Enjoy epic Smoky Mountain views and ride the longest mountain coaster in the Southeast on your next family vacation.
Pack up your suitcases and get ready to enjoy quality family time in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Head to Sevierville, Tennessee (pronounced Severe-ville), where everyone in your crew will find something to enjoy. Whether it is the historic downtown with a hip vibe or epic views surrounded by family-friendly fun, Sevierville offers something for everyone. So keep reading to plan your perfect family vacation in Sevierville.
Things to do with Sevierville with Kids
Located a short four-hour drive from Atlanta, Nashville and Cincinnati, Sevierville is known for Smoky Mountain views, delicious southern food and tons of family fun. There’s so much this friendly southern town offers, and we rounded up our favorites.
The Pines Downtown Head to this cool downtown spot where your crew can play vintage video games, try duckpin bowling or hang in front of the massive windows playing family-friendly board games together. Look inside the books on each table to find the eclectic menu offering shareable food and delicious drinks. Find the best prices and smaller crowds during happy hour. Remember to stop by the Dolly Parton statue just a block away for a family selfie.
Skyland Ranch Plan to spend most of the day enjoying your family time at this gorgeous ranch overlooking the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re looking to ride the longest mountain coaster in the Southeast, watch a wild west show, or taste delicious southern food, you’ll find it all here. Remember to walk up the winding overlook for one of the best views in Sevierville. And, if someone in your crew doesn’t like heights, there’s a shuttle, so they won’t have to ride the chairlift to the top.
Wilderness at the Smokies Visit this indoor/outdoor waterpark resort with an exciting wave pool, private cabana area and indoor surfing spot. You’ll easily spend the entire day climbing the splash area, snacking at the grill and frozen yogurt bar and splashing in the zero-entry baby pool. After you dry off, head out to the excellent game space with tons of arcade games, a sky-high ropes course and laser tag. This resort is a great place to stay, too.
Sevier Air Trampoline & Ninja Warrior Park Head to this obstacle and trampoline-filled park when it is time to burn off some vacation energy. Whether your crew wants to try ninja obstacles, play trampoline dodgeball or jump around during an interactive video game, they’ll find endless fun at this family-friendly attraction. Downstairs, you can sign up for laser tag and enjoy kid-friendly food at the cafe. You can save time by filling out the waiver before you arrive.
Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo Stroll through this animal-lovers paradise filled with talking birds, swimming axolotls and precious newborn goats and sheep. After buying your tickets in the gift shop, you can explore the jungle-like exhibits. Remember to buy small bags of feed for the goats and sheep outside. It’s a highlight of the experience. And you can save this spot for a rainy day since most exhibits are indoors.
Smoky Mountain Knife Works & Relic Room Stop by the largest knife store in the world when you’re ready to pick out that first pocket knife. The staff is knowledgeable, and the prices are reasonable. And you’ll find an incredible selection of fossils, minerals and meteorites in the Relic Room. The best surprise is you can take some history home since the artifacts are for sale.
Where to Eat in Sevierville with Kids
Pinchy’s Lobster & Beer Co. After you decide whether to sit inside or outside, your family will love finding fresh, delicious seafood in the middle of hip downtown Sevierville. The Connecticut Lobster Roll could compete with one of the best in New England, and the kids’ menu with a hot dog shaped like an octopus will please even the pickiest eater. And yes, there are delicious options for those that don’t like seafood.
The Apple Valley Creamery What’s a family vacation without a few stops for ice cream? First, you will want to try the traditional banana split they serve. It’s delicious, and it makes for some fun family photos. Then, you can walk around the working orchard’s property for a wine tasting and to shop at the impressive candy shop.
Five Oaks Farm Restaurant Next door to Skyland Ranch, you’ll find a family-friendly farmhouse restaurant with big portions and authentic southern dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; you’ll find something yummy for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to visit their website to get on the waitlist. This restaurant is a popular place to eat.
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant Come hungry to this family-friendly southern restaurant with big plates full of comfort food and some of the friendliest staff in town. With dessert included, dinner is the perfect time to stop here for a family meal. And many of the supper dishes are big enough to share, too. Arrive early to visit The Apple Barn and Cider Mill next door.
Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin When it is time for a big southern-style breakfast, you’ll want to stop by this Sevierville gem. Kids will love the gooey chocolate pancakes, and everyone will enjoy the huge selection of delicious breakfast comfort foods.
Where to Stay in Sevierville with Kids
Sanctuary Treehouses Visit one of the newest resorts in Sevierville, where working drawbridges connect elegant treehouses, and afternoon drinks are delivered through an automatic drink shoot. Each family-friendly, themed treehouse offers a spectacular view and thoughtful family amenities such as swings, slides and bunk beds that will make your next vacation unforgettable.
The Ridge Outdoor Resort Bring an RV or plan to stay in one of the onsite tiny houses or glamping tents with amazing views. The resort boasts the perfect location to explore all Sevierville has to offer. With coffee and frozen yogurt shops across the street, and a store, laundry facility and pool, this is the perfect resort to spend your family vacation.
Hidden Mountain Resort Stay in a traditional log cabin at this family-friendly Sevierville resort with an inviting pool and pond full of fish. With cabins as big as 14 bedrooms, your entire crew will have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your vacation. Finish your days around one of the fire pits and decks overlooking the gorgeous sunset behind the Smoky Mountains.
Head outside where the water is flowing, the newts are out, and the air is fresh as can be
Do go chasing waterfalls! With the deluge of rainfall from recent winter storms, streams and creeks are flowing (some are RAGING) so take the kids to check out waterfall beauties. Breathe in the fresh air and scroll through to find the perfect spot for your next waterfall hiking adventure!
Huntington Falls and Rainbow Falls Waterfalls in the city? Why, of course! Granted, these are man-made falls but the kids will still love it! Start at Huntington Falls which cascades down Strawberry Hill into Stow Lake then take the stairs behind the falls for a view from the top. Next, meander over to Rainbow Falls located on JFK Drive near Crossover Drive. While at Rainbow Falls, take the trail that leads to the Celtic-designed Prayerbook Cross. Distance: Roughly 1.5 miles Difficulty: Easy, has steps Parking: Free street or nearby lots
Sunol Regional Wilderness, Sunol Hiking to Little Yosemite Falls at Sunol Regional Wilderness will make you forget you are five miles away from a major highway! Park by the visitor's center and cross a large bridge onto Camp Ohlone Road. Follow the signs to Little Yosemite or for a longer and more scenic route to the waterfall via Indian Joe Trail. Make sure to stop at the Old Green Barn Visitor's Center where kids can see Native American artifacts and check out the naturalist-led programs at the park.
Distance: 2.2 miles Difficulty: Mostly easy with mild elevation Parking: $5
Codornices Park Waterfall Codornices Park is already brimming with places to explore (40-foot slide and tunnel, anyone?!) but did you know there is also a hidden and secret waterfall? Walk past the kids' play area and up the left set of stairs. Continue left at the top before taking the winding concrete staircase up to the first lamppost where a small gate with the sign “Private Property” is. Enter (it’s ok to do so but please be quiet, clean, and respectful) and make a left up to the falls.
Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, San Ramon We love this spot after rainfall as the creek fills with little waterfalls and pools. Keep an eye out for California newts and cows grazing nearby. Park in the staging area at the end of Bollinger Canyon Road and take the Bolinger Creek Loop trail with amazing views. Picnic tables and facilities at the trailhead mean you can pack a lunch!
Distance: 1.9 miles Difficulty: Mostly easy with some elevation Parking: Lot parking
Waterfall Hikes in the Peninsula
San Pedro Valley Park, Pacifica A series of small waterfalls will greet you at the top of Brooks Creek trail along with sweeping ocean views—we recommend hiking this counterclockwise so that you are climbing on the narrow portion of the trail with the steep drop off to your left. Benches along the way will help give little legs a rest before trekking onward.
Distance: 2.2 miles Difficulty: Moderate, 600+ feet elevation gain Parking: $6 cash only for lot parking, neighborhood parking is possible
Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve, Redwood City Conveniently located right off 280 in Redwood City, Edgewood is known for its picturesque picnic spots and spring wildflowers with a few small waterfalls worth discovering. Follow the Sylvan Trail and keep a lookout for deer, lizards, and other creatures that make this preserve their home.
Distance: 2.3 miles Difficulty: Mostly easy with some elevation Parking: Small lot near trailhead, exercise patience
Portola Redwoods State Park, La Honda Deep in redwood country, this park has hiking options for even the youngest hikers. Stop by the visitor's center to check out animal bones before taking the Iverson Trail that starts behind the visitor’s center while watching for signs to Tiptoe Falls. Return to the visitor's center via the Sequoia Nature Trail to hike past Shell Tree, the remains of a 17-foot diameter redwood that was destroyed by a camper’s fire in 1989.
