Tucked away in the heart of vibrant New Orleans, Loews New Orleans Hotel offers families a blend of luxury, comfort, and Southern charm that’s hard to beat. If you’re experiencing this iconic hotel firsthand, prepare to be blown away by its family-friendly atmosphere and prime location. This journey through the Big Easy is a memorable one, and you’ll see why this hotel is the ultimate destination for your next family getaway.
From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be enveloped in the city’s unmistakable warmth and hospitality. The hotel’s elegant decor is fully infused with Southern flair and immediately sets the stage for an unforgettable stay. Of course, it’s the staff that makes the atmosphere really come alive. Be prepared for genuine smiles and above-and-beyond service.
Room for the Whole Crew
One of the highlights of your stay at is the spacious, family-friendly accommodations. Their rooms provide space for both parents and kiddos, complete with large bathrooms, suite layouts, and stunning views of the city skyline. Thoughtful amenities like a mini-fridge and complimentary Wi-Fi add an extra level of convenience that makes all the difference when you’re traveling with little ones.
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Loews Loves Families
Loews goes above and beyond to cater to families. Cribs are complimentary, and so are their baby bath amenity kits, so no worries if you forget something. Just ask if you need gaming tablets, bath gear, or coloring books and crayons. Plus, kids under 18 stay free!
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Family Bonding, New Orleans Style
New Orleans is the ultimate playground for families, and Loews is the perfect home base for exploring all the city has to offer. From the iconic French Quarter with its street performers, art and mouthwatering beignets to the family-friendly Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, the Big Easy has a ton to offer. With its convenient location within walking distance of top attractions, the hotel makes it easy for families to navigate the city. We we able to easily walk to the French Quarter, restaurants, shopping, and waterfront photo ops.
Jackson Square, Loews New Orleans Hotel
Loews New Orleans Hotel is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination
When it comes to planning a family vacation, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference. Loews offers a winning combination of luxury, convenience, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re lounging by the indoor pool, exploring the city with your loved ones, or indulging in authentic Cajun specialties at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Poydras & Peters, you’ll definitely feel right at home.
Poydras & Peters, Loews New Orleans Hotel
From the warm hospitality to the family-friendly features and central location, this iconic hotel is sure to surpass all your expectations and leave you excited to return. If you’re planning a family adventure to New Orleans, look no further than Loews New Orleans Hotel for an unforgettable experience that the whole family will adore!
Loews New Orleans Hotel
Editor’s accommodations provided by Loews New Orleans Hotel, and all opinions are that of the author.
We’ve got easy-prep picnic snacks so you can spend more time on the blanket and less time in the kitchen
It’s prime picnic party season, so make sure you’re prepared with a full lineup of crowd-pleasing picnic snacks. From no-cook s’mores to deviled eggs, we’ve got you covered with easy picnic snacks and picnic food ideas for kids that you can tote to the park, beach, or wherever your summertime adventures take you.
The best part about adding shrimp spring rolls to your list of favorite picnic snacks is that you can add whatever you want to the rice paper. So, if you have a picky kid who loves cucumber but hates cilantro, skip that spice when rolling theirs up. Use pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on time, and don’t forget the peanut sauce! Get the recipe from Jessica Gavin.
Fruit is always a good picnic snack, so take it to the next level with this easy dip from Chelsea's Messy Apron. It only has four ingredients, so it's an easy addition to your al fresco menu.
Fluffy and salty, air fryer pretzels are a super easy snack to pack for your upcoming picnic. Enjoy a la carte or pack a special dipping sauce to them to the next level. Head to Bitz & Giggles for the full recipe.
No one wants a messy meal when it comes to a picnic! These fried lemon hand pies pack all the sweet punch, can be made in advance and keep the mess to a minimum. Head to Food Fanatic for the full recipe.
A sandwich is just a sandwich until you make it look like sushi! We love this tuna fish version from Weelicious, but you can swap in turkey or cream cheese for something different.
Who wants regular muffins when you can bring corn dog muffins on your picnic? Made with cornbread and hot dogs, these fun snacks make mealtime fun. Don't forget the ketchup! Head to Karen's Kitchen Stories to snag the recipe.
What's a picnic without deviled eggs? With this super simple recipe, it's easy to ensure that your al fresco meal includes this delicious staple. Older kids can even make their own version! Grab the how-to here.
Ready for mac and cheese, picnic-style? These awesome bites from Damn Delicious are an easy way to make your picnic menu even more kid-friendly. They're portable, the perfect serving size, and tasty, too! Get the recipe here.
Since picnic season usually collides with the strawberry season, we can't think of a better sweet treat for your outing than these oatmeal bars from Well Plated. They're easy to make, about 100 calories each, and sure to become a family favorite! For the recipe, click here.
Love Mexican corn on the cob, but hate the mess? Whip up a batch of this dip from Damn Delicious, which has the same tasty flavors but no cob cleanup! Pack it into a Tupperware for easy dipping or spoon individual portions into mason jars—voila!
It's easy to get your picnic cookie fix thanks to this idea from Love to Be in the Kitchen. They're packed full of peanut butter, chia seeds, honey, and mini M&Ms, which makes them excellent fuel for all that post-picnic playtime. Discover more energy bites here!
The best way to keep cool during your picnic? With a batch of this fresh ginger lemonade by Daphne Brogdon! Make it the night before and portion it into mason jars or water bottles to stay hydrated all afternoon. To get the recipe, click here.
This idea from Super Healthy Kids gives sandwiches a fun new twist! Get the kids involved with cookie cutters; they'll love stacking their favorite sandwich ingredients.
Part of Hello Wonderful’s Cooking with Kids series, this unique take on salad features colorful ingredients the kids will be excited to prep and eat (Psst! And cleanup couldn't be easier!).
The Merry Thought’s sweet twist on sandwiches is better than sliced bread! Load up the apple slices with your fave nut butter, Nutella, granola, or any other creative ingredient. Click here to get the recipe.
Even the littlest chef can help mash and mix avocado! We like this "cheaters" guacamole recipe from Averie Cooks, which makes it easy to make a delicious dip ASAP.
Need a meat-free option for your next picnic? This healthy hummus sandwich from HowDoesShe is super easy to assemble and packed with protein and a little crunch. Yum!
These ultra-colorful fruit cups are easy to assemble and packed with healthy Vitamin C. Older chefs can even help cut the fruit! Head to My Frugal Adventures for advice on choosing the best stackable fruits.
You won't have to build a fire to enjoy a campfire staple. This tasty twist on the classic s’mores dessert makes it great for daytime picnics, too! Find the recipe at 5 Minutes for Mom.
This fab picnic snack is easy to customize with everything from pretzels to nuts, dried fruit, or bite-sized chocolate chips. It’s the perfect portable treat for a day at the park! Get more info (including recommended ingredients!) at The Chirping Moms.
