Swim with whale sharks in Cancun Mexico

One of the most memorable excursions in Cancun for my family was to swim with whale sharks. These harmless giants can be found in the open water approximately 20 miles off the coast of Cancun (past Isla Mujeres) from May to September, and if you're visiting the Riviera Maya area during this time period with older kids and teens, it's definitely an activity to consider. Who to book with: We … [Read more...]

Educational Travel for kids: Orlando beyond the theme parks

When most families think of Orlando, two words come to mind: theme parks. We understand; after all, we offer Disney World tips for families and reviews of Disney attractions. However, families looking for educational travel ideas,  whether as pit stops en route elsewhere on Florida vacations, or during an Orlando vacation, will find much to engage kids' minds. At the following Orlando attractions, … [Read more...]

Winter at the Utah Olympic Park with kids

While exploring Park City Utah with kids, families will want to reserve time to visit the Utah Olympic Park. This half-day excursion is only minutes from Park City Utah, and 25 miles from Salt Lake City. The Utah Olympic Park is the site of several winter sports in the 2002 Winter Games, and is still home to several Olympic teams and hopefuls. Most days, visitors can see training in process … [Read more...]

Five kid-friendly attractions in Ogunquit Maine

Sometimes, looking for the perfect vacation destination can get a bit hectic, especially if you have a family and are searching for a kid-friendly spot. With rising prices in theme parks like Disneyland, Six Flags and Universal Studios, parents across the U.S. are now looking for cheaper vacation alternatives that don’t sacrifice fun over price. Highlighted in an article by Trip Advisor, … [Read more...]

Outdoors with kids in MA: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

Looking to get outdoors with kids in MA no matter the season? Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary is an accessible, kid-friendly sanctuary in Easthampton, Massachusetts. Arcadia has all sorts of things to keep the family busy, including a network of easy trails, a wetland boardwalk, and an observation tower. Near the parking lot and visitor center, there is a nature play area, complete with a tepee and … [Read more...]

Using the Lake Placid Olympic Region Passport with kids

On a recent trip to Lake Placid, NY, we got to check out a piece of Olympic history with the Olympic Sites Passport. Our group included some pretty little kids (2 and 4), but there was still plenty for them to do and see  using the Lake Placid Olympic Region Passport. I’m a huge fan of the Olympics (any season, any sport!), so it was fun to pass some of that excitement on to my kids. Even … [Read more...]

Outdoor exploration with kids: Eastern Mountain Sports Schools

 EMS is one of my favorite outdoor gear stores, and I look to them whenever we need something new for backpacking, hiking, or climbing. But did you know that they have special “schools” for climbing (rock and ice), skiing (avalanche training, back country, telemark), kayaking, and biking? These EMS schools are located throughout New England and New York and are available to everyone from experts … [Read more...]

Mississippi Gulf Coast with kids: three family friendly outdoor activities

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is often overlooked by families heading South to warm waters and a warm climate, but like its neighbors Alabama and Florida, the coastline of Mississippi plays host to temperate weather, sandy beaches, and family-friendly hospitality. While a trip to the beach is definitely an option during a trip to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with kids, there's more to do outdoors than … [Read more...]

Educational Travel: Three Island Crossing State Park, Idaho

Back to school doesn't have to mean only back to the books! Explore educational travel with pit stops to historic sites! Case in point: when traveling through Idaho on I-84, families may think there's not much in the way of a pit stop past Boise. About one hour east of the Boise/Nampa area, it's well worth a stop at Three Island Crossing State Park. Located in the town of Glenns Ferry, Three … [Read more...]

Exploring Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau Alaska

Part of the Tongass National Forest, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska's most accessible glaciers. Located just outside Juneau Alaska, Mendenhall can be driven to by tour bus or private vehicle, or can be explored from above via float plane or helicopter. While some helo tours do include a landing on the glacier, visitors arriving by car or bus will have access only to view Mendenhall and … [Read more...]