Distance: 1.6 miles Difficulty: Mostly easy with some elevation Parking: $10 fee
Waterfall Hikes in the South Bay
Christine Lai
Uvas Canyon County Park, Morgan Hill One of our favorites, there are plenty of opportunities here to chase waterfalls! Start off on Waterfall Loop Trail and choose between a narrow, more challenging path that follows the south side of the creek or a wider and more suitable path for littles on the north side. Be sure you don't miss the impressive Black Rock Falls—follow the signs that head right from the Waterfall Loop Trail. For a slightly longer hike, we suggest starting out on the Contour Trail and ending via the Waterfall Loop Trail.
Castle Rock Falls, Los Gatos This short, out-and-back hike will give tiny trekkers a bird’s eye view of a waterfall and, if you’re lucky, the chance to watch rock climbers scale the waterfall! Be sure to stop at the top of the waterfall as the trail continues on for a rockier, more technically challenging portion.
Distance: 1.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking: Street possible, $10 in lot
Sanborn County Park, Saratoga Just a short drive from downtown Saratoga will get you to Sanborn County Park. Turn right after the ranger station and park near the visitor's center (look for salamanders after a rainy day in the nearby ponds). Start by exploring the Nature Trail where you will find many smaller waterfalls. More adventurous hikers can continue on the steep (but short) Peterson Trail to the Sanborn Trail for another great waterfall. Distance: 1.4 miles Difficulty: Moderate Parking: $6
Cataract Falls, Fairfax Marin is well-known for its many beautiful waterfalls and Cataract Falls is at the top of the list! Opposite to the AllTrails suggestion, park at the Rock Springs parking lot to hike along Cataract Trail to Cataract Falls as Bolinas Ridge road is currently closed. This hike is best suited for older children as it is rocky and has some elevation. Reward efforts with a stop by the super popular Double Rainbow Cafe for ice cream and frozen yogurt after!
Distance: 2.8 miles Difficulty: Moderate with 1000 feet elevation gain Parking: Streets
Dawn Falls at Blithedale Summit Preserve, Larkspur Winter is when this forest comes alive! Dawn Falls Trail loop follows a creek before climbing up to a ridge line and is one of the more challenging ones on our list but we promise you it is worth the trek! The end of the trail is technical and steep so be sure the family has hiking shoes with traction; this hike is best for kids sure-footed kids 5+.
Distance: 2.7 miles Difficulty: Moderate with technical portions of the trail Parking: Neighborhood streets
Cascade Falls, Mill Valley The constant sound of the rushing creek and bridge crossings all await on this awesome family-friendly trail. Perfect for beginner and tot-sized hikers, the entire family will enjoy this hike. Parking can be difficult on the weekends so go early or on a weekday and find out why this trail is worth all the hassle! Distance: 1.5 miles Difficulty: Easy Parking: Streets, can be difficult
Indian Valley Preserve, Novato Kids will want to roll up their sleeves to check out the Pacheco pond teeming with frogs, toads, and newts near the beginning of the trail. After getting your fill of amphibians, proceed along the main fire road to Waterfall Trail under a gorgeously canopied forest to make the relatively easy hike up to the cascade.
Distance: 2.9 miles Difficulty: Moderate with one short steep ascent Parking: Available at nearby College of Marin on the weekdays, otherwise on streets
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Kenwood Straddling both Napa and Sonoma Counties, the Canyon and Pony Gate loop entices hikers to a 25-foot waterfall. Park at the visitor's center trailhead and take the Canyon Trail to the waterfall while enjoying flora and wildlife.
Distance: 2.1 miles Difficulty: Easy with some elevation gain Parking: $10
Additional reporting by Kate Loweth & Donna Berry Glass
All you need is love…and treats. We’ve got some pretty awesome local Bay Area shops that have put together great gifts—from beautiful charcuterie boards to cookie decorating kits, they have it all! So spread the love while supporting local businesses with treats that will bring a smile. We all need that.
Where to Find the Best Candy in San Francisco
Giddy
If the name is any indication, we're willing to bet your kids will leave this store feeling.. well, giddy. You'll find high-quality candy from global and local producers but for Valentine's Day, we like to stock up on the Sour Pucker Up Lips and Cinnamon Heart Jelly Beans.
It all started when founder Christa Hill wanted to share her favorite cookies with friends at Dolores Park. Ten years and thousands of cookies later, she’s still at it, bringing smiles to her customers throughout San Francisco. Each cupid box comes packaged with colorful tissue, a festive bow, a handwritten message, and hand delivered to you.
This small-batch, boutique bakery in San Francisco is loved by residents in and out of the city. For Valentine’s Day, Batter Bakery is offering their signature cookie decorating kit in small or large, and includes shortbread cookies, royal icing, sprinkles, supplies and instructions. Also check out their heart-shaped cookies in unique flavors like lavender sea salt, chocolate hazelnut and red hot candy! Online ordering and nationwide delivery is available.
A passion project for chocolatier Carol Gancia, Kokak Truffles has become a Bay Area favorite. The beautifully designed chocolate bouquet truffle box comes in flavors like strawberry, hazelnut, and coffee, makes a great gift. For something even more decadent, the Chocolate Love Tower includes an assortment from the Castro Pride, pie, tea, liqueur-filled and dark chocolate collections. Boxes can be ordered for local SF delivery, curbside pick-up or shipped.
This candy boutique doesn't offer just plain 'ole candy—it specializes in nostalgic candy that is difficult to find elsewhere. Think German gummy bears, Green Tea Kit Kat bars and imported Italian candy bars. We dare you to leave this store empty-handed!
Self-taught baker Eileen Wang in Alameda is all about beautiful desserts. For Valentine’s Day, grab a four-piece cupcake treat box that comes in flavors like red wine chocolate raspberry or vegan thin mint chocolate or go big with a dozen. We love the Tea Box for $70 that includes themed cupcakes, hot chocolate bombs, cookies, brownies, mochi and tea for a romantic afternoon tea or fun surprise to share with the kids. Pick-up in Alameda.
Step into Bonbon's and you'll be transported to a delightful European candy store where they have it all—gelato, marzipan, truffles, fudge, Belgian chocolates and our very favorite chocolate-covered cherries.
Started by a single mom with a love for making food look beautiful, Karla’s charcuterie and cheese boards are full of little details and totally giftable. For Valentine’s Day, her gorgeous and delectable boards start at $60 and are in high demand so be sure to get your order in early! Check out her Instagram for inspiration and contact information.
Since 2012, this Berkeley boutique chocolatier has been creating unique, small-batch, high-quality artisanal chocolates inspired by a passion for the Latin American culture. For Valentine’s Day, Casa de Chocolates has their Amor (Love) Collection featuring beautiful gifts ranging from chocolate-covered strawberries to hand-painted chocolate roses. We love their assorted chocolate box with flavors like Petalo de Rosas, Guayabana, and Tequila, or the chocolate-covered strawberries and truffles. Shipping and pick-up available at their shop in Berkeley.
The San Mateo bakery has been around since 2004 serving delicious signature, seasonal and custom-themed cupcakes baked to order from scratch. For Valentine’s Day, Sibby’s is offering their mini cupcakes with themed flavors like heart confetti, double chocolate raspberry, red velvet and white chocolate passionfruit. Delivery is available from San Francisco to Sunnyvale and pick-up is by appointment only.
Nestled within a Los Altos neighborhood, this charming community treat shop is where local kids come to spend their allowance on frozen yogurt, bulk candy, root beer floats and milkshakes. Parents will love that there are also sandwich and soup options along with coffee and the best part (as if it couldn't get any better) is that a portion of proceeds goes back to local schools.
17-year-old Shrobana Shangupta is making waves in the way of raising money for nonprofits like Sunday Friends and St. Jude’s in the San Jose area with her love of food. Self-taught and ambitious, her macarons have already cultivated a following with unique flavors like jelly donut and Nutella cheesecake. Share the love with a Valentine’s Day box with rose and vanilla cheesecake and dark chocolate ganache. Pick-up is available in San Jose.
Started eight years ago, Made Out Of Dough is all about bringing the flavor. With savory scones and sweet pastries, they have been working the farmer’s markets around the Bay Area and wowing customers with yummy treats. For the special day, check out the Chocolate Covered Strawberry cake with fresh strawberries or the Vanilla Love cake with swirled pink vanilla.
A crowd favorite, SusieCakes makes beautifully delicious cakes, cupcakes, cookies and pies made from scratch. For Valentine’s Day, the bakery is whipping up an I Heart You Box of four cupcakes in special flavors as well as a dozen mini rose cupcakes. For a fun activity, grab a cupcake or sugar cookie decorating kit. Pick-up and delivery are available at select bakeries, so be sure to check out the website for the closest one!
Family-owned since 2008, Sift Dessert knows the sweet stuff. With three locations in the Bay Area including Santa Rosa and Napa, Sift Dessert Bar makes beautiful cupcakes, macaroons, cakes and cuffles (cake and frosting blended together and dipped in chocolate). They have some fun boxes for Valentine’s Day including the gluten-free Conversation Crispy Bars and Macaroons box with rice crispy treats and the Hey Sugar Gift Box with whoopie cookies, gummy bears, sprinkles chocolate bar and a customized note. Shipping and store pick-up is available.
