Summer vacation or summer staycation? The latter is cheaper, easier and often more convenient for families everywhere. WalletHub just released a new study on the best places for a staycation across the U.S. and cities all around the country made up the top 10. Read on for the full list!
Using 46 key metrics, WalletHub compared more than 180 cities to come up with the best spots to staycation. Recreation (including pools per capita, playgrounds per capita and bike score), food and entertainment (including zoos per capita, movies costs and and museums per capita) and rest and relaxation (including public beaches per capita and idealness of summer weather) all factored into the final scores. The top 10 cities:
Honolulu, HI (65.80 total score)
Orlando, FL (60.87)
San Francisco, CA (59.41)
Charleston, SC (57.40)
Las Vegas, NV (57.13)
Portland, ME (57.11)
Chicago, IL (57.03)
Seattle, WA (56.54)
San Diego, CA (56.53)
Cincinnati, OH (56.33)
Some of the individual scores might surprise you! Cleveland and Philadelphia tied for number of swimming pools per capita. Salt Lake City had the most coffee and tea shops per capita. And Tacoma tied for first in the number of zoos and aquariums per capita.
For the full list of staycation spots, you can read the WalletHub study here. If you need extra ideas for your upcoming break (or rainy day distractions) we’ve got you covered!
Spring and summer in the city are the best times to hit the streets and enjoy some outdoor entertainment. This year, the draw of the great outdoors is even stronger than before, as families look for ways to have fun while remaining safe. NYC is delivering! There are plenty of awesome concerts, festivals, and other exciting events happening in NYC in the summer months of 2021. Head out to these often free events for kids in NYC and have some fun in the sun!
If we can't have a few large performances, the logical solution is to have many smaller performances! At least, that's the thinking behind the NY PopsUp movement, a festival that's meant to bring some life back into the city streets and joy back into the NYC people.
Since the idea behind these programs is to draw a very small crowd of people, the lineup isn't advertised in advance — instead, you're meant to just stumble into performances as you go about your daily lives for a fun pick-me-up. You can get a sneak preview at what's happening by following the program on Twitter or Instagram, @nypopsup.
Price: Free! Date: Through August 11 Location: Various locations Online: nypopsup.com
Restart Stages at Lincoln Center
Sachyn Mital/Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center's massive initiative aimed at at helping kickstart the performing arts sector and contribute to the revival of New York City, is making 10 outdoor performance and rehearsal spaces and civic venues available to artists and arts organizations across its campus and the five boroughs. The iconic campus has been transformed into "The GREEN", where the public is welcome to gather. (Don't miss the Outdoor Reading Room here, created by the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts.)
All programming is free, with tickets to events made available through the TodayTix Lottery, the Official Ticketing Partner of Restart Stages. The TodayTix Lottery will open for entries two weeks before the performance and close three days prior to the performance at 12:59 p.m. EDT. Attendees who secure tickets will be required to follow safety protocols. For more information visit TodayTix.com or download the TodayTix app.
Announced programming includes:
TheJuilliard NOW performance series featuring a new generation of artists in music, dance, and drama A Pride celebration with new stage works from National Queer Theater’s Criminal Queerness Festival, performances by Taylor Mac, Staceyann Chin, Migguel Anggelo, and Treya Lam Chamber Music Society’s Summer Evenings Outdoors with evenings of Beethoven and Saint-Saëns, and Brahms High school seniors from The Maxine Green High School for Imaginative Inquiry making their Lincoln Center debut, reciting from Howard Zinn’s Voices of a People’s History A special Concerts for Kids in honor of Juneteenth with Coming Together, a celebration of Black culture through music, dance, and poetry A performance art installation by Andrea Miller. From July 14-31, the installation will transform two Lincoln Center plazas into places of sound, sculpture, and live performance, through art that comes alive — literally. The installation will begin with a look at a diverse cast of New Yorkers through sound and sculptures. In the second half of the art piece, the sound will be transformed into actual live performances at Hearst Plaza. On the installation's last day, there will be a celebration with all the performers live in the plaza.
Additional surprise Pop-Up performances of music, dance, art, and weekend family workshops, children’s recitals, public school graduations, polling for the NYC election, Blood Drive with New York Blood Center, NYC’s Mobile Vaccine Bus, and more to take place on The GREEN and across Campus.
Price: Free, via lottery through Todaytix.com or app. Date: Throughout the summer Location: Lincoln Center Online: lincolncenter.org
The Public Theater's free Shakespeare in the Park returns to Central Park's Delacorte Theater this summer, staging a single show for the 2021 season. Merry Wives, and adaptation of the Bard's The Merry Wives of Windsor will run from July 6 to August 28. Set in South Harlem amidst a vibrant and eclectic community of West African immigrants, the show will be a celebration of Black joy, laughter, and vitality. Information on ticketing and policies have yet to be announced.
Picnic Performances & Outdoor Programming at Bryant Park
Ryan Muir
Bring your picnic basket and blanket, and enjoy live performances in Bryant Park with a full season of 25 concerts. Concerts will feature music, dance, and theater performances. The season kicks off with a show by the New York Philharmonic orchestra and ends with a 100th-anniversary celebration of The Town Hall.
Stop by for relaxed performances by the NYC Opera, the Classical Theatre of Harlem, the New York Chinese Cultural Center, Lincoln Center jazz, and many more in this varied lineup. Plus, nearly all the performances will be available to livestream from anywhere.
In addition to this concert series, the park is bringing back its usual outdoor activity offerings like ping-ping, birding tours, the art cart, chess, the reading room, and more. Plus, stop by on Saturdays and Sundays June 26 through August 22 (except on July 4th for children's programming like music, magic and puppet shows, science experiments, and arts and crafts. This event will be held 12-2:30 p.m.
