If you find yourself driving on I-80 through Wyoming, you'll need a pit stop, and trust us, they're hard to come by. Your oasis: Little America, the somewhat odd rest stop complex with an even odder name. Located at exit 68 of I-80, Little America is the only show in miles, and it delivers: families can find a shaded playground, a few picnic tables, a large mini-market, a quick service dining … [Read more...]
Why Reno, Nevada should be on your family travel radar
February 5, 2014 By
Never considered spending family vacation time in the Biggest Little City in the World? I get it: Reno, Nevada is usually a stop-over for road tripping families, a pit stop en route to Tahoe, Vegas, or the San Francisco Bay Area. However, Reno has grown in both population and stature, helping this 'little city' deliver big on family-friendly attractions. The city is affordable (hello, casino-hotel … [Read more...]
Fun winter activities for kids in NYC
January 31, 2014 By
Winter is considered by many to be one of the best times of year to visit the bustling city of New York. There are so many fun activities for both children and adults alike that you can be sure to keep your kids entertained during your stay. If you are currently looking to organize your trip you will be able to find many cheap hotels in New York online. With this in mind, here is a quick overview … [Read more...]
Beyond the San Diego Zoo: three Balboa Park museums you’ve overlooked
January 31, 2014 By
Over 20 museums and family attractions await kids at Balboa Park in San Diego, but I bet you've only heard of a few of them, the famous San Diego Zoo most likely one of them. While families need days to see them all (and hours to see some), the following three Balboa Park museums for kids you've overlooked include: Museum of Man: Before touring the Museum of Man, I didn't have a clear … [Read more...]
Xcaret eco park Mexico: culture, conservation, and adventure
January 22, 2014 By
The Riviera Maya boasts three major eco theme park opportunities between Cancun and Tulum, all within easy access to area hotels and resorts. Families will definitely want to experience at least one during a Riviera Maya vacation, but which one? In the most basic terms, Xel Ha focuses on water activities and aquarium life, Xplor offers the most extreme sports, and Xcaret eco park Mexico centers … [Read more...]
ATV adventures and snorkeling with Punta Venado
January 20, 2014 By
There are as many Riviera Maya eco-tours as there are amazing natural wonders along this part of the Caribbean, and each offer something a little bit different. We've reviewed the fast-action activities with Alltournative, but for a change of pace, a day with Punta Venado offers both ATV adventures and snorkeling, plus relaxation. Don't worry: the kids will still be highly entertained with … [Read more...]
What to do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
January 15, 2014 By
Wondering what to do in Playa del Carmen? Our family loves outdoor excursions, but we like fun city adventures as well. While in Riviera Maya, we wanted to give our kids a taste of local city life as well as geological wonders, so we spent an evening on Playa del Carmen's safe 5th Avenue. This pedestrian-only street spans approximately 10 blocks and is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and … [Read more...]
Whale watching in Southern CA with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
January 14, 2014 By
Luck was with us the late December day we boarded the whale watching boat out of Dana Wharf. Winter is prime time for whale watching in Southern CA, and the ocean was as calm as glass and the sun was shining warmly. I grinned at the many passengers wearing green and sporting Michigan State gear in prep for the Rose Bowl to be held several days later. I was sure they were basking in the warmth of … [Read more...]
A day with Alltournative tours: Tulum and Jungle Maya adventure with tweens and teens
January 13, 2014 By
Mexico's Riviera Maya is rich with geological and cultural excursions for active families. It's system of cenotes (underground rivers) and abundance of Mayan ruins are accessed by many tour operators, but which one to pick? We spent the day with Alltournative Tours, a leading eco-archaeological guide service specializing in active, adventurous tours. Like most local tour companies, … [Read more...]
Swim with whale sharks in Cancun Mexico
January 8, 2014 By
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...]