Summer is strawberry season, and we’re pretty sure these mini strawberry shortcakes are one of the most perfect picnic ideas for kids. Made with just four ingredients, you can make the shortbread in advance and add your dollop of whipped cream and strawberries right before you pack up the rest of your picnic snacks. Don’t want to go vegan? No problem. Justine Snacks has substitutions that work perfectly.
It’s time to ask yourself the dreaded question “What will I do with my kids this summer?” Luckily, with a little research, we’ve found tons of cool summer programs for kids that keep costs very low or even free. From the Ranger Rick photo contest to Camp Creatology, these affordable summer programs for kids are some of the best ways to stay busy when they’re not in school.
National Geographic's Summer Programs
Photograph by Matthew Rakola
The Planet Possible Family Challenge is a great way to make sure there's minimal summer brain drain. This series of projects and crafts from National Geographic hopes to inspire families to get outside, explore the habitats that surround us, and empower kids to understand why it's so important to protect them. Each challenge has three steps:
MAKE IT! A step-by-step DIY for a tool or craft that will help kids explore the microhabitat
TRY IT! Prompts or activities to encourage kids to explore and learn about biodiversity, using the Make It! craft
SAVE IT! Kid-friendly tips on protecting the microhabitat
Cost: National Geographic Premium With Disney+ is $10.99 a month. You get access to Disney+ in addition to a digital subscription to National Geographic.
If you need an incentive to get the kids to go screen-free every once in a while, check out the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Print out the Summer Reading Journal and have your kids write down which books they've read and why they liked them. Once they’ve read eight books, bring the completed journal to your local Barnes & Noble between July 1 and August 31 to get a free book.
A new national summer program for kids in 2024, Camp Invention is for kids grades K-6. It's a week-long STEM camp where kids will build thinking skills with hands-on challenges and open-ended adventures, enjoy mind-teasing games, and meet new friends.
There are over 1,000 locations nationwide and there's even an at-home camp experience that can be mailed to your doorstep.
Outschool offers dozens of classes and courses for ages ranging from toddler to tween. Do they want to learn another language? There's a class for that. How about beginning hip-hop or even wilderness skills? You can find that too.
Get your whole crew involved with Family Maker Camp—it’s a great way to flex your imagination and create something new. Join in on one of their live streams or pick something that sounds interesting out of their project library. Before you know it, you’ll have built a hovercraft or a musical instrument.
If you’re worried about getting your middle or high school kids up to speed in the new school year, Numerade has a fabulous (and free) solution. They’re offering free STEM summer camps covering SAT test prep, pre-calculus, physics, and more.
Research shows that kids connect when they're participating in an activity with you whether it's cooking, playing outside or being creative. The non-profit organization Marathon Kids, which works to ignite the joy of physical activity in kids, is launching a free summer program in hopes of making this easier for parents. Simply walk a mile and talk while doing it. Each day you'll receive a new prompt, there's a special mileage tracker, and by the end, you'll have walked the length of a marathon (26 miles) while getting to know your child better.
Microsoft normally offers free kids' camps at their stores during the summer, but they've moved online for now. Kids can sign up for free online workshops to tour the Smithsonian, plan a virtual road trip, put their Minecraft skills to the test, and more. Ages range from 6 to 14, and while the camps are free, advance registration is required.
Give your kids an exciting and engaging adventure this summer with one of Brain Chase's 2024 treasure hunt programs. How does it work? Kids will race against other teams in a week-long competition of escape room puzzles and adventures. Each interactive escape room is filled with hidden clues, and there are physical challenges as well. The fun starts on June 3.
From May 9 - Sept. 12, 2024, as kids track their reading streaks, they’ll unlock fun videos, book excerpts, and other exclusive summer content when you download Scholastic's free Home Base app. Kids can play games, meet their favorite book characters, write fiction, and upload art, You can register here, and check out the info for parents here.
If you’ve got a budding Ansel Adams at home, the Ranger Rick photo contest is a great way to keep them busy over the summer. First, head for the great outdoors (or your backyard) and have them take nature photos. Then, select their favorite and send it in with proper sizing (2 MB or smaller, JPG format, at least 600 pixels wide or 600 pixels tall). If your kid doesn’t have a digital camera, no worries! Phone images are also accepted.
Recent winners (this is an ongoing contest) are entered into the running for Ranger Rick’s "Your Best Shots" Magazine Award and are selected three times a year. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and copies of the magazine featuring the winning image!
It's never too early to instill the habit of giving to others. Have your little philanthropists sign up with Kids That Do Good this summer to spend time giving back to their local community. The online (kid-founded!) resource allows kids to get involved with a cause or charity of their choosing—or, if you’ve got real go-getters at home—create their own! Once you’ve created an account and found an organization, kids can track their service hours via social profiles and certificates.
Designed to help spark the imaginations of kiddos ages 8-12, this three-day workshop allows kids to explore and expand on their digital creativity. They’ll choose one of three tracks and spend 90 minutes of each day working on their project. Be sure to sign up here to get an email announcing open registration for the summer program for kids (it usually starts in June)—spots fill up quickly!
The Home Depot offers workshops that are perfect for mini-makers. Simply pre-register online, and then show up on the selected Saturday to build fun projects like a picket fence planter. At the end of the two-hour workshop, kids receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.
Does your artist dream of paint, paper, glitter, and glue? If so, Michael’s Camp Creatolgy is the perfect way to beat the summer brain drain. Information for Summer 2024 will drop in late May, but camps usually run from mid-June to mid-July and are for ages 6 & up. If you don't want to sign up for the in-store classes, online programs are also available.
Cost: The classes are free, but the required materials cost $40 for the entire summer.
Budding bowlers can perfect their technique all summer long thanks to Kids Bowl Free, which allows them to play up to two games a day free of charge. All that's missing is a pair of those sweet bowling shoes. To find a participating bowling alley near you, click here.
Sometimes a dark and cool movie theater is the only way to beat the heat. Your kids can sign up for a punch card or show up at participating Megaplex, Cinemark, and Regal theaters to catch a fun, kid-friendly flick for just $1-$2. Even better, most movies show before noon, making it easy to catch a flick and head home for nap time.
Xanadu your heart out and head for the local roller rink this summer. Whether your kids like to skate or rollerblade, a few laps will get their blood pumping, and the cool, A/C-induced temps are a total bonus. The Kids Skate Free program allows families to take advantage of this offer once a week (during the summer months). Click here to find out if it’s happening at your local rink.
If you’ve got a National Park nearby, be sure to sign up your mini explorers for the NPS Junior Ranger Program. Each kiddo will be outfitted with a handy Junior Ranger guidebook that's filled with historical facts and cool tips about all the National Parks. Every adventurer also gets the chance to complete a series of activities, share answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Click here to learn more.
Insider Tip: Kids can earn badges at home by downloading activity books and information packets. Click here for more info.
