If there’s one show that nearly every toddler can agree on, it’s CoComelon. There’s just something about the animation and the melodies that give a nearly hypnotic effect on young minds. Getting ready for the second leg of its tour, CoComelon is back and tickets are going on sale this week!
In CoComelon Live! JJ’s Journey, our star JJ and his family put on a show where he writes his own songs. But it turns out that he needs a little help to get started. By the end of the performance, JJ learns that by using his imagination, he can create, solve problems and have big adventures! The show features all the favorite characters from the hit series plus more than 20 songs, new original music and some magical special effects.
CoComelon Live! JJ’s Journey
“We’re so glad JJ and his family are back and can share their exciting journey with other families around the country,” said Michael Cohl. “The response we received from the first leg of the tour was extraordinary and I have heard from parents that this is a perfect live event to bond with their child.”
In its second year, the tour is heading to 65+ cities in North America and kicking off in Baltimore, MD on Sept. 16. Then its off to Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, Memphis, Austin, San Diego, Los Angeles and Las Vegas and more. Right now, you can view the schedule from Sept. 16 to Oct. 15. Be sure to check back for more dates and locations in the coming weeks.
Parents will be able to purchase tickets and special VIP packages when they go on sale starting Fri. Jul. 29 through Ticketmaster.com.
Travel by train—one of the oldest forms of transport—has a charm and nostalgia that engages even the smallest of passengers. For your next adventure, take your brood on a family rail vacation; it’s an indelible way to give kids a chance to be a part of the world around them. You’ll be able to move about the train, dine in a special car, listen to the conductor and view different cities and country landscapes out of the window from the comfort of your seat.
Once you’ve gotten them totally addicted to everything train, book a few nights at one of these train cars you can sleep in!
Explore the Last Frontier in Alaska
Wendy Altschuler
Go on a wild vacation to usurp all others and visit Denali National Park, which sits on six million acres in Alaska. You’ll explore some of the most rugged landscapes, dotted with moose, bears, mountain goats, and other wildlife as you travel through the park. Located between Fairbanks and Anchorage, the interior of Alaska is home to North America’s tallest and most majestic peak, Denali, which rises to 20,310 feet. Your adventure includes a ride on the Alaska Railroad via the Denali Star Train, which stops in the charming town of Talkeetna where a cat is a mayor. Really!
Good to Know: The experts at Pursuit can craft an Alaska Collection trip for your family, creating an itinerary that includes a stay at Denali Backcountry Lodge where your family can go on guided hikes, pan for gold, and enjoy delicious meals.
Choose from four different unique rail adventures on a luxurious train trip with Rocky Mountaineer. The First Passage to the West travels from Vancouver to Banff/Lake Louise, the Journey Through the Clouds goes from Vancouver to Jasper, the Rainforest to Gold Rush goes from Vancouver to Jasper, and finally, you can journey from Moab to Denver via the Rockies to the Red Rocks route.
Your family will travel in style and have access to some of the most stunning views in the world out of large glass-domed windows. You’ll ride the rails through some of the most remote nature-filled areas, some of which are inaccessible to vehicular traffic. The food is incredible, the onboard stewards are knowledgeable and entertaining, and the overnight accommodations are top-notch.
Good to Know: Spring for the GoldLeaf service to make the most of the adventure aboard. You’ll enjoy panoramic views out of the top-level glass-topped windows, can dine in a separate lower car, and kick back in a super comfortable seat as you watch the world go by. Step out on the outdoor viewing platform to feel the wind in your face and take unobstructed photographs.
Explore the urban sights of Canada’s biggest and best urban areas on a nine-day journey that'll take you from Niagra Falls to Ottowa and Montreal and then, after traveling along the St. Lawrence River, land you in Quebec City, the only walled city in North America. The train ride is done in comfort, via first-class accommodations, and you'll have plenty of time to explore each city.
Good to know: Meals are included in your plan, and on long-haul trains, games and crafts are available for the kids.
You've always wanted to see the Big 5 when it comes to National Parks (Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Glacier, Arches and Canyonlands), so why not travel by train to them all? Start your journey in either Seattle or Chicago, and make your way to Glacier National Park. You'll travel the famous Going-the-Sun-Road, explore Upper and Lower Falls in Yellowstone, float down the Snake River, and spend a night exploring Jackson Hole. After stopping at what was once part of the Oregon Trail, you'll make your way to Utah to see the Landscape Arch, before making your way home on the famed California Zephyr, through the stunning Rocky Mountains.
Good to Know: You’ll travel on Amtrak and spend the night for one night and then sleep 12 nights in hotels in a variety of accommodations.
Summit as high as 14,000 feet above sea level during this eight-day tour of Colorado's finest jewels. Travelers will explore Pike's Peak, the Garden of the Gods, and board the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway.
Good to Know: Talk your daredevil wild child into Bungee jumping off one of the highest Bungee locations on earth at the Royal Gorge suspension bridge (Or, if you've had too much family time, arrange your own plunge.).
