Peppa Pig is coming to LEGOLAND—with a brand-new first of its kind theme park! Your kiddo can spend the day with their fave characters, see live shows and explore interactive attractions. The Peppa-themed park is set to open inside the LEGOLAND Florida Resort on Feb. 24, 2022!
Even though the Winter Haven, Florida attraction is part of LEGOLAND, it’s a separately ticked theme park. Guests can buy Annual Passes to the Peppa Pig Theme Park as a standalone membership or as part of an inclusive pass to LEGOLAND Theme Park, LEGOLAND Water Park and other available Merlin Entertainment attractions.
What can expect from the Peppa Pig park? Mark Fisher, Group Chief Development Officer, Merlin Entertainment, said in a press release, “As one of the world leaders in location-based entertainment we are delighted to be creating this first-ever theme park dedicated to the wonderful world of Peppa Pig. We have already had great success with our immersive Peppa Pig World of Play attractions both here in the US and in Asia.”
Fisher continued, “Working with our partners at Hasbro, we are excited to be taking the next step in creating this fully immersive theme park, which will bring to life even more of the sights, sounds and experiences that family audiences know and love so much from Peppa’s world. It’s guaranteed to be a truly memorable day out for families and something to really look forward to visiting.”
Visit the Peppa Pig Theme Park website here for more details and to sign up for email updates!
Fall in NYC is glorious, but it’s also a good time to get away and enjoy some time outside of the city. Looking for a day trip with kids but don’t have a car? No worries: we rounded up day trips you can get to by train. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning—it’s time to get away, even for a day!
LONG ISLAND RAILROAD (LIRR)
Oyster Bay A quick 90-minute train ride can transport you to this hamlet on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau county. Visit the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, dedicated to our Former President who was once a frequent commuter on the LIRR himself.
Families with train-lovers should check out the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum (open Saturdays and Sundays) and learn the important role railroads played in America's history. A quick taxi ride will bring you to the Planting Fields Arboretum, a 400+ acre 1920s Gold Coast estate with gorgeous gardens and landscapes designed by the Olmstead brothers, two greenhouses and a preserved Tudor Revival mansion showcasing the art and artistry of its time. Planting Fields offers lots of free resources for kids and families to make exploring the natural landscape even more engaging.
You can also take a trip back in time at the Raynham Hall Museum, home of George Washington's secret agent Robert Townsend!
Farmingdale, NY Fall is a great time to visit Long Island amusement park Adventureland, which opened in 1962, and offers rides for little ones and kids a bit older who want some thrills. The park is open on weekends until Nov. 7, and is hosting Halloween shows and events in October.
Get there: Take the LIRR Ronkonkoma line to Farmingdale
2245 Broad Hollow Rd. Farmingdale, NY 631-694-6868 Online: adventureland.us
Enjoy fall fun at Schmitt’s Family Farm Annual Fall Festival, happening now on weekends until October 31st. It’s accessible by a 1-hour train ride followed by a 10-minute taxi ride. Admission fee of $10 a person includes a hayride, playground, mini-golf and photo ops. The farm also offers pumpkin picking, vegetable picking, a haunted house, a corn maze, petting zoo, a farm stand and more all priced separately.
Get there: Take the LIRR Ronkonkoma line to Pinelawn Station or the Port Jefferson line to Huntington Station and catch a 10-minute cab ride.
26 Pinelawn Rd. Melville, NY 631-271-3276 Online: schmittfarms.com
METRO-NORTH RAILROAD
Wikimedia Creative Commons
Beacon, NY & Storm King Art Center
Sit on the left side of your Metro-North train car for spectacular views of the Hudson River. Shop local and support handmade at one of the many shops or pop into an art gallery. Beacon is home to celebrated contemporary art center Dia: Beacon. If you want even more art, take advantage of thispackage deal which includes a short shuttle ride and admission to Storm King Center (shown here) where you and the kids can take in the oversized sculptures among incredible foliage across 500-acres.
For food, we'd recommend Melzingah Tap House on Main Street in Beacon for a sit down meal, and Beacon Pantry, is a good stop for sandwiches or fancy picnic supplies on the go. Don't leave Beacon without visiting Glazed Over Donuts, where you'll find all kinds of extreme confections.
Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Beacon Station
Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Cold Spring Station
Wikimedia Creative Commons
Poughkeepsie, NY Experience walking across the world's longest pedestrian elevated walkway with a view of peak fall foliage. You can get to The Walkway over the Hudson Historic Strate Park by train in under two hours from Manhattan. Walk across and back for a stroll just under three miles, or turn around at any time. Be sure to stop by the seven-foot bronze statue of Sojourner Truth, an American Abolitionist and women's rights activist. This monument commemorates the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage.
For food, we recommend Farmer's & Chefs for yummy farm-to-table, Lola's Cafe for good food and major convenience (it's located right next to the stairs to the walkway), and its sister restaurant Lolita's Pizza, also nearby.
Get there: Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Poughkeepsie Station
Jackson Township, NJ Got kids hankering for some Halloween thrills? Check out this NJT deal that includes a round-trip bus trip and admission to Six Flags Great Adventure. (Yes, this is a bus, not a train.) Little ghouls and goblins will enjoy a "Thrills by Day" adventure that includes areas decorated for Halloween, a Trick-or-Treat Trail and live shows.
Get there: Take the 308 Express Bus to Six Flags Great Adventure from either New York Port Authority Bus Terminal or Newark Penn Station
American Dream Mall, East Rutherford, NJ If you want to do something fun with your family but can't decide on what, then head on over to the American Dream Mall where you'll find lots of choices! Some options include Legoland Discovery Center, SeaLife Aquarium, an Olympic-size ice-skating rink and indoor amusement park Nickelodeon Universe which is hosting Halloween-themed fun through October 31. Halloween weekend will feature a costume contest, trick-or-treat scavenger hunt, and spooktacular fun for everyone. Other Halloween fun at American Dream includes a huge 50-spider installation and Spooky Skate at The Rink.
Get there: there are several ways to get to American Dream Mall including their official rideshare partner: Lyft.
Jersey City, NJ While we realize that some of our readers may live in Jersey City (we know why—it's nice!), it's also a fun day trip for NYC-area non-residents. Head straight for the Liberty Science Center (you must buy tickets in advance) which boasts several floors of hands-on exhibits and impressive climbing structures. They celebrate Halloween with gusto here, with a giant spider web maze, just for starters. If you want to relax afterward bring a picnic and enjoy Liberty State Park, which has tons of green space for the kids to run around and an incredible view of the NYC skyline.
Get there: Take the PATH to Pavonia/Newport or Exchange Place station and transfer to the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR). LSC is just five rail stops from the World Trade Center.
Closed on Mondays Liberty Science Center 222 Jersey City Blvd. Liberty State Park 201-200-1000 Online: lsc.org
Despite scorching temperatures that suggest summer heat, Fall is here and with it, festivals of all kinds! This Fall, festivals are back with a revenge all over the Bay which will give you one reason or another to celebrate every weekend!
photo: Mount Prospect Fall Festival
San Jose Lantern Festival This floating lantern event is a magical night including food, games, activities, vendors, music as the beauty of thousands of lanterns adorned with letters of love, hope and dreams float out on the water. Sat., Oct. 2Event details
wknd fest A curated artisan market, wknd fest will feature local makers, food trucks, live music and kid activities so bring the whole family-furry pawed ones, too! Sat., Oct. 2Event details
Mosaic Festival Join in a celebration of our mosaic of American cultures at this inaugural festival held at La Plaza. Enjoy performances by local artists and discover cultures through food in an eclectic curation of food trucks and small business vendors. Sat., Oct. 2Event details Japanese Cultural Festival Live performances, demonstrations, hands-on activities for adults and children, food booths, wine, beer and sake booths all celebrate Japanese culture. Sun., Oct. 3Event details
Folkloreada This outdoor community festival brings together some of your favorite Mexican folklórico dance companies for an afternoon of traditional Mexican dance and music. Sun., Oct 3Event details
Glass Pumpkin Festival: Stroll through thousands of hand-blown glass pumpkins crafted by BAGI (Bay Area Glass Institute) artists and renowned glass artisans from around the country. The pumpkins are unique gifts for friends and family and are a perfect addition to fall decoration. Some even make beautiful year-round display pieces: the pumpkins will be available in an assortment of colors, sizes and a range of prices. This is a once-a-year event, so come early and find the perfect glass pumpkin!