If you are a Bank of America or a Merrill Lynch cardholder, you can snag free admission at more than 150 museums, science centers, and botanical gardens across the country on two days every month just by showing your card. Find out if your favorite museum is participating, and on what days, by clicking here.
Keep the summer boredom away with this fun digital learning platform. Kids ages three to seven can learn STEAM concepts while watching videos and participating in interactive online activities. You can try it out with a seven-day free trial; after that, it’s $7.99 a month.
From the creative minds behind Angry Birds, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Ice Age comes a free, interactive camp-style YouTube summer experience for kids. Every day is new, and activities include making food, doing science experiments, singing songs, and more. Counselors will be on hand to lead extra content and be on the lookout for special guest stars including Sparkles and Beaver and Scribbles the Cat.
You’re excited about your destination. The journey to get there—maybe not so much. But before you start writing preemptive apology letters to your fellow airplane passengers, try some of these genius airplane hacks to keep your brood calm, happy, and organized on even thelongest of flights. From where to sit on the plane to how to pack so you can whip out the right stuff at the right time (Hello, emergency lollipops!), here are the best travel and packing tips for your next flight.
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1. Get TSA PreCheck status to breeze through security. True, some airports will whisk families through security to help weary moms and dads get through the lines without having to tame tantrums or retrieve runaway kiddos—but it’s not a guarantee. To help make sure your wait in the security line is a quick one, apply for TSA PreCheck status, which lets you and your kids breeze through security a little faster (PreChecked travelers use a separate line and don’t need to remove their shoes or belts nor remove liquids, laptops or light jackets). Children under 13 can use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with a parent or guardian who has the indicator on their boarding pass. Even better? It only costs $85 for five years.
Insider Tip: Make sure to apply for PreCheck status at least two weeks before your flight, then add your “Known Traveler Number” to your reservation.
2. Fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday. According to air travel experts, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least popular days to fly—which means not only could you get a better deal on your flight, but you may end up with a free seat next to you in the air. In contrast, Sundays are the most expensive, according to TravelFreak.com.
3. Pre-order meals and snacks. Every parent knows it takes something as simple as, “Sorry, we ran out of the Pirate’s Booty” to send a cranky kid into a hangry downward spiral. To avoid this in-air calamity, pre-order any onboard snacks (besides the ones you pack) ahead of time. Most airlines will let you do this within two weeks of your flight, allowing you to prepay for meals or snacks so that you’re guaranteed your food of choice even if you’re sitting in the last row to be served (most airlines even have kids meals, which reportedly taste way better than their grown-up counterparts).
Insider Tip: To reserve meals, go to the “Manage My Booking” section for your flight and find the option for meals and snacks.
4. Sit up front if you’re worried about motion sickness—and the back if you’re potty training. If you’ve got a kid who gets queasy easily, sitting at the front of the plane or between the wings is your best bet since this is the most stable part of the airplane. The back seats, by contrast, will be the bumpiest when the air gets choppy. That said, if you’ve got a kid who’s new to the potty, choose a seat in the back, so you’re close to the lavatory. Sitting in the rear of the aircraft also means you’re within easy reach of in-flight amenities (you can usually get cups of water or seconds on snacks), and you’ll have a bit of room to stretch your legs if you need to rock a nearly-snoozing child.
5. Use packing cubes to grab-and-go. When your wiggly tot needs to get to the bathroom, pronto, digging through your carry-on to find diapers and wipes need to be a lightning-fast feat. To prep for this inevitable moment, use a clear packing cube to make an easy-to-grab potty kit that you can whisk out of your carry-on the moment you see your wee one wiggling. Packing cubes are also great for separating snacks, spare clothes, toys, and other items you’ll need to grab at a moment’s notice. Try these EZPacking Cubes for clear plastic pouches or these compression mesh cubes that let you squish your stuff down to fit it all in.
Insider Tip: Bring extra Ziploc bags in case you need a place to put soiled or wet clothes.
6. Use a blow-up footrest to make naps happen.This blow-up footrest lets your little ones lay flat (if they’re small enough) or put their feet up to get cozy. It also works to keep toys and crayons from falling to the floor since it takes up almost all of the space in front of the seat. Blowing it up can be a little tedious—you use your mouth or a pump (sold separately)—but once it’s inflated, your tot will be the envy of your seatmates. Buy it here.
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7. Use a phone wallet for easy access to travel documents and credit cards. When you’re shuffling kids through security, keeping all of your travel documents easily accessible is a must. So carry your phone and your credit cards in one of these wearable “phone wallets” so you can whip out your tickets and pay for snacks without needing to open your purse. Not only that, but you’ll be able to quickly snap a photo or hand over Youtube Kids at a moment’s notice. Win-win!
8. Use busy boxes to keep kids entertained without screens. Sure, you can hand over your phone and let kids veg out the whole flight, but if your kids are too young for marathon TV sessions or you want to occupy them for a few minutes without a screen—airplane busy boxes are a fun way to pass the time. Make them yourself by filling a pencil case with a variety of small toys and games suitable for your child, or head to Etsy and buy one, made-to-order. Stellar seller 2Plus3EqualsWe makes magical ones that can be personalized with your child’s name.
Insider Tip: Don’t show them to your kids until you’re up in the air!
9. “Surprise Eggs” are your friends. If the wild success of YouTube channels like Ryan’s World is any indication, simply opening a toy is almost more fun than playing with it. So bring along wrapped or boxed toys that your child can “unbox” while in flight. It can be as simple as filling plastic Easter eggs with tiny toys from the Dollar Store or buying pre-made kits online, like this 30 toy-filled eggs set on Amazon. Our choice: “Surprise Balls” like Mini Brands Toys (which come with tiny replicas of popular toys and are gender-neutral) take at least 15-20 minutes to unwrap, open, and explore, and they’re relatively small to toss in your carry-on. Keep them a secret, then hand them over when your kids get fidgety.
Insider Tip: Bring Play-Doh for kids to stick to the tray table—it works great for anchoring small toys in place!
10. Listen to Stories. There are only so many books you can bring to read to your child on a plane. So leave the storytelling to this genius little gadget that makes it easy for kids to listen to stories or songs without needing to know how to read the controls. All they have to do is slide the sturdy story card into the slot and push a button. Content cards range from Disney faves like Frozen and Spider-Man to kid-lit classics like The MagicTreehouse and Ramona Quimby. There are even cards that let you record your voice so you can read a story, sing a song, or just talk to your child and they can listen to your voice on demand.
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11. Bring triangular crayons. Coloring is a no-brainer way to help pass the time on a long flight. To keep crayons from slipping and sliding off of the fold-down tray, bring triangle-shaped ones that will lay flat.
