Did you know that you don’t have to fly to Florida or even Southern California to set sail on your next family cruise? These seven cruises leave right from San Francisco and will take you to other states like Hawaii and Washington, as well as other countries like Tahiti, Mexico and Australia. Pack your bags, the adventure awaits!
Alaska and Vancouver—Regent Seven Seas
Spend your summer touring the Pacific Northwest aboard the Seven Seas Mariner. This 13-day cruise takes you north from San Francisco to Astoria, OR and then on to Alaska for stops in Juneau, Ketchikan and along the Hubbard Glacier. Canoe excursions, dog sledding trips and whale watching are kids favorites. Finish your journey along the inside passage with stops at Victoria and Vancouver.
Start your Hawaiian vacation aboard Princess Cruises' Grand Princess where you can enjoy a MedallionClass Vacation. Read all about how the quarter-sized Medallion will transform your cruise vacation here. While on your way to the Hawaiian Islands you can enjoy onboard activities like Discovery at SEA enrichment programs, destination-themed activities to get you in the spirit and freshwater pools for when you need to cool off. Then spend four days touring various Hawaiian Islands where you can snorkel, shop and enjoy the aloha spirit before heading back to the ship. This trip stops for a day in Ensenada, Mexica before heading home to San Francisco.
This four-day MedallionClass cruise kicks off in San Francisco and heads north to Astoria, OR before reaching its final destination of Vancouver, Canada. Kids will love exploring the history of Astoria including Fort Stevens State Park, Fort Astoria, Heritage Center Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, home to one of the nation's finest displays of model ships and nautical artifacts. The ship makes a stop in Nanaimo, Canada where you can take a tour of the Horne Lakes Caves or discover the area's waterfalls.
If you've always wanted to explore Tahiti and French Polynesia, this is the cruise for you. This 18-day voyage starts in San Francisco and docks in Honolulu, Kahului and Hilo, Hawaii before continuing on to Tahiti. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of these islands with opportunities to snorkel, hike and go dolphin watching along the way. Kids will love on-board amenities like bocce ball courts, large heated pool and ping pong tables.
Explore the beauty of Mexico with Princess Cruises' 10-day (or longer) cruises from San Francisco to the Mexican Riviera. With ports including Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, your family can explore these Mexican cities on foot, on hop-on-hop-off bus, on Segway or even on an ATV! Take a mini speed boat to a private island for the day or spend some time on a foodie adventure in town. Parents will love that kids 12 and under get special pricing of up to 50% off the adult rate.
All aboard the Carnival Miracle for a 10- or 11-day cruise from San Francisco to Alaska! While on your way to Alaska you can dine at Guy's Burger Bar, head down the waterslide at WaterWorks and send the kids to Camp Ocean where they can meet some new friends and play games together. Shore excursion in Alaska include dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching and ziplining at Grizzly Falls. Before heading back to San Francisco, stop in Victoria, Canada where you can explore this gorgeous and historic seaside town.
This 21-day cruise will take you from San Francisco to Sydney, Australia with stops in Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji and New Zealand. Visit these gorgeous island countries on shore excursions including a tour of the kiwi fruit capital of the world. End the trip with a climb on the Sydney Harbor Bridge. While on board, kids can make friends with other children at The Play Zone, for two- to seven-year-olds, and The Zone which is ideal for eight- to 17-year-olds. Youth staff will supervise your kids, organize events, activities and competitions, and even arrange “excursions” to the theater or cinema on board.
Pack up the minivan, it’s time to hit the road for your next family adventure! A road trip is a perfect way to visit a new part of the country and gives you the flexibility to stop and explore quirky towns and roadside attractions along the way. We’ve got 30 stellar itineraries from coast to coast for you to choose from. Pick your destination and gas up, the road awaits!
1. Massive Mountains: Markleeville to Mammoth, CA - 137 miles
Don’t let the name Tioga Mobile Mart/Whoa Nellie Deli deceive you, this will be your ultimate pit stop experience! Located in Lee Vining (about an hour and 45 minutes from Markleeville,) Whoa Nellie Deli is situated at the corner of highway 395 and 120 (at the entrance into the Eastern Sierra). Fill up your gas tank while snacking on ahi sashimi or wild buffalo meatloaf, all while enjoying the spectacular views of Mono Lake and the Dana Plateau.
The Mono Lake Tuftas are unlike anything else in the world. Located a couple minutes from the deli, Mono Lake is an immense inland sea. The 70 square-mile lake fills a natural basin, 700 square miles in size. Together with nearby volcanoes, ghost towns and trout-filled streams, this area is a natural wonderland for the entire family. After exploring the Tuftas, head over to Bodie historic Ghost Town. This untouched moment in time offers visitors a pretty awesome firsthand experience into California’s gold rush period.
Finally, you've reached Mammoth Lakes, a year-round adventure wonderland. From skiing and snowshoeing in the winter/spring months to kayaking, fishing and biking in the warmer months, there's something for everyone.
2. Lake Michigan Special: Chicago, IL to Door County, WI - 240 miles
Kate Loweth
Start your road trip in the big city and end up in a quaint peninsula that seems to be frozen in time (in the absolute best way possible). Milwaukee is the perfect pit stop and your crew will be thrilled when you grab a bite at the Comet Cafe. Retro fare like the tuna mac casserole and the meatloaf with beer gravy are favorites as are the bacon pancakes. The Betty Brinn Children's Museum is the perfect spot to get some wiggles out before making your way up the coast.
The sweet town of Sturgeon Bay is your entrance on to the Door County peninsula. Here you can pet a piglet, talk to a turkey and stroll through sunflowers at The Farm. Continue on to your Door County destination. There are loads of cute towns where you can find a rental house on the lake or shack up at the Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor. Bonfires, drive-in movies and some time in the water will make this the road trip to remember. Peek at our Door County recs here.
3. PA History Lesson: Philadelphia to Harrisburg to Gettysburg - 140 miles
If a history lesson is on tap for your next family adventure, then this is the itinerary for you. Start your journey in Philadelphia where you can visit the famous Liberty Bell, swing by Betsy Ross' house and ride the carousel in Franklin Square.
Head out on highway 76 for Harrisburg and stop at the State Museum of Pennsylvania for some history and fun at the same time. Harrisburg is also home to the Pennsylvania State Capitol where you can take a tour and see the government in action.
Hit the road and head to the Gettysburg Museum of History to get the full scoop on this historic time in U.S. history. Tour the battlefields by car and on foot, or book a local guide to tour you around. Stop at the National Cemetery where Lincoln gave his historic speech. All this history got you feeling hungry? Stop at the Cannonball Olde Tyme Malt Shop for sundaes and malts (be sure to look for the Civil War cannon stuck in the wall!).
4. The Seafood Special: Boston, MA to Kennebunkport, ME - 84 miles
Climb aboard "Old Ironsides," the oldest commissioned warship in the world that's still afloat at the USS Constitution Museum in Boston, MA to kick off your journey. Then swing by Quincy Market for some clam chowder and Boston creme pie.
Mid-way to your destination is the town of Newburyport, NH where you can find the Custom House Maritime Museum and take a walk on the boardwalk. The kids will love running around Waterfront Park before you head out again.