Want to send some flowers but also cupcakes? Check out Baked Blooms in San Anselmo. This home-based bakery started by stay-at-home mom Sarah Thongnopneua makes cupcake bouquets arranged and decorated to look like a beautiful bouquet of flowers. You can order a seven-piece small bouquet of chocolate and vanilla cupcakes in red, white and pink floral design. Cupcakes are homemade and baked from scratch in small batches using real ingredients. Pick-up is available in San Anselmo with local delivery only in Marin at this time.
Artisanal doughnuts handcrafted with locally sourced, organic ingredients is the name of the game at Johnny Doughnuts. For Valentine’s Day, their Strawberry Bismark flavor is a must-try along with assorted doughnut holes in a variety of flavors and fillings, dressed up like a box of chocolates. Get your sweet tooth fix at one of their San Francisco, Marin or pop-up food truck locations!
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.
Capri Sun? Been there, sipped that. Now introduce your kid to Chicago’s fresh-squeezed juice and smoothie scene. (Psst. . . it’s a great way to sneak in veggies!) We hopped around to town to find juice and smoothie bars and cafes that focus on the all-natural stuff and have family-friendly atmospheres to boot. Grab a tall, healthy glass at one of these sunny spots, or take it to go and mosey through a park.
Why it deserves a squeeze: The locally owned spot will be your new favorite place to pop in for a sandwich and cold-pressed juice, and treat the kids to a special smoothie. They also get points for convenience with their online ordering option.
Real Good Juice Co. now has several locations in the city and you can find them in Whole Foods, as well. They offer 10-ounce cold-pressed juices which boast three pounds of organic locally-sourced produce per bottle and come with witty names like Juicille Ball and Punky Juice-Ster. For a snack try a smoothie bowl, a toast or sandwich or the NoYoFroYo.
Locations in Lincoln Park, Old Town, Lakeview, River North & Southport; Online: realgoodstuffco.com
Why it deserves a squeeze: A must-visit for weekend brunch, this Greektown staple has fresh squeezes on the daily, good for sipping on the spot or on the go.
You may know this neighborhood fave for its Greek-inflected breakfast and brunch menu. We’re talking scramblers, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, French toast, pancakes and waffles, plus vegan and gluten-free options (hello, polenta pancakes). But you’d be remiss in missing the juice bar, a pivotal portion of Meli’s menu. Beyond your standard OJ and apple juice (which are both available for traditionalists), Meli ventures into hearty meal-in-a-glass territory with juice blends such as celery-apple-carrot, mango-orange-kiwi-honey and wheatgrass-pineapple-apple-pear-lemon.
301 S. Halsted St., Greektown; Online: melicafe.com
Why it deserves a squeeze: This LA-based franchise has been blending juices and smoothies for twenty years so they know how to create a tasty and healthy treat.
Juice and smoothie lovers have flocked here for years for favorites like the G-Snap with ginger, carrot and orange and the ABC with apple, beet and carrot juices. They also have a good selection of smoothies, smoothie bowls and toasts.
Why it deserves a squeeze: You can get your juice with a side of vegan pizza.
Founded thanks to a Kickstarter campaign and named after owner Alexandra Curatolo’s pet French Bulldog, Belli’s brings healthy, local food to Pilsen. When you walk in, you’re greeted by a colorful menu with concoctions featuring fresh local and organic leafy greens for a daily dose of essential vitamins. For the more adventurous, there is even Kombucha on tap.
Why it deserves a squeeze: famed Chicago Chef, Paul Kahan, developed the menu.
Start your morning with a Mornin’ Buzz smoothie for you (espresso, cacao, peanut butter, macca powder, banana and dates) and cold-pressed juice or smoothie for your little sidekick. If you’re looking for something more substantial to go with your juice or smoothie, Left Coast has a complete menu divided into First Wave (breakfast), Greens, Grains, Wraps, and, of course, Kiddos.
2878 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Park & 151 N. Franklin, Loop; Online: leftcoastfood.com
Nicknamed the “Heart of Screenland” (movie classics like Gone with The Wind, The Wizard of Oz and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial were filmed here) Culver City still feels like a place out of a movie. Even though big, new neighbors like Amazon Studios, Apple, and TikTok have moved in, Culver City has maintained that charming, small town feel thanks to a blend of thoughtfully-designed, urban spaces for gathering and carefully-restored, nature preserves for walking and hiking. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in America—eating here is like taking your family’s tastebuds on a mini trip around the world! Scroll down to explore our must-visit list of local gems and to see how you can spend a full day of fun in Culver City with the kids.
Located just south of the 10 freeway, Culver City is tucked between Venice and Mid-City although you don't need a car to explore this neighborhood. You can easily come by bus, metro train, and even bike and leave your car at home. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll see (and enjoy) how pedestrian-friendly Culver City really is.
If you do decide to drive, there are loads of parking options downtown that include public structures, meters, as well as some residential side streets—just make sure to read the parking signs as a lot of residential streets are permit parking only.
Where to Get Breakfast in Culver City
If you've arrived in the morning, it's time to grab some coffee (and food for the kids). These cafés and patisseries are just the caffeinated jump you need to start your day.
If you need a good nosh, follow the intoxicating aroma of pastrami and corned beef and head straight to Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen on the corner of Irving and Washington Blvd. The good news is, they serve breakfast all day so you know everyone (including the under 5 set) will be happily fed and more than satisfied (even if you land here closer to dinnertime). Don't miss the Challah French Toast for the kids and the Manny's Breakfast Burrito for yourself (eggs, pastrami, caramelized onions, roasted peppers, potatoes, melted cheese and smashed avocado served with house-made tomatillo salsa).
This corner shop not only offers specialty coffee or tea (vanilla bourbon latte, anyone?) but you can treat the little ones to a “babyccino” —a hot chocolate with mini marshmallows and rainbow sprinkles. The cycle-themed café also carries a particularly wide array of dairy alternatives like soy, oat, hemp, and even, pistachio milk.
Insider Tip: The shop sits catty corner to the city’s iconic Rainbow art installation—a symbol for imagination and optimism as well as a cultural nod to The Wizard of Oz (it was originally filmed on the old MGM studio lot which is now the home of Sony Pictures). This dazzling steel arc, rises almost 100 feet into the air and can be seen from all over town. For visitors interested in an up-close look, Sony Pictures’ long-running studio tour program is open to the public, with tickets available at sonypicturesstudiostours.com.
People in-the-know flock to this pastry shop to get their hygge-fix and experience the true taste of Denmark’s featherweight, just-sweet-enough pastries (although with over 1200, 5-star reviews the secret is definitely out). Favorites include the almond-y Kringle, the Copenhagen (described by some as “sunshine caught in a pastry”), adorable Napoleon Hat cookies, and, for adults—the Rumkugle (cake meets truffle with dark chocolate and rum).
Stoneview Nature Center: Ready to really run around? Head to free-to-the-public, Stoneview Nature Center, where your kids can explore five acres of fruit trees, art gardens and stroller-friendly paths. You can sample edible plants from their hydroponic garden, observe butterfly habitats, and learn about a bee hotel. You can even borrow an “Everybody Explores” backpack from the visitor center, packed with discovery tools to further your little ones’ connection with nature.
Insider Tip: There are clean public restrooms here and a touch-less water bottle refill station inside the visitor center.
Culver City Park: This park has something for everyone—an undulating skate park, multitiered playground, rollicking dog park and expansive grassy areas. While you’re there, be sure to explore the epic, zig-zagging boardwalk that connects visitors to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook for beautiful vista views.
To get to this small adventure: From the playground, follow the path of blue dog prints, painted on the sidewalk (like a real-life Blue’s Clues trail!) until you see a crosswalk to a small parking lot, where the path to the wooden ramp begins.
Village Well Books & Coffee: If you need a spot to catch your breath with a snack or just a coffee, stop by this book and coffee shop. While you're there, you can shop the latest staff picks and buy something in the children’s section, which features a Spanish language shelf and handwritten book reviews by kids from neighboring schools.
Good to Know: There is a free parking lot in the back of the store.
Platform Park: Bring your nibbles and drinks to this jewel-sized park and set up a picnic with a view that’s sure to delight train-loving kids in LA. Platform Park is a slice of zen at the corner of Washington and National Blvd. and may be Culver City's best kept secret. It’s tucked under the MTA Expo Line, which will punctuate your hangout with the chug-CHUG chug-CHUG of morning commuters, riding overhead. There’s often a tasty rotation of “pop-up” food trucks at the east end of the park and the park itself is connected to Platform Los Angeles, an open-air retail space with trendy boutiques and even more good eats. Fun fact: All the materials for the park were sourced within 100 miles of the site, including the sculptural benches, fashioned from trees that were salvaged from landfills.
Bonus? A fence around most of the park keeps traffic out and toddlers in!
