If gas or airline prices are keeping you closer to home this summer, you're not alone. Soaring prices and family commitments necessitate staying in our home region of Southern Oregon this July, too, but we're not letting it stop us from getting away from it all...sort of. We picked a weekend, circled it on the calendar, and created an outdoor family adventure itinerary that won't take us more than … [Read more...]
Stanton Park, Douglas County Oregon
April 22, 2011 By
This review of Stanton Park has been submitted by Pit Stops for Kids reader, Anne. A regional park that is good for an hour's respite from the car, the Stanton Park in Douglas County, Oregon has a day use area with a nice playground and big grassy area. It's located on the banks of the Umpqua River in Canyonville, and includes a campground with immaculate toilets/showers. We were feeling … [Read more...]
San Diego Zoo
March 30, 2011 By
A San Diego institution and for good reason, the San Diego Zoo offers visiting and local families alike an escape from the city into an extensive and beautifully maintained animal kingdom. If San Diego is your family's vacation destination, you won't want to miss this featured attraction. Note: The San Diego Zoo has a Kidscore of 100. Learn more about Kidscore. Given Southern California's … [Read more...]
SeaWorld San Diego
March 28, 2011 By
SeaWorld San Diego has long been a San Diego landmark, and for good reason. Every time we visit, we're amazed anew at how much the park offers and how enjoyable a day it provides. I don't know why we're surprised! We've been taking our kids almost annually since they were babies, and every year, there's something for everyone. We love the relaxed feel of the park, focused so much more on marine … [Read more...]
Old Town San Diego
March 24, 2011 By
San Diego has so much going for it, by all rights, the rest of Southern California should be burning with jealousy. But there's something about this city's relaxed, unassuming air that makes it beloved...and a natural a choice for traveling families. Visitors are drawn quickly to San Diego's main family-friendly attractions, including its pristine beaches and all that entails Balboa Park, such … [Read more...]
Legoland California
March 21, 2011 By
As lifelong Disney fans, we didn't see it coming, but Legoland California has become my family's favorite theme park. Located just north of San Diego in Carlsbad, CA, this answer to any Lego-lover's dream is perfect for the 2-12 age set. Plus, it has a Kidscore rating of 96. (Learn more about Kidscore.) And due to recent expansion, it's now three parks in one: Legoland, Sea Life Aquarium, and … [Read more...]
Sutter’s Fort State Historical Site
February 10, 2011 By
2701 L Street Sacramento, CA If you're passing through the Sacramento Valley on a road trip or family vacation and want to venture beyond the swinging saloon doors and adjustable bar stools of Old Town Sacramento, a visit to Sutter's Fort State Historical Site makes for a great pit stop. Note: Sutter's Fort has a Kidscore of 100. Learn more about Kidscore. Located downtown in the heart … [Read more...]
Oregon Caves National Monument
October 4, 2010 By
If you're driving along Hwy 199 to or from the California or Oregon coast and I-5, a stop off the beaten path at Oregon Caves National Monument is well-worth a few hours of your time! A beautiful 20 mile drive from the highway (up OR-46), Oregon Caves offers cave tours of one of the few marble caves in the world, easy hiking trails, a gorgeous lodge with dining, and breathtaking scenery. The … [Read more...]
Thompson Mills State Historical Site
September 27, 2010 By
13655 Boston Mill Drive Shedd, OR This pit stop has been submitted by Ken of Ken's World. Thank you, Ken, for supporting Pit Stops for Kids! Thompson Mills State Historical Site, located near I-5 in Shedd, Oregon, offers a glimpse into the area's early farming and irrigation days with an impressive number of interpretive displays and knowledgeable staff. Opened in 2007, visitors can try … [Read more...]
Travel Tip: Legoland’s Premium Play Pass
September 17, 2010 By
If you plan to visit the increasingly popular Legoland California in Carlsbad, CA during their peak summer and holiday periods, you might consider upgrading your admission tickets to Premium Play Passes. Not widely advertised, this upgrade allows every passholder front of the line access for every ride, all day long and preferred seating for every show. The cavat: you pay dearly for this … [Read more...]