Head to lobster land and stop in Kennebunkport, ME where there are loads of lobster roll establishments to choose from. Family favorites are Mabel's Lobster Claw and the Cape Pier Chowder House Restaurant. Snag some saltwater taffy and head out on a walk along Ocean Avenue where you can check out the picturesque shoreline.
5. Atlantic Coast Via the A1A: St. Augustine to Daytona Beach, FL - 53 miles
NASCAR Racing Experience
This drive is the one to do when the sun is out and the convertible top (or minivan sunroof) is down. It hugs the coast and gives you a great view for the duration. In St. Augustine, visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with actual drawbridges! Time your visit right and you'll get to hear the cannons fired and see weaponry demonstrations.
Midway to Dayton Beach along the AIA is Flagler Beach where you can walk along the water and grab some eats at an outdoor restaurant. Keep going south and you'll be in Dayton Beach, most famously known for its race car history. Visit the Daytona International Speedway and the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America to see memorabilia and learn about this sport's history. Bonus: you can even book a NASCAR Junior Ride Along for a spin around the track!
6. Somewhere in Time: Saugatuck to Mackinac Island, MI - 277 miles
A Grand Ol’ Time Start your adventure in the charming town of Saugatuck, MI. Located right on the shores of Lake Michigan, you can’t miss Oval Beach—consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the U.S. If you want to extend your time in here, check out the BaySide Inn, a historic boathouse converted into a B&B. Once you’ve soaked in the sunshine and lake breeze, head to Grand Rapids (about 40 miles) and bring the kids to the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. Here they’ll find building areas stocked with nuts, bolts, Lincoln Logs, LEGO bricks and more. There's also a Kidstruction Zone, a music exhibit and much more. Don’t miss the gorgeous Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, which includes an entire greenhouse dedicated to carnivorous plants as well as the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, designed for kids to engage in garden and nature sensory play.
Speaking of Rapids About an hour north on 131 you’ll find the small town of Big Rapids. Named after the largest set of rapids on the Muskegon River, it’s well worth a stop. If you’re up for an adventure, try arranging a tubing trip with Sawmill Canoe Livery. Stretch your legs along the peaceful Riverwalk, which is great for little kids and strollers, too. Grab lunch at Schuberg’s Bar & Grill before walking around the shops and then hitting the road north again.
Island Life One of the jewels of the Great Lakes area is the quaint Mackinac Island, where Lake Huron and Lake Michigan meet. Take I-75 to Mackinac City and board the ferry, or cross the famous Mackinac Bridge (not for the faint of heart) to St. Ignace and take the ferry from there. The island itself does not allow any cars, but you can rent bikes on the island, including tandems!
What to See The family can’t get enough of amusement parks? Visit three whoppers with in-between stops in rural Amish Country and historic Philadelphia. Start at Hershey Park for rides for all ages, a water park, a zoo and chocolate galore—you can even design a candy bar! Our insider's guide will get you going, and don't forget to download the official park app to get tickets and maps.
Next, take 322 to 117 through the woods and farmland, and opt to stop at Mt. Gretna Lake for a dip. GPS is your friend from Pinch Rd. down to 283 and on to The Amish Experience. Follow the scenic Exton Bypass from Route 30 to 202 S, where you'll find the kid-pleasing American Helicopter Museum nearby. Take 202 N to I-76 and into Philadelphia, where you can take a historical tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, check out the Please Touch Museum for kids 8 & under, and visit the famous Franklin Institute for major family science fun.
Back on the road, I-95 N will take you to Sesame Place for amusement and water rides, parades and shows. From there, take I-195 E towards Trenton, with an optional stop in the amazing and restful sculpture garden Grounds for Sculpture. One half-hour more on the highway gets you to Great Adventure, a monster of a park (the 2nd largest in the world!) with rides, a water park, shows and an animal safari.
Good to Know: Planning ahead for theme parks is key. We suggest looking for online coupons, buying passes in advance, and going early on weekdays—if you can—to avoid long lines. Make sure to bring extra clothes for the water parks, too.
From the breathtaking scenery of the Shenandoah Valley to the history-rich exhibits through the cradle of the Revolutionary War, this trek through Old Virginia is a bucket-list for every family looking to sip from the ladle of Americana.
What to See: If it's nature you want, then it's nature you'll have. Take the legendary (and remote) Skyline Drive through the Shenandoah National Park for sweeping vistas that haven't changed since Benjamin Franklin's last visit. Find colonial life reenacted and Revolutionary War exhibits at Jamestown, Yorktown and Colonial Williamsburg. Check under the hood (of the earth, that is) at the Grand Caverns Park near Staunton for a little deep-dive into the region.
Good to Know: The National Park Service offers educational tours suited for all age levels at many of their historic sites and battlefields. Check your itinerary against their events calendar before you go to make sure you don't miss out on any fun.
Hop on a bus and take the kids on a tour that will give them the opportunity to get up close and personal with a real grizzly bear. Denali Park Village offers wilderness tours that will take you 62 miles into the national park where you are likely to see a variety of animals including moose, caribou, wolves and sheep while you get the full Alaskan tundra wilderness experience.
For a truly unforgettable time, take to the sky on a flightseeing tour with Denali Summit Flight. This tour will take your clan almost 21,000 feet up for an incredible view of the Denali summit and the surrounding areas.
10. Far Out Wonders: White Sands to Roswell to Carlsbad- 243 miles
Anna Doogan
The Ultimate Sandbox: Amazing wonders of nature and a dose of alien encounters are the themes on this trip from White Sands to Carlsbad Caverns. In Alamogordo, check out White Sands National Monument, where it truly feels like running through a dream. White sand dunes cover 275 square miles of desert, and the kids will have a blast, running, tumbling and sliding down. Don’t forget the Visitor Center, which has interactive exhibits, a Junior Ranger program and a gift shop. If you’re looking to camp afterward, set up your site at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, the closest public campground, or choose to lodge in nearby Alamogordo.
UFOs and the Coolest Caves: The next day, make the trek to Roswell, where outer space aficionados can visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center before grabbing a burger at Chef Todzilla’s Gourmet Burgers and making a relaxing detour to Bottomless Lakes State Park. Two hours away, the Carlsbad KOA has comfortable cabins, RV and tent sites, a playground, bike rentals and a pool. Make it your stop for the night while you gaze at the incredible New Mexico sunset. The next day, take a stroll around the nearby Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, before heading to Carlsbad Caverns, where you can choose from an assortment of stunning cave tours, watch thousands of bats in flight, take in a ranger program, eat at an underground snack bar or experience one of the stargazing events.
11. The Great American Road Trip: Rapid City to Sioux Falls, SD - 348 Miles
South Dakota Department of Tourism
Bad to the Bone Rapid City is best known for being nestled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota and as the gateway for Mount Rushmore. The town of Rapid City itself is packed with charm, from art galleries to restaurants and shopping. At the center of it all is Main St. Square, a public space that hosts live concerts, outdoor movies and more throughout the year. Learn about the Native American heritage of the area through history exhibits and art; take an interactive history walk in downtown’s City of Presidents (a series of life-size bronze statues of our nation’s past presidents) and hit Rapid City’s Art Alley. Don’t forget to check out the Crazy Horse Memorial, a monument of the great Lakota leader. Custer State Park is more than 70,000 acres and teeming with wildlife including bighorn sheep, antelope, deer, elk and one of the nation’s largest free-roaming buffalo herds.