Price: Free! Date: June 20-Sept. 20 Location: Bryant Park Online:bryantpark.org
Daily Dose of DUMBO
DUMBO BID
DUMBO is ready to rock this summer, with some kind of programming happening every single day! Activities will center around the famous DUMBO archway and its pop-up bar, DUMBO Station, where you can grab a beer and a bite and play giant Jenga or corn hole, or try some Drink and Draw. But there are tons of activities for kids, too.
The Adams Street Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, will offer activities specifically for kids on Thursdays at 5 p.m., from June 10 to August 26, including a Junteenth celebration (June 10), high-energy dance classes (June 17, July 15, August 19), stories and crafts, paper-making activities, and more to be announced. Following the activities for kids, a DJ will spin in the Archway until 8pm, starting with Dumbo’s own DJ Kai Song.
Fridays from June 11 to August 27 will bring live music under arch from 5-7 p.m., and a new Six Foot Platform Experimental Residency Program will take place on Saturdays through August 29 on Washington Street, Dumbo’s most iconic block, from 12pm to 9pm. Presented in partnership with the Brooklyn Arts Council, this project will feature eleven Brooklyn-based artists in full day residencies on Saturdays throughout the summer.
Additional events include The Mobile Drag Performance Unit (June 12, June 19), Carnegie Hall's Citywide concert series (Hazmat Modine at 6pm on June 21 and Slavic Soul Party at 7pm on June 26), Brasil Summerfest (dates TBD).
And yes, The Brooklyn Flea continues its takeover of the Dumbo Archway from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday through October.
Price: Free! Date: June 7 - Aug. 29 Location: 155 Water St. DUMBO Archway DUMBO Online:dumbo.is
SummerStage in Central Park and Marcus Garvey Park
Summerstage
The sounds of summer are back as SummerStage returns to fill Central Park and Harlem's Marcus Garvey Park with music.
Many genres will be represented, featuring performances with an NYC twist in hip-hop, Latin, indie rock, contemporary dance, and more. The annual Charlie Parker Jazz Festival is also returning in August for a special focus on jazz.
All performances will be held in accordance with current city restrictions and regulations. Attendees will require a free ticket, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test, and/or a health screening questionnaire. Can't make it out, after all? Many performances will be streamed online on SummerStageAnywhere.org.
Check back on the website for tickets and more information!
Price: Free! Date: All summer Location: Rumsey Playfield in Central Park and Marcus Garvey Park/Richard Rodgers Amphitheater Online:cityparksfoundation.org
Summer on the Hudson
Summer on the Hudson
This riverside celebration of art and culture is back. The summer 2021 schedule is still taking shape, but kid-friendly events locked in include The Locomotive Lawn Live read-alongs, which present musical reading experiences in front of a big locomotive to kids ages 5 and under; astronomy workshops, and presentations from the Billion Oyster project on restoring New York harbor. A full list of all the programming and their dates can be seen here.
Every program in this lineup is free to the public and works on a first-come, first-served basis. Events may be canceled in case of heavy rain so check the program listings on the NYC parks website two hours before the event is scheduled.
Price: Free! Date: All summer Location: From 59th street to 153rd along the Hudson River Online:riversideparknyc.org
Outdoor Concerts by the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra
iStock
The Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra has announced its season of outdoor concerts. Held once a month, the program features a whimsical mix of well-known tunes by classical composers like Mozart and Vivaldi and more modern selections like music from "Star Wars," Adele, and Disney.
Each concert features a one-hour program, which will be played twice. No tickets are required — just show up!
Attendees will be distanced, and children over 2 are required to wear a mask.
Price: Free! Date: June 20, July 18, Aug. 15, and Sep. 19, 2-4 p.m. Location: Outside of the Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Pkwy Online:brooklynsymphonyorchestra.org
If you enjoy your music with a healthy dose of history, this concert series is the obvious choice. GatherNYC presents outdoor performances held on the lawn of the Morris-Jumel Mansion, the oldest house in Manhattan that's still standing today.
The full performance list is still to be announced, but the first concert will give you a taste of what's to come: It features Laufey, the cellist and singer/songwriter who was named the "Best New Artist" by the Icelandic Music Awards.
Reservations and masks (for everyone 2 and older) are required for this event, and attendees will be required to fill out a health screening to gain admittance.
Price: Free! Date: Sundays May 23-June 20, 4:30 p.m. Location: Outside the Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace Online:gathernyc.org
You don't need to go to the movie theaters to make it a movie night. Head outdoors, instead, and enjoy movie screenings around the city.
Drive-ins have made a comeback this year thanks to their convenience and safety, so enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car (or an outdoor picnic) at drive-in locations like Rooftop Films in Queens and Skyline Drive-in in Brooklyn.
You can also catch screenings in NYC parks and more this summer, like Summer on the Hudson's Pier I Picture Show and Snug Harbor's Taking It to the Streets free Friday movie series.
You can also check to see if any local parks are showing movies outdoors at the NYC Parks website.
From open streets to entire open boulevards, the city's outdoor spaces are leveling up again. The amped up open streets project will transform entire blocks of the city into communal spaces featuring outdoor dining, seating spaces, performances and events, markets, and — at their core — space for pedestrians to slow down. Open boulevards are coming to 33 neighborhoods around the city for all New Yorkers (and visitors) to enjoy.
Price: Free! Location: Various locations Online: nyc.gov
Scandinavian Music Festival at Fort Tryon Park
Fort Tryon Park Trust
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic to the sounds of Scandinavian music. Cone enjoy three outdoor concerts, performed by the New York Scandia Symphony as well as various guest artists. The festival will feature both new and classic music from Scandinavian countries, and will provide a great opportunity for visitors to learn a bit about the culture and music of Scandinavia. As the concert progresses, performers will address the audience and share a bit of information about the music, cultures, and traditions of their countries.
Price: Free! Date: May 30, June 6, and June 13, 2-3:30 p.m. Location: Billings Lawn in Fort Tryon Park Online: nycgovparks.org
Roll-A-Rama at the TWA Hotel
TWA Hotel
Strap on your skates and hit the floor rolling at the TWA Hotel's outdoor roller-skating rink. Skate on the tarmac around the hotel's famous 1958 Lockheed Constellation airplane, affectionately named "Connie," to retro and disco tunes.