12. Tether important toys. Your kid won’t travel without her favorite lovey, but you know that doll is bound to end up on the dirty airplane floor. What’s a parent to do? Strap one of these handy tethers onto your kids’ important items to keep them from falling onto the ground (or getting lost). Note: You can attach one end to your child’s wrist (or yours) if you can’t find any other place to loop it.
13. Check the car seat. Don’t feel like lugging your toddler’s car seat but need something more than the airplane seatbelt to keep your little wiggler in place? Try this airplane hack that uses a safety harness that straps onto the airplane seat to create the same sort of five-point harness your child is used to, without the bulk. Because it holds the child’s chest area as well as the waist—the same way a car seat seatbelt does—the FlySafe harness can help restless kids fall asleep more easily on a plane. It is designed for kids that weigh 22-44 pounds and is small enough to fit in your purse.
14. Use a folding travel desk to keep things within reach. If your child likes to draw or craft her way through a long flight, a fold-out desk like this one is the perfect way to keep all those art supplies within reach and off the airplane floor. There are pockets for all the things your child needs, and it folds up easily for easy carrying to and from your destination. It also works to cover that infamously dirty tray table.
15. Roll your child through the airport. When you’re rushing to make a flight and you don’t want to worry about your child toddling into restricted areas or making a beeline for the airport store, this strap-on child seat fits on the back of your rolling luggage and lets your kid cruise right along with your carry-on. It works with children up to 50 pounds and attaches to any 20-24″ rolling suitcase. Want something a little more sophisticated? Micro’s Luggage Eazy has a built-in kid seat on the top of its roller case so you can zip through the terminal in style.
16. Get a seat with a bassinet for long-haul flights. Did you know most international flights offer bassinets that attach to the wall of the front row in coach? It’s true… and it’s amazing! To secure one of the few seats on the plane that offer this perk, book your seats way ahead of time by calling the airline directly and requesting the bassinet seats. The bassinets make a great napping and tummy time space and are available for babies up to about a year (though age and weight limits vary per airline). Check out this post from FlyingwithaBaby, which compares bassinet seats (and rules for them) for almost all major airlines.
17. Bring pain relief, just in case. The last thing you want when you’ve just reached cruising altitude is to hear the sad wail from your little one that can only mean one thing: something hurts. To help any in-flight ouchies (such as ear pain, which is common during the winter when kids have constant stuffiness), bring a bottle of infant or child Tylenol or Advil (plus the measuring cup that comes with it), just in case.
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18. Use disposable mats on airplane trays. You don’t want to know what might be lurking on the tray table where your one-year-old just plopped his pacifier. One of our favorite airline hacks is to keep those yuckies covered with a disposable like this “Tray Mask.” That way, when your kids pour their pretzels out of the bags (because you know they will), you can rest assured knowing the table is clean.
19, Stash pacifiers in condiment cups. If you don’t want your extra pacifiers collecting dirt and grime, grab a few extra to-go dressing cups the next time you eat out. Each one is a perfect binky-holder.
20. Get this suitcase that doubles as a lay-flat bed. JetKids has invented what may be the coolest travel gadget for kids: The JetKids By Stokke Bedbox works as a scooter suitcase in the airport (your kids can roll themselves or be pulled by you) and transforms into a lay-flat bed for babies and toddlers in-flight. At $199, it’s a pricey purchase, but considering the peace of mind you’ll get knowing your little one will snooze the flight away, it may be worth it. Read our in-depth review of the BedBox here.
21. Use free printables. If the power on the tablet runs out, and you’re up for a family game, whip out a few air travel BINGO cards and start scanning the aisles for your winning items. See a beverage cart? Check!! Hear someone sneeze? BINGO! You can make your own cards or try one of these free printables.
22. Conquer achy ears. The frequent flyers over at Nourishing Little Souls picked up this hack from a flight attendant for when their little ones’ ears pop en route. Simply pour steaming hot water onto paper towels and stuff them into the bottom of two cups. Then, hold the cups so that they’re sealed over your kid’s ears; any pressure disappears in a flash.
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23. Make in-flight snack time a game. Tots love to open and close things, so take a cue from Lemon Stripes by stretching out the mid-flight snack by stashing their favorite nibbles—goldfish, granola, raisins—into a days-of-the-week pill case. They’ll get a kick out of popping open each compartment and picking out the treats inside.
24. Use saran wrap or portable cup covers to minimize in-flight spills. Keep in-flight juice messes to a minimum by covering open cups (like the ones flight attendants hand out) with a piece of Press n’ Seal. Stick a straw into the top and voila! Looking for something you can use again and again? Try these ingenious portable cup covers that fit onto almost any cup.
25. Abandon screen time rules. If endless episodes of Dora The Explorer or a few hours of Minecraft is all it takes to keep your little jet-setter happy on a cross-country journey, let it happen. When it comes to screen time on an airplane, we say there are no rules. Quiet kids = Happy plane.
Insider Tip: If you’re downloading movies to the tablet, don’t forget a jack splitter so your kids can watch together. Also, don’t forget to download your airline’s app so you can watch free movies and shows in-flight (most airplanes without courtesy screens offer this).
26. Bring lots of lollipops. Hear us out: If your kids are having trouble popping their ears during takeoff and landing, sucking on lollipops can help. It also helps during temper tantrums and meltdowns (You’re on a plane: You do what you have to do). Don’t be afraid to offer them to the harried parents a few rows up—this airplane hack works like magic.
We all want a home that’s stylish, comfortable, and inviting. Some of us even spend hours scrolling through Insta-worthy design accounts, pinning rooms on Pinterest, and devoting way too much time to the latest home makeover shows. However, despite our best efforts, we often fall victim to common interior design mistakes that can leave a room feeling less than ideal.
So, we consulted interior design experts to learn more about the most common mistakes they see and how to fix them. From getting a little too matchy-matchy to investing in a too-small area rug to stay on budget, here are nine common interior design mistakes and easy tips on how to avoid them.
Common Interior Design Mistake #1: Purchasing a rug that’s too small for the room and its furnishings.
Selena Reif and Erin Anderson, the Southern California powerhouse designers behind Fleurish Interiors notice many of their clients making the same common interior design mistakes despite having the best intentions. Topping the list—the wrong rug size. “A good rule of thumb is to make sure the front two legs of every piece of furniture are on the rug, and smaller pieces like coffee tables, ottomans, and benches should be completely on the rug. If it’s a rug in a dining space, make sure you can pull the chairs out enough for people to get on and off them while keeping the chair on the rug the whole time,” Anderson says.
Common Mistake #2: Pushing furniture to the walls of a room, especially in the living room.
To create more space, people tend to jam furniture against the walls. Unfortunately, this interior design mistake has the opposite effect. “Oftentimes we see a sofa or sectional shoved against a wall or corner, and it makes the room feel cramped, despite the thought that giving more space in the middle might do otherwise,” explains Reif.