For something special, stay overnight at Custer State Park Resort in one of their lodges or specialty cabins and book a Buffalo Safari Ride Jeep Tour of the park. Make a quick pit stop at the quirky Wall Drug—a huge emporium where you can anything from cowboy boots to fudge to a 5-cent cup of coffee before heading into Badlands National Park. Kids will be in awe of the otherworldly landscape of the Badlands is one of the richest fossil beds in the world. Take the Badlands Loop State Scenic Highway, a 30-mile loop with tons of scenic overlooks and photo-ops. For interactive and ranger programs, hit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Grab some Indian Fry Bread or Sioux Indian Tacos at Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant before heading out.
Americana at Its Finest Stretch your legs half-way between Badlands and Sioux Falls in the little town of Murdo where you’ll find the Pioneer Auto Show, a collection of over 275 classic cars, motorcycles and tractors. Murdo is also home to 1880 Town, modeled after you an original town from the late 1800s. A little farther down Hwy 90 you’ll want to stop in Mitchell to experience the world’s only Corn Palace—an incredible feat of architecture decorated with 13 different (natural) shades of corn and native grasses.
Wind your way through the Delta and you'll get enough barbecue and blues to last a lifetime. Along the way, you'll have unforgettable pitstops in Civil War battlefields, walk in the footsteps of Elvis, and see the creek that inspired Henson to create Kermit.
What to See: Kicking off your trip in Memphis, thrill the kiddos with a riverboat cruise on the Mighty Mississippi, see the Beale Street flippers do their thing, compare notes between Elvis's playroom (called the Jungle Room, no less) and yours at Graceland, and set the BBQ bar with ribs at Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous. Then, set out on Hwy. 61 south through the Delta, stopping for the Railroad Heritage Museum and Lower Mississippi River Museum in Cleveland, the Jim Henson Museum in Leland, McCarty's Pottery place in Merigold, the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, and the Vicksburg National Military Park. Be sure to stop at as many honky tonks as you can along the way, and let the locals be your guide. Feeling frisky? Keep trucking right on to NOLA.
Good to Know: While cotton gets all the glory in Mississippi, those in the know will tell you that it's actually the sweltering heat and mosquitos that are the hallmarks of a Mississippi summer. Be sure to pack a cooler, and bring your bug repellant!
What to See There’s a lot to do in Burlington. Start by heading down Route 7 to Shelburne for three great family attractions. Shelburne Museum has exhibitions like circus models and vintage toys spread through a campus including a lighthouse, a steamboat, a carousel and a locomotive. Shelburne Farms is bucolic, with a children’s farmyard, and tours of grounds and cheesemaking. Kids will enjoy a quick tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory (only on weekdays.).
Further down 7, Vergennes offers a small, scenic waterfall park and Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. Continue south, keeping an eye out for outlooks and covered bridges. Fall foliage, maple syrup and apple picking are a big draw, and in summer stop by Charlotte Berry Farm for pick-your-own, creemees and pies. Turn onto 53 to hike, swim or camp at Branbury State Park or head on to picturesque Brandon to stop for food or an overnight, then visit the herd nearby at Maple View Farm Alpacas.
Good to Know: Known as “Vermont’s Main Street,” Route 100 is considered one of the most beautiful drives for fall foliage, and is the curvier, more rustic side, while Route 7 is smoother and has more towns and roadside attractions. Remember to book far in advance for foliage season lodgings and pay attention to local road reports in winter.
You can't leave Victoria without visiting the famous Butchart Gardens. The floral display gardens will give your tribe plenty to look at and explore and the Rose Carousel will put a smile on everyone's face.
Part of the fun of visiting Whistler is getting there. Your kids will love riding the Tsawwassen-Swarts Ferry. While on board you will have the opportunity to dine on yummy buffet food, shop for souvenirs and the larger vessels have play areas and entertainment, including arcades, for kids!
When you get to Whistler, head to the slopes where you can go on a peak to peak gondola ride and see the landscape and wildlife from above. Hop aboard a glass-bottom gondola for an extra special ride.
If your family is made up of adrenaline junkies, then sign up for a Ziptrek Zip Line tour and whiz through the old-growth rainforest. Once you are done exploring from above, hit the trails and discover the beauty of Whistler by foot. When the snow is melted, there are tons of kid-friendly hikes to be enjoyed.
Sights in Sedona: Take an easy road trip to see some of the natural wonders of the Southwest. Start out in Sedona and grab breakfast at Red Rock Café, where you can nosh on banana blueberry walnut french toast, eggs benedict, chicken fried steak or an omelet any way you like. Then, head out and enjoy the beauty of Sedona’s iconic red rocks with a daytime trip to Slide Rock State Park. Kids can swim in Oak Creek and will love trying out the park’s 80-foot namesake sandstone chute.
Meteor Crater: From Sedona, it’s only about 70 miles to Winslow, where you can check out Meteor Crater. At almost a mile across and more than 550 feet deep, this tourist attraction is a preserved meteorite impact that is guaranteed to wow. The site also has a theater, gift shop, indoor crater viewing area and self-guided observation paths. It’s only another hour to the Holbrook KOA, where you can get a tent site or cabin. The campground has a pool, dog park, snack bar, and makes a great stop for the night.
Perfectly Petrified: In the morning, it’s a quick drive (about 30 min) to Petrified Forest National Park, where you’ll find an incredible landscape, great hiking trails and the well-known petrified logs. The park has a Junior Ranger program and Junior Paleontologist program, as well as the Rainbow Forest Museum with prehistoric skeletons on display, and a Visitor’s Center with hands-on exhibits, a bookstore, a restaurant and a walking trail.
16. Cowboys & Culture: Fargo to Medora, ND - 328 miles
North Dakota Department of Tourism
In North Dakota, you’ll find rich landscape and heritage along plenty of kid-approved roadside attractions, minus some of the big crowds. Start your trip in Fargo at the Fargo Air Museum, home to historic aircraft across the ages and interactive exhibits for children. Kids will also enjoy the Red River Zoo—where cold-climate loving animals are bred and cared for, including the Red Panda, the Gray Wolf and the Pallas cat. Little sluggers will want to make a stop at the Roger Maris Museum, a free museum located at West Acres Shopping Center dedicated to the legendary Fargo baseball player, Roger Maris, who broke Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record in 1961.
Make Your Bismarck As you head west out of Fargo toward Medora, make a pit stop at Bonanzaville. 15 acres of historic buildings, antique cars, planes, farm equipment and more harkens back to the 1800s settlers days. About halfway between Fargo and Medora, you’ll find the charming town of Bismarck. Located on the Missouri River, you can indulge your inner explorer with a riverboat cruise on a 100-foot paddle-wheeler with Lewis and Clark Riverboat company. In Bismarck, you’ll also find the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum. Head west over the river to Mandan and grab a bite along the water at the Rock Point before you hop on the Fort Lincoln Trolley to Fort Abraham Lincoln. Visit the park’s reconstructed earthlodges in On-a-Slant Indian Village, a recreation of the way the Mandan traditionally lived along the Missouri River.
Home on the Range Hit the highway and make your way to the charming village of Medora, home to the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. Medora has endless wild-west themed lodging—from camping to cabins to upscale ranches. If a pool is your main priority, try the Badlands Motel for an outdoor pool or the AmericInn, which has an indoor pool. Medora—and the entire town is nestled on the edge of Teddy Roosevelt National Park.
