The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or OMSI for short, is both a landmark and beloved institution in Portland, Oregon. Situated right on the bank of the Willamette directly across from the downtown district, OMSI is one of the best places (and arguably the best place) to take kids in the area. Nate and his friend Jonah get a lesson in the Physics Lab. With multiple exhibits … [Read more...]
Packing for a Family: Tips and Tricks to Ease the Load
September 9, 2010 By
Packing for an entire family can be daunting (not to mention time consuming). First there's the pre-trip laundry, sorting, and folding. Then there's the piling of bags in the car or airport security drop-off. And even after that, there's all the time wasted digging through suitcases trying to find that toothbrush or pair of shoes or jacket you just know is in there...somewhere. I don't know … [Read more...]
Best Beach Towns: What to do with kids in Nantucket, MA
September 7, 2010 By
It's no secret that Nantucket, Massachusetts is a destination beach town for families. It's been listed in the same breath as Martha's Vineyard and Cape Cod as a premiere summer playground for decades. We were lucky enough to see this idyllic island getaway from a local's perspective, and suggest the following activities, beaches, and shops for families visiting with kids (some may surprise … [Read more...]
Best Beach Towns: What to do with Kids in Bandon, Oregon
September 4, 2010 By
Summer may be drawing to a close, but fall is the very best time to visit Pacific Northwest coastline! The Oregon Coast spoils families with miles upon miles of great beaches and beach towns, but one of our favorites remains Bandon. Located about midway up the coast, Bandon offers a little of everything: small town charm without being too touristy (but just touristy enough), gorgeous coastline, … [Read more...]
Dreams Punta Cana Resort and Spa
August 31, 2010 By
Playas Uvero Alto Provincia La Altagracia Dominican Republic This review was submitted by Lindsay Aycan of Toronto, Ontario, who traveled to Punta Cana with her husband and two kids in July 2010. Punta Cana Resort and Spa, an all-inclusive property owned by Dreams, is located in the Dominican Republic, situated next to both the tropical jungle and the ocean. Recently named the Best … [Read more...]
Courtyard by Marriott Portland/Beaverton
August 30, 2010 By
8500 S W Nimbus Drive Beaverton, Oregon The Courtyard by Marriott in Beaverton makes for a nice, centralized home base while exploring the Portland area. While we'd normally stay downtown and take advantage of the MAX system, if you plan to visit the suburbs as well as the city center, Beaverton is a good option. We had a mixed bag of service at this location. Prior to arrival, I was … [Read more...]
Cruising Options for Families of 5 and More
August 22, 2010 By
Image via Wikipedia If your family doesn't fit the standard travel industry mold of two adults and two children, you've probably experienced frustration at one time or another while booking vacations, hotels, and the like. I know I have, and I 'only' have three kids! Cruise lines especially seem to make it difficult (and costly) to book for a family of more than four, but there are tips and … [Read more...]
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
August 19, 2010 By
John Day Fossil Beds (Image via Wikipedia) Kimberly, OR Eastern Oregon offers much in the way of outdoor exploration for families, but the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is often overlooked. There are 3 locations along Hwy 26, but the visitor center and main displays are at the Sheep Rock Unit on Hwy 19 off of Hwy 26 (about 70 miles east of Prineville). There is a fantastic visitor … [Read more...]
Submarine Force Museum
August 17, 2010 By
1 Crystal Lake Road Groton, CT This stop was submitted by Karin Burgess of Mystic Country. Thank you, Karin, for your support of Pit Stops for Kids! Planning a family vacation that takes you through Connecticut or just driving down I-95? You'll want to stop in the submarine capitol of the world and tour the FREE Submarine Force Museum to give your kids an up-close and personal view of … [Read more...]
Junior Rangers: One of the Best Kept Secrets of National Parks!
August 14, 2010 By
In honor of this weekend's free admission to National Parks, Pit Stops for Kids would like to remind readers about one of the best programs the National Park system offers: Junior Rangers! It's easy to sign up, it's (usually) free, and it's an excellent way to learn about aspects of the park you might otherwise miss. Signing up is simple: you can find Junior Ranger booklets at nearly any park's … [Read more...]