Hang out in the four-block stretch of Culver Blvd. (between Duquesne Ave. and Main St.) that brims with small town charm. Play at The Culver Steps or stroll along the corridor where you’ll encounter historical sites like City Hall (beautifully lit at night) and the storied Culver Hotel (Fun Fact: The actors who played the munchkins during the filming of The Wizard of Oz stayed there!). And if you're lucky, the Lion's Fountain, located outside the Culver Hotel, will be on—allowing the kids to run through the random water sprays until it's ready to say goodnight.
Insider's Tip: Turn your walk into a scavenger hunt and challenge your crew to spot the beloved Lucy and Desi mural (Hint: It’s across from Honey’s Kettle Fried Chicken.); and Moving Pictures, a series of seven unique zoetropes installed throughout downtown to celebrate the origin of cinema and Culver City’s film studio history.
Where to Eat in Culver City with Kids
Your kid-friendly eating options for lunch and dinner are almost endless in Culver City. And if you need help deciding—here are some of our favorite restaurants in Culver City with kids:
While some taco diehards might say Titos Tacos is a must, we think this modern taquería, that offers fresh, healthy takes on SoCal’s Mexican street food scene is the place to go. From the moment you arrive, the Latin beats and fun, retro vibe make you want to dance! Their food is a feast for the eyes and tummy—standouts include slow-braised steak, fish, and even, jackfruit; along with mouth-watering quesadillas and nachos.
They offer “kid style” versions of many dishes; and their Deep Dish Taco, akin to a cheesy Mexican lasagna, is also a popular choice! Your kiddos will love how the food comes neatly packed in their own “chicas chic” pink food trays, which echo the playful palette of yellow, green and pink that fills the space. Round out the family fiesta with a libation from their extensive drinks list and top it all off with some churro bites for dessert!
Iron Teapot Dim Sum & Bar: When it’s time to refuel, head over to Iron Teapot for some dim sum. Dim sum is like Chinese tapas (or small plates), traditionally served with tea. Each dish comes in its own covered, bamboo steamer basket; and opening each course feels like unwrapping a delicious gift! Whether you’ve never tried it or you grew up on the stuff, Iron Teapot is sure to win over the whole family—they even have vegan twists on the classics!
Their shaded patio seating and contactless ordering make this the best time to come feast on rainbow soup dumplings, sweet rice wraps, and steamed dessert buns. Combine this with colorful matching tea sets and a Robot Cat Cart. Yep, you read that right—a cheeky, talking cart that resembles a robotic cat brings your order straight from the kitchen to your table—everyone will be left clamoring for more!
Good to Know: Reservations are required. Visit their website for more info, including how to sign up for a “Parent & Me Bao Making” class!
Honey's Kettle Fried Chicken: If you’re in the mood for some down-home Southern cooking, then you’ve gotta try Honey’s. The gravitational pull of their golden fried chicken and honey-coated biscuits have been drawing crowds to Culver City for over twenty years. Don't miss the vat of warm honey where you can pump that sticky, liquid gold and take it back to your table to drizzle over your chicken and biscuits. YUM.
A good book is like a salve to the soul and there is no better place to find your medicine than at a local, independent book shop. As the weather starts to cool and we spend more time inside, it’s the perfect time to curl up with little bookworms and those preparing to read with a beloved old book or a new favorite. Visit the following independent book shops with tips on how to make a day trip or afternoon out of it!
San Francisco
istock
Bookshop West Portal A true neighborhood meeting place, this beloved bookshop defines West Portal and the neighborhood wouldn’t be the same without it! Families dig outings to the West Portal hood with its retro feel and this kid-friendly bookshop is at the top of the list. With built-in benches for lounging and a third of the store dedicated to children, this low-key bookshop is an SF favorite. Bonus: The YA section is outstanding.
Insider Tip: Drop by Noe Valley Bakery for a cookie and then let the kids run it off at nearby West Portal Playground.
Green Apple Books You'll discover books jammed ceiling to floor a la Beauty and the Beast style at this literary institution. They stock both new and used children’s books in its small yet mighty kids’ sections at both locations. Plus, you can bring in your and baby’s old books to trade—just make sure they are in decent condition (read: not covered in spit-up). Check out the bargain bins out front for some deep discounts.
Insider Tip: SF Botanical Gardens is across the street and is just the spot to meander pathways, little bridges and ponds.
Fabulosa Books Fabulosa Books sits at the site of the former book shop, Dog Eared Castro and is fabulous in its own way! While all books and topics are represented here, Fabulosa specializes in LGBTQ+ books, which is apropos given Castro neighborhood’s role in queer history. They also buy used books so bring in those books that are sitting on the shelf collecting dust!
Little book lovers will head straight to the back of the store, where they will find hundreds of titles for babies all the way up to young adults. The Booksmith offers complimentary gift-wrap and one of the best selections of greeting cards in the city, making it the perfect choice for picking up gifts.
Insider tip: Right next-door, Sparrow Bar & Kitchen’s modern American cuisine menu also has the usual munchkin options. It's a splendid place with outdoor patio seating to get your grub on while enjoying the Haight with your minis.
Christopher's Books The size of a postage stamp, this charming corner Potrero Hill bookstore’s motto is “Explore the Ancient Art of Page Turning.” An impressive children’s selection to explore, helpful staff and free gift wrap makes this a double-win in case your preschooler has a birthday party to attend around the corner at Recess.
Insider Tip: For spectacular views and space to run, drive up to McKinley Square’s playground. For little thrill seekers, surprise your reading buddies with a drive down Vermont—SF’s true crookedest street.
Dog Eared Books Book-hungry San Franciscans will be well-familiar with this indie bookstore and its two locations on Valencia and Castro. Specializing in local and small press literature, you are sure to find many literary gems on the shelves here. In addition to books, the walls are filled with art from local artists for a visually stimulating environment. Make sure you check out the free box on your way out.
Pegasus Books New books, used books, big books, small books. No Bay Area indie bookstore list is complete without mentioning the good ol’ Pegasus. In various incarnations for over 45 years, there are now three Pegasus locations and we love them all! The Solano Ave store probably has the biggest kid’s section, but each location has something for everyone.
Insider Tip: At the Solano location, grab a waffle cone full of organic yumminess at iScream. Then head East on Solano, turn left at Alameda and take a sharp right onto Indian Rock Stairways Path (between the corner and second house)—you and your little steppers can follow the staircases past a few streets and up to Indian Rock Park for breathtaking Bay views.
Mr. Mopps’ Children’s Books This annex of the much adored toy shop, Mr. Mopps’ Children’s Books is located four doors down from the toy store and is a bookstore built with little people in mind. They are a proud source of Equal Reads Books, which highlights books for their excellence in diversity. Click here to read more about our visit to the store.
Insider Tip: Exercise those little bodies with a brisk 7-minute walk up Vine St. to Shattuck Ave. to dream of a date night at Chez Panisse then grab yourselves some slices of pizza at the famous Cheese Board Bakery.
Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore Handwritten reviews tucked inside books, artful displays and tiny succulents perfect for gifting are just a few of the endearing touches you will find at Mrs. Dalloways' on College Ave. This quaint bookstore boasts over 150 in-store author events most years, many by children's book authors. They give back to the community by hosting weekend fundraising events for over 25 local public and private schools.
Rakestraw Books Locally owned and independently operated in Danville since 1973, this bookstore has long been a place for creativity at its finest. In a true effort to continue to bring the community together, they have continued virtual author (think: John Grisham!) visits for both adult and children’s books.
Insider Tip: Want something cold and delicious after book browsing? Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt is in the same complex.
Towne Center Books Don’t you love when you can browse for your own books while your child is finding hers? Both locations boast over 7,000 titles with the children’s lit section being half of the store at the Pleasanton location. This community gem also offers educational toys and your bookworm might delight in the hosted birthday parties. (Think: Pirate, Science and Princess themes.)
Bel and Bunna's Books If you've ever traveled to Europe, Bel and Bunna's may feel like home for you. The shop owner fashioned this neighborhood gem after the British bookstores of her childhood and really tries to make it a literary wonderland where kids learn to love reading. A virtual daily circle or story time invites little readers to tune in from the comforts of home. Read all about our visit here.
Ink Spell Books One block off Main Street in downtown Half Moon Bay, the cozy chairs and couches at this book shop will draw your little readers in to curl up with a book or two. While a train table occupies little hands, parents can browse their large selection of adult books, used books, toys, games and even clothes. With every budget in mind, Ink Spell welcomes all to visit and has something for everyone!
The Reading Bug This family-owned, heartfelt shop is designed to look more like an enchanted forest than a typical bookstore and will thrill kids of all ages. Delightful morning story times are held every Friday and Saturday and they even have a free kids podcast that will read to your kids!
Insider tip: You cannot go wrong with Cowabunga Ice Cream right next door. In addition, to work off some energy before heading back on the road, take a 10-minute walk to the delightful and leafy Burton Park which sports a splash pad, tot and school age play sections plus bocce courts. Hiller Aviation Museum is just a short flight over the freeway.