Each skating session includes skates (which are disinfected after each use) and a 50-minute spin on the skate floor. Socks are required, so be sure to bring your own (though if you do forget, there are socks for sale at the TWA Store and the cabin), and helmets are encouraged and available in limited numbers. Masks are required.
Please note since you can't buy tickets in advance, entry will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis, and capacity is limited.
Price: $20 per adult and $16 per child under 12 (price includes skate rentals) for a 50 minute session, credit card only Date: Fridays 4-8 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays 12-8 p.m. Location: The TWA Hotel, One Idlewild Drive at the JFK Airport Online: twahotel.com
NYC's newest island is complete and open to the public as of May 21! This man-made floating island will serve as a way to get away from the crowds right in the middle of the city. The island features several levels to explore, with lush meadows and green spaces, performance areas, calm spots perfect for rest and relaxation, and more. Little Island has its own roster Artists-in-Residence, which includes tap dancer and choreographer Ayodele Casel, playwright and director Tina Landau, actor, singer and music director Michael McElroy and musicians and storytellers the PigPen Theatre Co. The groups will help curate events, festivals and ongoing programs, while selecting acts for the the Perform in the Park program.
Price: Free! Date: May 21 Location: Pier 55, Hudson River Park West 13th Street Online: littleisland.org
Editor’s note: Any medical advice presented here is expressly the views of the writer and Red Tricycle cannot verify any claims made. Please consult with your healthcare provider about what works best for you.
I don’t know about you, but when I first became a mom, wine became my first line of defense. When my kid went to sleep, I poured a glass and used it to finally relax after a long day. After awhile though, this led to some serious problems. I developed a dependency on alcohol to relax. I forgot how to do it on my own, naturally. A few months later, it led to pretty serious alcoholism and I had to get sober and get in recovery.
Not everyone has such an extreme story, but I do know that a lot of moms (and parents) have trouble staying relaxed in a natural and sustainable way.
Being a parent is naturally stressful and anxiety producing. There is so much responsibility and seemingly not enough time to really take care of ourselves. Using alcohol, anxiety meds, marijuana and other substances might seem like a good idea to take the edge off and help you balance everything, but ultimately these things just suppress the problem and it leads to even more issues down the road.
So, in my journey of sober parenting, I have had to learn how to actually deal with Mom Stress for reals, in healthy and sustainable ways. Here are some of the tools that have helped me. Whether you decide to parent sober or you love your wine and feel like it’s not a problem for you, having natural ways to deal with your stress and anxiety is still important and makes the whole parenting gig much easier and more do-able.
1. Try natural supplements.
There are a bunch of helpful natural supplements to calm the nervous system that actually work really well. They don’t alter your perception, but they do help your body, mind and energy relax. I have many on hand, some for day, some for night, some for sleep. They can be surprisingly strong and effective. One of my favorites is good ol’ chamomile, which can be taken anytime, day or night. Another go-to herb for me is valerian, which helps a lot with anxiety and really helps me sleep. There are many others out there.
Go to your local health-food store and ask the supplement department! If you have special conditions or are on medication consult your doctor first. But, from my experience, nature has some amazing medicine that can help us stay calm, balanced and relaxed, even when life is crazy stressful.
2. Feel your feelings.
One huge part of dealing with stress naturally is learning how to feel and process emotions. A lot of the stress and anxiety in life and in parenting comes from suppressed or ignored emotions. It is so hard to factor in time to care for yourself sometimes as a mom. Often our own feelings and emotions get pushed to the back burner so we can keep taking care of everyone else. However, when this happens, it can create a backlog of emotions and feelings that can build up and turn into serious anxiety and stress.
One way to prevent this is to learn and use emotional processing tools and practices in your daily life. Journaling, movement or somatic processes, even talking with a friend or trusted confidant can really help. When you get in the practice of consistently feeling and releasing the emotions that arise in daily life, stress and anxiety naturally stay lower.
3. Schedule in self-care—and drop the guilt about it!
I’m talking about self-care that goes way beyond manicures, ladies. This means deep, nourishing experiences with yourself or a supportive community. Think nature hikes, meditation, yin yoga, energy healing sessions, reading a book by the beach, etc. It’s also helpful to schedule in full days or even nights away sometimes, so you can fully unwind without interruption or obligations.
And, learning to let go of the guilt around this is one of the most important parts. Feeling guilty while you are taking care of yourself is actually pretty counter productive. You deserve time to yourself. You deserve rest and relaxation. You deserve time to truly restore yourself and your nervous system, so you can come back to your family filled up and ready to resume your duties.
Don’t wait until you are about to explode to take some time for you. Scheduling in regular alone time or self-care time is a practical and important way to manage your stress and anxiety as a mom and make your care-giving lifestyle more sustainable.
4. Have a creative outlet and schedule time for it.
Express yourself, mama! Let your creative energy flow freely beyond your role as caregiver and child-creator. You have a passionate life-force within you. When you allow it, nurture it and cultivate your creative self-expression, you will feel more vibrant, alive, relaxed and whole. Painting, drawing, dancing, singing, pottery, writing… whatever it is for you, let yourself have it.
And, you know how busy your life is as a mom, so make sure you schedule in regular time for you to express yourself creatively. It might be awkward at first if you haven’t done it for awhile, but creative self-expression is one of the most powerful stress and anxiety reducing activities you can do. It will help you feel more vibrant, alive, connected to yourself and relaxed.
So, what can you commit to on this list? Can you give yourself the time and space to feel your feelings, take time off and create a routine of expressing yourself? If you do, you will experience a life with naturally less stress and anxiety and less need to self-medicate with alcohol, drugs or other substances to relax. And, when you do need a little outside help, remember there are so many natural herbs and supplements that can help manage and reduce stress and anxiety.
