traveling with kids

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, NATIONAL PARKS

    Kakadu National Park, Australia with Kids

    Kakadu National Park is Australia’s largest terrestrial national park, situated in the Northern Territory’s tropical north.  It would be hard to find a place that is more unique or diverse as this Aboriginal-owned World Heritage-listed National Park. It’s an incredible place. Today, we have Jodie of Territory Mama here to take you along on a trip through Kakadu and give you all the recommendations, tips, and advice you need to plan a trip to Kakadu National Park with kids. 

    tips for exploring kakadu national park Australia with kids 2

    Kakadu National Park

    Kakadu National Park spreads across almost 200kms from north to south and over 100km east to west. The diversity of landscapes it covers range from coastal and estuaries to billabongs and floodplains, through to the rocky ridges and stone country of the Arnhem Land Escarpment. These landscapes are home to more than one-third of Australia’s bird species and one-quarter of it’s freshwater and estuarine fish species. Not only does Kakadu extend across such spectacular landscapes and diverse wildlife, but it’s home to the oldest living culture on earth.

    But, the best part about Kakadu National Park is that it’s easily accessible for families. And there are lots of amazing outdoor experiences for families to discover together. It’s a truly magical place and you can’t understand quite how incredible it is until you experience it for yourself, but I’ll do my best to capture a little bit about what makes this place so special. 

    Kakadu National Park with kids

    Things to do in Kakadu National Park with kids

    There are so many things to do in Kakadu National Park with kids. I’ve broken activities down by a couple of different categories: cultural experiences, waterfalls, and magical sunsets. These three activities encompass a lot of other activities that can be done at these locations (hiking, swimming, animal sighting, camping, etc.). 

    Cultural experiences at Kakadu

    The traditional owners Bininj Mungguy have lived and cared for this country for more than 50,000 years and you can experience firsthand their connection to the country through many of the cultural experiences and tours on offer within Kakadu.

    Guluyambi Cultural Cruise – Kakadu Cultural Tours

    The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is a scenic boat tour upstream of the majestic East Alligator River. Your Aboriginal guide will provide insight into their culture, traditions, and beliefs. You will experience traditional hunting and gathering techniques and learn about the many uses for the plants and animals that call this area home. You may also spot many of the local saltwater crocodiles that inhabit this spectacular river. The cruise operates between May and November and is owned and managed by the traditional owners of Kakadu.

    Best cultural experiences in Kakadu National Park for kids

    Yellow Water Cruises

    Ran by the Indigenous-owned Kakadu Tourism, the Yellow Water Cruises offer a year-round boat cruise along the ever-changing Ngurrungurrudjba (Yellow Water) Billabong. It is recommended to take the cruise during sunrise or sunset when the wildlife is most active but many visitors undertake more than one cruise during their stay to experience the changes in wildlife at different times of the day. While cruising along the tranquil wetland there is an abundance of wildlife to encounter, up to 60 different bird species, saltwater crocodiles, wild horses, buffalo, and wallabies all in their natural habitat.

    Warradjan Culture Centre

    Warradjan Culture Centre was developed by the Aboriginal traditional owners of Kakadu to help tell their story. Displays include artifacts, bush tucker, and local artwork. During the dry season (April – September) local Aboriginal artists often conduct demonstrations here from painting to traditional weaving techniques and the kids are always welcome to join in.

    Hiking in Kakadu National Park with kidsWaterfalls and lookout points in Kakadu National Park

    Waterfalls at Kakadu National Park

    There are so many stunning waterfalls to choose from at Kakadu National Park its hard to know where to start. Some can be a little more difficult to access than others and depending on your family’s level of hiking, its always a good idea to check with the Bowali Visitor Centre to see which falls would best suit your family. Here are our picks that are easily accessible but still have spectacular views and perfect swimming holes.

    Gunlom plunge pool

    Only a 100 metre walk from the carpark this sandy beach-like pool is perfect for young families. A shallow entry means the smallest members can splash by the edge while the more adventurous can swim to the waterfall. Gunlom is a seasonal waterfall and best visited in the early dry season (May – June); however, the bottom pool remains swimmable usually until August-September. (Gunlom waterfalls pictured below)

    Best waterfalls for kids in Kakadu National ParkExploring Australia Kakadu National Park with kids

    Maguk

    Maguk requires a little more of a walk-in with a rocky 2km track. However, the effort is worth it when you reach the stunning turquoise pool. This waterfall is spring-fed so it flows year-round, which makes it a perfect stop even for travelers visiting later in the year when other falls start to dry up. Seasonal closures do still occur due to crocodile movement, so always check with the visitor centre before your visit.