Different shag, y'all. We're talking about the fancy footwork that's required knowledge of every respectable southerner, and especially along the coastal Carolinas and Georgia. Cruise this route for Spanish moss-draped live oaks and a taste of happiness (aka shrimp and grits).
What to See: In Charleston, take a stroll along 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. Head south towards Georgia and Driftwood Beach in Jekyll Island (don't pass up a trip to The Georgia Sea Turtle Center while you're there), Fort Pulaski (go on a Saturday to watch them fire the cannons), and the gracious Forsyth Park (complete with a knockout children's playground) in Savannah. In St. Simon's, make a trip to the Village Pier. You'll be glad you did.
Good to Know: This stretch of land is ripe with year-round festivals and events (like the Cooper River Bridge Run). Plan your trip to hit (or miss) whichever strikes your fancy.
18. The Garden & Ocean State - Lambertville to Cape May, NJ - 145 miles
Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority
Start in Lambertville, Nj on the Delaware River to check out cute shops, galleries, and restaurants and walk the bridge over the water to New Hope, Pa if you want to ride the vintage New Hope & Ivyland Railroad.
Take Route 29 as it winds along the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park to Titusville and Washington Crossing State Park—the site of THAT famous painting. Check out the visitor’s center and trails, then go to I-95 N, which turns into I-295 S (we don’t make the rules). Take exit 63 to Grounds for Sculpture, a breathtaking 42-acre sculpture garden with performances and tours (buy discounted timed tickets online!). Return to 295 S for about nine miles, then get on 206 S for a leisurely drive through small towns and farmland.
In summer, consider stopping at farm stands and U-pick-it stops for delicious berries, tomatoes and corn, the White Dotte Dairy Bar (since 1952) and a gas station/grill with a giant gorilla statue and a paintball field next door. Enter the Pine Barrens, home of the “Jersey Devil,” and find plenty of hiking, camping and water fun in Wharton State Forest.
Take Middle Road in Hammonton to Batsto Village, a site dating to 1766 complete with a mansion, sawmill, and blacksmith. Proceed east to the Garden State Parkway S, then Exit 30 to Ocean City. Take the Ocean Drive by spotting the signs that say “Follow the Gull.” This 26-mile coastal road has panoramic views at drawbridges, inlets, and beaches. Wildwood and Wildwood Crest (that #1 destination) have wide, gentle beaches, an amusement park/boardwalk and fun “Doo Wop” architecture. Finally, drive down to Cape May, famous for gorgeous Victorian houses, fine beaches, a lighthouse, and local attractions like nature preserves and a zoo.
Good to Know: Be prepared for traffic in summer, or go in the offseason for savings. Many areas of the state are known for mosquitos, so bring repellent. Kids love the bright sights and sounds of the Wildwoods, but Cape May is quieter.
The Starting Point Have your kids shut down their devices and keep their eyes peeled because they won't want to miss the sites as you launch into the Oregon Cascades through the beautiful Mt. Hood National Forest via US-26.
What to Do in Bend Families flock to Bend from all over the country for its unmatched outdoor recreations adventures. Get wet and wild on the Deschutes River with Sun Country Tours—their guides can take you on a whitewater rafting excursion or a relaxing tour down the river by stand up paddle board or inner tube.
Just a little further south on 97, you'll find the world-renowned Smith Rock; climbers come to the area for an opportunity to scale the sheer walls of Monkey Face. Your little monkeys may not be ready to climb like a pro, but book a day with the guides at Chockstone Climbing Guides and they will be well on their way. All of the required gear is provided and you will feel safe in the hands of these climbing experts.
What to Do at Craker Lake Crater Lake itself is the main attraction on this stop. Did you know it is the deepest lake in the United States? The water-filled caldera is a stunning blue and the scenic Rim Drive is a "must do" activity for all visiting families. This 33-mile tour winds around Crater Lake and has plenty of pullouts along the way for photo ops and restless legs.
Another popular way to get a view of the lake is by boat. Crater Lake National Park Lodges offers excursions that either cruise around the lake or take patrons to Wizard Island. While on the water, your family will learn all about the history, geology and cultural significance of the lake.
Fun in Flagstaff: Kick off your trip in Flagstaff, and get to know this historic town in the mountains of Northern Arizona. Be sure to check out the butterfly house and garden tours at The Arboretum at Flagstaff before catching a tour and a peek at the night sky at the Lowell Observatory. Simply Delicious Café Daily Fare is off of Route 66 and serves yummy sandwiches, salads, fish tacos, housemade lemonade and a great selection of kids menu items. After you’ve satisfied your hunger, get some rest at Embassy Suites by Hilton Flagstaff, where you’ll find cozy rooms, a pool and an evening reception. The hotel also includes a free hot breakfast, so fuel up before hitting the road on scenic Hwy 89 to Zion National Park.
All About Zion: Once you arrive, set up your base camp. Zion’s Watchman Campground takes reservations, or you can book a room or cabin at Zion Lodge. Other options include the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort, conveniently located half a mile from the park’s visitor center. If you’re looking for something less rustic, a splurge at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, where you’ll find everything from tent sites to glamping setups and luxury cabin suites. In the morning, give yourselves at least one full day to explore and experience Zion’s striking sandstone cliffs, hiking trails, ranger-led programs and more.
Moab Magic: Head on to Moab, and settle in before another day of exploring. Swing into town to grab burgers and smoothies at the sweet Peace Tree Café. In the morning, head off for more adventures. Moab is the perfect home base for your day trips to nearby Arches National Park, as well as Canyonlands National Park. Of course, no trip to Moab is complete without a stop at Moab Giants Dino Museum, where little paleontologists in training can dig for fossils, check out dino tracks, climb on a dinosaur-themed playground and walk a half-mile trail with over 100 full-size dino replicas.
21. The Scenic Smokies: Nashville to Asheville (TN and NC) - 295 miles
Take a ride through the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee and the cradle of country music, through the heart of Rocky Top, and right on into the soulful city of the Smokies.
What to See: Kicking off your trip in Nashville, don't miss a visit to the Grand Old Opry, where backstage tours can be arranged in advance, or a stop in one of Broadway's famous honky tonks (go early with kids; lunchtime at Robert's Western World is just the right speed). Continuing towards the mountains, don't miss the Cades Cove Loop in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and get an eyeful of opulence at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. Other excellent options in the Asheville area are a visit to the Sierra Nevada Brewery, located in a parklike setting, or a day trip to Grandfather Mountain, with its mile-high swinging bridge.
Good to Know: The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the nation's most visited National Park, so be sure to hit Cades Cove early in the day, or on weekends, when it's pedestrian-only in the earliest hours.
Adventures Ashore Start your trip in Duluth, Minnesota (about two hours north of Minneapolis/St. Paul). Before you get your motors running, take time to explore this port town, especially Downtown and Canal Park. Canal Park’s crown jewel is the famous Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, and it’s also where large ships come through to load at the docks. It’s home to the Lake Superior Maritime Museum and the mission!. Just across the grass from the museum, you’ll find an archway indicating the Duluth Lakewalk, a 7.5 mile long walking, biking and strolling path that you can stomp along any time of the day.