Reach and Teach Unique puzzles, gifts, books, toys and green lifestyle products are just some of what Reach and Teach offers. Deeply rooted in peace, gender equality and social justice issues along with sustainable living, this book shop also offers soap refills! So stop by for a gift or two and leave with all your soap needs fulfilled for clean and happy kiddos.
Linden Tree Children’s Books With over 90 percent of its store devoted to children, Linden Tree Books is a 40-year-old local favorite. Kids will love the outdoor seating area where weekly story times are held and parents will love that Manresa Bakery (yes, from theManresa restaurant) is next door and can grab a coffee plus kouign amann. Yes, please.
265 State St Los Altos
Hours: Mon.- Fri., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sat & Sun 9:30-5:30 p.m. Online: lindentreebooks.com
Insider tip: After your Linden Tree visit, take a five-minute walk to gorgeous Shoup Park for play on its two playgrounds and exploration of the dry Adobe Creek bed that you can use to walk or run all the way to the wooden platform observation decks of Redwood Grove Nature Preserve.
Bookasaurus This cool expansion bookstore from next door neighbor Leigh's Favorite Books (which, with over 40,000 titles is somewhere you should visit, too!) is devoted to kids' books, educational toys and games. The very back of the store is filled with all things toddler and babies (think: adorable accessories) - we dare you to try leaving this store with just one item.
Insider’s tip: Plaza del Sol and Philz coffee are on the block over. Caffeinated parent + room to scream and run around like a banshee for the kids? Win.
Kepler’s Books With its decades-long loyal followings by Beat Poets, musicians such as the Grateful Dead and Stanford professors, if there is an independent bookstore worthy of the title “Powerhouse” Kepler’s Books in Menlo Park is it. Kepler’s draws very popular author/illustrators for events (such as Rick Riordan); check their website for latest events.
Insider tip: The fantastic Café Borrone next door has lovely pastries among lunch and dinner options with outdoor seating next to a landmark fountain. Nearby Burgess Park offers a large and shady playground for strolling and picnicking with the bonus of watching the train roll by.
Hicklebee’s Ask any savvy Bay Area parent what the best bookshop in the South Bay is, and you’ll likely get a resounding answer: Hicklebee’s. Serving Silicon Valley since 1979, families attest to its exemplary staff, wide selection of books and killer author events (JK Rowling, Rosemary Wells, Judith Viorist). With bonus features like Book of the Month Clubs (you can give as a gift!), their motto of "Extraordinary books for the entire family" is easier than ever to accomplish.
Books Inc. With origins dating back to the Gold Rush, Books Inc. declares it is the oldest bookseller in the West. To be fair, there are nine different locations of this glorious indie-chain, including four in San Francisco, and two in the East Bay. We’re putting it under the South Bay heading but there are also Peninsula and SF stores. All locations are clean, well-organized and feature an in-store children’s lit expert. Check the website for the nearest location and join one of the many book clubs they host, or just pop in to peruse some of the finest selections of books in the Bay.
Recycle Bookstore Books that are old to others and new to you line the shelves of this bookstore with locations on The Alameda and in downtown Campbell. Sell and trade your old books here or buy some new reads. The Campbell location always has a table out front with many fun kid favorites to lure in the little literature lovers.
Insider tip: Greenlee's Bakery with their famous cinnamon swirl bread is right across the street from the San Jose location. Or head to Campbell on Sunday to enjoy the farmer's market that takes over the downtown while you swing by to see what's new at Recycle.
Book Passage The Bay Area’s liveliest bookstore is the premier location for author events, with the likes of Elizabeth Gilbert, Isabelle Allende, Hillary Clinton and Michael Chabon gracing its reading room or Ferry Building locations. The back of the main store includes children’s books, toys, and an entire used book room. Book Passage's store in the snazzy Ferry Building in San Francisco may have a small footprint, but boasts floor-to-ceiling books with a great kids’ section. It’s a perfect place to snag San Francisco-centric gift books like Count to Sleep San Francisco and Smarty Marty’s Got Game. Plus you can watch ferries, tankers and sail boats come and go, so it’s an epic win for the family.
With eleven stores ranging from Healdsburg to Larkspur, Copperfield’s has the North Bay and Marin well covered. Located in the 4th Street shopping district of downtown San Rafael, this location carries an expansive selection of books for kids and teens. The store also houses a Taylor Maid Organic Coffee Bar, because nothing goes better with a book than a cup of joe.
Depot Book Store and Cafe All aboard to get your board books! How fun is it that this popular bookstore is located in an old train depot? This adorable downtown Mill Valley shop is small yet offers an amazing kids’ selection. You'll enjoy the impressive array of both international and local magazines, and a cafe to boot!
I scream, you scream, and living in sunny SoCal, we all scream, in perpetuity, for ice cream. All that volume is not for naught either, LA has responded to our cries, offering a wide variety of shops serving up some of the finest frozen treats fit for any family.
Does your kiddo crave breakfast cereal all hours of the day? Grape-Nuts, Fruity Pebbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch are blended into creamy concoctions at two establishments on this list. Have you seen rolled ice cream that could pass for a bouquet of flowers? The chilled dessert from Thailand is available in our city. In search of the perfect scoop of vanilla ice cream? We found it and the secret might be cane sugar. Velvety smooth Italian gelato your thing? This DTLA spot will have you and the kids saying grazie.
Van Leeuwen
Carter Jung
Vanilla is the cheese pizza of ice creams. It’s a blank canvas that with the proper additions can be turned into art. At least, that’s what our family thought until we tried the vanilla bean at Van Leeuwen. Cajoled by a scooper to try the typically beige flavor, we were impressed by their incredibly nuanced and flavorful take on vanilla. Using choice ingredients that include cane sugar, it is the best scoop of vanilla we’ve ever tasted, as are their chocolate and strawberry options. With flavor combinations becoming wilder than a three-year old’s imagination at many boutique creameries, sometimes a familiar ice cream crafted to perfection is everything you need.
Locations: Silver Lake, Platform Culver City, Franklin Village, The Arts District, The Point in El Segundo & via a food truck on Abbott Kinney most weekends Online: vanleeuwenicecream.com
Taking the kiddos to Scoops is a mini-adventure. With the exception of one consistent flavor, they change out their ice cream selection daily, creating a delightful sense of discovery with every visit. Tai Kim, the founder, chemist and Willy Wonka of all things frozen, pulls from a recipe library that is seemingly endless, churning out micro-batches of inventive flavors such as lychee-strawberry, horchata-burnt sugar, blueberry lavender tea, coconut peanut butter pretzel or chocolate-Guinness (made with the actual beer!). No two visits will ever see the same exact flavors, which includes vegan, dairy-free options made of oat milk.
Each “one scoop" at Scoops actually comes with two. Our rec is to go with their daily fixture, Brown Bread—vanilla swirled with caramel and Grape-Nuts cereal—for one scoop and exploring a new flavor for the other. Don’t be afraid to be bold, either. The creamy, not too heavy of a base, deftly mixed in with whatever wild flavors strikes Kim’s fancy that day never-ever disappoints, helping Scoops edge out the other incredible establishments on this list as our family’s top ice cream shop.
I once spent a week in Milan for work and ate gelato every single day. On really rough days, twice a day. When I returned to LA, I experienced withdrawals and went on a hunt to find gelato comparable to what I consumed in embarrassing amounts in Italy. After many false leads, I found Gelateria Uli. Their stracciatella scratched an itch I otherwise thought would require a 13-hour flight. Better yet, if you’re at their original Spring Street Arcade location in DTLA, if you squint a bit, the atrium court with its hanging lights could almost pass for Europe. Almost. But then again, who would want to go across the pond when you can have local-inspired flavors like horchata or vegan California pistachio.
This Little Tokyo outpost whips up intensely flavorful soft serve ice cream in a form factor optimized for photography -- strikingly colored frozen cream artfully swirled in a cup or cone makes for the perfect prop. If you’re going for a B&W monotone mood, the charcoal pineapple and vanilla swirl on a charcoal cone is the look. If pink and baby blue are your colors, or if breakfast cereals are a thing for your small ones, the Pegasus combines their Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Fruity Pebble for a combo that pops. If you feel like flexing for our newly stacked Lakers team -- welcome home, Russell Westbrook -- the Ube and Mango combo will have you repping purple and gold in a handheld, edible form.
Founded in Santa Barbara in 1949, McConnell’s has been serving honest ice cream for over 70 years. Fillers, artificial flavors, colorings and other industrial food processes have given way to fresh, simple ingredients sourced from Central Coast farmers. In 1975, McConnell’s purchased their own dairy farm in Santa Barbara that now produces milk exclusively for their ice cream. Control of their supply chain and passion for quality comes through in every scoop of ice cream they serve. Vibrant seasonings tempered with a creamy, sweet base results in choices such as chocolate covered strawberries, Eureka lemon and marionberries, or peppermint stick that the whole family will enjoy.