Flow is an Author and Memoir Writing Coach for Womxn. Feeling the call to write your true life story into a book that inspires? Sign up to join a Free Memoir Writing Breakthrough Workshop through her website, and get the clarity and momentum you need to make it happen.
Our series, Family Tales, is an honest peek into the daily lives of families across the country who are on this crazy ride we call parenthood! From divulging childcare costs to breaking down family finances to managing a virtual school year with multiple kids, we tap into the Red Tricycle army of parents to find out how they’re making it work. This series is a judgment-free zone.
Interested in telling your story? Start by filling out our questionnaire here. All stories are anonymous.
It Takes a Village: What It’s Really Like to Do a Learning Pod (with My Parents as the Teachers)
Name and occupation: Shannan Rouss, Los Angeles editor at Red Tricycle My partner’s occupation: TV producer and director City: Los Angeles Age of kid(s): 4-year-old son School set-up in 2020: Although my son’s preschool reopened with numerous safety guidelines in place, my husband and I opted not to send him for now. We knew that every sniffle, every rash or stomachache or cough would be a cause for concern. And we also knew that sending him would mean we could no longer safely be in a “bubble” with my family. We would be giving up the the in-person, regular and constant support of my parents and my siblings and their families (all of whom live nearby) for my son to attend school.
So instead he’s attending “Mimi’s School,” a mini learning pod run by mother, a former preschool teacher and award-winning children’s author with years of experience, and my dad, grandpa extraordinaire and now, also, P.E. teacher/creator of DIY obstacle courses (see below).
There are two other students at Mimi’s School—my nieces, ages 4 and 6. The three kids are together four days a week, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It provides some semblance of normalcy for them, and gives me just enough time to get my work done.
But here’s the catch: My parents live about an hour from LA (longer if there’s traffic) in Oxnard, which means I’ve got quite the commute. To avoid daily back-and-forth trips, my son and I drive out to my parents on Monday mornings, sleep over, then drive back home Tuesdays after school. Wednesdays are off, and then it’s back to school on Thursdays, sleep over, and drive home on Fridays. It’s a lot, but I know I’m lucky to have my family close enough to even provide this option for us.
The morning commute: I give us a good hour to get ready (eat breakfast, brush teeth, put on shoes, say good bye to Daddy), and it’s still a mad dash to make it out of the house on time. Because we’re trying to make the experience as much like regular school as possible, my son has a new backpack and brings his own lunch each day. That means in addition to packing lunch (plus our overnight bags), I also have to bring enough food to cover lunch for the following day.
We usually get into the car closer to 8:30 than 8, which means we’ll arrive a little late for school (but luckily the teachers are forgiving). During the hour drive, I mentally run through a litany of things I’ve forgotten: my son’s iPad, his sweatshirt, his big blankie, his sleeping bag.
Sometimes the commute is peaceful. Sometimes I have to be a robot or an alien (or an alien-robot) the whole way. My son likes this game. I speak like a robot and he explains things on earth to me. He points out the telephone wires, and asks me if we have cars on my planet.
And then there are the mornings when he asks “Are we there yet?” before we’ve even gotten on the freeway. “How about now?” he continues. “How much longer?” On these mornings, the drive can feel interminable for both of us.
The drop-off: When we finally arrive, we enter Mimi’s School quietly because my older niece, a first grader, has already started her Zoom lesson. (She’ll join the younger ones when her distance learning is done.) My son makes his way to the guest room-turned-classroom for free play. Thanks to her years of teaching plus the three grandkids that preceded these younger ones, my mom has a surplus of toys, books and games in her home. While the kids are preoccupied, either my mom or dad usually tries to shoo me out of the house, but I insist on saying a proper good bye to my son. (Yes, I’m that parent.)
His school day/my work day: Because I can’t work at my parent’s house (my son would never leave me alone), and I can’t go to a cafe and plug-in (because, Covid), I drive to my brother and sister-in-law’s home in nearby Ventura. Here, my office is one end of a very long dining room table.
Meanwhile, at my parent’s house, my mom calls on her years of teaching experience to give her grandkids a a close approximation of preschool. They have morning circle with all that entails: singing songs, reviewing the the days of the week and the weather, reading a book, meeting a puppet named Shofar (they’re currently learning about the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah).
In the kitchen, they do cooking projects, making their own challah on Fridays, or banana bread on other days. And in the semi-finished garage, they do arts and crafts and other larger projects, like building a city out of assorted cardboard boxes or creating a “robot” from recycled materials.
Overcoming obstacles, literally: Grandpa has put himself in charge of P.E. What began as simple four square in the alley has evolved into full-on American Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses, all made using items sourced from the garage. There’s a 2×4 balance beam, a folding stepladder, tunnels made from oversized boxes and more. Is it any wonder my son’s worn out by the end of his school day?
Rest and relaxation: My mom tells me that with younger kids, all the learning happens in the first part of the day. After lunch, little ones need rest and play. TV’s okay at this point too, but only PBS Kids (because it’s mostly educational), according to my parents and I can hardly argue with that.
All three kids get picked up at 2:30 p.m. Some days when I arrive, my son’s curled on the couch and watching Dinosaur Train. Some days, he’s too engaged with his cousins to even notice I’m there. His older cousin is teaching him to “read” using her sight words books. He proudly “reads” me the one he has memorized and my heart swells because he’s so pleased with himself.
Mom duty begins: If it’s a Tuesday or Friday, my parents gently hurry us out, so that they can enjoy their own rest and relaxation. On days when we sleepover, I try to give them space—spending time with my son in the playroom or heading out with him for a walk—giving my parents a much-deserved break. While Mimi’s school was my mom and dad’s idea, I still worry about overburdening them, or them simply burning out.
But I probably don’t need to. Because when my little guy has a meltdown over his iPad not working and there’s nothing I can do to soothe him, it’s Mimi who brings out a puppet and is able to stop his tears. No matter what, my parents never stop being grandparents; they wouldn’t want to. Or maybe they can’t help it. Taking care of their family seems hardwired into them. At the end of a long day, my mom still makes dinner in the evening and insists on cleaning up afterward, while I go upstairs to bathe my son and put him to bed.