Before you leave Duluth don’t miss the Duluth Depot, the former center for train travel in the area that is now a major hub for arts including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, which features massive engines (many of which kids can climb in); train tables; a hobo-sign scavenger hunt; replica turn-of-the-century buildings and even a replica movie theater.
Up North About 27 miles north of Duluth, you’ll find Two Harbors. Snag a photo with the giant rooster and grab a souvenir at Weldon’s Gifts before heading up the road toward Gooseberry Falls State Park (one of the state’s best waterfalls) and the Joseph N. Alexander Visitor Center. A little farther up 61, you’ll also find Split Rock Lighthouse, an iconic lighthouse and history museum, and one of the most photographed on Lake Superior. Hop back on scenic 61 and keep climbing north. Consider an overnight stay at Lutsen Resort.
Just miles shy of Grand Marais, the 1885-built Scandinavian log lodge is big on charm and great for families of all sizes. While you’re there, head across the road and up Lutsen Mountains for a sightseeing excursion in the enclosed gondola. Between Lutsen and Grand Marais, you’ll find several state parks and hiking trails to explore, many with rushing waterfalls and breathtaking views.
Do When the summer months hit, Sun Valley can get pretty hot. Stay cool at the Rain Maker Splash Park. This family-friendly splash park is home to water features that spray—your kiddos can play for hours without overheating. It's situated among the trees, so you can relax in the shade and stay cool too.
Explore the area on horseback starting at Sun Valley Stables where you will feed and pet your transportation before going on a 1 or 1.5 hour guided tour.
Coeur d'Alene
Do Coeur d'Alene is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. If your family likes to bike, hike, ski or swim, then you won't have a problem filling your time in this Idaho town. Silver Mountain Resort is open year-round with slopes for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and a bike and water park for swimming and biking during the summer. If you still have time to fill, check out the golf range or take a gondola ride.
If your clan wants a taste of the old west, head to Rider Ranch where you can explore Idaho by horseback, go on wagon and hay rides, or enjoy a family barn night.
What to See You could cruise the Acadia National Byway in three hours, but there’s so much to do and see! Bar Harbor is your base with lots of shops, a shore path, and lobster, lobster everywhere, At low tide a sand bar connects downtown Bar Harbor to Bar Island, so grab buckets and shovels and explore all the sea life. Walk the Bar Island nature trail to the summit for amazing views—just leave time before the tide rolls in! Stop at the Abbe Museum to learn about Native American culture and history, then head to Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater, a combination boat tour and silly educational show that’s fun kids and grownups alike.
Now it's time to get your National Park on! Hit the Acadia Byway loop, and five miles past the Hulls Cove Visitor Center turn off for Sieur De Monts to visit the Nature Center. One mile on is the Champlain Mountain Overlook, then four miles farther is Sand Beach. Stop a half-mile on at Thunder Hole for crashing waves, then one mile on, near Otter Cliff, explore the tidal pools an hour or two before low tide at Otter Point. You can take a wagon ride, hike, bike or ride horseback at Wildwood Stables. Next, stop at Jordan Pond House for a meal or the century-old tradition of tea on the lawn. Another four miles on, turn right off the main road to ascend to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard north of Brazil. To return to the visitor center, follow the signs.
Good to Know: Acadia can get crowded, so plan ahead and show up early. Avoid lines by getting your Acadia pass online, and check on planned road work to avoid traffic. The National Park Service has things to do for kids, and if your family likes hiking, Gorham Mountain trail offers beautiful ocean views and wild blueberries in July and August.
The Biggest Dunes: Explore Colorado with a fun road trip that’s heavy on spectacular attractions. In Mosca, check out Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Kids will have a blast sand sledding and playing in nearby Medano Creek. The Visitor Center features a movie about the park, interactive exhibits and rangers who are happy to chat. Camp at Pinon Flats Campground, just one mile from the Visitor Center, with incredible views of the dunes at night.
Caves, Animals and Airplanes: In the morning, head to Colorado Springs, and stop at Garden of the Gods, where you can take in the beauty of the massive 300-foot sandstone formations. Along with plenty of trails and hiking, the park has interactive exhibits, and, coming soon, a café serving organic and sustainable foods. From there, get up close and personal with the animals at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, or head just west on Hwy 24 and take an exciting cave tour at Cave of the Winds. Kids will love The Airplane Restaurant, where you can dine inside of (you guessed it) an actual plane.
Take a cruise down Interstate 40 from Amarillo to Santa Fe with a handful of must-see attractions that the whole family will love.
Roadside Art: First, in Amarillo, stop by Cadillac Ranch, a decades-old art installation turned quirky roadside attraction that is unlike anything you’ve seen. Continue on to Albuquerque and grab dinner at The Range Café. Adults can try the Relleno Burger or the Hot Turkey Plate, and the menu has plenty of kid options like the Kiddie Enchiladas, Lil Burrito or Little Mac pasta. Next, grab a cozy room and hit the pool before you hit the sheets at the clean and modern Home2 Suites by Hilton.
All Day in Santa Fe: It’s just over an hour to Santa Fe, where kids and adults will love the Santa Fe Children’s Museum and Meow Wolf, an immersive art installation experience with secret passages and tons of fun. You can’t go wrong with the carne asada or a quinoa burger at Café Pasqual’s or try the coconut chicken or tofu curry at Jambo Café. Definitely check out the Plaza, Santa Fe’s historic downtown gathering spot, where you might find local artist markets, music gatherings or community events.
27. City to Sea - Seattle to Mt. Rainier to Portland to Seaside OR - 294 Miles
The Starting Line Make sure to check out the Space Needle and all of the attractions at Seattle Center before you begin your road trip. Your little adventurers will love running through the musical fountain's spray and catching one or two rides on the carousel.
Do Ashford gives visitor's access to Mt. Rainier National Park via the Nisqually Entrance. There are trails that will take you around lakes, past waterfalls, and through meadows. Stop at the visitor center and talk to a friendly ranger to find out which trails are best for your crew. After you are done exploring by foot, get a bird's eye view of the mountain on the Mt. Rainier Gondola—a ride that is especially thrilling for the littlest travelers.
Outside of the park area, there's plenty to do. Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad offers thrilling rides for train enthusiasts of all ages, and there are themed excursions throughout the year, so check ahead to see the offerings and to reserve your seats. Also, NW Trek and Wildlife Park offers visitors close encounters with the local wildlife.
Portland
Do The city of roses has an abundance of fun activities for the family. OMSI is a must and will please the scientists in your family (big and small). If you are looking for active fun, head to Washington Park. It's home to the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children's Museum, World Forestry Center, Hoyt Arboretum, Portland Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden. If you road trip mid-summer, make sure to check out the Rose Festival for rides, concerts, parades and more.
Seaside
Do Seaside offers visitors more than just a long stretch of beautiful beach to relax on. The town has a fun boardwalk with tons of spots offering fun activities for kids of all ages. The Funland Arcade is the North Oregon Coast's largest arcade and has hundreds of games for your kids to play. Located two blocks from the ocean, Seaside Carousel Mall is waiting to take your kids for a spin. The carousel is a perfect replica of a classic edition and great for snapping those pics, you'll want to show off to family and friends later.
If you are in the area for an extended stay, the Seaside Aquarium is well worth a visit. It's the oldest aquarium on the West Coast and full of marine life and educational opportunities your kids will enjoy.