When: Oct. 7-9
Life is Living Festival, Oakland This multi-generational, multi-disciplinary festival celebrates and highlights everything that is beautiful about Oakland – the joy, diversity, adversity, and revolutionary spirit that vibrates through the streets of the city. Fri., Oct. 8 Event details
Italian Heritage Festival, San Francisco Celebrate all things Italian! Sat. & Sun., Oct. 8 & 9Event details
Dia de los Muertos Fest Live music & performances, face painters, craft vendors and fun for the whole family! Sat., Oct. 9Event details Family Fall Fest Celebrate this year’s harvest over yummy eats, art, live shows and a festive kids’ zone all while supporting local and small businesses by shopping small this Fall in this market pop-up. Sat., Oct. 9 Event details
8th Annual Community Fall Festival A pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, food means fun and games for all ages! Sat., Oct. 9Event details
Harvest Party at Bricoleur Vineyards: Join the 3rd Annual Harvest Party where you can enjoy wine, music, bocce ball, and all-around fun at Bricoleur Vineyards.
When: Oct. 9
Autumn Lights Festival at Lake Merritt: The Autumn Lights Festival, which has become a unique Oakland tradition, is a festive three-night community event held in the seven-acre oasis of themed gardens nestled in Lakeside Park surrounding Lake Merritt.
When: Oct. 13-15
Portrero Hill Festival Celebrate the Portrero community with over four blocks of music, food, magic and fun for all ages. Sat., Oct. 16 Event details
Dia de Los Muertos Festival This traditional Mexican celebration is a day of remembrance in honor of the dead. Dia de los Muertos is a celebration of life and death and is a festive and joyous event. Sat., Oct 16Event details
Day on the Bay Multicultural Festival Come out and celebrate the Bay! Free flu shots, Covid vaccines, pumpkins, kayaking, rock climbing and bike tours will entertain the entire family! Sat., Oct. 16 Event details
Oktoberfest, Campbell This award-winning festival is returning to Campbell! With food, crafts, a Kids Zone and of course beer, this is the place to be this weekend! Sat. & Sun., Oct. 16-17Event details
Lake Merritt’s Autumn Lights Festival Prepare to be mesmerized by the illuminated works of art that will light up the night! This fundraiser benefits Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt. Oct. 14-16Event details
San Ramon Cultural Community Celebration Featuring multicultural performances, music, art, children’s activities and food from around the world, this festival celebrates all cultures. Wear attire that represents you! Sun., Oct. 17Event details
Alameda County Fair The county fair is back this year-this year’s theme is “Come Together” and promises to be bigger and better than ever! Oct. 22-31Event details
San Leandro Water Lantern Festival This floating lantern event is a magical night including food, games, activities, vendors, music as the beauty of thousands of lanterns adorned with letters of love, hope and dreams float out on the water. Sat., Oct. 23Event details
LumpiaPalooza October is Filipino-American History Month, giving you the perfect excuse to nourish your passion for local Filipino culture and community in the most delectable way possible: with crispy, flaky, buttery, deliciously-stuffed, and perfectly-golden LUMPIA! Sat. & Sun., Oct. 23 & 24Event details
2021 Sunnyvale Diwali Festival This Diwali festival brings arts & Craft, Diya Painting, Henna, Food Trucks, Kids Zone, Halloween Costume Parade, Bollywood & Classical Dance Performances and much more! Sat., Oct. 30Event details
Dia de los Muertos Festival In its 26th year, the Día de los Muertos festival is a family-friendly event with hundreds of vendors selling traditional Latin American crafts and art, a carnival pop-up with kids’ games/ rides, 25 traditional altars on display and 3 stages. Sun., Oct. 31Event details
Virtual
Chuseok Korean Festival In its third year running, this festival is the Bay Area’s largest celebrating Korean culture, cuisine, music, arts and community. Oct. 20-27Event details
Family Fall Fest at Vista Collina Resort: The Fall season has arrived, and we’re celebrating! Here, your family can partake in carnival games, Halloween crafts and more while enjoying live music and bites to eat from our food truck.
Narrowing down a spot to vacation can be the hardest part of planning a trip! You want relaxing beaches but you also want adventure-packed activities. You want kid-friendly but you also want a vacation you can enjoy. Located on the west coast of Florida, Tampa is a vibrant city known for gorgeous warm weather, a breathtaking waterfront and endless entertainment. Learn why Tampa is the perfect destination for active families that enjoy experiencing all that a vacation spot has to offer:
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is known for being one of the world’s most beautiful, tropical zoological settings. From touching a tortoise to feeding a giraffe and hanging out with one-horned rhinos and endangered African penguins, tons of awe-inspiring experiences await. Explore the zoo’s Manatee Hospital, where their veterinary and animal-care team treat sick, injured and orphaned manatees, and return them safely back to the wild. Travel tip: while advance tickets and reservations are not required, they are recommended to guarantee entry.
Head to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for exotic, thrilling adventures aplenty. Spend the day riding roller coasters, enjoying live shows, and checking out over 200 species of animals. Buy tickets for the Serengeti Safari, an-off road tour that gets you up close to African wildlife including zebras, giraffes, ostriches, rhinos and antelopes. And for any Elmo fans in your crew, the Sesame Street Safari of Fun has adorable kid-friendly rides, water play and visits with Sesame Street pals.
3. Explore the World
A hands-on museum created just for kids and their developing minds? Yes, please! The Glazer Children’s Museum is an interactive “learning lab” designed to give little ones big opportunities to explore their world through imaginative play. From caring for pets in the Vet Clinic to building in the Engineers’ Workshop, there is so much to discover.
Red Tricycle readers can enjoy up to a $35 hotel credit per night at some of our favorite Marriott hotels in Tampa. Learn more!
4. Take a Day Trip
If your vacation to the Sunshine State won’t be complete without seeing Cinderella Castle or high-fiving Mickey, good news: Tampa is just a 60-90 minute drive to Orlando. It’s easy to take a day trip to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld or Universal Studios. And speaking of easy excursions… your LEGO-obsessed little ones will be overjoyed by a visit to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, a huge theme park with more than 50 rides, shows and a waterpark.
5. Walk on Water
Take in the downtown sights on the Tampa Riverwalk, a beautiful 2.4 mile pedestrian pathway built alongside the Hillsborough River. Aside from the lovely views, this leisurely stroll includes lots of family-friendly stops along the route. For splashpads, playgrounds and outdoor fun, chill out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Water Works Park and Spring. And keep your eyes peeled for manatees!
6. “SEA” Fascinating Marine Life
Ever touched a moon jelly or met a southern two-toed sloth? Find wonder in the 9,000 animals that call the Florida Aquarium home. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring aquatic life and underwater ecosystems. (This is probably one of the few places in Florida you can show your children alligator-infested waters safely!). Pack bathing suits so your kids can cool off at the outdoor water play zone, The Splash Pad. Following your visit, grab a casual bite to eat at nearby Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor waterfront food hall. FYI: Fermented Reality Biergarten is a popular spot for the grownups.
7. Explore Art
Tampa Museum of Art is a must for a dose of arts, culture and creative inspiration. Children 6 and under are free. Plus, this is an excellent activity for taking a break from the sun! Check the calendar to join one of their Family Days, offering activities inspired by the Museum’s current exhibitions and more.
8. Get Your Shopping Fix
With 200 stores, 15 restaurants, a food court and a great open air space to wander, there’s something for everyone at the International Plaza Mall & Bay Street. This popular shopping and dining destination is walking distance to the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel. The hotel has a AAA 4 Diamond rating with exceptional 4-star service. Rooms boast beautiful courtyard or city views. And families love the outdoor pool and patio to relax between adventures.