    Kakadu National Park with kids

    Igoymarrwa

    Igoymarrwa is a small crystal clear plunge pool located in the southern end of the park. Although a short drive in from the main Kakadu Highway, you will still require a 4WD. The waterfall however is just a short walk from the carpark opening up to a lush little oasis. (Igoymarrwa pictured above)

    Jim Jim and Twin Falls

    If you happen to visit Kakadu during the wet season (October – April) a scenic flight over Jim Jim and Twin Falls is an experience you will never forget. You can choose between a light aircraft or helicopter, with flights leaving from both Jabiru and Cooinda airstrips.

    Jim Jim and twin falls Kakadu National Park with kids

    Magical sunsets at Kakadu

    There’s a number of sites to take in the incredible Kakadu sunset but here are our top three.

    1. Gunlom Top Pools – Gunlom is perched at the top of a waterfall. You can take in not only some of the best views in Kakadu but watch as the sunset lights up the bush and surrounding escarpment.
    2. Ubirr Rock Art site – This point is overlooking the Nadab floodplain. It’s a stunning cultural site where you’ll feel as though you’re on a set from a movie scene. Channel your inner Lion King while watching the sun set into the horizon and the birds find their way to roost for the night. Ubirr is also home to some of the oldest artwork in the world, with galleries dating back thousands of years.
    3. Nawurlandja Lookout – Nawurlandja overlooks the mighty Burrungkuy rock and Anbangbang billabong. The sun here sets behind you but you have front row seats to a spectacular display as Burrungkuy escarpment transforms before your eyes with the setting sun. (pictured below)

    Best sunset watching locations in Kakadu National Park with kidsHow to get to Kakadu National Park with kids

    How to get to Kakadu National Park with kids

    Kakadu National Park is approximately 250km south of Darwin. If you fly into Darwin you can hire a car to explore the park on your own terms. Alternatively, you can join one of the many tours on offer, but be prepared these are often rushed and on a strict time schedule. We recommend 5-7 days to explore the park at a leisurely pace and to really explore all Kakadu has to offer.

    When planning your visit keep in mind the scale of the Park, 200km from North to South. Many attractions are a full day out. If hiring your own vehicle, we highly recommend a 4WD. While much of the park is still accessible via 2WD, it will limit the sites you can visit, particularly, the waterfalls.

    Where to stay in Kakadu National Park with kids

    Where to stay at Kakadu National Park with kids

    Kakadu National Park has a range of accommodation options to suit most budgets. Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, Aurora Kakadu Lodge and Caravan Park, and Anbinik Kakadu Resort all offer a range of air-conditioned cabins, eco tents or unpowered and powered campsites. For those looking for a little more luxury on their visit be sure to check out the Mecure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, which has been built to resemble a crocodile!

    There are, of course, many campgrounds throughout Kakadu if you have your own camping gear. We love the campgrounds at Gunlom, Mardukal, and Garnamarr.

    It is always a good idea to check in with the staff at the Bowali Visitor Centre before your visit to get the most up to date reports on road conditions, site openings. You can also get more in-depth information about the walks, level of difficulty, and whether they are suitable for you and your family.

    Travel tips for Kakadu National Park Australia with kids

    Our land has a big story. Sometimes we tell a little bit at a time. Come and hear our stories, see our land. A little might stay in your hearts. If you want more, you can come back.”

    Jacob Nayinggul, Manilargarr Clan

    About the author

    Jodie is a mum of two little adventurers living in the Top End of Australia. With a passion for nature and a lust for adventure, she is always exploring with her two littles in new and exciting places or special old favourites.

    You can find more from Jodie online in the following locations:
    Website: territorymama.com
    Instagram: @territorymama

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota with Kids

    The Black Hills are a small and isolated mountain range in western South Dakota. The name “Black Hills” is a translation of the Lakota Pahá Sápa. They were called “black” because of their dark (tree-covered) appearance from a distance. With over five million acres of forest and mountain lands, you’ll also find rich western history, abundant natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Today, we have Natalia Pollard of @ThisAdventureFamily here, with tips for visiting the Black Hills in South Dakota with kids, where to stay while you’re there, and all the must-see attractions! 