LA Locations: DTLA, Studio City & Pacific Palisades Online: mcconnells.com
For Angelinos, no visit to the park would be complete without the ringing bells of vendors selling paletas from their hand-pushed carts. The refreshing fruit popsicles are an affordable counteragent for kids heated from running around the playground. Mateo’s has elevated the humble paleta, tapping a wide range of tropical ingredients such as mango, hibiscus and guava with traditional flavors such as strawberry, lemon and watermelon in a spectrum of colors so vivid, it would make Crayola blush. For parents who are fans of Mexican candy or spice in general, try their mango or cucumber peppered with chile. The firey kick is a nice juxtaposition to the chilled pop.
Locations: Mid-City, Pico-Union, Sawtelle & Culver City Online: mateosicecreamla.com
Has your little one ever asked what a fish eating its own body weight in ice cream would look like? Somisomi takes a freshly baked “ah-boong,” Korean for a fish-shaped pastry (that tastes nothing like a fish), lines the inside with an insulative filling (sweet red beans, custard, taro, Nutella), and loads it with soft serve ice cream pouring out of its doughy mouth. The warm, slightly crisped cone and creamy frosted stuffing are a delicious contrast, and the cartoonish packaging is sure to please the kids (and this adult).
LA Locations: Little Tokyo, Koreatown, Santa Monica, Sawtelle, Glendale, Long Beach, Torrance, & Santa Clara
In hot and humid Thailand, for a few local baht, street vendors will pour a creamy liquid onto a chilled, thin metal pan and dice in fruits and ingredients of your choosing. As the mix starts to cool and congeal, the craftsmen spread the blend into a thin, spackle-like coating. The sheet rapidly freezes and is scraped and rolled like a rug, and neatly arranged in a cup resembling a bouquet of flowers. Holy Roly Ice Cream has brought that Thai tradition to our city, offering Western ingredients such as marshmallows, graham crackers, Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
LA Locations: Koreatown, Melrose & Arcadia Online: holyroly.com
I first heard about Jeni’s on another work trip to Columbus, Ohio, ten years or so ago. The locals raved about a neighborhood ice cream parlor that turned out fantastic scoops. They were right. The smooth creams with fun ingredients were fantastic. Fast forward a few years and the frozen dessert from the Buckeye State has won over the we-scream-for-ice-cream LA, garnering fans for its signature and limited edition flavors. Now with five locations in LA, it’s easy to see what’s so splendid about Jeni’s.
LA Locations: Los Feliz, Venice, Larchmont, Playa Vista & Calabasas Online: jenis.com
When Salt & Straw first landed in Los Angeles, the Portland export opened to much fanfare and for good reason. They craft scrumptious ice cream. It begins with dairy from grass-fed cows free of hormones and antibiotics. Their artisans add locally sourced ingredients, including seasonal fruits and herbs to produce flavors that rotate on a monthly basis. Wild-foraged berry slab pie and goat cheese marionberry habanero are a few mouth-watering examples that are a mouthful to say. If your young ones are daring, check them out during Halloween. Crickets, mealworms and pig’s blood have been some of the components used in past spooky seasons. If you fear forever ruining ice cream for your clan, there’s always chocolate gooey brownie or mint chocolate chip from their Classic Flavors list.
LA Locations: Larchmont, Abbot Kinney, Arts District & Studio City Online: saltandstraw.com
Just a couple of hours north of the Bay Area you’ll find the quaint, little city of Calistoga, perfect for a summer staycation or a family getaway anytime of the year. Famed for its natural hot springs, this Napa Valley town is filled with California history, eateries, wineries, attractions and accommodations that appeal to both adults and littles alike. Checkout our recommendations below for a Calistoga road trip the whole family will enjoy.
Nella DuBon-Koch
Explore
Old Faithful Geyser of CA Just a short drive from downtown Calistoga, the geyser erupts multiple times a day forcing plumes of water and steam up to 80 feet high for up to 10 minutes long, depending on the season. The geyser’s sun and water conditions make it the perfect rainbow generator and it’s also a reliable earthquake predictor when its eruption patterns become irregular. There are onsite picnic nooks, cabanas and utensils for visitors to use, serene gardens, an earthquake and history exhibit, the popular Jacob’s Four-Horn Sheep, Guard Llamas and Tennessee Fainting Goats that make for the perfect day outing for your bunch.
Safari West This “Sonoma Serengeti” will transport you to another continent. Its 400 acres are home to over 900 species of wildlife. Go on a safari jeep tour and view wildebeest, rhino, zebra, and giraffe, in their open habitat, while pink flamingoes and ostriches take a peek into the jeeps. Walking tours and overnight “glamping” are also available.
3115 Porter Creek Rd. Santa Rosa, CA Online: safariwest.com
The Petrified Forest A preserved ancient forest created by a volcanic explosion 3.4 million years ago by the extinct volcano that is now Mt.St. Helena, the Petrified Forest is a collection of fossilized redwood trees that laid beneath volcanic ash for millions of years. There are two family friendly 1/2 mile trails. The Main Trail loops through tree exhibits and petrification information and the Meadow Trail winds through small meadows ending at a large open meadow with stunning views of Mt. St. Helena, as well as a remnant ash fall, great for exploring.
Castello di Amorosa Kids and kids at heart will enjoy this 121,000 square-foot replica of an Italian medieval castle. Book a private guided tour and explore areas like the knights Hall, Chapel and Dungeon and maybe spy the winery cats, dogs and farm animals while you’re at it. Your mini wine connoisseur's can sip grape juice and enjoy coloring in the grand Knights Hall tasting room. Note: strollers not allowed inside the winery.
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park This California Landmark was built in 1846 and is one of only a handful of mills of its kind still functioning in the U.S. today. The mill offers tours, milling demonstrations and educational activities teaching the history of the region. Explore the easy-to-moderate History Trail hike stretching from the Mill to the eastern edge of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Climb a hill dotted with Oak and Madrone trees and take in a historic pioneer cemetery with gravestones from the 1800s. Consider packing a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables at the trail’s end or around the Mill.
3369 St. Helena Highway North St. Helena, CA Online: napaoutdoors.org
Copperfield's Books Located on Calistoga's main street—Lincoln Ave., Copperfield's Books has a wide variety of books, jewelry, quirky gifts, garden starter kits, local artisan treats and so much more to keep your gang entertained for days. Your little bookworms will especially like the oversized animal kites that decorate the stores ceiling.
Sharpsteen Museum Come learn about Calistoga's history through up-close displays, detailed interactive dioramas, pop ups and exhibits built with kiddos in mind. Established in 1978, by Ben & Bernice Sharpsteen, the museum also features Ben's work as an animator, producer & director for Walt Disney who earned the studio 11 Oscars and Sam Brannan's (the founder of Calistoga) cottage from the 1800's.
Bothe Napa Valley State Park Located in beautiful Napa Valley, this State Park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails, day use picnic areas, camping accommodations and a spring fed swimming pool for visitors to enjoy. Check out their outdoor education programs including the Junior Rangers which meet every Saturday at 10 a.m. throughout the Summer.
3801 St. Helena Highway North Calistoga, CA Online: napaoutdoors.org
Nella DuBon-Koch
Eat
Bella Bakery and Cafe Indulge in fresh, made from scratch goodies at this locals go to. Your little monkeys will go bananas for their nutella-banana croissant and their breakfast burritos, generous quiche slices and flavorful fruit tarts don’t disappoint. All the delicious treats will have you packing a box for the road for sure.
Palisades Eatery Palisades is the marriage between Checkers Pizza and Palisades Deli, making it a family hit with its welcoming laidback setting and crowd-pleasing menu of burgers, pizza, pasta, tacos, salad, a kids menu and more.
Buster’s Southern BBQ Buster's has been cooking up authentic Louisiana BBQ since 1965. Sample their award-winning family recipes at their casual joint at the end of Lincoln Ave. There’s indoor and outdoor seating and live Jazz and Blues on Sundays from 3-6 p.m. Be sure to try their dessert specials and corn bread.
Cafe Sarafornia This locals favorite serves up classic diner cooking and offers breakfast all day in its homey, welcoming cafe. Some of our favorites are the Luis Burrito, the 2-2-2 Breakfast and the Bacon, lettuce, Tomato and Egg Breakfast Sandwich. There's also a mini breakfast and kids meal, perfect for the half-pints.
Puerto Vallarta Restaurant For some fresh, delicious Mexican, that tastes like abuelitas kitchen, head over to this small family owned and worked restaurant dishing out authentic meals big in flavor. From quesadillas to fajitas, you'll find something to satisfy everyone's tastebuds—great post hike or pre-hot spring soak.
Calistoga Creamery Cool off after a long day of exploring with a yummy cone, frozen yogurt or custom, thick milkshake, in fun flavors like Cardamom, Lemon Cookie or good ol' Madascar Vanilla, always organic and locally made with fresh ingredients you can taste.
Cal Mart Conveniently located in downtown, this gourmet grocery market is stocked with a deli, smoothie and espresso bar, a bakery, hot food items and everything you need for a picnic, as well as those last minute snacks or toiletry needs.
