Families visiting Seattle WA are drawn to the Space Needle like moths to flame, and there's nothing wrong with that: it brings them straight to one of the city's best attractions for kids: the Pacific Science Center. Pacific Science Center is showing some age on the surface, but inside, it's as vibrant as ever (or more so). In addition to its permanent exhibits on life science, natural … [Read more...]
Reno with kids: a stay at the Peppermill Hotel and Casino
December 10, 2012 By
We enjoy the high mountains and desert surrounding Reno, Nevada, but dislike casinos with their dark, smoky interiors and gaudy decor. It can be challenging to find truly family-friendly accommodations. The newly remodeled Reno Peppermill Hotel and Casino fits the needs of families while adding a degree of elegance and luxury I haven't experienced elsewhere in Reno. Now a Preferred Hotel, … [Read more...]
Seattle’s Museum of Flight with kids of all ages
November 15, 2012 By
For most visitors, Seattle WA is synonymous with Boeing and aero-engineering. For airplane and space lovers, there's no better stop than at the Museum of Flight. A huge, multi-building complex, the Museum of Flight can feel intimidating at first, especially if you have small children. For true fans, a full day is needed, but the highlights can be hit in a few hours if needed. On our last visit, we … [Read more...]
A stay at Brasada Ranch: a Central Oregon family golf resort
September 6, 2012 By
If your image of Oregon consists of only evergreens and rainy days, it's time to visit Central Oregon's high desert. One of our favorite regions for Oregon family vacations, Central Oregon offers beautiful mountains, lakes, and rivers for whitewater rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, golf, and every snow sport you can think up. It's also home to a number of family resorts, including Bend … [Read more...]
BubbleBum travel booster seat product review
August 8, 2012 By
It's not too often that I am presented with something completely new in the travel with kids product line. When I received the new BubbleBum booster seat for review, however, I was surprised: how could a small, lightweight, bright purple cinch bag contain a child's car booster seat? And yet it does. The BubbleBum is the first (to me, anyway) completely portable, travel booster seat for … [Read more...]
How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids
July 9, 2012 By
Families looking for things to do in San Francisco will want to devote at least one day to exploring and enjoying Golden Gate Park. In fair weather or foul (San Francisco gets a few of those, you know), Golden Gate Park offers indoor and outdoor fun for families in a unique San Francisco environment. How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids? Read on for our itemized Golden Gate Park … [Read more...]
Three Highway 1 beach pit stops from Monterey to San Simeon, CA
June 28, 2012 By
Some of the most beautiful coastline in the world exists on California's Highway 1 between Monterey, CA and San Simeon, CA. Directly after Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Monterey (definitely stop there before beginning your day), the way is windy and slow, but never fear: the California Highway 1 road trip is made to be savored with frequent pit stops, so even young passengers can handle the … [Read more...]
San Francisco Pier 39 attractions for kids
June 21, 2012 By
Families touring San Francisco could easily dedicate a full day to the busy, touristy region of Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39. And while not to replace visiting other parts of the city, a day here is well spent. We definitely suggest beginning your day with a family tour of Alcatraz Island, but this still leaves you with an afternoon and evening to fill at the wharf. Here's our picks for how to … [Read more...]
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco
June 19, 2012 By
An absolute must-do attraction for families with school-aged kids in San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, run by the National Parks Service, is a half-day tour that will wisk families across the bay by boat to the most famed island in the Bay Area. Departing from Pier 33 on the Embarcadero, the tour is self-guided, which makes it flexible for families, and utterly fascinating, which makes it an … [Read more...]
5 things to do on California Adventure’s new Buena Vista Street with kids
June 17, 2012 By
In much the same way that Disneyland's Main Street ushers visitors into the park with an ambiance of small town America, California Adventure's new Buena Vista Street welcomes visitors into the California to which Walt Disney arrived in the 1920s with nothing but a cardboard suitcase. Executive Vice President of Walt Disney Imagineering Bob Weis says he's even more excited about Buena Vista Street … [Read more...]