A very early bedtime: Although my son and I share a room, I’ve convinced him to at least sleep on the air mattress and not in the bed with me, which is just too much of a slippery slope (as in, then he’ll want to sleep in bed with Mommy every night). I usually lie down in the room with him to keep him company until he falls asleep, which means that plenty of nights, I end up falling asleep too—even if it’s shy of 8p.m. I text my husband to say good night, just in case this happens, and let him know we’ll talk in the morning.
I’m not sure how long we can keep up this routine. I’m immensely grateful to my parents, but still, I’m not sure Mimi’s School is the best thing for our family, long term. My husband and I have talked about maybe renting a place closer to my parents. But the commute is only one drawback of our current situation. It feels selfish to admit, but I miss the comfort of my routine, of being able to get stuff done around the house while my son’s at school, and then putting him to bed in his own room, so I can plop down on the couch next to my husband.
More important than that though is what my son misses. Because as much as he loves his grandparents and his cousins, he still reminisces about what he calls “real school” and the friends he’d made there. Right after he started Mimi’s School, he tearfully told me he’s going to be so old by the time the germs are gone and he can return to his “real school.” He doesn’t know that his “real school” is open now. I don’t think he’d understand why we’re not sending him. We’re still signed up. Still paying to hold our spot. Just in case we ever get to a place where the risks of sending him no longer outweigh the drawbacks of not sending him.
Take some time for you and plan the holy grail of vacations—a parents-only getaway! We scoured the country and beyond to find you the best adults-only resorts where you won’t have to worry about packing sunscreen, floaties and snacks for the kid crew. With amazing amenities like spa treatments and swim-up bars, you’ll return home rejuvenated. Find your destination below!
Iberostar Grand Paraíso - Playa Paraiso, Mexico
Iberostar Grand Paraiso
The adults-only Iberostar Grand Paraíso is part of the brand’s Grand Collection, pairing the comfort and luxury of a premier Playa del Carmen hotel with all-inclusive service. The hotel offers a wide range of personalized services, including concierge and butler service as well as 24-hour room service, and unbeatable entertainment options, such as wine tastings and dance lessons. Guests can also enjoy three pools, including a saltwater pool with an aqua-bar, a heated indoor pool with a sliding roof and a pool with a panoramic view. The Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraíso features its own a state-of-the-art spa, exclusive to guests staying at the adults-only resort, offering various treatments and massages, Jacuzzis, solarium, sauna, Turkish and Roman baths, thalassotherapy pools and more to provide guests with a feeling of paradise within paradise.
The newly-redesigned Club Med Turkoise resort in the Turks & Caicos Islands features new renovations and enhancements including 80 all-new Deluxe-level room with balconies; a redesigned pool and reception area; a new main bar; renovated dining space with a new wine cellar; and a new wellness area. Club Med Turkoise is located on Grace Bay Beach, and there are a variety of water and land activities to keep guests busy—or relaxed—during their stay.
Hotel Wailea offers travelers an ultra-private elegance infused with relaxed island luxury. This intimate adults-only escape has 72 oversized suites and a pool overlooking three Hawaiian islands with residential-style cabanas and an apothecary-style pool bar. Personalized guest programming is tailored to couples and centered on unique island experiences that embody adventure, romance and laid-back luxury. Hotel Wailea’s continually-evolving culinary program boasts a unique take on seasonal dining with Hawaiian staples and Maui-grown ingredients, including many from the hotel’s own organic garden.
Tucked away on a gently-sloping, tropical beachfront, Calabash Cove is one of only a few five-star luxury boutique hotels on St. Lucia. Accommodations include Balinese-style Waters Edge Cottages, all with private pools, as well as a number of magnificent Manor House Suites with dramatic ocean and sunset views. Guests will enjoy five-star luxury service including couples massages at Ti Spa, swims in the infinity-edge pool and individually-tailored excursions organized by the leisure concierge.
Sunset at the Palms offers a full-sensory experience for adults who are seeking rest and relaxation. The exotic tropical resort touches the senses with its natural beauty, garden setting, superior food, private beach and guest services. This chic and intimate hideaway is perfect for discerning guests seeking the most blissful beach experience in Jamaica. A stay here includes air-conditioned accommodations in 85 treehouse-style guest rooms with private balconies; private beach access and a variety of non-motorized sports; tennis courts, a fitness center and swimming pool; all meals and beverages; and Club MoBay VIP arrival service at Sangster Airport in Montego Bay, for fast-tracking through immigration and customs.
Inspired by the relaxed sophistication of the South of France and infused with California soul, Auberge du Soleil features wine country’s most luxurious accommodations, spectacular valley views, a 13-time Michelin Star award-winning restaurant and the exclusive Auberge du Soleil Spa. The picturesque Spa courtyard is anchored by mature olive trees and a centerpiece of three stone basin fountains perfectly aligned with Mount Veeder in the distance. Spa treatments are reserved for resort guests and include Meritage, a private couples spa treatment that combines body exfoliation, bath, massage, scalp and foot treatment along with a fruit and wine pairing.
Yasawa Island Resort & Spa is a one-island, all-inclusive tropical paradise geared toward the ultimate in luxury. From the warm Fijian serenaders upon arrival with fresh coconut and floral leis to distinctive contemporary Fijian-style bungalows fashioned with palm-thatched roofs, plantation shutters, an expansive sun deck, a private beach hut on the edge of the sands and personal hammock, the resort rejuvenates the senses and stirs the soul. Couples pre-select where they wish to dine each night from a torch-lit dinner for two on a remote patch of sand to a romantic dinner under a Century-old Dilo tree and a starlit sky. For the ultimate in relaxation, the full-service BaraviSpa offers ocean-view massages and is well known for its Baravi Rhythm, four-handed synchronized massage where therapists perform this couples favorite in tandem with the waves of the ocean.