But don’t worry—there’s an easy fix. The interior design duo advises clients to “pull your furniture off the walls to create some breathing room, and if there’s enough space, you can even add a console table or piece of furniture behind it to add depth and layer to your room.”
Common Mistake #3: Hanging curtains too low.
Many interior design mistakes stem from scale and how things are hung or positioned in a room. Here’s what Reif and Anderson suggest: “Hang your curtains high and wide. Rather than placing the curtain rod just above and slightly wider than the window, we like to go up almost to the ceiling (if it’s an 8’-10’ ceiling) and give enough width to the rod that when open, the curtains can bunch to sides of the window while only overlapping the glass by a couple of inches. This gives the room height and creates the illusion of a much wider window.”
Ideally, you want a room to coordinate but not match. Rooms that look collected over time and feature a variety of tones, textures, and materials always look more stylish than rooms that look like they could have been purchased all from the same store. Reif’s takeaway, “We know they do make the bed and nightstands and dresser all in a matching style, but choose your favorite piece and only get that one. Then pick complementary pieces for the rest of the furniture so the room feels thoughtful and collected.”
Common Mistake #5: Believing that new is always better.
Designers will tell you that nothing dates a room more than everything being from the same era. Anderson says, “Just like you wouldn’t want all the furniture in your room to be from the same set, you wouldn’t want everything to be brand new, either. Add in some vintage. Bringing in something aged or timeworn helps to bring character and a beautiful texture to your space. It doesn’t need to be a big or expensive piece. Think planters, accessories, or even art!”.
Common Interior Design Mistake #6: Outdated hardware.
Interior Designer Melanie Raver, owner of Rave Interior Design, shares a common interior design mistake that’s easy to fix and won’t break the bank. “Clients often keep their hardware on cabinetry in the kitchen, bathroom vanities, and dressers way too long. Replacing it with something you find at local hardware stores, Amazon, or even thrifting it at your local goodwill can add character and immediately elevate your space.”
“For kitchens, go classic and streamlined; for dressers, go bold and fun! Update kids’ dressers or nightstands with fun floral knobs or big, bold, colorful balls. Don’t forget the door hardware as well. You can easily change out a door knob for a more modern look with a flat round gold or go for a vintage vibe with brass and glass. The possibilities are endless!” suggests Raver.
Common Mistake #7: Hanging art that’s too high or too small for a room.
Some designers suggest hanging art at eye level so you never have to strain your neck to see it. Another trade trick is to move your eye vertically up the wall, imagine the wall divided into four sections, and then place the art in the third quadrant, counting from the floor up. Also, try to fill as much of the wall as possible with art; if it’s a collection, orient it in the shape of the wall.
When hanging art over a sofa or headboard, the rule of thumb is to start with 5″–8″ between the top of the furniture and the bottom of the art. Of course, it depends on the size of the art piece and how much space exists between the furniture piece and your ceiling, but you can always start here and readjust.
Common Mistake #8: Bad lighting.
Even the most beautiful space looks a bit scary under fluorescent overhead lights. Always consider both natural and artificial light sources when designing a space. You won’t regret the money you invest in the bulbs and fixtures that give off the most flattering light. The most common mistake is people rely on one light (usually overhead) when good lighting is achieved by multiple sources at different heights throughout your home.
Common Interior Design Mistake #9: All trim is painted white.
One common painting faux pas often overlooked is not being intentional about the color of your trim (including crown molding, wainscoting, baseboards, etc). Design expert Raver suggests opting to “color drip” rather than having all the trim in your home painted white while the wall is painted a color. “Painting the trim or molding the same color as the wall makes it look more custom and contemporary. We don’t want the white of the trim to break apart the wall into sections, and it tends to look like an afterthought that was added rather than built-in,” advises Raver.
There’s one universal truth in parenthood—there’s never enough time to make dinner. We’re always running someone to soccer practice, fighting giant piles of laundry, and trying to work a full day in between. The solution: 5-ingredient recipes that you can whip up in a flash. These easy meals are very kid-friendly, and mostly rely on items you’re likely to already have in your pantry so you won’t have to make a separate trip to the store (who has time for that?). We’ve left out some of the more obvious choices because we know you’re already a pro at grilled cheese, taco Tuesdays, quick eggs, and the like. Consider your meal plan done!
The base for this filling dish is cheese-filled tortellini, which is pretty much the most kid-friendly pasta around. Add some mini meatballs or sliced pre-cooked sausage if you want to up the protein in this dish.
5-Ingredient Lemon Chicken with Asparagus
Pinch of Yum
Whether you go with chicken thighs or chicken breasts, this recipe from Pinch of Yum is super flavorful and easy to make. The citrus from the lemon is mellowed out with honey to satisfy those picky palates.
If your kid isn’t a Ranch fan yet, now is the time to indoctrinate them. This 4-ingredient recipe from The Cookie Rookie makes kid-friendly chicken in a veg-free sauce, so you’re more likely to avoid the mealtime tantrums.
5-Ingredient Coconut Curry
Pinch of Yum
There’s something super comforting about this coconut curry from Pinch of Yum. It uses chickpeas instead of meat so that means it will come together super fast.
Any vehicle for including more ripe tomatoes in our lives is a must-try. Also, this bread looks like a fun way to get the kids in on the cooking action.
Not only does this recipe only have 5 ingredients, but it’s a one-pot wonder as well. Chicken thighs, Brussels sprouts, and garlic are the main players in this flavorful dish.
5-Ingredient Chili
Gimme Some Oven
We love a chili recipe that comes together in a flash. You can even sub in meatless crumbles if you’d like to make this recipe from Gimme Some Oven vegetarian.
This recipe uses three of our favorite TJs items: branzino, lemony arugula salad kit, and frozen country potatoes.
One-Pot Pasta
Kristine’s Kitchen Blog
One-pot meals are a weekday dinner staple, and this one from Kristine’s Kitchen Blog serves up sausage with pasta. Bonus: You don’t even need to drain the pasta as it cooks right in the sauce.
Lemon Butter Scallops
Damn Delicious
Head over to Damn Delicious to snag this recipe that cooks up quickly and is great paired with asparagus or broccoli.
A stir fry is a great way to use up any veg that might be sitting neglected in the bottom of your fridge. This one uses duck, but you could easily sub in chicken if you prefer.
Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu
Pinch of Yum
Our advice for this full-of-flavor recipe from Pinch of Yum is to double it. It’s that good.
You’ll get lots of flavor development in a short amount of time with this recipe from Amy + Jacky. We like to serve it on toasted ciabatta rolls topped with Swiss cheese.
Our biggest dinnertime hack is using Trader Joe’s items to create a meal that is full of flavor and short on cooking time. This chicken tikka masala is the perfect option when you need dinner on the table ASAP.
This recipe has been all over TikTok, and we totally understand the hype. You just throw some cherry tomatoes and feta in the oven to bake and boil up some pasta to mix in at the end. What could be easier?