9. Relax at the Best Beach
According to TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice rankings, St. Pete Beach was just named the best beach in America (Yep, even surpassing Hawaii…). Pack your beach bag and enjoy white quartz sand, warm water, spectacular sunsets, and seashells galore.
10. Travel by Trolly
Lose the keys and hop on a historic TECO Line Streetcar to sightsee 2.7 miles of downtown Tampa, the Channel District and Ybor City—Tampa Bay’s Latin Quarter. Not only do kids love riding on the these vintage trolly replicas, but it makes getting around town—for free!—a breeze.
Sports fans have their pick of great teams to cheer on year-round. Head to the ballpark to see the Tampa Bay Rays or the New York Yankees during spring training. Catch Super Bowl LV champs—the Buccaneers—at Raymond James Stadium. And root for the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team at Amalie Arena.
12. Fly in, Have Fun
Want to kickstart your vacation right upon landing? TheTampa Airport Marriott is connected directly to Tampa International Airport (TPA), making it a super convenient hotel for families. It’s equipped with everything you want on vaca—a heated outdoor pool, peaceful patio, Smart TVs with Hulu and Netflix (because, kids!), and connecting rooms based on availability.
From canoeing down the Hillsborough River to mountain biking one of Tampa’s beautiful trails, there are exciting outdoor adventures everywhere you turn. For those seeking thrills from a different perspective, book a ziplining voyage that takes you high above the water and land preserves. Spot wildlife as you cross suspension bridges, log swings and other aerial obstacles.
14. Bring Fido
No need to leave your furry family member at home. Tampa is a great destination for dogs, thanks to plenty of pup-friendly beaches, parks, hiking trails, and restaurants. The AC Hotel Tampa Airport is an awesome place to stay with kids and cuddly companions. Families love the firepit, floor to ceiling windows, free wi-fi, outdoor pool and European-style breakfast at AC Kitchen.
15. Say Cheese!
Commemorate your trip with the best family picture ever. Find a few minutes pose at the Tampa postcard mural for a snap of your crew enjoying this great city! There are vibrant murals all over town, celebrating Tampa’s rich diversity and culture.
When Royal Caribbean launched the Symphony of the Seas in March of 2018, it officially launched the biggest cruise ship in the world. Playing host to over 6500 passengers, she’s currently cruising the Mediterranean Sea before making her way to the Caribbean in November. We had the opportunity to explore this impressive vessel and came back with plenty to report. If you’re considering a cruise soon, or just want to know what the biggest ship in the world has to offer, keep reading. Believe us when we say there’s something for everyone on board.
The Stats
Featuring over 17 floors with 2,759 staterooms (6,680 guest capacity total!), there are seven different neighborhoods to explore, including our family-friendly picks—Central Park, the Boardwalk, the Youth Zone and the Sports and Pool Zone.
Central Park has open-air access that brings in a welcomed sea breeze, along with plenty of foliage, live music and several specialty restaurants: Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian, Vintages and 150 Central Park.
The Boardwalk is filled with kid-centric fun, like the carousel, arcade, Sugar Beach candy store and Johnny Rockets diner, and it’s the home to the outdoor aquatic theater, where you can find live shows, outdoor movies and more.
The Youth Zone is where all the kids’ clubs are located. There’s even a techy-looking science lab, an art studio and a theater, all just for the kids. There’s also an indoor playground where parents can come to let their kids burn off steam, but it does require supervision at all times unless you drop your kiddos off in the kids club. The childcare staff is experienced, and the groups are divided by age: babies and toddlers (they have napping areas and will provide you an itinerary of what your tyke did all day), Aquanauts (3-5), Explorers (6-8) and Voyagers (9-11). There’s even a tweens and teens program for kids ages 12-17. The kids club is open free of charge until 10 p.m., and for anyone wanting a later evening (12 p.m.), there’s a small hourly charge.
The Sportsand Pool Zone is at the top of the ship and offers three waterslides, three pools, a splash zone, mini golf, zip lining, rock climbing, the Abyss (a 10-story dry slide), basketball court and the FlowRider wave zones.
The Food
Cruises, after all, are known for their all-you-can-eat spreads, and Symphony of the Seas doesn’t disappoint. From the three-level main dining room (the lunch salad bar is a hidden gem!) with excellent service and impressive dinner menu and the morning fare at the Solarium Bistro to Park Cafe for hot-pressed sandwiches or fresh-prep salads and El Loco Fresh, located near the Sports and Pool Zone, there’s a food type for every appetite.
Insider tip: Don’t forget to look for the soft-serve ice cream cone bars in the Pool the Sports Zone.
If you opt to purchase a specialty dining package, you can choose from nine different restaurants including breakfast at Johnny Rocket’s, raw oysters and family-style seafood dinners at Hooked Seafood, truffle pasta from Jamie’s Italian, or elegant steak dinners with good wine at Chops Grille.
Our best-bet pick for specialty dining on board the Symphony of the Seas is Wonderland: where your dinner and evening entertainment intertwine. From the moment you enter the restaurant, which is filled with mismatched furniture (one dinner chair was an upside-down sofa) nothing is what it seems. The mixologist serves up creative drinks like Chesire Cat cosmos, the menus magically appear, and there’s a continuous flow of things that engage all the senses: They serve imaginative cuisine at Wonderland, which means you’ll be tasting things like liquid lobster for starters and meringue mushrooms for dessert.
Good to know: Be sure to make a reservation as soon as your cruise begins: current waiting lists are around 60 groups.
What to Do
Whether you choose to head out on an excursion, explore the port town or just stay on board, there’s an endless array of activities for guests while cruising the Symphony of the Seas.
Take an Excursion
When you board the ship, you’ll be given a package filled with all the different excursions that are available while you’re cruising. There’s everything from hikes and bikes rides to beach transfers and foodie destinations.
Plan on taking the kids? Be sure to look for the family icon in the shore excursion booklet. For example, the European cruise offers a pizza making academy in Sorrento, Italy. You’ll get a lesson from the pros, get to eat your creations and then stroll through the alley of Sorrento—a charming seaside village in Southern Italy.
Want to leave the kids on the ship? With all the fun excursions for adults, it’s easy to leave the kids on board in kids club while you explore with your partner. Anything with long travel times, thrills or lots of walking might be better solo or only with older kids, like in the Bahamas, where you’ll have the chance to hike Mount Liamuiga.
Stay on the Ship
Each morning you’ll receive a daily planner at your door, which details the port stop for the day, the weather forecast, the big events or deals that are happening, and an hourly rundown of everything you can do aboard the Symphony of the Seas. Want to play laser tag? Head for Deck 4. Feel like climbing the walls? Head for the back of Deck 7. There are movie nights, family mini golf competitions, face painting, family bingo, sushi-making classes, family science labs, dance classes, balloon twisting, and family basketball tournaments. Plan your own family game night in the card room, enjoy the open ice skating times, or just lay low with a cruise-approved Pina Colada on of the hundreds of lounge chairs available.
Insider tip: Be sure to enter (err … ride) the Abyss, which, at 10 stories high, is the tallest slide at sea.
You can choose from a different live show every night: high-diving thrills in the AquaTheater, see the history of aviation in reverse in Flight … Dare to Dream, at the Royal Theater, or ice skating, or follow an ice-skating, time-traveling jewel thief in 1977.
Grab your kids! Camp Bonkers has officially opened for the summer. Unlike a traditional camp, this one is totally free and you only have to log onto YouTube to attend.
Camp Bonkers offers a fun digital twist on summer camp, offering kids a safe, interactive and creative space online in the comfort of their own homes.
Developed by Wind Sun Sky, the creative team behind smash hits like Angry Birds, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Ice Age and My Singing Monsters, Camp Bonkers goes far beyond the typical content consumed by kids on YouTube. The team made the last-minute decision to offer Camp Bonkers this summer in response to COVID-19 amid preparing the series for a much larger project coming in 2021.