Triple Creek Ranch is a year-round, adult-only retreat on over 600 acres tucked away in the Bitterroot Range of the Rocky Mountains. The luxury guest ranch resort offers a wide variety of Western adventures along with gourmet food and wine experiences. The log cabins are cozy, many even have their own private hot tubs under the stars along with steam showers and fireplaces. Signature experiences include vintners weekends, fly fishing, cattle drives and cowboy schools, as well as snowshoeing, skiing, snow biking, snowga and more in the winter.
Opening in June 2019, Hilton La Romana is an all-inclusive, adults-only resort that will offer beautiful views that guests can take advantage of from their spacious guest rooms, each featuring a furnished balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, 11 restaurants, eight bars, a casino, a disco and more at this world-class resort. For those who enjoy a day on the green, Hilton La Romana is also conveniently located near four championship golf courses. The resort’s picture-perfect location and a wide variety of leisure offerings make it the ideal option for an adults-only getaway.
A contemporary, award-winning designer hotel featuring 18 rooms perched on a rock cliff overlooking the famed Tulum coast, the adults-only Mi Amor offers a mix of oceanfront and garden/pool-facing rooms, a spa, swimming pool and nearby beach. Australia’s award-winning Chef Paul Bentley heads up the modern bistro restaurant with his distinct style of exciting flavors and playful textures. Be part of ancient Mayan ceremonies, witness sea turtle nesting and explore the aquatic life on a scuba dive during your next vacation.
This luxe retreat is a mere 30 minutes away from downtown Austin, but it’s miles away from the real world. It's an all-inclusive resort for adults, and you can customize your visit with the resort’s “experience” guides, like the culinary arts or health and well-being. Or, you can show up and opt to experience a little bit of everything—each day is jam-packed with all kinds of activities: hiking, wine cruises, boating, live music and more. The accommodations range from luxury lake views to hot tub cottages, so there's a style for everyone.
This 17th-century monastery-turned-20-room boutique resort on the Amalfi Coast is the perfect oasis for a romantic getaway. The resort boasts meticulously-maintained terraced organic gardens (providing much of the produce and herbs for the Michelin-starred on-site restaurant), the convent’s original chapel, a dramatic infinity-edged pool with panoramic views and a state-of-the-art spa housed within the original 17th-century vaulted-ceilinged walls of the restored convent. The resort offers a special romance package for couples, including an 80-minute Candle Massage Treatment for two, a romantic candle-lit five-course dinner overlooking the sea, as well as a bottle of chilled Prosecco.
Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, is an iconic resort ensconced in the heart of the California Central Coast’s rugged landscape, perched at the edge of the continent overlooking the majestic Pacific coastline. Set among 160 sprawling acres of rolling meadows and towering redwoods, Ventana’s 59 spacious guest rooms, suites and villas each feature a private balcony or patio with mountain or ocean views. Luxury soaking tubs and cozy fireplaces offer a sacred space for inspiration and introspection, while accessories such as walking sticks, binoculars and lanterns encourage guests to discover the great outdoors. You can also choose to immerse yourself in nature at one of the resort's glampsites while also taking advantage of the properties' resort amenities. Two pools, a fitness room, a spa and upscale ocean-view dining at The Sur House are all available on-site for resort guests.
Located just steps from the water and only 15 minutes away from the Cancun International Airport, the recently-opened Iberostar Cancún Star Prestige presents premium, all-inclusive service to provide an unforgettable experience. All guests at Iberostar Cancún Star Prestige will benefit from a range of offerings, from staying in rooms with the best views, upgraded amenities and having access to reserved areas, such as a private beach club with an open bar, to enjoying exclusive services, including private check-in and the possibility of late check-out. The adults-only hotel features 156 unique rooms along 13-stories, all with ocean views and whirlpools.
The five-star Sonesta Ocean Point Resort embraces a uniquely-designed contemporary Caribbean style within a luxury, adults-only, limitless all-inclusive vacation experience. The spectacular 130 all-suite “resort within a resort” features three pools, four bars, the modern Mediterranean Azul restaurant, 24-hour room service, wellness treatments and exemplary service from personalized concierge. Having made its highly-anticipated reopening on Dec. 15 of last year, the Ocean Point is now welcoming guests with fresh new amenities (like Casa Blue, a new tapas restaurant), an updated and refreshing new look and the same immense sense of hospitality that St. Maarten is known for. Plus, with its close proximity to Maho Village, the island's shopping and nightlife promenade, guests of the Ocean Point truly have access to everything they need and more.
The adults-only Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa stands majestically on a clifftop overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman. The resort hosts 180 rooms and suites with luxurious amenities including butler service, daily afternoon tea, pre-dinner cocktails, pre-loaded iPods with personalized music selection and complimentary mini bar. The resort has four restaurants that offer delicious Arabic and international dishes and two lounges that serve premium evening cocktails. The resort has a private and secluded 100-meter beach and an infinity pool that is reserved for guests.
The resort features more than 580 chic Caribbean-style rooms, three restaurants, two bars and a large swimming pool. Guests also enjoy full access to the extensive services and amenities of the entire Barceló Bávaro Grand Resort, including up to an additional eight restaurants, 24-hour casino, indulging treatments at the U-Spa, The Lakes Barceló Golf Course, a convention center and a theatre. For those seeking a more elevated experience, Premium Level accommodations offer the best views, unlimited access to specialty restaurants, 24-hour room service, private check-in and personalized concierge service.
Escape the stress of everyday life and retreat to palm-lined beaches overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Hilton Playa Del Carmen holds over 500 all-suite accommodations, including beachfront and swim-up suites. This all-inclusive, adults-only resort offers endless food and beverage options with 10 restaurants and bars, and a relaxing, luxurious spa. Playa del Carmen’s famed Fifth Avenue is just a few steps away from the resort, allowing guests to take advantage of the area’s best shopping, dining, entertainment and more.