Amtrak has dozens of different train routes covering the northeastern territory, that are ideal for families. Tour through the cities that shaped American history, romp through nature or experience art and culture in a newfangled way. Travel from Boston to Washington D.C. on the Acela line, from Montreal to New York on the Adirondack line, New York to Chicago on the Lake Shore Limited line, Toronto to New York on the Maple Leaf line, or Boston to Virginia Beach on the Northeast Regional line.
Good to Know: Passengers aged 2 to 12 receive a half-off discount when traveling with fare-paying adults—one discounted ticket per one full-price ticket.
Do you have secret dreams of sailing the world in a hot air balloon à la Around the World in 80 Days? Imagine arriving by train to the early morning image of nearly six hundred balloons magically lifting off into the sky. This guided trip tours desert highlights like Arches National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and Santa Fe before ending at the highlighted 50th annual International Balloon Festival in New Mexico.
For families who want to wing it, the California Zephyr is a great way to blaze your own trail. Following a nearly identical path as the original Zephyr train, the San Francisco to Chicago route covers several states including Colorado, Utah and Nevada. Imagine chugging by Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and down through the deserts of Utah. Be thrilled by spectacular views in Gore Canyon, CO, a place with sheer drop-offs on either side—it's only accessible by rail or kayak. You'll pass by the hometown of Western hero Wyatt Earp and consider stopping off in Princeton Il, near Chicago, to check out the home of abolitionist Owen Lovejoy—it was a major stop on the Underground Railroad and is now a National Landmark Site. A grand total of 2,438 miles, for one amazing journey, phew!
Good to know: Tickets for kids twelve and under are half off every day. Kids two and under are free.
As if anyone needs another reason to love Trader Joe’s, the grocer just upped the ante again. In a recent announcement, the company shared that it is continuing its partnership with MagnusCards by Magnusmode.
Magnusmode is a free app for people with neurodiverse abilities that makes the world more accessible. Within the app are MagnusCards, which help users feel prepared for an experience that normally might make them feel overwhelmed. So how does it work?
Trader Joe’s
After opening the “Shopping” section, users will find four unique Trader Joe’s Card Decks that center on different parts of shopping at their local store. Some of the scenarios include “Sensory Experiences in the Store” and “Checking Your Your Items,” and then step-by-step instructions for navigating the experience.
This amazing resource was created by Nadia Hamilton as she helped Troy, her brother with autism, handle day-to-day tasks. To guide him on his path to independence she would create crayon drawings on paper and use them as guides that Troy could follow when he needed. Once Magnusmode was born, her guides were transformed into the digital card decks users everywhere now utilize.
The app is serving as a much needed tool for the neurodiverse population. “It’s the ultimate strategy guide for life, with an ever-expanding library of guides (Card Decks) for home and community experiences. Companies and venues across North America share Nadia’s vision of an accessible world, and sponsor the creation of branded Card Decks to help welcome and support all customers,” the Magnusmode website shares.
The app offers card decks for all sorts of scenarios, including how to get a library card, make an ATM deposit, ordering meals, preparing for doctor’s appointments and so much more.
Now in it’s second year, Trader Joe’s is proud to offer a tool that makes shopping at their stores an inclusive experience for everyone.
Okay, Chicago. Let’s live every nice-weather day to the fullest, shall we? On the top of the list, dust off those bikes, grease the chains, strap on a brain bucket and get those legs pumping on a bike path. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the furthest reaches of the suburbs, here are our favorite spots to cycle as a family in Chicago.
What was once a former elevated train line is now Chicago's 606 trail. The 606 gives kids a sweet (rooftop) view of the city while also connecting six neighborhood parks at ground level with numerous art installations. The trail runs along the Bloomingdale Trail for 2.7 miles, between Ashland and Ridgeway, and has a total of 12 access points at approximately every quarter-mile. All access points are accessible for people with disabilities.
1805 N. Ridgeway Ave., Chicago; Online: the606.org
Morton Arboretum is a stunning place to visit no matter the season. The Arboretum has 9 miles of paved tree-lined roads that keep things nice and shaded on hot summer days and their always-cool exhibitions give you great excuses to take a break from pedaling.
Keep an eye open for their Human + Nature exhibit. The exhibit features 5 massive outdoor sculptures that use thought-provoking human forms paired with elements of nature to bring attention to the deep connections between humans and nature.
Chicago's Lakefront Trail is a combined-use path with an 18-mile bike trail and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail. The southern-most access point is at 71st Street in South Shore, and the northern-most entry point is Ardmore in Edgewater Beach. Hopping on this trail is an excellent way to bask in the beauty of our city, as you get lake and city views and easy access to our beaches.
The North Branch Trail System offers 20 miles of unpaved and paved trails along the North Branch Chicago River, with an estimated total length of 36.7 miles. It's most notable for connecting Chicago to Glencoe's Chicago Botanic Garden and includes trail loops through ecological restoration sites with diverse wildlife. Couple this ride with a visit to Chicago Botanic Garden so you can stop to smell the roses. . . and stretch your legs.