Every day at Camp Bonkers is different. Kids can hang out with friends, play games, go on adventures, sing songs, make fun food, conduct a cool science experiment and so much more.
There are 3 live shows per week at 4:30 p.m. ET (available later on demand):
Make-It-Mondays
What-A-World Wednesdays
Fun-Time Friday
Additional content is led by the camp counselors as well as a group of special guests including Sparkles and Beaver and Scribbles the Cat.
Now instead of spending countless hours browsing YouTube, parents can direct their kids to Camp Bonkers where they can ensure their child will have a fun and educational play experience.
Seattle kids are easy to spot. They count harbor seals as friends and know how magical an orca sighting is, even if they’ve spotted them before. For kids missing the Sound, we’ve rounded up activities, virtual camps and live shows that are as engaging and as they are educational. Dive in!
Tune in to Ocean Initiative’s virtual Marine Biology Camp on Mondays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. via Facebook or Instagram. Here, kids can hear from two local scientists (who are also parents) about whales, dolphins, sharks and other animals that call Puget Sound home. Send questions your kids have to the team ahead of time, or post them live during the convo. There’s always something interesting to learn or fun to do when you tune in.
Sing a Whale Song
...or rather listen to our resident orcas on the Killer Wale Tales website. There are three cool clips to tune in to, plus fact sheets and an activity book you can download, all dedicated to the pods that live in local waters.
Sit Down for Orca Story Time
Invite your tots to listen to a whale of a talelive via Zoom, on April 24 and May 1 at 11 a.m. Rein from the Washington Environmental Council will share a different story each week for kids to enjoy.
Aquarium from Anywhere
Just because you can’t be there, doesn’t mean you can’t experience the Seattle Aquarium at home. Sift through the many coloring sheets, code breaker activities, virtual story times, marine science games and more to keep the kids engaged with this local fave. Psst… their livestream webcams are always a hit too.
courtesy Seattle Whale Tales
Stream a Live Marine Science Show
Set your calendars for live STEM workshops on Mondays and Thursdays at 2 p.m. via Facebook, thanks to Gig Harbor based Harbor WildWatch. With a focus on local wildlife and waters, these workshops give kids the chance to ask questions and participate in easy experiments and activities at home.
Explore the Burke’s Beaked Whale
If your kids miss the impressive beaked whale that hangs from the ceiling at the Burke, they can get a look behind the scenes and find out how it was prepped and hung. Follow up this exploration with the Burke’s whale activity packet and shark hat craft and you’ve got your afternoon planned.
Pull out a few of these activity sheets courtesy of the Orca Research Trust and your kids will be entertained for hours. They’ve got story telling prompts, fact sheets, word searches, paper crafts and more, all geared for young kids looking to learn and have fun.
Spot Ocean Wildlife
Turns out that with WiFi you can pretty much go anywhere these days. So why not try to spot orcas with OrcaLab’s livestream? The cameras give six different views of Hanson Island up in B.C., an orca hotspot and also the home of OrcaLab.
Want some good news for a change? Some of Portland’s most beloved local artists and small shops are finding inspiring ways to stay connected, support the community, and stay in business during the global pandemic. And they’re feeling the love in return! When social distancing is getting us down, it’s good to know our favorite shops and circles are still out there. Read on to learn how to connect with and support them, so we can all gather together again when the crisis lifts.
In response to the pandemic and out of concern for the most vulnerable among us, the most compassionate thing we can do as a community is give each other some space. But what do you do when your business is a community space?
So much more than a toystore, Hammer and Jacks’ adorable indoor playspace has become a vital community hub in the Foster-Powell neighborhood over the past four years. From lactation support groups and kindie music concerts, to storytimes in Spanish and birthday parties, there’s always been something happening. Until now.
“It’s been a complete 180,” Owner Jillian Sevick says. “To go from being a gathering space to figuring out how to stay connected while doing [social distancing.] But there has [also] been an amazing outpouring of community.”
Even before Kate Brown officially ordered businesses to close under the shelter-in-place order, Hammer and Jacks closed their doors and began doing curbside pickup and home delivery only. Things got quiet around the store, with neighbors picking up bundles of toys outside the store, holding their kids up so they could wave at “the toystore lady” through the storefront window. A week later, after a lot of conversation, they began discouraging people from coming to the shop and switched to no-contact porch deliveries only, opting not to overload the postal system with non-essential business.
For now, the orders are still coming and the family-run business is still making free deliveries. Sevick is grateful for the opportunity to support Portland families in a safe way. She says the community has really shown that they care, and that she wants to cry every time she hears that customers want to support small businesses, and not just Amazon.
An added bright spot? Many H+J customers have opted to include balloons with their toy delivery. Sevick recalls delivering a rainbow of balloons to one house, where a child was feeling a little sad about her “virtual birthday party. After dropping off the package, Sevick received a text with a video of the girl spinning and dancing in the balloons.
“It took her from feeling glum about having a birthday party under quarantine, to lighting up when she saw the balloons,” Sevick says. “So yes it’s nice to feel the community behind us and have a sense that we can still go on. And at the same time, for me it’s an emotional boost to still be able to do this work, and support families under quarantine.”
Hammer and Jacks
6416 SE Foster Rd.
Portland, OR 97206
info@hammerandjacks.com
503-894-9150
A Red Yarn show is about more than just the music. It’s about the friendships made between kids and parents alike, and the way the community gathers to sing together even during hard times. The Portland performer is known for his warm personality, lively puppetry, and lyrics that manage to combine folk style and fun with political awareness and responsiveness.
At a time when many families in Portland and elsewhere are grappling with major upheaval, music remains a salve. Though Red Yarn can’t perform as usual under the stay-at-home order, he’s begun reuniting with fans during livestream performances.
“My first few Facebook Live shows were pretty rough with lots of technical issues, but a few tech-savvy parents generously reached out, gave me some pointers, and now I have a decent little system going in my living room,” says Red Yarn, aka Andy Furgeson. “I’ve always been wary of technology taking the place of ‘real’ human connection, but I’ve been amazed how engaging and connecting these livestream shows have felt.”
One surprising result of the virtual concerts is reaching more introverted kids, who might not be as likely to get up and dance at his in-person shows. Three times a week he broadcasts to living rooms everywhere via Facebook Live, during times he would have been doing his weekly shows at Taborspace, Village Ballroom, and Mississippi Pizza (all of which are amazing businesses, Furgeson points out, that deserve our support right now.)
This concern for others is central for Furgeson and characteristic of Red Yarn shows. While there are several ways that families can donate to support Red Yarn’s livestream performances during the pandemic, Furgeson stresses that he wants everyone to tune in, whether or not they are in a position to donate.
“I would especially like to invite parents who have been laid off or who are facing a major loss of income due to the Coronavirus crisis to tune in guilt- and donation-free,” he says. “So many people are hurting right now, and will continue to be hurt by the economic and health impacts of this crisis. I know a lot of artists and small business owners or employees who can’t shift their model so easily, and I’m trying to do what I can to spread the love.”
Though connecting virtually is different, he says it’s wonderful to witness artists, community-leaders and activists use technology to help others make it through a scary time.
Talk about going above and beyond for your customers. When the shelter-in-place order hit Portland, Mimosa Studios Owner Austin Raglione had to think fast. How could they continue offering the experience of their full-service ceramic painting studio to families cooped up at home?
“We’d offered take home painting kits in the past, for parties and gatherings, so it was a model we already had in place,” Raglione says. “It’s been popular [since the order], and I think a lot of people who don’t know about it would love it. It’s a tough road for a lot of kids and families stuck at home, and this is a great craft to bond over together.”
Raglione remembers doing crafts with her mother when she was growing up, and she loves being able to make people happy by helping them create memories during a tough time. The Take Home Painting Kits ($20-$30) come with all the ceramics, paint, brushes, and instructions needed to paint right at home. The kits are delivered to Portland-area homes, along with free pick-up for finished works, to be taken to the studio for firing. Once Mimosa Studios is able to reopen to the public, customers can pick up their work, fired and ready for display or use in the home.