1491 Lincoln Ave. Calistoga, CA Online: calmartnv.com
Gott’s Roadside A short drive from Calistoga is the original Gott’s Roadside, now with several locations in the Bay Area. Savor their popular burgers, salads, shakes and more, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Parents can enjoy the extensive beer and wine list while the minis stretch their legs in the grassy picnic area in the back.
Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa and Resort Golden Haven is known for its natural hot spring spa and mud baths. They also feature a variety of spa packages and large, comfortable rooms with kitchenette, suitable for families. Youngsters can enjoy hanging by the fire pit, playing a round of chess or cornhole on the lawn, complimentary bikes ideal for a short ride into town, and night swims in the spacious, naturally heated pool.
Indian Springs Calistoga Luxury meets comfort at what was the original planned site for Stanford University. An olympic 1910 mineral pool and family pool, hot tubs, picturesque gardens adorned with roses, olive and palm trees and mission style bungalows and cottages with sweeping Napa Valley views make for topnotch accommodations your whole party will appreciate.
Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa The Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa's decor celebrates the “great American road trip.” Rooms are inspired by vintage camper vans, including a “Camper King Suite” that features a table banquette that turns into a bed for the little ones. The warm geothermal, mineral-water fed pools and wading pool are also a hit with little travelers. There is bocce ball, hula hoops and tons of board games onsite for guests to enjoy.
Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection If you are looking for the ultimate in comfortable, luxury accommodations, this is the spot. Located in the quiet town of Calistoga, Solage has everything your family will need for their wine country stay. Cottage-style suites provide privacy for your family including outdoor patios to enjoy morning espresso or an afternoon glass of wine. The two-bedroom Estate Suites offer even more private outdoor space and your own personal hot tub for relaxing in the evenings.
Head to the pool to enjoy the newly-opened Picobar with poolside service (we definitely recommend the Cowgirl Creamery queso and the whipped avocado to share). Bikes are available to borrow throughout the property, s'mores are offered on Friday and Saturday nights and spa services are available on-site.
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs The multiple geothermal mineral pools—including a kiddie pool, a large whirlpool, a Spa, fitness center, picnic areas and ample sun deck, along with guest rooms equipped with a kitchenette with cooktop and refrigerator, make this an ideal home away from home for your getaway.
V. Sattui Winery One of our favorite stops for a picnic on the way to Calistoga is V. Sattui Winery, located off Highway 29 in St. Helena. This family friendly winery features beautiful lawns with picnic tables, an artisan deli stocked with cheeses, sandwiches, salads, desserts, disposable tableware and more. Check out their website for their weekend outdoor BBQ's that include dishes such as thin crust pizzas—a hit with the kiddos, tri-tip steak and bruschetta with fresh mozzarella made onsite. Grab yourself some vino and grape-juice for the kids, enjoy the ample grounds and let the minis burn some roadtrip steam.
1111 White Ln. (@ Highway 29) St. Helena, CA Online: vsattui.com
Insiders Tip: Also on the way is Traintown in Sonoma. It features a four mile track quarter scale railroad that takes visitors to a miniature town and petting Zoo (bring quarters for food), a concession stand, all about trains gift shop and amusement rides for the whole family to enjoy. Check it out for some added fun and adventure.
It’s the ultimate summer dessert, an occasional bribe, a sweet treat snuck from the freezer at midnight—it’s safe to say we’re obsessed with ice cream (as are our kids). We’ve rounded up a list of the best ice cream shops in every state (plus D.C.) so you can satisfy your sweet tooth all summer long. Keep reading to get the scoop on the ice cream parlors that should be on your radar.
1. Alabama: Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream With cones, floats, splits and old-fashioned sodas, Matt’s Homemade Alabama Ice Cream has something for everyone. Try a scoop of one of Matt’s specialties, like the Creole praline or red velvet cake—you'll be glad you did.
2. Alaska: Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream During the summer months, Hot Licks is a must. Their ice cream is made in-house in 40-quart batches, and with local flavors like cranberry and wild blueberry, it’s some of the best Alaska has to offer.
3. Arizona: Sweet Republic From the local Arizona milk and cream to the slow-roasted bananas, everything here is made with care. And with rotating flavors like Meyer lemon, peaches ‘n’ cream and peaberry espresso, you’ll want to come to Sweet Republic again and again to try them all. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
4. Arkansas: Loblolly Creamery Loblolly Creamery is a must-stop the next time you’re in Little Rock. Folks in the know love their salted caramel and Little Rocky Road. Ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, from fruit to lavender.
5. California: Fentons Creamery Founded in 1894 in Oakland, Fentons has been a Bay Area favorite ever since. The ice cream is made in small batches (there’s a production tour for curious kids!), and the menu has decadent sundaes to satisfy any dessert connoisseur.
6. Colorado: Little Man Ice Cream With a distinctive shop in the shape of an ice cream cone, Little Man serves up nostalgic flavors that your whole crew will love (not to mention some awesome vegan options). And for every scoop of ice cream purchased, Little Man matches that scoop with a donated scoop of rice, beans or other essentials to a community in need.
7. Connecticut: Arethusa Farm For the ultimate in ice cream, you really can’t beat Arethusa Farm. Fresh milk is brought from their dairy cows a few miles away to make classic flavors like butter pecan, strawberry and pistachio.
8. Delaware: Woodside Farm Creamery The Woodside Farm was established in 1796, but their ice cream operation didn’t get started until 1998. They’ve been a Delaware favorite ever since, offering up flavors like dirt (that’s gummy worms and Oreo cookies in chocolate ice cream) and cake batter. Say hi to the cows after enjoying your scoop.
9. Florida: Azucar Ice Cream Company Be sure to scope out this sweet shop in Little Havana, where you'll find great flavors like platano maduro and rum cake with walnuts.
10. Georgia: Leopold’s Ice Cream Leopold’s Ice Cream was founded in 1919, and the shop still has old-school charm—the black marble soda fountain, wooden back bar and telephone booth come from the original location. The ice cream is just as delicious as ever, with classic flavors like butter pecan alongside unique seasonal picks like spicy mocha.
11. Hawaii: Bubbies Homemade Ice Cream and Desserts In addition to regular scoops and cones, Bubbies’ specialty is mochi ice cream—a scoop of ice cream that’s wrapped in a layer of chewy mochi (a soft, sweet paste made out of rice). It’s a refreshing treat that’s sure to be an instant family favorite.
12. Idaho: Goody’s Soda Fountain You won’t regret a visit to Goody’s Soda Fountain—with their massive banana splits and ice cream sodas, there’s no way you’ll leave hungry. They also offer homemade chocolates if you’re in the mood for something different.
This fun ice cream spot was launched almost 100 years ago, but now they have four locations! Their ice cream trucks can also be found all over the city, and the spot on Navy Pier is especially fun for visitors. They have tons of flavors, plus ice cream cakes and even donuts.
14. Indiana: The Chief Ice Cream On a hot summer’s day, you can’t beat a visit to The Chief. Grab a scoop of peanut butter or toasted coconut and head out back to the picnic tables to gobble it up—delicious!
15. Iowa: Heyn’s Premium Ice Cream It’ll be love at first bite when you visit Heyn’s—the ice cream is made with 14% buttermilk fat content, giving it an extra oomph of creaminess. And with flavors like monster mash (vanilla ice cream with cookie dough, peanut butter and M&Ms) and blueberry cheesecake, you’ll keep coming back for more.
16. Kansas: Sylas and Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream Sylas and Maddy’s takes hand-crafted ice cream to the next level. They use an entire watermelon in every batch of watermelon sherbet, and their pie flavors (think apple pie, key lime pie) contain an entire pie in each bucket of ice cream. Get your scoop in a homemade waffle cone to up the tasty factor.
17. Kentucky: The Comfy Cow The Comfy Cow is serious about making awesome ice cream, and you’ll be able to tell when you sample their flavors. Whether you go for brown butter peanut brittle or cookie monster dough, you won’t be disappointed.
13301 Shelbyville Rd., Ste. 106 Louisville, KY
Additional locations in Louisville and Southern Indiana
18. Louisiana: Creole Creamery You’ll love the old-school look of New Orleans’ best ice cream parlor, and with rotating flavors like lavender honey and chocolate malt chip, they’ve got something for everyone. If you dare, take the challenge to finish an enormous Tchoupitoulas sundae and earn a spot in their Hall of Fame.
19. Maine: The Dairy Corner With more than 70 ice cream flavors to choose from in addition to frozen yogurt and sorbet, it’s safe to say there’s something for everyone at The Dairy Corner. Bring your treats outside to the picnic tables and chairs to enjoy them in the sunshine.
20. Maryland: Scottish Highland Creamery Founded by an Edinburgh native, the Scottish Highland Creamery is a must visit, loved for their super fresh ice cream made with local ingredients, fresh milk, cream and flavorings imported from Italy. Order the Mexican vanilla or the Italian lemon cookie and prepare to be amazed.