The Forge: Lemont Quarries (aka The Forge) is a 300-acre adventure park featuring the largest aerial adventure course in North America. Along with ziplines, hiking trails and paddlesports, they have a biking skills course and pump track. Their setup is fit for new and experienced riders and they have bikes you can rent if you don't want to haul your own.
Besides the gorgeous Lakefront Trail, Chicago Park District maintains paths that run through many of the parks for walking, jogging or biking. A favorite is the 6-mile Major Taylor Trail that runs through Brainerd, Gresham, Beverly, Morgan Park, Roseland and West Pullman. Most of the bike trail is off-street and takes you through the Cook County Forest Preserve's Dan Ryan Woods and Whistler Woods.
You likely won't cover all 61 miles of the Illinois Prairie Path in one ride, but you can make it a goal to conquer it a few miles at a time, perhaps. This multi-use nature trail was the first U.S. rail-to-trail conversion in the 1960s and has access points in Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties. Most of the path is surfaced with crushed limestone, which is easy on little feet and bike tires and sheds water quickly.
Your kids are the light of your life, so it can be hard to imagine that your amazing, beautiful, vibrant kiddo might have low self-esteem. Raising a confident child can be hard, but there are a few tactics seasoned parents use to instill a strong sense of self-worth in their kids from a young age. We know that no two children are alike, and there is no one-size-fits-all for parenting. We hope this list helps you pick and choose what works for your kiddos.
1. Model Self-Acceptance
If ever there’s a time to silence your inner critic, it’s in front of children. Kids are sponges and they absorb all of the things we do and say in front of them. In other words, if you don’t want your kids standing in front of a mirror saying their stomach is poochy, don’t do it to yourself. And this doesn’t just apply to physical appearance. Praise yourself once in a while in front of them, with real-life, concrete examples: “I got ready so fast today I was early to work,” or “I really had a great solution at work today, and I am so proud of me.”
2. Help Them Find Their Thing
Encouraging your child to find an activity they really enjoy and can gradually improve at is great for confidence. Anything with measurable improvements, such as a physical sport or a musical instrument, can provide clear examples of how something that is hard can become easier with practice. Experiment with trial and error (see letting your kids fail below). It can take a child a while to find “their thing” and that thing can change with age.
3. And Encourage Them to Stick With It
There’s a difference between something that's painfully difficult and anxiety-inducing and something that is hard. While you don’t want to force your children to do something that negatively affects their mental health, encouraging them to work at it even when it doesn’t come easy will lead to a feeling of great accomplishment.
And even if something isn’t a fit now, they can always try again. For example, your child might struggle to get through a piano lesson at age 5 but love it when they try again at age 10.
4. Listen to Them
Even if you want your child to keep at something, let them express their feelings about it honestly, and tell them you hear them. As the parent, you can evaluate if this is a situation in which they want to give up because they are feeling discouraged, or if it’s something bigger or potentially dangerous, and act accordingly—but in the moment, let your child be honest and acknowledge their feelings. Tell them you will come up with a solution together. Knowing they are heard means they know their opinion is valuable.
This can also be enforced in something as simple as dinner conversation. Let your child have the floor, and don't interrupt when it's their turn, just as you wouldn't want them interrupting you.
5. Get an Eye Exam
You might not think eyesight and confidence are connected, but it’s not uncommon for children to have vision problems before their parents notice. Not being able to properly see the board, screen or other teaching materials at school can make kids feel like they are “not getting it” or add to confusion. For very young children, they may not even know why they are feeling this way, which can lead to frustration.
In addition, if your child is having trouble concentrating at school, struggling with concepts or seems disinterested, especially if this is a new behavior, it could be a sign of eye problems. More than 40 percent of Americans have myopia¹, and in North America, the prevalence of myopia is expected to increase to 58% by the year 2050.²MiSight® 1 day soft contact lenses are the first and only soft contact lenses designed for myopia control and FDA approved* to slow the progression of myopia in children, aged 8 to 12 at the initiation of treatment.³† And, after using MiSight® 1 day contact lenses for three years, 90% of age-appropriate children still strongly preferred them over their glasses.⁴
6. Let Your Kids Take Risks
This one can be incredibly hard for parents and caregivers because our instinct is to protect our children. Naturally, we’re not talking about risky or dangerous behavior, but there are everyday risks that may seem small to grown-ups but are a big deal to kids. Being able to pour their own milk, even if there’s a risk of major spilling involved, is just one example. The milk doesn’t spill: they are proud of themselves. The milk does spill: they need to find a solution to clean it up.
7. Give Them Responsibilities
Allow your children to contribute to the household with age-appropriate chores and responsibilities. This will not only help you, but it will let them know youbelieve they can do it.
Offering specific, meaningful praise will give them even more confidence, plus the desire to keep up with those responsibilities. From telling a 3-year-old “I like how you quickly you cleaned up your toys,” to playfully reminding your tween, “I believe in your ability to fold laundry!” keep the examples relevant to the job at hand.