The kits are easy to order online, and they offer 10% off for families who have lost employment due to the crisis. You can choose from unpainted ceramic mugs, garden pots and gnomes, magical figurines, or bowls. If there’s a specific figure or item you’re looking for, you can call during business hours and staff will help find the right item to pack up for you. All materials are sanitized before delivery, and the paint is washable, so it’s safe to set up at the kitchen table.
After nearly 20 years in business, Raglione says Mimosa Studios has always been about building community, and that’s what she wants to focus on now, too. Before the pandemic, she enjoyed seeing people connect at the family-style table in their small studio. Now, closing the studio doors is the best choice she can make for the community, even though it’s hard.
“We want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem,” she says. “If people can support small businesses to whatever extent they’re able, that’s going to help everyone.”
Mimosa Studios 1718 NE Alberta St.
503-288-0770 (Wed. and Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.)
Delivery on Mon., Wed., and Sat. (free) Order Online: mimosastudios.com
For many of its devoted customers, the temporary shuttering of the whimsical red-painted children’s bookstore in the beloved Alberta Arts District came as a blow– one in a long string of necessary closures in response to the pandemic. Beyond the hand-picked selection of children’s books and the big green reading couch at the center of the store, there was the community of families that met weekly for multilingual story-times, craft sessions, and music circles. How could they carry that warmth and connection into the unexpected shift to social distancing?
“The hardest part for us has been getting our online ordering up and running,” says Owner Jennifer Green. “We have always prided ourselves on being an experience store: one in which you really have to go into our store in order to feel the magic. Now all that is not possible, so we are figuring out an online book ordering system.”
While they work on creating an easy-to-use online ordering system, the small team of booksellers is available daily by phone for book recommendations and ordering. With the ability to order just about any book through their distributors, including adult books, they encourage customers to pick up the phone and purchase a book. Clean and safe curbside pick-up is available, along with free porch delivery for homes on the east side of the river and reasonably close to the store.
“Customers have been so kind and concerned and we really feel embraced by our strong community of readers!” she reflects. “It has felt like one big group hug some days! (And) we will need continued support to get through this.”
One way to do that is to purchase a gift certificate for future use, which can be mailed or kept at the store for phone orders or once doors open again. Consider purchasing an audiobook through partner Libro.fm, with all sales supporting Green Bean Books. Already have enough books to last you through the crisis? Order a surprise bundle to be delivered to a friend in need of a little cheer, or purchase a stack of books to be delivered to the Children’s Book Bank, a nonprofit working to distribute books to kids in need in the Portland area.
Green Bean Books
1600 NE Alberta Street
503-954-2354 (daily from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
Online: greenbeanbookspdx.com
Call during business hours to place an order, and check back for online ordering!
Looking for a few new ways to entertain the kids this weekend, beyond all the home science experiments and movie nights—no judgment. (Like, really, none at all, because right there with you.) Fortunately, we’ve uncovered some unique ideas especially for LA parents. From a big night-sky event you can see from your own backyard to story time with celebs, here are 7 awesome activities for your #SaferAtHome weekend.
It’s a Girl!
Spend some time with the latest addition to the Los Angeles Zoo, an adorable baby gorilla named Angela. Stop by the zoo’s Instagram or YouTube channel to see little Angela and mom N’djia in action.
Seeing Stars After the sun sets on Sat., Mar. 28, take the kids outside to gaze up at the sky for a chance to see Venus, the crescent Moon and the star cluster Pleiades. According to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, the Pleiades are so bright they can be seen by the naked eye, even in urban areas. But grab binoculars or a telescope and you’ll be treated to a truly dazzling display of lights.
Rock On!
LA’s most popular kids musicians (and regulars on the birthday party circuit), The BeatBuds are doing live shows every Friday. Check their Instagram account for more information.
Story Time
Jennifer Garner and Amy Adams have joined with Save the Children and No Child Hungry to create Save with Stories in response to COVID-19 school closures. Visit them on Instagram to hear stories read by Reese Witherspoon, Kamala Harris, Brie Larson and more!
Museum Day
Check out all the fun and educational online resources from some of our favorite local museums. Find out how to build a balloon car, create a colorful rain cloud and more. Get all the details here.
Spring break will be here before you know it, and booking a trip in advance will not only afford you the best rates and availability but also, you’ll have something to look forward to as you make your way through the chilly winter months. From beach vacations to urban escapes to mountain top romps in the sunshine, we’ve got you covered. Read on for vacation inspiration as well as for trends in travel for the new year.
Splurge on a Brand-New Resort in the Northern Maldives
courtesy Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
A splurge-worthy island adventure awaits you at the brand-new all-inclusive resort, which is also home to the largest kid’s club in the Maldives.
Play: The wraparound reef at the Emerald makes it easy for families to enjoy water sports like kayaking and kite surfing, and scuba enthusiasts can take advantage of the on-site Diving Centre, which is staffed by PADI-certified instructors. Kids ages 3-12 can spend time in the Dolphin Club. Spread out over 1500 square meters, there’s an outdoor playground with mini pool, a splash park, slides, climbing structures and even a kid-sized zip wire. Indoor activities are diverse and plentiful: cupcake making, movie nights, Zumba lessons, fruit cocktail mixology and more.
Sleep:
Eat: This is an all-inclusive resort, so there’s plenty of food and treats to be had at the signature buffet restaurantAqua, which offers menu items from all over the world including Mediterranean, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, vegetarian and even plant-based options. There are two concept restaurants worth sampling as well. The rainforest-inspired Amazònico is a fun dining experience for the whole family,Le Asiatique offers live cooking shows on a teppanyaki grill. If you’re down at the beach, theBeach Club Grill and Pool Bar has kid-friendly, to-go pizza and pasta, and for parents, be sure to try the grilled lobster and seafood platters.
Good to know: If you book now, you’ll receive 20% off the best available rate for a minimum of 7 night’s stay for a maximum of two adults and two children, applicable for all bookings received before 20th December 2020. Offer includes deluxe all-inclusive package, complimentary 60 minutes massage for two adults and 1 x in-room family breakfast. Terms and conditions apply.
The largest of the four Aspen-area ski mountains, Snowmass is one of the most family-friendly mountains with all kids skiing free up to age seven.
Play: This resort comes in at over 3,300 acres of terrain with 91 trails of groomies, halfpipes, terrain parks and more. Families flock here for their state-of-the-art Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center, a gigantic childcare facility for kids ages eight weeks to four years old. With a nurse on staff and themed rooms, this is where your kids will get introduced to skiing. And, once your kids turn two, they’re welcome to enroll in Snowmass’ Cubs on Skis program, a mix of early childhood education and skiing based out of this nature-themed adventure center.
There's also the brand-new Snowmass Base Village Plaza, which opened in December 2018. Families will be able to ice skate, enjoy fire pits, pop-up activities and casual dining. Kids of all ages can also try their skills on the rock climbing wall that adorns the front of the new Limelight hotel built across from the plaza.
Good to Know: The Treehouse at Snowmass isn’t the only spot your kid will love. Pay a visit to nearby Buttermilk Mountain to experience The Hideout, a 7,500 square foot facility just for kids. Don’t blame your kids if they forget they’re in the mountains and get lost in The Hideout’s custom-designed play features like a lookout tower and interactive play room.
Take your brood to Northwest Costa Rica to revel in the warm weather and lush landscape, full of animals, markets, and family-friendly beach parties.
Play: Consider volunteering for one of the select Service Days while visiting Peninsula Papagayo, with an outreach program that benefits local school children. Visit Costa Rica, and you’ll be rewarded with big adventures that your family will remember and talk about for years to come.
Sleep:Peninsula Papagayo, home to the luxury Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and Andaz Costa Rica Resort, is a private community spanning over 1,400 acres. Surrounded by Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll see thousands of protected plant species and hundreds of multi-hued bird and butterfly types.