Built by actor Don Castle back in the 1950s, Sparrows Lodge was built as a place for Hollywood’s elite to slip away to the desert for the weekend. Today, the lodge serves the same purpose, but you don’t have to be a movie star to enjoy this rustic, adult-only resort in Palm Springs. The hotel combines community with privacy as guests have the option to enjoy a home-cooked meal from the garden served family-style, hang out at the bar nearby the communal fire pit, or hide away in their own private patios or the secluded cabin room. Book a couples massage to fully immerse yourself in relaxation.
Tucked away between sea and mountain, the palatial, colonial-style Iberostar Grand Rose Hall is located near sunny Montego Bay, Jamaica. Embodying service, elegance and luxury, the resort offers a beachfront paradise overlooking the Caribbean Sea, boasting gorgeous suites, exquisite culinary offerings throughout 11 restaurants and various recreational and sporting activities. Guests can experience beauty, relaxation and physical and spiritual rejuvenation with an unparalleled offering of in-house or beachfront treatments and massages.
Sandals Royal Barbados Resort - St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados
Sandals Royal Barbados Resort
This all-new, all-suite resort in the St. Lawrence Gap area of Barbados features a number of Sandals' firsts, including the first rooftop pool and bar, the first four-lane bowling alley, the first guys-only barbershop and two new restaurant concepts—American Tavern and Chi Asian. This all-suite resort also features Sandals signature accommodations including the Skypool Suites, Swim-up Suites and Millionaire Suites, international cuisine and a 15,000-sq.-ft. spa.
Hotel El Ganzo is an arts-inspired adult-only boutique hotel in San José del Cabo. What makes it different is its approach to the arts with a musicians-in-residence program including a full underground recording studio, a strong sustainability program that includes branded water canteens for guests to use during their stay, an organic garden, an art school for the community and more. This sustainable boutique hotel features one of Los Cabos most instagramable pools.
Does your family loves the idea of camping, but maybe the idea of “roughing” it in the great outdoors doesn’t sound so appealing? The Ranch at Bandy Canyon offers the perfect solution. Located in the heart of San Pasqual Valley, this rustic retreat allows you to enjoy all the comforts of home, yet be completely surrounding by nature. The Ranch offers everything from horseback trail rides to swimming, hiking, biking and more. And with cozy cabins and local wineries right outside your door, what are you waiting for? We’ve got your insider’s guide to this hidden gem that will let your family reconnect with nature and create lifelong memories.
Rest and Relaxation Forget about pitching a tent and sleeping on the ground, The Ranch at Bandy Canyon has everything you need to experience the wilderness with the ease of modern-day amenities. From the moment you drive through the big iron gates, you’re transported into another world that is surrounded by picturesque landscape and rocky mountains.
After checking in with the staff at the white trailer across from the stables, you’ll be taken by golf cart to your own private cottage. Each of the 13 uniquely-appointed cottages are equipped with super soft beds, pull out sofas, a full bathroom and an adorable kitchenette. Your family will be able to completely unwind and unplug. Yes, there is electricity, but there are no televisions. Trust us, with 144 acres to explore, the kiddos will survive a few days without their favorite show. Be sure to enjoy your morning coffee or a glass of wine on your private porch.
As for meals, since there is no on-site restaurant, you’ll want to bring plenty of snacks, drinks and easy-to-make meals that don’t require a stove. There’s a mini-fridge, microwave, toaster and coffee maker in your cabin, as well as BBQ grills available near the pool for anyone to use. The office can also coordinate dinner delivery from a local restaurant or guide you in the right direction if you’d like to dine out.
Insider’s Tips for Your Stay Cabins sleep between 2 and 8 people. Be sure to check online for availability and to read about the charming details and location of each one.
You won’t be able to drive your car up to the cabin; you’ll be transported by golf cart so pack smart, rather than having a lot of loose items. Don’t worry, it’s a short walk back to your car if you need to make an extra trip.
Want to bring Fido along? Dogs are allowed in some cabins for an additional fee of $20 per night.
There is a small shop on-site that is open during peak times offering a coffee bar, snacks, toiletries and small gifts.
Outdoor Activities The Ranch features a full-service equestrian facility where horsing around is totally acceptable. Group or private lessons are available for ages 6 and up through adults and include grooming, tacking and of course, riding. For parents and kiddos ages 7 and up, the one hour trail ride is a truly memorable experience. Riders will be taught basic commands and offered a riding helmet before they saddle up. Then giddy up and enjoy the ride as you are led through the wilderness by your expert guide on horseback. Take in all the sights and make sure to snap a few pictures on the scenic trail, as you ride up hills and under branches.
Photo: The Ranch at Bandy Canyon
Little ones can do a pony ride and meet new animal friends in the petting zoo. Sheep, goats, chickens and ducks make for a fun hands-on farm experience. Bring along some carrots if you’d like to feed the horses and ponies — they love carrots!
Photo credit: The Ranch at Bandy Canyon
Around the Grounds
Exploring the exquisite grounds will never get old. Go for a hike or explore your surroundings on one of the bikes that are available to rent by the day. Watch the koi fish swim around in the stream, or swing the day away in the hammock or two-person swing. Then lounge around and soak up the sunshine while the kiddos make a splash in the newly remodeled pool and spa. Bring your own food to grill at the barbecues and enjoy your poolside feast, perhaps with a refreshing drink.
After the sun goes down, the lodge heats up! Cozy up next to the fireplace, and bring along a drink to sip on or some s’mores to enjoy with your crew. Listen to the peaceful sounds of the waterfall and all the wildlife including frogs, owls and coyotes howling in the distance.
Insider’s Tips for Outdoor Fun For the horseback trail ride, be sure to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Sunglasses and a hat are also nice to have on hand, and keep in mind purses and backpacks are not allowed during the ride.
Bring your own mountain bikes to save on the bike rental fee.
Pack a deck of cards or your favorite board game to play during down-time or have a family game night before bed.