8. Let Them Fail
We won’t lie: it can be devastating to watch your child fail, especially when it is something they have their heart set on. This one can be incredibly hard for parents and caregivers because our instinct is to protect our children.
Auditioning for a school play, trying out for a team, talking to a new person at school, even taking an exam are all healthy risks that can come with big rewards, but they can also come with failure. And as hard as it is to hold a crying child who wanted to make the team, the resilience it builds will go a long way when facing tougher stuff as adults.
Another example of letting them fail ties in with personal responsibility. Yes, you want your kids to get good grades and do well at school, but if they don’t do their project on time, they will face the consequences. Failing to do a good job can encourage them to be motivated to not fail again.
9. Arrange a Physical
You’re a pro at the well-baby checks, but every year when your child gets their physical, it isn’t just about their growth chart. Confident kids know that their body is their own. Particularly as children advance to tween years, having a safe place with a trusted adult outside the home to talk about any health concerns, mentally and physically, will give them a sense of control over their own bodies.
10. Accept Imperfection
It's okay if they put their clothes away lopsided or their handwriting isn't great. Practice may not make perfect, but it will make improvements. Instead of stressing about little everyday imperfections, in yourself, your life and your kids, leave the dishes in the sink, the flyaway hair flying and go outside and play. Yes, we mean you, parents!
Indications and Important Safety Information.
Rx only
Results may vary.
ATTENTION: Reference the Patient Information Booklet for a complete listing of Indications and Important Safety Information. *Indication: MiSight® 1 day (omafilcon A) soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses for daily wear are indicated for the correction of myopic ametropia and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who at the initiation of treatment are 8-12 years of age and have refraction of -0.75 to -4.00 diopters(spherical equivalent) with 0.75 diopters of astigmatism. The lens is to be discarded after each removal. Warnings: Problems with contact lenses could result in serious injury to the eye. Do not expose contact lenses to water while wearing them. Under certain circumstances MiSight® lenses optical design can cause reduced image contrast/ghosting/halo/glare in some patients that may cause difficulties with certain visually demanding tasks. Precautions: Daily wear single use only. Patient should always dispose when lenses are removed. No overnight wear. Patients should exercise extra care if performing potentially hazardous activities. Adverse events: Including but not limited to infection/inflammation/ulceration/abrasion of the cornea, other parts of the eye or eyelids. Some of these adverse reactions can cause permanent or temporary loss of vision. If you notice any of the stated in your child, immediately have your child remove the lenses and contact your eye care professional.
†Compared to a single vision 1 day lens over a 3 year period.
¹ Vitale S, Sperduto RD, Ferris FL 3rd. Increased prevalence of myopia in the United States between 1971-1972 and 1999-2004. Arch Ophthalmol. 2009;127(12):1632-1639. doi:10.1001/archophthalmol.2009.303
² Holden BA, Fricke TR, Wilson DA, et al. Global Prevalence of Myopia and High Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology. 2016;123(5):1036-1042. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2016.01.006
³ Chamberlain P, et al. A 3-year randomized clinical trial of MiSight® lenses for myopia control. Optom Vis Sci. 2019; 96(8):556-567.
⁴ Sulley A et al. Wearer experience and subjective responses with dual focus compared to spherical, single vision soft contact lenses in children during a 3-year clinical trial. AAO 2019 Poster Presentation.
Boredom is hard to achieve in a place like Chicago, where top-quality exhibits and activities for kids lurk around every corner. Some are permanent, some are temporary, but they all are perfect go-tos when creativity is waning for family date ideas. From massive dinosaurs at Brookfield Zoo to Frida and Prince, we’re letting you in on some of our favorite long-running or temporary exhibits for families in Chicago.
Museums
Museum of Science & Industry's the Art of Brick
MSI
MSI's The Art of Brick on display Feb. 10- Sep. 5, features intriguing works of art made exclusively from LEGO bricks. The collection of creative and inspiring pieces was created by renowned contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya.
Underground Adventures at Field Museum
When you’re paying a visit to everyone’s favorite T.Rex, Sue, pop into Underground Adventure for a bug’s-eye view of the world. You’ll magically shrink to 1/100th your actual size, smaller than a penny, to explore an immersive environment of worm tunnels and soil chambers. Kids will learn soil is home to an incredible diversity of living things and that not a single plant or animal could survive without it.
wndr Museum
WNDR Museum, the ever-evolving, immersive art and technology experience, features one-of-a-kind installations from artists, collectives and studios locally and globally that prioritize joy, curiosity and creativity.
Science & You at Kohl Children's Museum
Through Sep. 5, kids get to play in a child-sized laboratory to explore how scientists impact health and wellness in the Science & You exhibit. They can explore machines, processes and technology that demonstrate the role science plays to keep the body healthy. The immersive, open-ended exhibit provides kids the opportunity to play, explore, discover and experiment.
