I'm very excited to share that long-time Pit Stops for Kids contributor Kathleen Basi, a proud lifelong resident of “flyover country,” released a road-trip-themed novel this spring, and agreed to share a few places she uncovered in her research. If you’re on a flyover country road trip with kids this summer, check out one or two of these fun stops along the way! 1. Silver Beach … [Read more...]
The wonders of Wall Drug, South Dakota (in photos)
August 24, 2020 By
Have you stopped at Wall Drug, in Wall, South Dakota? If you've driven along I-90 in either direction, even hundreds of miles out, you probably have stopped. This fantastical roadside pit stop is absolutely worth a stop, or even a detour, to explore with the kids. I was lucky enough to meet the third and fourth generation owners of Wall Drug, which is still owned by the original Hustead … [Read more...]
Black Hills mountain biking for families
August 6, 2020 By
The Black Hills of South Dakota never fail to surprise...and impress. This western region of South Dakota is known as the home of Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and of course, for its Wild West history (Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane called the Black Hills home). More recently, however, the Black Hills have been recognized as an emerging mountain biking region, known for its amazing range … [Read more...]
Black Hills Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring South Dakota’s Wild Side
July 9, 2020 By
When families ask me where they can find outdoor adventure, beautiful scenery, American history, and affordable accommodations, the Black Hills of South Dakota are at the top of my list. The first time I visited the Black Hills, I was blown away, and I feel just as passionate about this family-friendly destination today. Located on the western end of the state, the Black Hills are within easy … [Read more...]
One day in Badlands National Park itinerary with kids
August 8, 2019 By
We were blown away by the beauty and peacefulness of Badlands National Park! During our one day visit, we found ourselves comparing this dry, rugged, and dramatic park to other favorites: it has much of the same feel as Death Valley National Park and Joshua Tree National Park. However, Badlands adds another element: high prairie wildlife and terrain that will impress in a subtile, almost delicate … [Read more...]
Family guide to Deadwood, South Dakota
June 29, 2019 By
We love wild west towns, especially those that are more historical than touristy. While Deadwood, South Dakota is decidedly both, there's much to appreciate about this historic town booming in western history. A little background: Deadwood is most famous as the home of Wild Bill Hickok and sheriff Seth Bullock (made even more famous by the HBO series Deadwood). Gold was discovered in the … [Read more...]
Five free things to do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
September 4, 2017 By
Sioux Falls is a surprising city in many ways: it's larger than most visiting families would guess, and is well-stocked with family friendly activities and historical sites...many of them cheap or free. Read on for our top five cheap or free things to do in Sioux Falls. 1. Ride the Sioux Falls Trolley This trolley system works its way from downtown Sioux Falls to the falls themselves at Falls … [Read more...]
Best travel experiences of 2015: Our top family trips
December 7, 2015 By
In the travel industry, there are a lot of articles and advertising messages that tell parents to hurry up and see it all. Go before they grow up. See it before they're out of school. You only have X number of years left. While I appreciate the effort to get families out their front door, I urge parents to remember that primarily, travel is about time together, sharing experiences and new places, … [Read more...]
Exploring Custer State Park with kids
September 25, 2015 By
Haven't been to Custer State Park? Get ready to be impressed! This state park encompasses 71,000 acres, making it larger than some national parks. In fact, some argue that Custer should be a national park, and after visiting, I agree! Plan to stay at least two nights to see the majority of what this park has to offer, or at least one full day to see some highlights. Here's how to tackle Custer … [Read more...]
Beyond Mt. Rushmore: Custer, South Dakota
September 16, 2015 By
Mt. Rushmore is iconic, monumental, and inspiring. By all means, go and see it. Check out the museum below the viewing platform, and definitely stop for some vanilla ice cream made from Thomas Jefferson's original recipe. (The shop is located directly in the monument cafeteria.) After you've crossed this landmark off your list, however, you'll find an array of outdoor, active things to do in … [Read more...]