From the retro beach sign welcoming you to Pensacola Beach all the way to the icy waters of Crystal River where the manatees meander, you'll find plenty to explore along the Panhandle's powder-white shores.
What to See: Home to the Blue Angels, Pensacola is no wonder the home of the National Naval Aviation Museum, an outstanding (and free) collection of airplanes, simulators, and history on the Pensacola Naval Base. Then beach hop, exploring each town with its own unique character. Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key (don't miss live music and Bushwhackers for the grown-ups at the FloraBama) are nearest to Pensacola, followed by a string of towns along 30-A. Scenic Seaside, WaterColor, and Rosemary Beaches are not to miss, and a visit to Apalachicola (followed by a spur to St. George Island to check out the lighthouse) will keep you busy en route to swim with the manatees in Crystal River.
Good to Know: This beach trip is made even more perfect when you can align it with scalloping season and the best months for fresh oysters!
What to See Route 6A, the Old King’s Highway, started as a Native American trail and will give you more water views and authentic Cape flavor than the main Route 6. Start at the Heritage Museum & Gardens, with American art, a standout antique car collection, a carousel and outdoor family activities. On to Barnstable, where naturalists at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary can give your family eco-tours on water or land (say hi to the goat herd that keeps the vegetation trim). On the north side, you can visit the Coast Guard Museum, and the Edward Gorey House in scenic Yarmouth Port is a must for fans of the genteelly macabre author/artist.
Cross the cape to get to the JFK Museum in Hyannis and the Whydah Museum in West Yarmouth, which will delight little mariners with artifacts from a real pirate ship. Mayflower Beach is a great stop at low tide when little ones can wade far out in shallow water, and you’ll want to stay for spectacular sunsets. Stop to stretch at Scargo Tower, which looks like a small kid’s castle, and climb up for the view.
Next, the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is especially good for young children. 6a meets Route 6 at art-gallery-filled Orleans, where your family can enjoy the Nauset Model Railroad Club or get your geek on learning about early transatlantic communication at French Cable Station Museum. Just above the elbow of the cape at Eastham, the Salt Pond Visitor Center Museum and 1869 Schoolhouse Museum are good educational stops for children. After that, beaches, boat trips and lighthouses abound all the way up to lively Provincetown, which is a great launch for a fishing or whale watching trip.
Good to Know: Many small attractions and historical sites open sporadically, so check ahead. Though it’s fun to visit, Wellfleet, Truro and North Truro tend to have more space and lodgings for families than crowded Provincetown. Take 6 for a faster trip back and stop at sites on the tip of the elbow and southwestern cape.
The Presidential Path Springfield, Illinois—once home to Abraham Lincoln in the years before he became President—is now home to more Lincoln sites and history than anywhere else in the world. You’ll find the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library as well as the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Lincoln Depot and the Lincoln Tomb, his final resting place, to name a few. This city also offers a ton of family fun: kids will beg for just a little more time at the Knights Action Park, a 60-acre waterpark and activity center. There’s the Henson Robinson Zoo, the Air Combat Museum and the Illinois State Museum which houses the Play Museum—an interactive pretend play area for kids ages 3-10 to experience what it’s like to work at a museum.
See Something Silly Hit the highway south toward St. Louis: amble along for part of this drive along the historic Route 66 or pick up speed on Hwy 55. Head toward Staunton, IL for a pit stop at the quirky Henry’s Rabbit Ranch. This Route 66 roadside stop is both an homage to the VW Rabbit and to the bunny-kind. It’s a vintage emporium of trucker memorabilia and a spot to pet a bun-bun and pick up a souvenir or two before you head out.
Gateway to the West There’s no shortage of action in the city made most famous by the Gateway Arch: other highlights include the Laumeier Sculpture Park; the 129-acre Museum of Transportation (which includes one of the two first man-made tunnels west of the Mississippi); the City Museum with a rooftop Ferris wheel the St. Louis Walk of Fame, along The Loop, which takes you past plaques honoring famous St. Louisans as well as plenty of restaurants and shopping; and—our favorite—The Magic House, the Missouri Children’s Museum. Whimsy, interactive exhibits and Victorian-style architecture are all features of this sweet museum. Don’t miss the Challenger Learning Center for a chance to go on a simulated space mission.
Dinosaurs & Caverns! Just outside of St. Louis you’ll find Mastodon State Historic Site, land of the Kimmswick Bone Bed. It is here that scientist first discovered evidence that humans and mastodons existing at the same time. There’s a museum, trails, picnic sites and more. Also just out of St. Louis proper in Stanton, MO you’ll find the Meramec Caverns. Take a guided tour through an underground garden of ancient limestone and natural wonder, including Jesse James’ infamous hideout. You also zipline, canoe and riverboat through the park, and they offer accommodations including a motel and campgrounds.
Whether you fancy a holiday trip by land or by sea, these festive train rides and boat cruises are packed with cheer. From meet and greets with beloved storybook characters to reciting your wish list to the man in red, this is the stuff memories (and holiday cards) are made from. The following are four holiday experiences that will keep the magic chugging right into Christmas and beyond.
The Holiday Express Sip cider and munch on treats with as Santa and his elves pay a visit aboard the historic and beautifully decorated SP&S 700 steam engine. The trip goes along the Oregon Pacific Railroad from Oaks Bottom to the Rail Heritage Center and back. Park in the Oaks Park lot, then walk across the street to board the train. Be sure to get your tickets now, as they go from available to sold out in no time.
Nov. 27-Dec. 20
$7-$19/person; $46-$58/family
Oaks Amusement Park
7806 SE Oaks Park Way
Online: orhf.com
The Polar Express The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg, was the inspiration for this pj-wearing, cocoa and cookie-fueled train ride through scenic Mt. Hood. Grab a magical golden ticket and let yourselves be immersed in the story all the way to the North Pole, where Santa boards the train. Once aboard, a relaxed Santa sits down alongside each child to hear wishes, then hands them a little keepsake bell. If you go during the day, you’ll be able to see the woodsy landscape passing by. If you go after sunset, it’s too dark to see anything outside the train, but the lights at the North Pole are big and bright.
Cinnamon Bear Cruise
Enjoy a cozy holiday cruise aboard the Portland Spirit with the beloved characters from the Cinnamon Bear Family. Ever since the characters first hit the radio waves in 1937, Cinnamon Bear has held a special place in the warm hearts of Portlanders. In addition to meeting Paddy O’Sullivan, Judy, Jimmy and other characters from Maybeland, the two-hour cruise includes the retelling of the story, plenty of photo opps and munching down at the snack buffet.
Nov. 28-Dec. 27 (Saturdays and Sundays)
$22/child (1-12); $30/adult; Free for infants
Portland Spirit
Salmon Street Springs
Online: cinnamonbearcruise.com
Christmas Ships A floating fire engine, the leg lamp from A Christmas Story and a spouting whale are just a few of the festive, brightly-lit ships that have been entertaining Portlanders since 1954. Stand on the bank of the Columbia or Willamette river, or make reservations at one of the riverside restaurants, like Salty’s on the Columbia (3839 NE Marine Dr.), to see one of two fleets, each with about 16-33 ships, as it makes its way down the river. For schedule updates, check Facebook and on Twitter @ChristmasShips.