21. Massachusetts: Toscanini’s Ice Cream Located around the corner from MIT, Toscanini’s has been serving up amazing ice cream to college kids, locals and tourists alike for more than 30 years. Try one of their inventive flavors like B3 (brown sugar, brown butter, and brownies) or sour cherry sorbet.
22. Michigan: Moomers Homemade Ice Cream This family-owned shop is a real winner, with more than 160 flavors made right in-house (20 of which are available each day). The coolest part? The shop overlooks their dairy farm, meaning you can watch the cows while you gobble up your ice cream.
23. Minnesota: Cup and Cone This understated hidden gem serves a generous helping of soft serve in a kiddie cone or cup for just .70 cents and that's just one of the things locals love about the Cup and Cone. The lines can go for over a block in the summer but they are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. most day so you can usually find a time to grab a treat. The owners donate proceeds to a special frozen treat (different ice cream treats are featured each month) to the local food shelf, and the Cup and Cone provides gainful summer employment for some of the sweetest local youth.
24. Mississippi: Area 51 Ice Cream Area 51 prides itself on using only the freshest seasonal produce—from the local farmers market, no less—for its ice creams. The end product is innovative flavors like blackberry goat cheese, green tea latte and salted dark chocolate.
25. Missouri: Betty Rae's Ice Cream Newly re-opened under new owners, Betty Rae's still offers unique flavors like Lavender Honey, brown butter & toasted pecans and blood orange creamsicle.
26. Montana: Big Dipper Ice Cream On a summer evening, there’s nothing better than a visit to Big Dipper. Relax at their picnic tables while you devour a scoop of their raved-about huckleberry ice cream on a homemade waffle cone.
27. Nebraska: Ted & Wally’s An Omaha classic, Ted & Wally’s has been selling their 18% butterfat ice cream since 1984. They’ve got classic flavors like Dutch chocolate alongside more experimental rotating batches like watermelon gazpacho and butter mochi.
28. Nevada: Dylan's Family Ice Cream This mom-and-pop shop is a kid’s ice cream dream. In addition to colorful flavors like circus animal cookies, rainbow sherbet and birthday cake, they’ve got an area with games and a chalkboard just for the little ones.
29. New Hampshire: Jordan’s Ice Creamery With a huge selection of homemade ice creams, frozen yogurts and sugar-free options, there’s something for everyone at Jordan’s. Try their blueberry pie ice cream (made with Maine berries!) or the coffee heath bar.
30. New Jersey: Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream Cool off with a scoop or two of seriously delicious ice cream at Cliff’s. From butterbeer to s’mores to peach melba, the rotating list of flavors will keep you coming back for repeat visits.
31. New Mexico: I Scream Ice Cream I Scream Ice Cream is heaven for the little ones—after you’ve polished off a scoop of cotton candy or raspberry chocolate chunk, head to the back of the store to check out their collection of vintage memorabilia, toys, and games. Go ahead, play a game on the Ms. Pac-Man machine or play dress-up with their collection of masks.
32. New York: Ample Hills Creamery New York has enough amazing ice cream parlors to keep your sweet tooth satisfied and then some, but our top pick goes to Ample Hills for their hands-on approach. Their ice cream is pasteurized on site, and almost all their mix-ins are made in-house from scratch. Try The Munchies (pretzel-infused ice cream with Ritz crackers, potato chips, pretzels and M&Ms) or Snap Mallow Pop (marshmallow ice cream with Rice Krispie clusters).
33. North Carolina: The Parlour After operating out of a converted school bus for two years, The Parlour opened their Durham shop in 2013, and they’ve been serving up delicious 18% butterfat ice cream ever since. Try one of their well-loved, inventive flavors like salted butter caramel, blueberry buttermilk (made with local NC berries) or rosemary olive oil.
34. North Dakota: Pride Dairy The only small-town creamery remaining in North Dakota, Pride Dairy is a must-visit shop. They still use the same basic recipe from when the creamery started producing ice cream in the 1940s, offering tried-and-true flavors like strawberry cheesecake, chocolate peanut butter and rhubarb-strawberry.
35. Ohio: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams You can count on Jeni’s for inventive and delicious flavors—think gooey butter cake, brambleberry crisp, wildberry lavender and Bangkok peanut. You’ll love the smooth taste (thanks to the buttercream base); all their ice creams are made without synthetic flavorings, dyes and off-the-shelf mixes.
36. Oklahoma: Roxy’s Ice Cream Social Grab a simple scoop or a cookie ice cream sandwich at this Oklahoma City hot spot. Their small-batch ice creams are a local favorite, offering classic flavors like cookies 'n' cream alongside a rotating menu of specialties like bananas foster and graham cracker.
37. Oregon: Salt & Straw At Salt & Straw, you’ll find crazy unique flavors year round. Whether you’re in the mood for Meyer lemon buttermilk with blueberries, goat cheese marionberry habanero or cinnamon snickerdoodle, you’re going to leave satisfied.
838 NW 23rd Ave. Portland, OR
3345 SE Division St. Portland, OR
2035 NE Alberta St. Portland, OR
Additional locations in Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle and San Francisco
Penn State's dairy research started in 1865, and with that came the creamery. They offer dozens of flavors and their world-famous 12 steps to perfect ice cream are legendary. A visit to the area is not complete without a stop at the Creamery.
119 Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building University Park, PA 16802
39. Rhode Island: Brickley’s Ice Cream With more than 45 flavors to choose from on any given day, Brickley’s has classic flavors that everyone in your family will love. Get your scoop on a homemade waffle cone and sit back and enjoy the huge portions.
40. South Carolina: Sweet Cream Company With a constantly rotating menu, on any given day at Sweet Cream Company, you’ll find ingenious flavors like white chocolate lavender, blueberry crumble and cranberry thyme sorbet. You can also snag a cookie ice cream sandwich—of course, the cookies are made from scratch in-house too.
41. South Dakota: Leones’ Creamery Leones’ Creamery is a small-town staple with some seriously delicious and unexpected flavors: think blueberry goat cheese, vanilla black pepper and rhubarb. Since the menu is constantly changing, you’ll want to come back again and again.
42. Tennessee: Clumpies Ice Cream Co. Opened by the son of a third-generation candy maker, Clumpies has been a Chattanooga favorite since 1999. Try one of their signature flavors like coconut almond chunk or raspberry sorbet, or go for a specialty like sweet corn blueberry or vegan peanut butter Oreo.
43. Texas: Lick Honest Ice Creams This Austin hot spot takes honest to heart when making their ice cream—they source milk and cream from a family-owned dairy in central Texas, and their seasonal offerings let the freshest local ingredients shine. Try an old standby like Texas sheet cake or get adventurous with lemon lavender or loquat margarita.
44. Utah: Rowley’s Red Barn Located right on a farm, Rowley’s is totally worth the trip. They’re famous for their home-grown cherries, so the cherry cheesecake or cherry chocolate chip is a must-try. Or go for an apple cider slush—icy hand-pressed apple cider that can be mixed with vanilla ice cream.
45. Vermont: Creemee Stand Of course Ben & Jerry’s is Vermont’s most famous ice cream empire, but Creemee Stand is another local favorite. With rave-worthy soft serve and hard scoop ice creams, they’ve really got something for everyone. Try their signature maple soft serve, made with fresh Vermont maple syrup.
46. Virginia: Island Creamery Since 1975, Island Creamery has been serving up delicious treats to locals and tourists alike on beautiful Chincoteague Island. Sample the muddy butter (chocolate ice cream with nutter butter cookies and peanut butter swirl) or the cantaloupe—you’ll be an instant fan!
47. Washington: Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream When it comes to ice cream, we’re all about fresh and local, and Molly Moon’s fits the bill. 90% of their ingredients are locally sourced, from milk and cream to honey and fruit. The result is drool-worthy flavors like cherry chunk, honey lavender and cookie chunk that your whole crew will love.
48. Washington D.C.: Ice Cream Jubilee Started by a corporate lawyer turned ice cream mogul, Ice Cream Jubilee is a must-visit the next time you’re in the District. You’ll love their outside-the-box flavors like snickers snickerdoodle and Thai iced tea.
49. West Virginia: Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream For almost 20 years, Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving up old-fashioned treats that locals and tourists alike love. In addition to the classics like mocha almond and black raspberry, you’ll find a rotating selection of seasonal flavors like lavender honey and lime orange pineapple.
50. Wisconsin: Sassy Cow Creamery Head to Sassy Cow for some of the creamiest, freshest ice cream around. You can gaze at the grazing cows as you chow down on your ice cream, and you can also pick up delicious milk and cheese there while you’re at it. Hunker down with a yummy scoop of blueberry cheesecake or caramel chunk.
51. Wyoming: Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream Huckleberry ice cream, anyone? You’ll find it and lots more at Moo’s, a Wyoming favorite serving up rave-worthy treats. With a rotating menu of 24 flavors, there’s definitely something for everyone in your crew.