Wander the Windy City - Chicago, IL
Wendy Altschuler
Play: Spring in Chicago is a lovely time to visit. From museums with activities designed with littles in mind to spring break kids’ camps at Lincoln Park Zoo and The Second City to baseball season to children’s theatre, the Windy City has much to offer families. Eat your way through Chicago’s neighborhoods, sampling diverse cuisine and fan favorites like Chicago-style hot dogs and deep dish pizza.
Sleep: Hotel Zachary, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is right across from the famous Wrigley Field as well as within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Run around Gallagher Way, across the street from the hotel, go to a Chicago Cubs game, and hit some balls in Sluggers World Class Sports Bar’s batting cages.
Root for Your Home Team at Spring Training — FL or AZ
Daydreaming of hot dogs and Crackerjacks? Take your baseball-loving family on a memorable (and thematic) trip to see spring training in action. Catching a game at Arizona's Cactus League or Florida's Grapefruit League means you can root, root, root for your home team at smaller stadiums before Opening Day. To figure out which teams play where — and when — check out the Cactus League and Grapefruit League websites.
Play: Make sure all of your kiddos are baseball fans because Spring Training is all about the game. The major advantage to seeing teams play pre-season is that you get see games on a much smaller scale. In other words, better seats, cheaper tickets, and the opportunity to see your favorite players up close and personal.
Tip: Get there early, and be sure little ones bring their gloves and/or clean baseballs for scoring autographs
Sleep: Where you shack up depends on your favorite teams. Florida's spring training is spread across the state, with teams playing in four regions: Tampa, Fort Myers, Orlando, and the east coast between Jupiter and Port St. Lucie. If you’re Cactus League-bound, keep in mind that most games are played within a 40-mile radius of the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.
Eat: Pack a picnic! Most Spring Training stadiums offer (cheap!) lawn seats, so the whole family can spread out on the grass while keeping score of the game. The view isn't as good, but you may catch a glimpse of your favorite players as they head in and out of the stadium.
There’s more to these islands than bright azure water and fine white sand—travel here, and you’ll be rewarded with rich cultural experiences that come with the conveniences of the U.S. dollar and English language. When the kids return to school, they can tell their teachers that they traveled to where Christopher Columbus first hit land in the Americas and where pirates used to hide out within the 40 small islands and cays.
Play: Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay are the best for kids because of the calm waves and shallow water. Go snorkeling for an afternoon at Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef and see an array of colorful little fish and coral. Visit Little Water Cay, also called Iguana Island, and see loads of Rock Iguanas basking in the hot sand. Long Bay Beach is where you’ll see kiteboarders, a shipwreck marooned in the shallow water and beaches full of huge spiny conch shells. For a truly unique island experience, that you can’t find anywhere else, visit Potcake Place, a charity in Providenciales that rescues dogs and finds them forever homes. Volunteers can take a puppy for a walk in the morning and give them love and socialization—not to mention, fresh air and sunshine. Everything will be provided for your day out, and if you fall in love, you can adopt the puppy and bring her home.
Sleep: Ocean Club Resorts (Ocean Club and Ocean Club West), located on Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, are perfect for families that want an affordable option with lots of choices. Plus, the pink umbrellas that line the beaches will be great backdrops for your family photos. The two properties are located 15 minutes from each other along the sand, and if you stay at one, you can play at both. Kids can take part in the interactive exploration game, Seafari Kids, where at check-in they’ll be given a kit that encourages them to find and identify indigenous plants and species that are located around the resorts—prizes are awarded for completing the adventure. Tip: Check out the Mangrove Tour.
Eat: Pop into Crackpot Kitchen, where Chef Nik will serve up authentic local Caribbean dishes, passed down from his father, Aulden “Smokey” Smith. Order family style and try a selection of favorites like the Salt Cay Fully Loaded Stew Conch or Smokey’s Loaded Peas and Grits and dine on the rooftop full of locals doing the same.
Island Serenity - Captiva and Sanibel Islands, FL
Wendy Altschuler
Sometimes less is more, and on Captiva and Sanibel Islands, where nothing is built higher than a palm tree and tchotchke shops are few and far between, your family will easily settle into a schedule that revolves around sunsets and searching for seashells. These islands are the sort of places where people laugh easily, wave at each other freely and collectively gasp at dolphin and manatee sightings.
Play: When you’ve explored your home-base beach enough, take a boat excursion with Captiva Cruises to Cayo Costa Island, a state park that is known for excellent shelling. In Sanibel, visit Gene’s Books, a fabulous store full of so many titles that they don’t all fit on the shelves. Kids can get lost in the children’s section, with stacks of books in every direction, which will make finding the perfect book an absolute adventure.
Sleep: Rest your head at the historic Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva Island, which is located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Pine Island Sound. You’ll have access to the beach as well as the marina while staying in one of the brightly colored cottages, named after the resort’s famous past visitors—Anne Morrow Lindbergh, J.N. “Ding” Darling, and Theodore Roosevelt have all stayed here. Borrow a free bicycle and take a ride into town, or paddle in a free kayak around the mangroves.
Eat: T2 Traders, located at The Village Shops on Periwinkle Way in Sanibel, has great sandwiches, flatbreads and salads. The location is ideal because you can do a little shopping afterward. On Captiva Island, be sure to visit the Bubble Room, where kitsch reigns supreme. Order a slice of their famous orange cake, try their bubble bread and bring your camera—you’ll want to walk around and take pictures of the interior. Tween Waters also has great restaurants, namely Old Captiva House, Crow’s Nest and the Oasis Pool Bar.
Enjoy Big Views at Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Kate Loweth
In 2019,Grand Canyon National Park celebrated the centennial. This park, full of colorful layers of geological wonders, cliff dwellings, animals, and even waterfalls, is something every family should see together.
Play: The folks at Austin Adventures appreciate history and geology and they will educate travelers about the natural history of the Grand Canyon while also acknowledging the cultural history of the native tribes that call this national park home. Adventuresome kids can hike around with an Austin Adventures’ day pack, which is full of national park keepsakes and treasures, inspiring kids to learn more and explore the park. The trip includes rafting, hiking and biking around the South Rim, Flagstaff, Williams, Prescott, Sedona and Coconino National Forest—what fun!
Sleep: Select trip dates are available for families for this six-day Grand Canyon Family Vacation Package with the expert guides at Austin Adventures. Accommodations include a wide variety of lodges and hotels over the week, including a stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, located next to the train depot, one block from downtown Williams and historic Route 66.
Eat: Dining ranges from high-quality restaurants to picnic lunches to dinner made at a campfire—you’ll enjoy healthy food and snacks all along the way.
Sail the High Seas with the Disney Dream - Port Canaveral, FL
Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Play, Sleep & Eat: Disney is synonymous with the feeling of wonder and treating your family to a Disney Cruise, aboard the Disney Dream, is an experience that your children will always remember. From live shows to thematic restaurants to luxe accommodations to swimming pools and waterslides, Disney goes big when it comes to magical fun. You’ll also notice the high quality of service, which is the bread and butter of the whole adventure. The ship will drop anchor in Castaway Cay, a private island reserved for guests to enjoy, and the Bahamas, creating extra opportunities for exploration. Find out more from our insider's guide here.
Denver sits one mile above sea level, giving the city its moniker. There is no shortage of things to do here for families and you can expect to have a panoramic view of the mountain ranges while exploring the parks, museums, and attractions.
Play: Visit the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Downtown Aquarium and take a ride on the Denver Trolley to learn about Denver’s gold rush history. Of course, there’s also the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, the Denver Art Museum and the Children’s Museum of Denver. Take a trip just outside of the city, and hike around Dinosaur Ridge at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre—you can see Allosaurus and Stegosaurus bones and touch real dinosaur footprints preserved in the sandstone. If a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is on your travel wish-list, and it should be, make sure you spend some time in Estes Park, the gateway to RMNP.