Give those brains a jump start for the new school year by taking your little ones to learn about science, sturgeon, swifts, Portland history and heavy machinery. The following activities are sure to lift the summer brain fog and offer a dose of serious fun. Read on to take a peek at a few of our favorites educational outings around Portland.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
With a massive space, that includes a planetarium, movie theater, submarine and pop-culture-savvy exhibits, OMSI is typically one of the first places that comes to mind for those looking for brainy activities in Portland.
The museum houses five halls and over 200 interactive exhibits and labs, including Earth Hall, Life Hall, Turbine Hall, a science playground for the six and under set, and labs on life science, watershed, chemistry, physics, technology and paleontology. Just a sampling of the activities at OMSI include programming a robot, feeling an earthquake, building an aqueduct, safely mixing and pouring chemicals, making flubber, and playing at a water table and massive sand area. In addition to constantly changing the activities at individual labs, OMSI also offers a rotating main exhibit.
Bonneville Hatchery
The hatchery could either be part of a larger day trip, complete with a hike in the Gorge, or you can just make that your destination. The park-like setting is definitely picnic worthy, and the staff can tell you and your budding scientist all about the fish. It’ll cost you a quarter to feed the rainbow trout, and you can head down to the special “house” made for hatchery star, Herman the sturgeon, a 425-pound, 10-foot, 70-year-old behemoth. Those visiting in October or November will get the added bonus of watching millions of salmon spawning. The hatchery is free to visit, and the self-guided tours make the atmosphere pretty laid-back. The hatchery is open daily (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day).
70543 NE Herman Loop
Cascade Locks
541-374-8393
Online: dfw.state.or.us
Vaux Swifts at Chapman Elementary
Every September, the Chapman Elementary school grounds come alive at dusk as thousands of Vaux Swifts swirl and chatter, pouring into the chimney to roost at night, as they prepare for their long migration to Central America and Venezuela. To get in on the action, arrive at least one hour before sunset and bring a picnic blanket and snacks. Weeknights will be less crowded, but there is usually plenty of space on the grounds for everyone. Most nights, Audubon Society of Portland volunteers make themselves available for impromptu education sessions. Free parking is available at Montgomery Park and after 5:30 p.m. at Selco Community Credit Union. Be sure to bring a piece of cardboard for sledding down the steep, grassy hill.
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
If your family is more geared toward machinery than biology, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center might be your new favorite place.This working museum allows visitors to roam among vintage steel beasts as they are serviced and rebuilt, lending the place a bit of the energetic vibe that kids love. There are also docents available for guided tours, as well as a kids’ play area, rotating exhibits and a gift shop. Hands-on learners will be excited to climb aboard a caboose and are encouraged to explore the interior. While the museum itself is free to visit, those who come on Saturday might consider bringing $5/person to ride the Oregon Pacific Railroad passenger train on a short, 45-minute round trip to Oaks Bottom Park. The center is open Thursday through Sunday.
Pittock Mansion
Got a little local-history buff on your hands, or maybe a fledgling architect? Then how about a stop at Pittock Mansion for a peek into Portland of the past as well as one of Oregon’s most influential pioneer families? Built in 1914, the mansion was the residence of the founder of the Oregonian newspaper, Henry Pittock and his wife Georgiana. The palacial estate is now held in public trust by the City of Portland. It’s free to park at the museum and the grounds are free to tour, offering stunning views of the city as well as Mt. Hood. Those who want to tour the 22-rooms of the mansion can do so by purchasing tickets ($10 for adults, $9 for seniors 65 and up, $7 for kids six to 18, and free for children under six), with guided and self-guided tours available. The Renaissance Revival architecture is complemented by period furnishings, many of them the original belongings of the Pittocks themselves. The museum is open daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. between September and June and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. between July and August.
Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 13th, and we know that there’s nothing quite like the experience of grandparents joining their grandchildren in a learning adventure. We’ve found some of the best opportunities for the multi-generational family members to enjoy in Portland in September. Read on for five fun and low-key activities for all ages.
photo: Woodworking with Grandpa by Ms. Schreiber via Creative Commons
Build a Football Toss Game Select Home Depot locations offer free monthly workshops for kids with an adult that includes all the supplies and instructions needed. On Saturday, Sept. 5, the project is building a Football Toss Game. The child takes home the project, receives a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin. Six locations around town are offering this workshop. Register online in advance. Sat., 9 a.m.-noon, ages 5-12, free.
E Portland Mall, 10120 SE Washington St., Portland, 503-261-8543
S Beaverton, 4401 SW 110th Ave., Beaverton, 503-469-4242
Beaverton, 13700 NW Science Pk Dr., Portland, 503-646-1525
Clackamas, 9300 SE 82nd Ave., Happy Valley, 503-774-6342
Jantzen Beach, 1728 N Tomahawk Island Dr., Portland, 503-289-9200
NE Portland, 11633 NE Glen Widing Dr., Portland, 503-252-0188
Online: homedepot.com
Learn to be a Lumberjack Lumberjacks and lumberjills of all ages can enjoy the World Forestry Center. Head into the Discovery Museum to learn about Oregon’s forest industry, logging and sustainability. Fun rides and photo ops will make it a day to remember, and it tends to be the least crowded option of the Washington Park attractions (not to mention inexpensive). Open 7 days/week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 admission for all ages over 2.
photo: My Masterpiece Art Studio by Kristy R. via Yelp
Paint Like Van Gogh
My Masterpiece Art Studio offers kids and adults the opportunity to create mini masterpieces in the style of famous artists using non-toxic materials. On Friday, Sept. 11, get inspired by artist Vincent van Gogh as you paint a terracotta bowl with sunflowers. Classes are kept small and reservations via phone are required. Other art classes (including Open Studio for all ages) are available if Friday doesn’t work or if your mini master is a bit older. Fri., Sept. 11, 10:30- 11:10 a.m., ages 2-5, $10.
See a Play Grandparents can sit down, take a load off and enjoy the magic of theater with their favorite little ones. Once Upon a Time Family Theatre performs familiar tales with an exciting twist to keep things interesting. This month’s performance is a Grimm’s Fairy Tale classic, Jorinda’s Song. After the play, the audience is invited to play in an engaging arts and crafts class called Art In the Wings. Tickets are available at the door, by phone or online. Sat., Sept. 5, noon-2 p.m., all ages, $1/child and $2/adult (performance), additional $1/child and $2/adult (Art In the Wings).
Portland Metro Arts
9003 SE Stark St.
503-408-0604
Online: pdxmetroarts.com
photo: Oregon Rail Heritage Center by Sam Churchill via Creative Commons
Ride a Train Grandparents and their choo-choo-loving grandbabies can take a leisurely and scenic Saturday train ride along the Willamette River, next to the busy Springwater Trail and through Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Riders can climb aboard at either the station nearest Oaks Amusement Park or the Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC). Each ride lasts about 40 minutes and travels between the two stations, with a 10-minute layover. Riders can choose to come right back or catch a later train. Trains depart hourly 12-5 p.m. from Oaks Park and from the ORHC every hour from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Tickets are sold onsite at boarding time. Sat., noon-5 p.m., all ages, $5/person, children under two years ride for free.
Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way
Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave.
Online: portlandtrainrides.com
What do you like to do when the grandparents are visiting? Let us know in the comments below!