    Tips for Exploring the Black Hills of South Dakota With Kids

    Black Hills of South Dakota

    The Black Hills region of western South Dakota is an outdoor recreational paradise. Monuments, wildlife, rugged mountains, caverns and scenic drives are just a few things that you should put on your list when visiting South Dakota. The area covers over 10,000 square miles of vast prairies, grasslands, badlands landscapes, and rugged mountains. Year-round opportunities for outdoor adventures abound, and beg to be explored and experienced by families and kids of all ages.

    The Black Hills is home to large herds of buffalo, wild mustangs and burros. The world’s largest collection of reptiles. Wall Drug. Six theme and amusement parks. Museums, galleries, and music festivals. Dig sites of prehistoric mammoths and dinosaur exhibits. Crazy Horse Memorial. The Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park. Old West shootouts, rodeos and cowboy supper shows. Custer State Park. Hiking, backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, camping, trail riding. Historic Deadwood and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Mouth Rushmore. 

    RV camping black hills south dakota

    The best time to visit the Black Hills

    While there is an abundance of things to do in South Dakota during all seasons of the year, the absolute best time to visit is late Spring and early Fall. During these times, the daytime temperature is ideal for exploring the beautiful Black Hills and the places aren’t as crowded as during South Dakota’s peak season which runs from June to August. 

    An important thing to note is that while the daytime temperatures are very comfortable in the summertime, it can dip significantly in the nighttime, so plan accordingly.

    hiking with kids - black hills south dakotabest campgrounds in the black hills south dakota

    Where to stay in the Black Hills

    The best way to explore all that the Black Hills have to offer is to stay right in the heart of it! Whether you’re traveling in an RV, tent camping or using lodging facilities, your options are many. We stayed at the Center Lake Campground for one week in our 29 feet Travel Trailer. Campgrounds in Custer State Park fill up quickly. We suggest making reservations way ahead of your visit!

    Some of the other popular campgrounds that offer all types of stay (RV, tent and cabins) are Bluebell Campground, Game Lodge and Stockade Campground. Beware, some of the roads in the Black Hills are very narrow, windy and with sharp turns. There are also three tunnels that will not allow an RV through them. Make sure you pick up a map at the entrance to the park so you can see where the tunnels are.

    bison spotting black hills south dakota

    Top 5 must-see outdoor places in the Black Hills

    With so many amazing sites to see and places to explore, it’s hard to narrow it down to only five! We spent a week in the area and still didn’t cover everything. There truly is something for everyone. This means you can plan your trip according to your family’s interests and hobbies. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventure junkie, an avid hiker, a water lover or a foodie, there’s something for you! 

    waterfall hikes - black hills south dakotaExploring Custer State Park with KidsSylvan Lake South Dakota with Kids

    1. Custer State Park

    The number one attraction in the Black Hills is Custer State Park. This 71,000-acre park is abundant with wildlife and adventure! Nearly 1,300 bison wander the park with pronghorn antelope, elk, mountain goats and a band of burros. It features nine campgrounds, at least five large beautiful lakes with clear mountain waters, hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, camping, chuckwagon suppers, fishing, jeep safaris and much more. There is truly something for everyone in Custer State Park!

    Sylvan Lake SD with KidsKid-friendly activities Sylvan Lake, SD

    2. Sylvan Lake

    Sylvan Lake is the most popular Lake in the Black Hills. It’s a favorite of anyone who has visited it. Sylvan Lake is so picturesque that you will end up photographing it from all the angles. Every picture will be just beautiful! There are a lot of amenities at Sylvan Lake – a lodge with fine dining, campsites, swimming beach, hiking trails, boat rentals, fishing, rock climbing, you name it!