Sleep: One of the best places to stay is AC Hotel Denver Downtown, a stylish boutique hotel with top-notch staff that will help your family with anything you may need. The property is well-located, making it easy to get where you need to go on foot and, bonus, you’ll earn Marriott points with your stay. If you have Fido with you, the hotel is pet-friendly as well.
Eat: Enjoy outdoor dining at Corinne Restaurant and be sure to check out the views from the 54thirty alfresco rooftop, the highest one in the city. The AC Kitchen is a great breakfast option. Union Station has James Beard award-winning chefs, Jennifer Jasinski and Alex Seidel, at the helm of Stoic & Genuine, Ultreia and Mercantile (grab and go options also exist).
There’s so much to do in the consistently warm country of Panama, and with Panama City—the capital and largest city in the country—as your takeoff point, you’ll have access to popular landmarks and attractions.
Play: Don't miss a visit to the Panama Canal, a 50-mile waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean, a feat that is one of the most difficult engineering projects ever completed. Kids will love watching the ships raise up in the canal and pass through Miraflores locks, bringing their cargo with them. Visit Casco Viejo “new Panama”, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches and plazas with boutiques, restaurants and colorful markets. Make time for a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary and the Gamboa Rainforest. Ride above the tree canopy in an aerial tram, where you may spot a white-faced capuchin monkey or hear the deep guttural sounds of a howler monkey.
Sleep: The Westin Playa Bonita, located only twenty minutes from Panama City and thirty minutes from the Miraflores Locks, is a great place to start your adventure. Romp around on Bonita Beach and cool off in the Pacific Ocean, hike in the nearby rainforests and swim in one of the three infinity pools. Free activities for kids are available every day. Kids can splash around in the Children’s Pool or parents can take kids out on a complimentary kayak.
Eat: Ocho y Media is a garden-style restaurant that serves global cuisine. Sit outside and enjoy the strung lights overhead while noshing on a slice of warm baked apple pie with vanilla ice cream. Karimar Restaurant serves up traditional Panamanian fare, by the symphonic sea—you won’t want to leave. Take advantage of The Westin Playa Bonita’s restaurants as well—there are six to choose from. For authentic Panamanian cuisine with kid-friendly entertainment, try Diablicos in the Casco Viejo district.
Resort Road Trip: If it's an all-inclusive experience you seek, head for the Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, which lies about two hours outside the city limits and is accessible by boat and car/shuttle service. With 12 pools (eight of them are for everyone), a kids' club with activities like overnight campouts and cookie making, this 400-acre resort has something for everyone. There's a playground, free bike rentals, a climbing wall, zip line and wildlife zoo, stables, a sports club that have both private lessons and camps like an aquatic camp or a soccer camp, two beach clubs, 10 restaurants and even a world-famous 18-hole golf course that is the crown jewel of PGA Latin America. Rooms are ample size, the smallest being 527 sq. feet, and there are five suits with connecting rooms and a half-bath in the living room. For multi-gen travel, consider one of the four-bedroom villas that line the pond.
Play: Numero uno on the list of best places to play in St. Louis no doubt goes to City Museum. It’s an all-ages, city-inspired fun house that will inspire you and get the creative juices flowing as you climb, burrow and snake your way through passageways and shafts. With no maps or any real sense of direction, you’re forced to explore, touch and interact with everything . . . and you’ll be glad you did. Plus, St. Louis boasts more free chief visitor attractions than anywhere else in America, outside of the nation’s capital that is. The Saint Louis Art Museum, Zoo, History Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Citygarden and more are free of charge and perfect for families that want to see a lot, but not spend a lot.
Sleep: Located in the heart of all St. Louis has to offer, the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis makes a perfect home base for your family getaway. Mini road trippers will be greeted with a Radio Flyer wagon full of toys and a plate with their names written in chocolate and handmade solid chocolate arches standing tall alongside sprinkle-covered marshmallow treats.
Eat: University City and Delmar Loop is about 20 minutes northwest of St. Louis. Here, in this old streetcar suburb, you’ll find Blueberry Hill Pub and Restaurant for American cuisine and pop culture memorabilia, Fitz’s Restaurant and Bottling Company known for their delicious pub grub and house-made soda that churns out on a visible bottling line (a bottle a second!) and Blueprint Coffee with in-house roasted beans when you’re ready for a little caffeine jolt (don’t leave without grabbing a jar of their canned jelly for home).
Nestled between the world’s second-largest barrier reef and an expansive nature preserve lies the tiny fishing village of Puerto Morelos.
Play: Home to just 1,200 year-round residents, this quaint spot is merely 11 miles away from downtown Cancun. Fresh seafood restaurants line the beaches, and there’s live music on the weekends. Stroll down the dock over clear waters to view catamaran sailboats, wander and shop the charming avenues, burn off steam at the playground in the center square and admire the leaning lighthouse that has survived nearly one-hundred years of coastal storms. Book a snorkeling adventure with Lighthouse Tours. Their two-hour guided tour is easy even for young kids. A highlight for families is nearby Crococun, a local wildlife center filled with crocodiles, parrots, turtles, iguanas, spider monkeys and more. Each tour is guided by a biologist; kids will be able to hold a baby crocodile, feed deer and turtles, plus there’s picnic/playground area that’s perfect for fueling up after seeing all the animals.
Sleep:Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a five-star resort that feels more like a home than a hotel. If you want a truly relaxing location for your mid-winter break, spring break or beyond, this is your answer. The resort is made up of all suite-style rooms, which means you have choices: You can book anything from a one-to three-bedroom suite that comes equipped with everything from a small kitchenette to a full kitchen/laundry with extra murphy beds in the living room. There’s even a four-bedroom presidential suite that sleeps up to 13 (ahem, multi-gen vacation). You can book your stay as an all-inclusive or as an a la carte, and here’s a huge perk: kids ages 12 and under stay for free. It doesn’t take much to keep yourself entertained here, and there’s a definite wellness vibe for those who like to be active. The Grand Residences has four pools (one is a lap pool), tennis courts with thrice-weekly clinics, bike rentals, and even the option to charter a sailboat for an extra charge.
Eat: When you tire of El Faro Grill and Flor de Canela at the Grand Residences, head for downtown Puerto Morelos. For an early lunch with access to docks, try Pelicanos for excellent nachos and ceviche. For dinner, we recommend Boquinete, one of the newest restaurants to line the beachfront of Puerto Morelos. The tacos are plentiful and fresh, as is the ceviche and reef fish. They have a beachfront, which can be helpful for parents with wiggly kids or be a memorable dining spot for an adults-only night.
Looking for a healthy dose of outdoor adventure on your spring break trip? Anakeetsa, an activity and nature center in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the perfect destination for your family. Not only will you be able to take in the beauty of the nation’s most visited national park, but Anakeetsa is jam-packed with activities for visitors of all ages.
Play: You’ll have a hard time deciding what to tackle first at Anakeetsa, as the outdoor opportunities are endless. In addition to hiking and ziplining, kids will have a blast walking across connecting bridges, exploring treehouses, and trying their hand at gem mining. If you’re looking to get out and explore the area, there’s world-class skiing in nearby Ober, Ripley’s Aquarium, and a variety of entertainment shows.
Sleep: If you want to stay nearby, the Greystone Lodge offers spacious rooms (and free hot breakfast) on the river in downtown Gatlinburg. Cottages are also available at the Greystone for families who are looking for a little more space and privacy.
Eat: Stroll around and stop for a bite to eat in Firefly Village, which is nestled among the treetops in the heart of the Smokies. Depending on what you’re in the mood for—a quick bite or a hearty southern meal—there’s Pearl’s Pie in the Sky, which offers baked goods, ice cream, and (of course) pie; and the Anakeetsa Summit Smokehouse, where you’ll get a dose of mouth-watering barbecue.
Bring Your Brood to Bimini
Resorts World Bimini
One of the hottest destinations for 2020 is Bimini, a family-friendly island off of the Bahamas. You won’t have to travel far, as this island is only 50 miles off of the coast of Florida, but you’ll feel like you’re in a far-flung destination as soon as you poke your toes into the hot white sand and peer out onto the azure horizon.