We love that this pasta recipe is full of flavor but contains no visible vegetables that may turn your crew off dinner. Gimme Some Oven explains the easy steps to making this Italian favorite.
Replying to @user9761876775593 CHICKEN LO MEIN 🍜😋 …or is this chow mein? I get so confused 😩 INGREDIENTS: ramen, chicken, veggies, soy sauce, oyster sauce 🍴 Add seasoning to your chicken then fry on high heat. Remove and add veggies to pan. Boil noodles for 3 mins or package directions. Mix osyer sauce, a splash of soy sauce, ramen seasoning, and water. Combine everything and enjoy! If you want to 🤌🏼 jazz it up 🤌🏼 add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to your veggies when cooking! #budgetmeals#51030meals#ramennoodles#lomeim#chowmein#dinnerideas#easydinnerideas#cheapeasymeals
It’s the eternal dinnertime dilemma: how to get a healthy meal on the table while juggling a million other responsibilities. Our solution? Break out the baking trays, because sheet pan dinners are about to change your life. These easy dinner recipes are a cinch to make and even easier to clean up. You’ll serve up a hearty feast your family will devour and then be off to your next commitment in no time. Looking for other dinner recipes that don’t take too much work? Take a look at our favorite slow cooker recipes.
The ultimate comfort food might have just gotten easier. By using a sheet pan, your family can customize their grilled cheese and you can make more than one at once. Get more details at Food for a Year.
What is it about pork tenderloin that makes it a perfect dinner for a cozy night at home? This recipe from No. 2 Pencil includes all the sides and only takes 25 minutes in the oven.
If there’s one thing (almost) every kid likes, it’s teriyaki chicken. This easy sheet pan dinner from Six Sisters Stuff calls for veggies too, but you can steam them for picky eaters or just skip them together.
Smashburgers you can make without a grill? We like the sound of that! This version of a hamburger is flatter than others, which gives it a crispy edge and locks in flavor. With this recipe from The View from Great Island, you can make it all in your oven in no time.
This recipe will get dinner on the table in 30 minutes! This salmon sheet pan dinner from Weelicious is delicious and so easy to clean up after a long day.
This recipe from Cait’s Plate is bound to be an instant favorite with your crew. You can customize the toppings to fit your family’s tastes, while still getting in plenty of veggies and protein.
This Oktoberfest-inspired kid friendly sheet pan dinner from The Rustic Foodie is a year-round favorite. The smoked sausage pairs beautifully with red potatoes, and a tangy mustard glaze brings everything together.
This lightning-fast dish from Meal Prep on Fleek is the perfect pick for busy weeknights. The shrimp and veggies cook up in less than 10 minutes and pair perfectly with a fresh pico de gallo and warm tortillas.
You can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleasing shawarma recipe from Inquiring Chef. The well-seasoned marinade makes the chicken super delicious, and your little ones can jazz it up at the table with toppings like tzatziki sauce, veggies, and hummus.
Pretend you’re in Italy for the evening with this delish idea from Nicole’s Tasting Spoon. Like a Caprese salad, melty fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil pair perfectly with chicken breast.
Keep things simple and healthy with this great recipe from Kalyn’s Kitchen. Sweet potatoes, broccoli, and sausage go well together, especially when you add a balsamic glaze to the equation.
Sesame oil is the pantry item you'll need for this tray bake from The Seasoned Mom. It combines pineapples, peppers, and sweet potatoes for a fresh, sweet roast of Hawaiian flavors. When you're looking for an easy sheet pan dinner to lift the family's spirits, this is it.
These Mexican chicken enchilada fries might sound like a side dish but topped with chicken, black beans, and corn, they're likely to become a filling family favorite. The good news is that the tray can be made a few hours ahead of time and reheated to crisp up when everyone's ready to eat. Get the recipe from Well Plated, and skip the jalapeño to make it an extra kid friendly sheet pan dinner.
The humble baked potato goes a long way to filling empty tummies (check out this version in our archives). You can take it a step further with this irresistible combination of bacon and cheese in crunchy potato skins from Pinch of Yum. The kids won't even care that there's kale pesto involved! Don't be put off by the idea of scooping out and refilling potato skins—save the mash for later in the week—and treat the family to a baked potato meets pizza feast. Yum!
One of our favorite sheet pan dinners is this paella dish from A Spicy Perspective. Fresh shrimp, chorizo, peas, and easy-cook rice all layer up to make a meal the family will love. It's easy and delicious, plus it can be cooked and prepped in less than 30 minutes. Switch out the chorizo for a mild sausage alternative if the kids aren't into hotter flavors.
Marinated pork chops are the star attraction in this sheet pan dinner; they're complemented by roasted broccoli and fresh pineapple chunks. The only tricky bit is getting prepped with the marinade the night before, but other than that, this recipe from Aggie's Kitchen couldn't be easier—dinner will be ready in 20 minutes.
Kids will love these tasty sheet pan chicken fajitas from Boulder Locavore! Just 20 minutes of cooking time, and dinner can go straight from the oven to the table. Just wrap it in tortillas, and you're good to go.
Don't be put off by the idea of making pizza from scratch—this one shapes up in an hour and will be worth the extra effort. The View From Great Island will get you going on this recipe, and then you can add your family's favorite toppings.
This recipe from Weelicious calls for the ingredients to be cooked in a parchment paper envelope, so the pan doesn't even need washing! It can also be adapted for different tastes, as you can swap out the Asian flavors of ginger and sesame for basil and tomatoes or add different veggies or cooked grains—whatever the kids will eat. The contents of the bag will be gently steamed for an easy dinner.
Chicken sheet pan dinners come in so many forms, and this one from NeighborFood can be in your oven in less than 15 minutes. Then, 45 minutes later, the dishes are done and dinner's ready. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, and pesto are the secrets here.
This shrimp and veggie sheet pan dinner from Weelicious is delicious and easy! Everyone will love it and kids will love to help make it. This recipe is great for getting everyone together in the kitchen.
This tasty sausage with cabbage and apples recipe from Weelicious is simple to make and easy to clean up. Your family will love to eat this and your kids can help make it!
How many times have you wanted to just order takeout instead of cooking something on a busy weeknight? Probably more than a few. Rather than stress over preparing a meal from scratch, why not rely on some of the best Trader Joe’s frozen food? These meals, snacks, and sides are quick, simple, and easy on the wallet. Best of all, there’s something for everyone, even your pickiest eaters. (Check our top Trader Joe’s food for picky eaters, too!)
Trader Joe’s Frozen Kimbap
These newcomers took the freezer case by storm and were often on backorder, much to the chagrin of TJ’s shoppers. They pack an umami punch and are great to have on hand for quick lunches.