Remembering Dr. King at Chicago History Museum
Maria Chambers
On display until Jul. 4, 2022, Remembering Dr. King is a collection of 25 photographs depicting key moments in Dr. King's work during the Civil Rights Movement. The exhibit places a special emphasis on his time in Chicago shedding light on the existence of discrimination and segregation. the abysmal state of housing and the realities of poverty in the north. More info.
Zoos
Brookfield Zoo's Ice Age Giants
Ice Age Giantsunleashes more than 30 life-sized animatronic re-creations of dinosaurs that roamed North America and Eurasia during the Ice Age. Through Oct. 30, kids can see a 15-foot-tall woolly mammoth, an oafish 20-foot-long ground sloth, a 12-foot-tall giant bird, a fearsome 5-foot-long saber-toothed cat and more. Adding to the lifelike effects, parts of the animals such as the head, eyes, mouth, and tail move, making the experience even more realistic.
Arboretums
Morton Arboretum's Human + Nature
Five massive outdoor sculptures created exclusively for Morton Arboretum by artist Daniel Popper rise above the natural landscapes in Human + Nature. The 15- to 26-foot-tall sculptures are installed across the 1,700-acre site and lead guests to areas they may not otherwise explore. Using thought-provoking human forms paired with elements of nature, each piece will bring attention to the deep connection between humans and nature.
Immersive Experiences
Frida: Immersive Dream
Michael Brosilow
Frida: Immersive Dream focuses on the art and life of Frida Kahlo (1907-1954), the beloved 20th-century Mexican artist best known for compelling self-portraits and radiant pieces inspired by life in her native country. The artist's best-known works will be brought to life and set to music through May 28.
Prince: The Immersive Experience
Chicago will glow purple when Prince: The Immersive Experience makes its worldwide debut, Jun. 9-Oct. 9. Fans can immerse themselves in the music and life of Prince in 10 multi-dimensional spaces.
Stage Shows
Lookingglass Alice
Liz Lauren
Lookingglass Alice takes kids on a circus-infused trip down the rabbit hole, through Jul. 31. This signature Lookingglass production has toured the country enchanting audiences, painted each time with a fresh coat of magic. The awe-inspiring production has come back home to Lookingglass Theatre for a new generation to discover.
Chicago Kids Company's Rapunzel
Chicago Kids Company
After stealing a precious plant, the King and Queen are forced to let their wacky gardener raise their daughter, Rapunzel. She is locked away in a tower where she grows into a young woman with a beautiful singing voice and flowing hair. After 18 long years, Rapunzel meets a handsome prince who just might help her escape. Presenting at Beverly Arts Center through May 6 and at Stahl Family Theater, May 11-Aug. 5.
Winnie the Pooh at Mercury Theatre
Mercury Theatre
Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation introduces kids to Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl (and, Tigger too!). This fresh stage adaptation is told with impressive life-size puppetry, telling exciting new stories of iconic characters loved for generations. Presenting through Jun. 12.
Yosemite National Park draws millions of visitors annually with its spectacular waterfalls, lakes and seemingly endless hiking and biking trails. This summer, the park is undergoing a long-awaited refresh, limiting the number of visitors with a reservation system and closing some trails for reconstruction. Thankfully, Bay Area families have many other national parks to explore and we’ve also rounded up other Californian beaches, forests and lakes that are equal to—or rival—Yosemite.
Lake Tahoe
Photo by Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty easily matches Yosemite’s and while best known as a winter destination, the region is equally stunning in the summer. Seek out spectacular hiking trails in Emerald Bay State Park and D. L. Bliss State Park, go kayaking in the famously blue waters out to Fannette Island, relax on a sunny beach or go fishing at a trout farm—our summer/fall guide to South Lake Tahoe has it all!
Redwoods National and State Parks
A road trip to the far north coast of California will take you to the tallest trees in the world at Redwoods National and State Parks. Receiving fewer than half a million visitors a year compared to Yosemite’s 3.3 million, the remoteness of this park is part of its draw. Stroll to the Big Tree in Prairie Creek State Park and take the Circle Trail, a 15-minute walk with informative posts along the route. A visit to Fern Canyon will reveal an incredible mini-canyon with steep walls covered in lush greenery. This amazing hike can be combined with a morning of tidepooling at Gold Bluffs Beach. Permits are now required to access the trailhead.
Photo credit: Mammoth Lakes Tourism
Mammoth Lakes
Crossing the Sierras will take your family to the mighty Mammoth Lakes, a popular ski resort in the winter and beautiful hiking destination in the summer. Although this region is a longer trek than Yosemite, kid-friendly stops along Highway 395 like ghost townBodie State Historic Park and wildlife haven Mono Lake(play at Upside Down House) will break up the drive. Once at Mammoth Lakes, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain, check out the dramatic earthquake fault and hike to the jaw-dropping Rainbow Falls.