Play: Taste Bimini Bread, made fresh in the colorful town; fill up on conch salad from one of the shacks along the beach, and learn about the culture from local Biminites. Chanel Ernest Hemingway, a resident of the island in the '30s, and go fishing or spend the day in the sea.
Sleep: The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini, a luxury beachfront resort that caters to families. All guest rooms, designed with a contemporary aesthetic, have either a terrace or balcony. Suites are large in size and complete with high-quality amenities. You’ll have many choices for dining as the resort: The Tides, The Sushi Bar or the Oasis swim-up bar. Resorts World Bimini also has multiple swimming pools and access to Paradise Beach. For fun, take a golf cart to any of the island’s other beaches to explore a different landscape. Shop at Fisherman’s Village, a market along the marina. You’ll find that for your family, there’s plenty to do, see, and eat in Bimini.
For Great Scenery & Small Town Charm - Mammoth, CA
If you're not looking for warm weather just yet, Mammoth Mountain is the ultimate spring break destination for families who want to hit the slopes. And for those times when you just want to kick back and relax, Mammoth is packed with tons of restaurants, kids' activities, and even incredible natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierra.
Play: When you go to Mammoth, you go for the skiing. But even if your kids aren't up to speed on the slopes just yet, with the help of the lessons offered, they just might be by the time you leave. Here, patient pros will help guide the most novice of skiers in small group lessons, as well as kids and adults with disabilities in their Adaptive Ski School. In addition to the skiing, Mammoth has a ton more to offer in terms of winter sports, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and letting loose at Wooly's Tube Park and Snow Play, where kids of all ages will have a blast.
Sleep: For cozy accommodations after a day on the slopes, look to the splurge-worthy Sierra Nevada Resort, which has been a longtime local favorite. The 149-room hotel has a super rustic feel and almost all rooms are appointed for families (with heated bathroom floors and fireplaces!). There's also a shuttle that regularly runs from the hotel to the mountain lodges, as well as to the airport.
Eat: For nights when everyone is exhausted from playing in the snow, Sierra Nevada Resort's Rafters—and all of their local, organic produce—is a fantastic option. When you want to venture out, there are tons of restaurants featuring all sorts of fare to choose from, including Jimmy's Taverna for seafood lovers, Campo to satisfy your hankering for Italian, and The Stove for an unforgettable home-style breakfast.
Check Maui Off Your Bucket List
courtesy Hyatt Regency Maui
Maui offers many adventures for families, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or you want to toss in some intrepid experiences for good measure.
Play: Begin your trip at one of the world’s best aquariums, Maui Ocean Center, to get an idea of what you might see while snorkeling or during a boat cruise. Arrange for a luau experience to learn about the Hawaiian culture—most hotels can assist with planning. Take a family-friendly surfing lesson. Make time for a hike in Iao State Park, which is rich with history. Visit Maui Tropical Plantation and see a lush landscape full of fruits, produce, and flowers.
After touring the working farm, dine at The Mill House for a culinary experience like no other. Plan early, and see the sunrise at Haleakala National Park. Drive the Road to Hana to see rainforests, lava tubes, caves, waterfalls, and all of that jaw-dropping scenery that Maui is known for. Take lots of photographs—likely, one will make your holiday card for next year.
Sleep: The Hyatt Regency Maui's stunning oceanfront property has something for everyone. From swimming pools with water slides to penguin tours at the local wildlife center and even stargazing to the Regency Club, where for an added fee there are snacks, food and amenities all day long, this resort is ideal for your dream vacation.
Waterslide Heaven — Wisconsin Dells, WI
Wendy Altschuler
No sun? No problem. At Wisconsin Dells, every day is waterpark weather. A buzzing Midwestern tourist's destination that's located midway between Chicago and Minneapolis, Wisconsin Dells is the self-proclaimed "Waterpark Capital of the World" (21 waterparks and counting!)—and it's got a slew of indoor parks for when the weather isn't exactly bathing suit friendly.
Play: Families with wee ones will want to hit the Great Wolf Lodge or the Wilderness Resort, both of which cater to smaller visitors.
Note: You'll have to stay at these resorts to use their water parks.
Family tapped out on water? There are plenty of other options. Hop on the saddle for a trail ride at the Canyon Creek Riding Stable, speed across 6,000 feet of cables with Big Foot Ziplines (kids must be above 43 inches to zip), or give the kids a fun glimpse at the history of the circus at Circus World.
Sleep: There are so many choices when it comes to kid-centered lodging that it's hard to find a place that won't blow your kids’ minds. But the Great Wolf Lodge, the Kalahari Resort, and the Wilderness Resort top our list because of their sheer number of kid-friendly attractions (think arcades, mini-golf, kids crafts, theatrical shows, etc.) and the special attention both resorts pay to little ones.
Eat: Want your dinner delivered by miniature train? Head to Buffalo Phils, which serves up burgers and BBQ in a bustling Wild West-themed atmosphere. It's also under the same roof as Knuckleheads Bowling & Trampoline Park and right next door to the Outlets at the Dells (with over 75 shops!). It sounds like a play date to us.
Google "ranch vacations" and you’ll find a whole heap of ‘em. But the rustic-yet-luxe Tanque Verde Ranch in Arizona tops our list because it’s open year-round and has loads of fun activities for little cowboys. Like horses? Your kids can spend all day at the kids club (activities for kids under four are available by request), where they’ll enjoy riding lessons, trail rides, arts and crafts and more. For folks who aren’t keen on giddying up in the saddle, there are other activities including yoga, swimming, fishing, hiking, and a spa.
Play: Besides the plethora of activities at the ranch, you can also venture out into the Tucson area and enjoy downhill skiing, golfing, cave exploring, shopping, and more.
Sleep: After a long day of activities on the ranch, you and your kids will be happy to nestle down in Tanque Verde's modern adobe casitas, all of which boast stretching views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
Note: In keeping with the rustic theme, there aren’t TVs in any of the rooms and the WiFi can be a bit spotty.
Eat: All-inclusive means you and your kids will get three meals a day of award-winning Southwestern cuisine. Want to dine in the Great Wide Open? Sign up for a breakfast ride and feast on blueberry pancakes and ranch-style eggs amid the cacti and tumbleweeds. On Wednesdays and Sundays, the ranch has “cowboy cookouts” that include a tasty barbecue buffet and live entertainment.
Take the Kids to Tuscany
Gabby Cullen
Italy, and more specifically, Tuscany, is famous not only for the Italian Renaissance but also for the countryside. Families can explore at their own pace, traveling from Siena, known for its medieval streets, to San Gimignano, where you can stroll cobblestone streets and order gelato in one of the squares. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is also fun to see, and kids will recognize it right away.
Play: Of course, Tuscany has kid-centered activities that any major city has: zoos, theme parks (Pinocchio Park is one), waterparks, and museums, but there is so much more to experience here with your family in tow. UNESCO has declared seven World Heritage Sites in Tuscany, there are amazing underground cave and grotto systems, 120 protected nature reserves, and families can learn how to make pecorino cheese in Cugusi, the area between Pienza and Montepulciano.
Sleep: Snuggled in the Serchio Valley, between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan Emilian Apennines, conveniently about an hour from Lucca, Florence, and Pisa, sits Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. A stay here rewards families with easy access to medieval towns, market tours, onsite cooking lessons, an outdoor pool with mountain views.
Eat: It’s no surprise that Italians like to eat well and spending time with family is a big part of the culture. Dining out is part of the experience and kids are welcome—and celebrated—in eateries all over Tuscany. Further, many restaurants have gardens or lovely piazzas where it’s entirely appropriate for kids to run around and play while waiting for dinner to arrive. Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa has a wide variety of dining options as well—La Veranda has traditional favorites available or, better yet, arrange for a day with the chef. Shop in the local market and indulge in a private cooking lesson—you will eat your meal with pride having made it yourself. Kids can also join a cupcake making class and provide the dessert for your family table