Mac and Cheese Bites
It's the best of both worlds with Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese bites: bite-size bites of cheesy goodness and a crispy crust. With seven types of cheese that include Cheddar, Havarti, Swiss, Gouda, Cream Cheese, Monterey Jack, and Pecorino Romano for good measure, the whole family will meet their dairy quota for the day, all while enjoying the updated panko-style breading.
Beef Bulgogi
This is one pound of seasoned beef, and you’ll love serving it up with some rice (see below) and potstickers.
Trader Joe’s Frozen Rice
You can have jasmine or brown rice on the table in three minutes with these microwaveable packets in the frozen section. They have literally saved so many dinners.
Hash Browns
These hash browns have addicting properties so consider yourself warned. We love them on weekends when you want something to go with your scrambled eggs.
Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
While these aren’t a meal per se (though no judgment if you disagree), we had to include them in this list of favorites. You won’t want to share these with the kids so find a safe spot for them behind the broccoli. They are that good.
Vegetable Fried Rice
This quickly cooks up in minutes on your stove and it’s as close to Chinese take-out as you could hope for.
Beef Birria
If you are craving those dippable tiny tacos that you see at all the taco stands, this is a great product to keep on hand. It packs a flavor punch and is great for Mexican rice bowls or burritos.
Spinach & Artichoke Dip
You’ll love having this dip in your freezer for last-minute visitors or it also works well baked with gnocchi and cherry tomatoes for an easy, cheesy dinner.
Spizzico di Pizza
Forget Bagel Bites, these tiny pizzas will please any picky eater. We guarantee it.
Dutch Griddle Cakes
These are a relatively new release and we love them as a quick option for school mornings. They are flavored with maple syrup (think McGriddle) so you don’t even need to add any messy syrup on top. Pop a sausage patty in between for an on-the-go option.
Potato Pancakes
These latkes are delicious any time of year and heat easily in your oven so you don’t have to worry about frying them.
Gyoza Pot Stickers
This bag of potstickers is your future dinner in a flash. We prefer tossing them in with a bag of frozen vegetables and some of Trader Joe's Gyoza sauce for the perfect one-pot dinner. You can also simmer them in some broth to warm you up on a cold night.
Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this quiche—packed with Swiss cheese, spinach, and two kinds of mushrooms—just hit freezer shelves straight from France. The sweet flower shape of its real butter and wheat flour crust is pretty darling, too. Your tot can don the corresponding aluminum pan as a hat for some entertainment while this dish cooks—it needs 30 minutes in the oven. You’ll find it right next to their Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese and Quiche Lorraine mainstays.
Mini Beef Tacos
If the Shopkins sensation is any indication, kids absolutely love tiny things—so give mini foods a try. These tacos come in beef or chicken varieties and are also easy to load up with nutritious goodness like fresh tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, or Trader Joe’s reduced-guilt chunky guacamole!
We all have those nights when dinner needs to be fast and fun. Thankfully, our cries have been heard with this spin on the perennial kid favorite—the hot dog, but in a mini form. The kids will love watching these pups “puff” up in the oven. Then try widening culinary palates with a variety of dipping options, from ketchup to garlic aioli.
Gluten-Free Cheese Pizza
Food allergies are more common than ever these days it seems, and thankfully so are food options that everyone can enjoy, like this classic cheese pizza with a nutritious cauliflower crust. But the kids don’t have to be gluten-free to absolutely love this version of pizza night. It even made the list of 50 of the best Trader Joe’s products in store history.
Mini Vegetable Samosas
Trader Joe’s doesn’t rest on its food laurels. These vegetable samosas are chock full of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, onions, and Indian spices. So, yes, these do have a bit of a kick, perfect for kids who aren’t afraid to spice things up. These also pair deliciously with their Mango Ginger Chutney and other ready-to-heat side dishes.
Just when you think there isn’t anything to make for dinner, you'll remember there are meatballs in the freezer and a bag of pasta or a cup of rice ready to boil. With a stash of these minis on hand, it’s also easy to heat up a portion for a side of protein whenever a little diner needs it. Pair it with Trader Joe’s Island Soyaki for an easy dinner sensation. Toothpicks always make fun mealtime props for kids, too.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
Considering this is THE most popular Trader Joe’s frozen food item for the last several years, chances are you may already know and love this freezer favorite. You fortify it with broccoli, peas, and green peppers. Vegetarians and vegans can also rejoice because Chicken-Less Mandarin Orange Morsels are back in the freezer aisle as well.
Chocolate Croissants
Breakfast anyone? These flaky croissants will have you feeling major French vibes, with just the perfect amount of chocolate. Put out the night before to rise overnight, then toss in the oven before enjoying on the go. There's even an almond version if you prefer.
Gone Berry Crazy!
Trader Joe's
Don’t forget about dessert! How do strawberry halves drenched in dark chocolate sound? These sweet treats are brand new and already a chilly craze for summer days. The best part may be that you can eat them straight from the freezer.
If you haven’t gotten your family into glamping yet, what are you waiting for? It’s the perfect way to get out of the city and into nature without having to set up a tent. We had the opportunity to visit Huttopia’s newest outpost in Lake County’s wine country and its location combines beautiful, rolling hills with the Six Sigma Ranch vineyards just around the corner. Families will love the focus on communal gathering spaces, delicious food, activities for kids, and even a swimming pool to take a dip in during the hot summer months. And just wait until you see how decked-out the glamping tents are. Here’s the full scoop!
Huttopia Wine Country
Huttopia
When you arrive at Huttopia Wine Country, you’ll park your car in the gravel lot and head up to the lodge where you’ll check-in. This large indoor/outdoor building is where you can play games, enjoy evening s’mores, grab a coffee or a snack, and kick back and relax with other travelers. There’s even a camp store with snacks and gear available in case you forgot anything at home.
Head up the hill to your glamping tent after check-in. Staff is available to assist you with carting your gear up the hill as no cars are allowed past the parking lot. This means you can let your kids bike around the property without having to worry about cars. Brilliant!
We’ve stayed at well over a dozen glamping properties and the glamping tents at Huttopia really did impress us with their set-up and included items. Our tent had a double bed along with a twin over double bunk bed, which could sleep up to five people. This Trappeur Pacific tent also has its own bathroom with shower, kitchenette, and deck with BBQ. Running water was available for doing dishes and showering.
They really thought of everything you might need for glamping from cooking gear to extra blankets and lanterns. Tents had a cooler for storing food and down at the lodge, you could grab reusable cold packs to keep everything chilled. Best of all, the tents are all solar-powered! FYI: Some tents have communal restroom facilities instead of private in-tent bathrooms.
Things to Do at Huttopia Wine Country
Huttopia Wine Country | Kate Loweth
We can pretty much guarantee that you’ll see little of your kids during your stay at Huttopia. There are miles of trails for mountain biking and hiking, so be sure to bring your bikes or plan on renting an e-bike while you are there. Cornhole, ping-pong, foosball, and puzzles are all available for guests to use. The property also has a large swimming pool with kiddie pool where you can cool off after a hot day on the trails.