Swap the Sierras for the Cascade Range and visit Mount Shasta, an active (although currently quiet) volcano in California’s far north. If you enjoy Yosemite National Park’s famous waterfalls, you’ll love McCloud Falls, with three separate roaring waterfalls that impress year round or Burney Falls, located in McArthur-Burney State Park, said to be the most beautiful waterfall in California. Relax at the hot springs of Penuma Retreat Center then take the kids on an underground adventure to Pluto’s Cave, a lava tube formed during an ancient eruption. Check out our trip here for all the details.
Photo by Meghan Rose
Channel Islands National Park
Five islands make up Channel Islands National Park with Santa Cruz Island the closest and easiest to visit. Often referred to as the “Galapagos of North America” due to their amazing wildlife, the islands are reached by boat which often has dolphins swimming and leaping alongside. With no cars allowed in this unique national park, it’s a great place for kids to run around and explore, check out wildlife, go for a hike or snorkel through the kelp forest. Kids five and older can take a kayak tour and explore the sea caves around the island. Channel Islands National Park is one of California’s least visited parks but one of our favorites.
Photo by Amanda Findlay
Big Sur
Escape the heat of summer at rugged and remote Big Sur which feels like another world. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has a large, recently upgraded camping site, or stay at one of the cozy motels along the highway. Take the kids to the beach at Andrew Molera State Park and search for the famed purple sand or head into the forest for a hike through wildflowers to the waterfalls in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or Julia Pfeiffer State Park. Stop for an ice cream—and an incredible ocean view—at Coast Gallery.
Photo credit: Sarah McDonald
The Lost Coast
North of Mendocino, the 101 veers away from the coast, cutting off a huge area from civilization. As a result, there is a slice of undeveloped coastal California waiting to be discovered by those willing to make the trek. Drive through groves of towering redwoods before emerging onto a beautiful shore where California’s wild Kings Range National Conservation Areagreets you. Dubbed “the Lost Coast” due to the region’s inaccessibility, it’s possible to car camp on unspoiled beaches, miles from the nearest town.
Pick a campsite depending on your comfort level: Mattole River Campsite is right on the beach, with picnic benches, fire rings and a pit toilet. It’s a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, so you can collect driftwood for your fire—a job the kids will love! If you’re looking for something closer to a town, Wailaki Campground is perfect. Just outside the peaceful seaside community of Shelter Cove, this BLM site feels remote while only 15 minutes away from a great coffee.
Photo credit: J. Silverman via USFS
Stanislaus National Forest
Clear streams, hikes through peaceful forests, secret swimming holes—Stanislaus National forest outside of Yosemite National Park is just as beautiful as the groves inside the gates. Visit Calaveras Big Trees in the mountain town of Arnold to see huge sequoias or head to Emigrant Wilderness for granite ridges and lakes on the park’s northwest boundary. If its a Western adventure you’re seeking, Kennedy Meadows Resort has rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking or fishing.
Another great option is San Jose’s Family Camp at Yosemite, which is held just outside the national park at Groveland. Enjoy a traditional summer camp together with other families, taking part in activities like archery and nature hikes, or simply relaxing.
If you do want to visit Yosemite National Park this summer between May 20 through September 30, be sure to make a reservation for your dates on Recreation.gov before you arrive. Some tickets are released seven days in advance, so if your preferred times are sold out right now, set your alarm and log on at 8 a.m. one week before your day. But if you can’t snag a date this year, don’t fret—California is full of hidden gems that rival the natural beauty of Yosemite, waiting to be discovered.
Spring is here and with it, spring skiing and tubing! With a new name, Palisades Tahoe is the same awesome resorts—Palisades (formerly Squaw Valley) and Alpine that make up two ofTahoe’s best ski resorts. In the 2022-2023 season, the two will be connected by a gondola and take visitors from one base to another in a scenic 14-minute ride, making it the third-largest resort in North America. Bigger and even better skiing/riding?! We are here for it!
1. Palisades is the perfect beginner mountain
The unique beginner area at the top of the mountain means everyone can enjoy the view during the tram or funitel ride to the top. Being a beginner at Palisades doesn’t mean you are stuck at the bottom of the mountain which is usually the case at other resorts.
2. Challenging terrain for all levels
Once the bunny slopes are conquered, Palisades and Alpine both offer a variety of terrain from intermediate to expert (hike to drop in a line, for instance) and we even discovered a double blue run which is a first for us! We love that there’s truly something for everyone here.
3. Fun, family-friendly events
Aside from awesome events like the Mothership Classic or WinterWonderGrass Pickin’ lining their events calendar, every February, Palisades Tahoe hosts a week-long (you read that right) Kid-O-Rama festival. Essentially, this is every kid skier’s dream come true: adventures on the slopes, crafts, a Big Truck day, magic shows, disco tubing (see below!) and our favorite… an avalanche dog demonstration!
4. Snow tubing and disco tubing
On select winter nights, the tube runs come alive with disco tubing where lasers, a live DJ and lights jazz up the nighttime tubing experience. Head from the slopes to après-ski/hot chocolate to disco tubing for the ultimate day at Palisades—good luck finding a more epic day anywhere else in Tahoe!
