The wonders of Wall Drug, South Dakota (in photos)

Have you stopped at Wall Drug, in Wall, South Dakota? If you've driven along I-90 in either direction, even hundreds of miles out, you probably have stopped. This fantastical roadside pit stop is absolutely worth a stop, or even a detour, to explore with the kids. I was lucky enough to meet the third and fourth generation owners of Wall Drug, which is still owned by the original Hustead … [Read more...]

Suncadia Resort review with kids

Suncadia Resort, located right off I-90 in the Wenatchee National Forest southeast of Snoqualamie, WA, is your quintessential four-season, multi-activity contemporary resort. We stopped by for two nights during a long summer road trip through Washington State, and compared it to Bend Oregon’s Sunriver Resort or Redmond Oregon’s Eagle Crest.  Suncadia boosts the same offerings, including … [Read more...]

Lookout Pass Ski Area: Idaho skiing with kids

There are only two ski resorts where kids can span two states while on the slopes, that we know of: Heavenly in Tahoe, which straddles Nevada and California, and Lookout Pass, which encompasses both Idaho and Montana. Skiing Lookout Pass is a friendly, low-stress affair: unlike large ski resorts, this hometown resort in Wallace, Idaho is very accessible, affordable, and welcoming. Located … [Read more...]

Spokane family festivals: year-round family fun

Who says families need to go to Seattle or Portland to have a good time, see an up-and-coming band, or celebrate a quirky holiday? During the seven years we lived in Spokane, WA, we happily became family festival guinea pigs, trying out a little of everything. In the years since, here's what we deem worthy of a return visit. Spokane festivals worth the trip: Green Bluff Growers Apple … [Read more...]

Tougas Family Farm: U-Pick apple orchard

U Pick apple orchards Massachusetts: An autumn tradition for many families, Tougas Family Farm in Northboro, Massachusetts offers some of the best apple and peach picking in the Northeast, as well as family harvest activities and harvest baked goods for purchase, such as apple cider doughnuts, freshly baked pies, and cookies.   Plan your visit to coincide with the harvest you'd like … [Read more...]

Skiing Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho with kids

While we lived in Spokane, WA, we spent a good deal of time at neighboring Lake Pend Oreille at Sandpoint, Idaho, and in the winter skiing Schweitzer Mountain. Schweitzer is located above the lake deep in the snowy peaks, and feels like it, too! Families will want to be ready for any weather this far north, but will be rewarded with prime skiing and snowboarding as well. Where to stay: … [Read more...]

Sertoma Butterfly House and Purdy Marine Cove

If you're visiting Sioux Falls, South Dakota for a few days, or just passing through on I-90, the Sertoma Butterfly House and Purty Marine Cove offer a high-quality and educational stop that won't break the bank. One of many quality free or cheap attractions for families in Sioux Falls! Housed on Sioux Falls innovative Outdoor Campus, where local families and visitors can stop in to take other … [Read more...]

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation

198 Purgatory Rd. Sutton MA This pit stop submitted by Pit Stops for Kids reader Sonia Beshiri. Thank you, Sonia, for your submission! Purgatory Chasm State Park runs for a quarter of a mile between granite walls rising as high as 70 feet (just outside of Sutton, MA). It's a great place to climb natural rock formations, and it's completely free! There are trails as well. You just need your … [Read more...]

A Pit Stop a Day (Day 3): Mobius Kids Museum

808 W. Main (Riverfront Square Lower Level) Spokane, WA Day 3 found us spending the day among friends in Spokane, WA for the city's annual Hoopfest basketball tournament. The kids and I temporarily escaped the crowds and heat at Mobius Kids, an expansive children's museum right in the heart of downtown. Mobius Kids is great for all ages with exhibits including a play city, a construction … [Read more...]

Hormel SPAM Museum

1101 N. Main St. Austin, MN If you've ever wondered what exactly is in that famous mystery meat, and you happen to find yourself driving along I-90 through Minnesota, you simply have to stop with your family at Hormel's SPAM Museum in Austin. Opened in 2002 and located directly across the street from Hormel's main meat plant, the 16,500 square foot museum is housed in its own custom … [Read more...]