In today’s modern city sprawl, it’s easy to forget that the Atlanta area was once Cherokee country. In particular, Northwest Georgia’s red clay hillsides, river banks and grassy meadows were once home to Cherokee and Creek Indian villages, ceremonial sites and even plantations owned by powerful Cherokee leaders. If you have a budding archeologist or maybe an aspiring arrowhead collector, then it’s time to head to the hills and take your tribe to get more acquainted with Georgia’s Native American past.
Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site Soaring to 63 feet, you’re sure to feel a sense of awe as you climb to the top of these curiously constructed earthen mounds. The 54-acre historic site preserves six mounds and a village site and is one of the most intact Mississippian Culture sites in the Southeast. Native Americans lived here from 1000 CE to 1550 CE and built the mounds for ceremonies, defense and burials. The chief-priest likely lived on the tallest mound overlooking the village. Kids will get a kick climbing the stairs to the top of the mounds and walking along the riverfront trail where you can view a v-shaped fish trap demonstrating how Native Americans ingeniously caught fish. There’s also a museum on site where you can view a replica of what the village may have looked like along with artifacts excavated from the site. Check out their website or call before you go to see if any special programs are being offered on the day of your visit. Park rangers frequently offer demonstrations and special nighttime tours (even a hayride) on the weekends.
Details: 813 Indian Mounds Rd., S.W., Cartersville, Ga, 770-387-3747, gastateparks.org/EtowahMounds. Open Wed.-Sat. $6 adults, $4 youth, $2 children under 6.
Funk Heritage Center One of the most comprehensive museums on Native American cultures in the United States is located near Canton, on the campus of Reinhardt College. The museum provides a great introduction to the indigenous cultures of the Southeast with its extensive collection of art and artifacts that span more than 100 centuries. Artifact displays and interactive exhibits (including a kids’ area) show what daily life was like for Southeastern Native Americans and early Appalachian settlers. Be sure to check out the award-winning short film, “The Southeastern Indians” and the outdoor Appalachian Settlement designed to interpret the pioneer experience with authentic log cabins, a blacksmith shop and other farm buildings. There is also a walking trail and a Native Garden where the littles can get out any restless energy.
New Echota State Historic Site One of the most significant Cherokee Indian sites in the nation is only an hour’s drive from Atlanta. New Echota, established in 1825, was the capital of the Cherokee Nation. It was the site of the first Indian language newspaper and the meeting place where tribal leaders gathered to sign the Treaty of New Echota which led to the tragic Trail of Tears. After the forced removal of the Cherokee in the 1830s, New Echota was left to return to farm land. Today, visitors can get a glimpse of what New Echota looked like when it was a thriving Cherokee settlement. Kids will enjoy getting to go inside the site’s 12 original and reconstructed buildings, including the Council House, Court House, Print Shop, a missionary’s home, an 1805 store, as well as outbuildings such as smoke houses, corn cribs and barns. There’s also an interpretive center with a film and exhibits about New Echota and the Cherokee. With the site’s nature trails, you could easily spend half a day here exploring.
Details: 1211 Chatsworth Hwy, N.E., Calhoun, Ga, 706-624-1321, gastateparks.org/NewEchota. Open Thurs.-Sat. $7 adults, $5.50 Children 6-11, Free for kids under 6.
Chief Vann House Called the “Showplace of the Cherokee Nation,” this impressive 1812 brick mansion was home to Chief James Vann and later his son, Joseph Vann. While a historic home tour may not be at the top of every kid’s to-do list, you can make it interesting by pointing out some of the unusual features and folklore – like the original hand carved woodwork and “floating staircase” crafted by Moravian missionaries and the children’s bedroom demonstrating what life was like for a 19th century kid. It’s also rumored that President James Madison slept there in 1819. The site is significant for many reasons, but perhaps most for the way it demonstrates the interaction between the Cherokee and other cultures – from outside missionaries to white settlers and enslaved African-Americans. It may be surprising to some that Cherokee Indians, like the Vanns, ran prosperous plantations and owned slaves. The visitor center next door offers exhibits and a film about the Vanns and life on the Cherokee plantation.
Details: 82 Ga. Highway 225 N, Chatsworth, Ga, 706-695-2598, gastateparks.org/ChiefVannHouse. Open Thurs.-Sat. $6 adults, $4 Children 6-17, Free for kids under 6.
Looking to learn more about Native American history? Be sure to check out the Atlanta History Center’s exhibit Native Lands: Indians and Georgia open now through October 12th.
Living with a junior conductor or two? Bring your little trainiacs to The Oregon Rail Heritage Center to really give them a thrill. The Center houses three steam locomotives and one railcar on its two tracks, which your kiddos can get up close and personal with (read: a great winter break activity).
The Little 503(c) That Could
Located at the intersection of light rail, heavy rail and the new eastside streetcar, the ORHC brings to life a vision many years in the making, a home for its three historic steam trains that were donated to the citizens of Bridgetown in 1958. Previous efforts faltered and failed but last year – with many years of involved fundraising by the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation – victory was theirs (or ours, depending how you look at it). Over $5 million tender has been raised to date, closing in on their almost $6 million goal. Cinders and ashes, that’s a lot of pistons!
Clatter and Clack
The ORHC’s guides and historians eagerly keep the lure and lore of trains alive. The site’s location and design are a testament to that; it’s in train mecca – take a streetcar to get there, watch and listen to the Union Pacific and Oregon Pacific trains chuff along SE Water Street and the Springwater Corridor, and soon (in 2015) the Portland Milwaukie Max train will roll by right beside its front doors. Some of the rail cars used for the Holiday Express and other excursions are on display, gleaming outside the building.
What to See & When
The ORHC space is called a center for a reason since it is not a full-blown museum. It is one large room where the trains are on display only. No climbing aboard or getting inside. If your kiddo isn’t going to handle that well, perhaps waiting until he/she is older is best. Or wait for an event where the trains are open for tours. Memberships for families run about $40 per year and are tax deductible.
That being said, volunteers happily discuss all that they know and love about the locomotives and their legacy. It’s probably best understood by elementary-aged railroad buffs, but the younger set of junior conductors need not stay home. Your youngsters will find plenty to occupy their time at the Chuggington train table just inside the front door. Plus, outside the roundhouse are construction vehicles galore – thanks to the light rail and other projects going on. Excavators, diggers and trains – oh my!
ORHC hosts a gift shop for souvenirs. They are a stone’s throw (2 minutes by car, 10 minute walk door-to-door) from OMSI, so give ORHC plus or minus an hour’s time depending on your mini-engineer’s attention span for trains – then head over for an easy double-header of an afternoon. The ORHC is open Thursday through Sunday from 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. and is free. Whoo-whoo (or, should we say, choo choo!).
Riding The Rails
The small parking lot under the new 99E viaduct at SE Caruthers St. and SE Grand Ave. is a bit confusing upon entry but a very cool place to leave the car. On-street parking is available on SE 6th Ave. or SE Division Pl and there are no meters to feed in this part of traindom.
Fun Fact
Portland is the only city in the US to own two operating steam locomotives.
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
2250 SE Water St.
Portland, Or
Online: orhf.org
Have you checked out ORHC? Leave us a comment below and let us know about your experience.
Written by: Liz Overson
Special thanks for the photos to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center