Dominican Republic with kids: 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

Located in the countryside outside of Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajuana is the most talked-about experience on the north side of the island. Is it worthy of the hype? In a word, yes. What is the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua? The 27 Charcos of Damajagua is exactly what it sounds like: 27 waterfalls in a row in the middle of the Dominican jungle. Unregulated until … [Read more...]

Driving the Creole Nature Trail in SW Louisiana

One of only a handful of All American Roads, the Creole Nature Trail runs in a loop of 180 miles, with numerous wildlife refuges, gulf beaches, and marshes along the way. Driving the Creole Nature Trail sounds like a lot of miles, but can easily be done in a day. It was the highlight of my trip to SW Louisiana. Along the way, families will find wildlife refuges, beaches, piers, and even a … [Read more...]

Guide to Villa Borghese with teens who want to do everything extreme

We’re a very active family who spends significant time outdoors when we travel. In Rome, we noticed the lack of green spaces right away. Luckily, our apartment rental was located directly across the Tiber from Piazzo Popolo with an entrance to Villa Borghese. This sprawling green space and garden is Rome’s version of Central Park, and if you have active kids and teens who need to burn off energy, … [Read more...]

Exploring Shasta Cascade: Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Northern California hosts wonderful outdoor recreational opportunities for families, from Lassen National Park to Mount Shasta hiking trails and ski areas. If you only have a day, and want a taste of the area's lakes, trails, and mining history, head to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, just outside Redding, CA. Whiskeytown is located just 20 minutes from I-5, and I'm ashamed to say I … [Read more...]

Five family friendly activities in Sarasota

While a vacationing family may be perfectly satisfied with spending their entire vacation on the beach in Sarasota, a family that wants to dig deeper (or is considering Sarasota as their new home), will need to have knowledge of some of the more family-oriented activities in Sarasota and the surrounding areas. Even a vacationing family may want to get off of the beach for a while, especially … [Read more...]

Shasta Cascade pit stop: Turtle Bay Exploration Park

If you've taken I-5 on a west coast road trip, chances are you've driven right through Redding, California. We had passed through numerous times before we had the opportunity to stop and check out this Northern California town. If you're looking for a place to stop with kids, it's a great choice! The Sacramento River runs through town, offering plenty of opportunity for families to cool off in … [Read more...]

Ecotourism activities in Costa Rica: Nature parks and lodging

The Republic of Costa Rica is a rough and tropical rain forested Central American country, with a population of around 4.5 million. The country is popular for nature travel destination among the tourist because of its rich flora and fauna, beaches and volcanoes. Costa Rica has the highest population of plants and animals species on earth. There are around 26 nature parks, 8 biological … [Read more...]

Fall pit stop: Upper Rogue River Trail

The Upper Rogue Trail outside of Prospect, Oregon offers several starting points for beautiful hiking in Southern Oregon. In the perfect location if you're traveling to or from Crater Lake National Park or Bend, Oregon, this 'off the beaten track' pit stop takes you through scenic woodlands and stunning river views. Best of all, the weather is ideal in late fall. Take the trail downstream … [Read more...]

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just 20 minutes from the bright and bustling Las Vegas strip, Red Rock Canyon can be a welcome respite from the crowds, especially in the spring or fall. (If visiting in summer, try to make it a morning expedition.) Start at the visitor's center, located at the start of the scenic loop drive. The Canyon Interpretive Association puts on occasional classes and programs, so check when you … [Read more...]

Best Mountain Towns: Breckenridge Colorado

Yes, Breckenridge, Colorado could certainly fall into Pit Stops for Kids' Best Ski Towns category; however, this resort town truly is a four-season destination. While it's best known for winter sports, Breckenridge shines in the warmer months as well, boosting hiking, rafting, biking, and lots of storied history. Here's what to do with kids and without in Breckenridge, truly a Best Mountain … [Read more...]