Huttopia Wine Country | Kate Loweth
During the summer months, Huttopia arranges activities like crafting, treasure hunts, and outdoor games on the weekends. Kids will also love the playground that’s right next to the pool.
Huttopia Wine Country | Kate Loweth
Movie nights under the stars are a fun way to relax after a busy day. Spread out a blanket or set up your camp chair to enjoy a kid-friendly flick.
Good to know: While you’ll really want to unplug at Huttopia, they do have WiFi available at the lodge if you need to check emails during your stay.
Dining at Huttopia
Huttopia Wine Country | Kate Loweth
While we were at Huttopia, they offered an optional dinner that was quite delicious! If this is available during your stay, you’ll definitely want to add it on as it not only ensures that you can get out of doing the dishes but the food is excellent. We had sausage with salad and veggies one night and chicken skewers another night.
In the morning, you can snag free coffee from the lodge and pastries were also available for purchase. It looked like they planned to expand their coffee service to add espresso beverages in the coming months.
Visiting Six Sigma Ranch While at Huttopia Wine Country
You’ll want to plan a visit to Six Sigma Ranch for a kid-friendly wine tasting while you’re staying at Huttopia. If you’re there on a Saturday, book a winery tour that’s conducted via a vintage all-terrain Pinzgauer. You’ll get to see the expansive property, sip wine (or juice for the kids) in one of the vineyards, and then enjoy a wine tasting at the end of your tour. The kids can run around the casual, outdoor wine-tasting area and check out the pigs and goats while you relax in the shade. Swing into the shop to snag a bottle or two to take back to Huttopia and grab some cheese and crackers to go along with your tasting.
Tips for Staying at Huttopia Wine Country
This area can get quite hot in the summer months so keep that in mind when planning your stay. Temps dip in the evening so dressing in layers is recommended. Be sure to take advantage of the extra blankets available in your tent to stay cozy at night. The glamping tents are not heated so it will likely be quite chilly when you wake up.
Be prepared to get dirty during your stay (this is glamping after all!) as the dirt roads kick up quite a bit of dust.
Getting to Huttopia Wine Country
Napa Yard | Kate Loweth
Huttopia is about an hour from Napa so you can easily plan a stop there on the way back home. We grabbed lunch at the beer garden at Napa Yard on our way back to San Jose and it was a lovely spot for kids and parents alike. Located right along the river, you’ll find cornhole games, live music, and sports playing on the screens. The menu had a lot of kid-approved options and you’ll definitely want to get the pretzels with cheese for the table to share.
Huttopia opens for the 2024 season in mid-April so you’ll want to get your spot reserved so you can check it out.
If you haven’t checked out the Airbnb Play Category, this is your sign. For fun-loving families, the Play Category makes drilling down to find the perfect vacation rental a breeze! These rentals are properties that include on-site fun beyond the regular amenities. Mini golf. Epic pools. Basketball courts. Arcades. When they say “Play”, they mean play. That also means that these properties are usually super family-friendly. These are the Airbnb experiences you’ve been looking for.
Sure, it makes total sense to go on a family vacation and use your rental house as home base for showers and sleeping, but these are some of the best Airbnb Play category rentals that you can have just as much fun at without even leaving! They’re the kind of places that are the destination themselves. A lot of times, that can even mean you’re saving some money on attractions if the real attraction is right where you’re staying. If you love life-sized dinosaurs, giant backyard chess, or Ms. Pac-man, keep reading. These are some of the best Airbnb experiences and vacation rentals, so get ready to make some family memories.
The Playhouse Retreat | Scottsdale, AZ
Airbnb
According to Airbnb, this is the #1 home in Scottsdale for families with kids of all ages. Just looking at it, that's not a surprise. An 8-person spa, resort-style lounge chairs, a kids' splash pad, playhouse town, and commercial-grade playground; what else could you possibly ask for? There's even a free baby package included if you're traveling with a little one.
Number of Guests: 11 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.99/5
Not only is this themed house amazing on its own thanks to the amazing game room, themed bedrooms (Nintendo, Marvel, and more!), but it's located within a resort, so you have access to all of those amenities, too! Clubhouse, resort pool, cabanas, poolside tiki bar, kids playground; there's no way to get bored here. The house can accommodate up to 14 guests and includes kids amenities like a highchair, kids table, crib, and baby tub!
Number of Guests: 14 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.91/5
Sure, it's 7 minutes from Disneyland, but this backyard is out of this world! Covered patio, Endeavor shuttle replica (life-sized!), full size playground, pedal cars and scooters, pedal car path, mini golf course, ping pong, lawn games—it's the backyard of our dreams! Add the galaxy-themed arcade room with 13 free-play arcade games and maybe even Disneyland can wait a day or two!
Number of Guests: 9 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 5.0/5
Yes, the amazing arcade room is a definite draw for this property (NBA Jam, Ms. Pac-Man, Street Fighter!), but the whole house is incredible! Sitting on 19 acres close to Yosemite, sunsets and stargazing are on the horizon (literally) from the huge balcony, and the giant bunk room, reading room, and massive corner spa tub are no slouches, either!
Number of Guests: 11 Cost Per Night: Varies by Date Guest Rating: 4.99/5
The centerpiece of this property is a stunning pool under these beautiful shaded trees. But, there's also a sweet patio and bocce ball, plus it's only 10-15 to downtown Austin!
Number of Guests: 16+ Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.81/5
Brand new almost 6,000sq ft cabin with stunning mountain views, indoor heated pool, theater, and game room (think: billiards, hockey table, shuffleboard, foosball, arcade racing game, arcade system, and a card table!). This play-all-day property sleeps 16+, so bring your family and friends!
Number of Guests: 16+ Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.8/5
Another right down the street from Disneyland, this one includes life-sized dino mini-golf and an arcade. The dinosaur theme continues all throughout the house and, when you're ready to leave the Jurassic Era, you can head to Disney; it's only 8 minutes away!
Number of Guests: 13 Cost Per Night: Varies by Date Guest Rating: 5.0/5
Pocono Mountain air + game rooms and tons of room for family make Lodge 603 a fab fam getaway! Theater, hot tub, game rooms with arcade games, huge outdoor area, bar, gym and close to everything? We're swooning.
Number of Guests: 12 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 5.0/5
This house is equipped with a personal concierge service, making anything from private chefs to in-home morning yoga possible, but that's not even the best part! Three-hole putting green, heated pool, playground, and so much more.
Number of Guests: 8 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.93/5
So, not only are you in Sonoma Wine Country, you don’t have to leave the property to have immediate access to a heated pool, ping pong, poker table, hammock, putting green, bocce ball court, and multiple lounge areas indoors and out!
Number of Guests: 12 Cost Per Night: Varies by date Guest Rating: 4.96/5
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