5. Lessons for the next Mikaela Shiffrin/Chloe Kim
Young skier/riders can start up with group lessons that start at age three. For an even more personalized and tailored approach, consider a private lesson. We had Noelle for our private lesson who helped our five-year-old hone her skills on her way to the famed double blue line. Another option for older (12+) and more experienced skiers/riders include the Aplen Glow guided backcountry tours.
6. Slopeside Lodging
The Village at Tahoe Palisades is steps away from the slopes and conveniently located above the charming and bustling village. Being in the heart of the action means your family is never far from the mountain, après-ski or dining options. With layouts ranging from studios to three bedrooms, all suites have a full kitchen, fireplace and access to eight hot tubs for soaking tired muscles. Ski/sport lockers also make storage easy because hauling tons of equipment after a day on the slopes is our favorite pastime, said no parent ever.
7. Dining options galore
A hangry kid is something we try to avoid and the Village at Palisades makes it easy to find delicious, healthy options for fueling up hungry bellies. Tremigo Mexican Kitchen serves up a mean margarita and mahi mahi tacos while Fireside Pizza’s signature pear and gorgonzola pizza is a crowd favorite. The Rocker at Palisades and Auld Dubliner are both perfect for après-ski (that inevitably rolls into dinner) with lots of outdoor space for kids to play while the adults enjoy their beverages.
For a sweet treat, kids will find Euro Sweets irresistible with its froyo, gelato and plethora of toppings-be sure to grab one of the cute ice cream cone seats outside! We also loved the Coffeebar, an Italian-style cafe with sandwiches, burritos, coffee, mimosas and wine so that you can pretty much stop by any time of day.
8. Palisades Tahoe’s rich history
Host to the Winter Olympics of 1960, Palisades Tahoe has a rich winter-sports history steeped in Olympic glory. Check out the Olympic Museum at High Camp after exiting the aerial tram.
9. Get around with ease
Palisades Tahoe makes it easy to ski both resorts with frequent shuttles. Another option is the Mountaineer, a free on-demand shuttle service that will take you anywhere between Olympic Valley and Alpine Meadow.
10. Laid-back vibe
If there’s anything about spring skiing that puts it in its own category it would be the laid-back vibe and at Palisades, that vibe is strong! Throw in predictable weather (read: no chains), no need for a ton of layers, minus the crush of people on a powder day and you’ve got a perfect day on the slopes at Palisades Tahoe. There are currently lodging and lift ticket promotions so make plans to check it out for yourself!
Editor’s note: This trip was sponsored by Palisades Tahoe, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
With April right around the corner, we’ll be seeing warmer temps soon. And with warmer weather comes wildflowers! From the beloved Bluebonnet to the Indian Paintbrush and the Texas Lantana, there are dozens of wildflowers that bring color to our prairies and open spaces. We made a list of where you can find and enjoy wildflowers this year, and all these spots are within a two-hour drive, so keep reading and go!
One of the best spots to see bluebonnets in North Texas is in Ennis. Just over an hour away from the metroplex, there are over 40 miles of mapped driving Bluebonnet Trails, which you can explore from Apr. 1 - Apr. 31, 2021. The bluebonnets are usually in peak bloom the third week of April, which is when Ennis holds its annual Bluebonnet Trails Festival (Apr. 8-10. 2002). Be sure the check the website for updates.
If you head northeast out of Dallas, in 135 miles you’ll hit the towns of Avinger, Hughes Springs and Linden. This is where, along state highways 11, 49 and 155, you’ll be treated to the bright hues of red, yellow and oranges of Indian paintbrushes, red buckeye and coreopsis.
One of the best nature preserves in DFW, there are over 20 miles of trails in the 3000+-acre open space, making it one of the biggest city-owned nature centers in the country. It's easy to spend a day spotting wildflowers on the beautifully maintained trails. You must register for admission on the weekends and holidays.
This 1,400-acre meadow is protected and maintained by The Nature Conservancy and contains some of the largest sections of the Blackland Prairie, the most endangered ecosystem in North America. The Nature Conservancy usually offers wildflower tours with a guide in the spring, but COVID may prevent that this year. Check the calendar of events to check.
The 43rd president's library is based in Dallas, and it boasts a 15-acre urban park. The Texas Native Park has a one-mile trail that takes visitors through native Texas habitats, including the Blackland Prarie and the Cross Timbers Forest. You’ll see wildflowers among the native grasses, and of course, bluebonnets in the spring.
One of the best places for real hiking in DFW (imagine that on the prairie!), there is a nice mix of flat trails and elevated trails that come with stunning views. One of the best trails for spotting wildflowers is the Cedar Brake Trail via the Cattail Pond Trail.
There are both paved and unpaved trails in this 200-acre nature preserve, and a lot of it wanders through protected Blackland prairie habitat. Be sure to get there early, as this is a very popular place for families, dog owners and even horseback riders. We recommend bringing a map to navigate the trailheads.
