We have written extensively about enjoying Disney parks using FastPass. Is all this advice out the window now that Disney has introduced FastPass+ and Disney Magic Bands? The short answer: maybe. The game certainly has changed. How to plan your Disney vacation using FastPass+ and why it will make touring Disney parks easier than ever for those who dislike planning (but harder for those who … [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...]
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...]
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...]
Using the Lake Placid Olympic Region Passport with kids
November 6, 2013 By
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
October 23, 2013 By
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
October 17, 2013 By
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: Is Temple Square Salt Lake City for everyone?
September 27, 2013 By
On a recent drive through Salt Lake City, we decided to stop (for the first time) at the city's famed Temple Square, and it made me wonder: is Temple Square Salt Lake City for everyone? I'll start with a disclaimer: we're not of the LDS faith. Because of this, the site does not hold any symbolic or sentimental meaning to us, other than as a significant player in Utah's rich history. We visited for … [Read more...]
What to do in Ketchikan Alaska with kids
September 11, 2013 By
There's plenty to do in Ketchikan Alaska with kids! Whether in Ketchikan a day or two before or after a cruise or in the city for an extended time, there are a few must-sees. SE Alaska Discovery Center One of the best museums we viewed in Alaska, the SE Alaska Discovery Center is located in the heart of downtown Ketchikan, in easy walking distance of the cruise ship terminals. Start by … [Read more...]