Nearby Family Fun The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is just down the road where you can get up close and personal with tons of wild animals. Westfield North County mall is also nearby, with tons of shopping and restaurants such as Macaroni Grill and Cheesecake Factory. There are also several family-friendly wineries close by including Cordiano Winery, Domaine Artefact Vineyard, Orfila Vineyards and Winery, and Espinosa Vineyards. Bring along a picnic and take in the incredible views while you sample some fine wines as the kiddos play outside.
Insider’s Tip: Cordiano Winery has wood-fired pizza and breadsticks that are to die for!
The Ranch at Bandy Canyon
16251 Bandy Canyon Rd.
Escondido, CA 92025
760-871-6494
Online: bandycanyon.com
Have you been to The Ranch at Bandy Canyon? What was the highlight of your visit?
— Kelly Powell (photos too, unless otherwise noted)
You loved traveling before becoming a parent and there’s nothing stopping you from continuing your passion now. Sure, flying with a baby in tow isn’t always easy, but the light at the end of the tunnel is much needed rest and relaxation and an awesome hotel that’ll cater to your new “I’m with Baby” lifestyle. Check out the following eight baby-friendly hotels that’ll treat your tot like a superstar from pureeing special orders at mealtime to loaning you a bevy of toys and gear so you won’t tip the airport’s luggage scale.
Great Wolf Lodge
Think indoor water parks arn’t baby-friendly? All 12 of Great Wolf’s properties feature a zero-depth entry wading pool perfect for the littlest water lovers. They can sit and splash, crawl or practice their walking while staying cool. Big brothers and sisters will find an array of activities and water park features they’ll love, too. Pack ‘n Plays are available and every room includes a microwave and refrigerator, making mealtimes easy. Features available at some Great Wolf properties include a small-scale water slide area, evening story times, a Forest Friends Show, an outdoor play area and more.
Rates vary by location. For more information visit greatwolf.com.
Springhill Suites by Marriott
Budget-friendly and baby-friendly too, Springhill Suites get points for their layout and amenities. You’ll love that every room has a separate living room area (which you can use as Baby’s bedroom) along with a microwave and fridge perfect for dealing with bottles, baby food and pumping. The Tots Travel Too program means your baby will get a Coverplay play yard crib cover and fitted sheet, a bathtub squirt toy and a pad of DwellStudio designed disposable bibs. The same disposable bibs will be available at the daily free breakfast. In addition to a travel crib for Baby, you can also request night-lights, toiletries and outlet covers. You can find locations all across the country.
Rates vary by location. Visit marriott.com for more information.
Photo of Fairmont Pacific Rim: Trish Friesen, Trip Styler
Fairmont Hotels
Another top hotel chain for the littlest travelers is the Fairmont. Several outposts of the hotel chain feature great baby perks including the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver. They will provide everything from a bathtub and Diaper Genie to diapers and a bottle warmer. Big siblings will get a stuffed animal, backpack and coloring book upon arrival.
Rates vary by property and rooms. Visit fairmont.com for more information.
Club Med
A total of 37 of Club Med’s all-inclusive, action-packed resorts offer a Club Med Baby Welcome service for littles 4 to 23 months old. The resorts will provide baby necessities including baby bathtubs, changing pads, cribs and even strollers. Restaurants boast a baby area, with highchairs a-plenty, serving fresh produce. You can also use bottle warmers and baby food makers 24/7 to prep your little one’s meals. Babysitters are available as well, even for the littlest guests, through the Pyjamas Club because sometimes, you need to enjoy a date night while away!
All-inclusive rates vary from $401 per person to $1,798 per person; kids under age 4 are free. Visit clubmed.us for more information.
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa St. Lucia
Looking for a little R & R in the Caribbean? Head south to St. Lucia. The Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa caters to families in the family-friendly Splash wing of the hotel. Every room has a mini-refrigerator to keep bottles and baby food cold, and cribs are available. At restaurants, highchairs are plentiful and chefs will accommodate food requests including pureeing food. The zero-entry Splash pool with fountains and waterfalls is perfect for babies whether they’re sitting, crawling or beginning to walk. Older babies and toddlers will love playing with buckets and fountains in the WaterWorks area. Older kids will love the properties water park and paintball.Need a moment to yourself? The CocoLand Kidz Klub has a special area for kids under age 3 and gives parents a free rental cellphone to keep in close contact with caregivers. Plus, you can get to St. Lucia with a direct flight from several East Coast cities including New York, Philly, Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami and Toronto.
Rooms range from $228-$619 per person, kids under age 4 stay for free. Visit cbayresort.com for more information.
Loews Hotels
Several Loews hotels around the country offer a Loews Loves Kids program featuring a well-stocked kid’s closet that can help you pack lightly when traveling with Baby. Locations in Miami, Boston, San Diego and Tucson for example have baby bathtubs, toys, books, childproofing needs, potty seats, night lights, car seats, strollers and more. Cribs, of course, will be provided too. If you’re looking for a babysitter, the Concierge can help and they also have a list of nearby kid-friendly attractions and necessities (doctors, pharmacies, etc).
Rates vary by property and rooms, but kids under 18 always stay free. Visit loewshotels.com for more information.
Generations Spa Resort & Hotel Riviera Maya
Aside from the gorgeous beach front location boasting suites with private swim-ups or infinity plunge pools, this hotel goes out of their way to make all family members feel welcome. The hotel’s special “Just Bring the Baby” amenities include the usual cribs and Pack n’ Plays plus baby monitors, baby food, changing tables, bottle warmers, strollers, bath tubs and even baby bath robes. Adorable! Babies and toddlers will love playing with you at the on site Eko Kids Club, which is stocked with toys, a ball pit, slides and more. Older kids, ages 4 to 12, can play their supervised while you enjoy some alone time. Visit the resort in September and you can bring along Baby’s grandparents for free.
All-inclusive rates start at $235 per person. Visit karismahotels.com for more information.
Have you traveled with your baby? What’s your favorite baby-friendly hotel?