LA may be one of America’s most visited cities, but for locals and those in-the-know who have already done the main attractions around LA, there are some pretty special, hidden gems sprinkled all over this city. These are just the sort of places and experiences that confirms why we love living here (and for rainy day suggestions, check out our LA guide to must-visit quirky museums). Certify your street cred. and see if you’ve ever been to these hidden gems in LA.
Victoria Beach Pirate Tower: Located in Laguna Beach, this ominous-looking 60-foot tower (originally used as an enclosed staircase for the homeowners to access the beach) was built in 1926. Just to the south of the tower is another long-forgotten structure—a circular pool. And while the pool, over time, has partially filled up with sand, water still collects inside when the tide is high enough for waves to crash in on it.
To Access the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower: Only accessible during low tide, walk to the north end of Victoria Beach (public beach access is next to: 2713 Victoria Dr. where there is a long stairway that eventually takes you to the north end of the beach). Go past the rock outcropping at the base of the cliff, continue walking around the bluff, over the rocks and past another sandy beach section. You will reach the pool first (which sits in front of a modern staircase) and then you'll see the tower that stands north of the pool.
This museum hosts a great collection of airline artifacts, including a display of over 600 airline uniforms from 68 airlines around the world, and walks you through the history of LAX. Tours of the resident corporate DC-3, a 1940s airplane that was deregistered in 1951, are sometimes available. This is the only aviation museum situated at a major airport—with the added bonus is being able to watch the planes taxi, take-off and land at adjacent LAX. Free parking is available.
Insider Tip: If your crew gets hungry but still wants to continue watching planes land at LAX, head over to The Proud Bird—just 6 minutes away by car.
Hours: Open Sat., noon-4 p.m. Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for kids
St. Vincent's Court: Originally serving as a delivery area for now-defunct department store, this little alleyway has been transformed over time into LA's very own little Europe—complete with picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful storefronts and must-dine Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern restaurants.
To Access St. Vincent's Court: Located between Broadway and Hill St. in DTLA, this alley is accessible off of the north side of 7th St.
Ballona Discovery Park
Described as a “Museum without walls,” Ballona Discovery Park encourages visitors to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Ballona Wetlands. This secret gem encourages kids to romp and explore the two-acre native garden and wildlife habitat replete with native plant demonstration gardens, including a pollinator and medicinal garden. There’s also an interpretive Watershed Walk that follows the movement of water through every habitat from the mountains to the ocean.
Cost: Free. Hours: Open every day from dawn until dusk.
San Vicente Mountain Park Nike Missile Site: Located west of the Skirball Cultural Center, this historical spot, according to MRCA, "Was one of sixteen Los Angeles area Nike-Ajax supersonic anti-aircraft missile launch sites. During the Cold War, Nike sites were located in defensive rings surrounding key urban and industrial areas throughout the United States. The original radar tower now provides visitors with spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Encino Reservoir and San Fernando Valley, and the Los Angeles Basin. It is one of the region’s premiere locations to watch a Western sunset." The area is now home to mountain biking, trails, equestrian trails and picnic areas.
To Access the Nike Missile Site Lookout Tower: Located at 17500 Mulholland Dr., Encino, head west along Mulholland Dr. The road curves north to merge into Encino Hills Dr., and eventually, you'll see a sign for Encino Hills Dr. pointing to the right—this is where you want to take a left, and Mulholland Drive turns into an unmarked dirt road. In a couple hundred feet, a yellow gate welcomes you to the base of the park. You can keep driving to the tower if the next gate is open otherwise, you can hike the well-marked path—it's under 1-mile to the lookout tower.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: This free-to-visit Mandir (a Hindu place of worship) is the fifth traditional Hindu Mandir located in North America. Located an hour outside DTLA, this SoCal architectural gem's exterior is made from pink sandstone imported from India while the interior is covered in marble from Italy.
The lower floor of the Mandir is home to an interactive exhibition on the history, culture and wisdom of Hinduism. Visitors can learn about the origin, beliefs, and values of Hinduism, and how this ancient religion is thriving today throughout the world. Inside the Mandir, you'll see intricate carvings across the walls, ceiling, columns and displays of murtis. There's open space for people to pray and worship on the floor. The gift shop has a variety of food (make sure to get the samosas!), snack, teas, incense and souvenirs.
Good to Know: As this is a place a worship, please follow and respect signs and fellow guests. Be prepared to take off your shoes as you enter the Mandir, and please cover your shoulders and knees per the website's guidelines.
Japanese Garden at the Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant
Currently free to visit, "Suiho En" (the garden of water and fragrance) is a quiet and peaceful 6 1/2 acre garden featuring three gardens in one: a dry Zen meditation garden, a “wet-strolling” garden, and a tea garden all of which are irrigated entirely by wastewater.
Good to Know: While the garden alone is worth the visit, once life returns to normal, come back and make reservations for tea service at the Shoin Building—an authentic 4 1/2 tatami-mat teahouse adjacent to the tea garden.
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m-3:30 p.m. Advanced reservations required and can be booked up to 10 days in advance. Cost: Free
