for the environment continues to this day, via the Rachel Carson Prize, which is awarded to women working in the field of environmental protection.
Steve Petteway via SCOTUS
Rashida Tlaib: Rashida is a woman of firsts. She is the first Muslim woman ever to serve in the Michigan legislature and one of the first two Muslim women elected to Congress (along with Ilhan Omar).
Ruby Bridges: In 1960, Ruby was just six-years-old when she made history as the first African-American child to attend a desegregated school. She went on to live a life of activism and later formed the Ruby Bridges Foundation to fight racism and promote tolerance, respect and appreciation of differences.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Born Joan Ruth Bader, she was an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, the second female justice in history. A consummate bada$*, she is a trailblazer in fighting against gender discrimination, and an outspoken advocate for (and defender of) women’s rights.
Rosa Parks: AKA the Mother of the Freedom Movement and the First Lady of Civil Rights, Rosa Parks made history when she refused to give up her seat in the “colored” section of the bus to a white passenger. She was arrested for civil disobedience and fought it in court. This was just the beginning of many years of activism and work toward equal rights.
Wikimedia Commons
Sally Ride: The first American woman to fly in space, on June 18, 1983. She flew again in 1984. She was also a professor at UC San Diego, invented the EarthKAM project which helps kids take pictures of Earth from the International Space Station and was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2003.
Sharice Davids: In 2018, Sharice Davids was elected to Congress, becoming one of the first Native American women to be elected to Congress (the other is Deb Haaland, also elected in 2018) as well as the first openly gay person elected to Congress from Kansas and the first LGBT Native American elected to Congress.
Susan B. Anthony: A suffragist, anti-slavery advocate and early champion for women’s rights, she fought for the right for women to vote. She and her three sisters voted in the 1872 presidential election even though it was illegal. She was arrested, went to trial, and ordered to pay a fine which she refused. The Nineteenth Amendment (the 1920 law that finally gave women the right to vote) is named after her (Susan B. Anthony Amendment).
Sonia Sotomayor: The first Latina Supreme Court Justice in U.S. History, she holds multiple degrees and was also a U.S. District Court Judge as well as a U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals Judge.
Tu Youyou: Chinese born Tu Youyou took the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, primarily for her work in researching and discovering artemisinin and dihydroartemisinin, two compounds used to treat malaria. Her work has saved millions of lives. Tu’s extensive knowledge of the vast pharmacopeia of traditional and Western medicine has made her one of the most important scientists in her field.
Wilma Rudolph: Wilma Rudolph had polio, scarlet fever and pneumonia as a child, which left doctors doubting she’d ever walk again. But Wilma didn’t agree: at 16 she competed at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne. She won the bronze medal in the 4x100-meter relay. In 1960 she competed in Rome and won gold medals and set world records in the 100, 200 and 4x100-meter relay. Never let them get you down!
Winona LaDuke: Winona is an environmentalist, economist, activist and writer whose father was a Native American from the Gaa-waabaabiganikaag reservation in Minnesota, a member of the Ojibwe Nation. From a young age, she was inspired to advocate for sustainable farming, heritage foods and land protection for indigenous (and all) people and continues to be a pioneer and leader.
Wú Méi: One of the few known martial arts warriors from the 17th century, Mei survived an attack at a Shaolin Monastery, fought in numerous invasions and is still known today as a founding mother of martial arts styles including Dragon Style.
Zora Neale Hurston: One of the most influential and important writers in the twentieth century, her unique voice and style that integrated her knowledge of folklore with her prose is required reading for anyone who wants to experience the true voice of African-American literature.