    Sylvan Lake can take the whole day to visit, make sure you arrive early to get a parking spot as it fills up fast. We did some hiking first and by the time we were done, we were ready to cool off in the lake! Sylvan Lake Shore Trail takes you around the lake, it is an easy trail with a few places to scramble some large rocks. If you have time and would like to take on a moderate trail – definitely check out Sunday Gulch Trail, it’s amazing, but not suitable for toddlers. Bring good waterproof hiking shoes!Must see sites in the Black Hills - Sylvan Lakewild burros black hills south dakotafriendly wildlife in the black hills

    3. Wildlife Loop Road

    If you’re looking to view some wildlife, make sure to take a drive down Wildlife Loop Road. It stretches for 18 miles through open grasslands and hills, winding up and down. Depending on the time of day that you visit, you might be able to spot herds of buffalo, wild burros, antelope, deer, elk, prairie dogs, eagles and other birds. Wild burros are very friendly. If you’re lucky enough to run into them, make sure to stop and let them say hello to you! Besides all the wildlife, you will also see a variety of beautiful wildflowers. The best time to take a drive down the Wildlife Loop Road is usually in the morning or at the sundown, when the animals are most active.

    Burros - Black Hills South Dakota with kids

    4. Spearfish Canyon

    If you’re up for another scenic drive, then head to the Northern part of the Black Hills to take in the scenery of Spearfish Canyon. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is such a beautiful drive with towering palisades on both sides, Spearfish creek lining the base of the canyon and three waterfalls to explore on your drive. Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls and Roughlock Falls can be found right off the byway and feature both, lower and upper levels for viewing the falls. We suggest that you choose to hike down to the lower viewing areas as the views are so worth it!

    Badlands South Dakota with KidsExploring the Badlands with Kids

    5. Badlands National Park

    No visit to the Black Hills is complete without making a stop at Badlands National Park. Located south of Rapid City, near the town of Wall, this National Park is full of dramatic landscape boasting many layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires. Take the scenic road through the park and stop at many lookouts! Most of the hiking trails are located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Notch trail and Door trail are two of the most popular trails in the park. We suggest that you hike early in the morning or closer to sundown, as there is no shade at the Badlands.

    Badlands with KidsExploring the Black Hills with kids

    Exploring the Black Hills with kids

    Regardless of what kind of outdoor activity you prefer, you will surely find something amazing to do at the Black Hills of South Dakota. From the faces on Mount Rushmore and the Spires of Custer State Park to the caverns of Wind Cave National Park, and the alien feel of the Badlands, the Black Hills area is home to some truly monumental places. Year-round activities, fun attractions, and lots of outdoor adventures make this an amazing place to visit with kids. I hope this inspires you to plan a trip to the Black Hills soon!

    Mount Rushmore with Kids

    Have you ever been to the Black Hills?
    What’s your favorite outdoor thing to do there?

    About the author

    Hi, I’m Natalia Pollard, mom, wife, and adventure seeker. After becoming a mom to my two boys, I developed a deep appreciation for nature, being in the wild and exploring new places. On a regular day, you can find us checking out a new park, splashing in a lake somewhere, or taking a hike together. As a family, we always try to immerse ourselves in nature and connect with each other and the Earth. That’s why we have recently started our full-time RV life and it has brought us even closer.

    Follow along with our adventures in the following locations:
    Blog: This Adventure Family
    Instagram: @ThisAdventureFamily
    Facebook: @ThisAdventureFamily
    YouTube Channel: This Adventure Family 

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, INFORMATION, NATIONAL PARKS

    Tips for a COVID-Safe Roadtrip with Kids

    Traveling looks much different right now than it looked last summer. With the COVID-19 pandemic still happening across our country (and the world), there are more restrictions on travel and lots of precautions and considerations that must be taken before leaving, along the way, and while you’re at your destination. Today, Nichole, a homeschooling mom of 2 and road-tripping expert, is here with some COVID-safe roadtrip health and safety precautions that families should consider in order to keep themselves and others safe. 

    Please note – any decisions to travel are highly personal and we encourage you to take note of the risks, do your research, consider your doctor’s advice, assess your family’s health and make your own informed choice. Do not travel if anyone in your family is sick or running a fever. The information shared here cannot guarantee anyone’s health or safety and is not meant to be divisive or comprehensive. Please do not travel through Indigenous communities at this time. This post contains affiliate links.

    covid-safe roadtrip with kids

    Making the decision to travel during a pandemic

    Summer started months ago for many of us. Usually, by this time of year, the kids and I have been on the road for several extended trips already. As states began to reopen, we made the tough decision to drive from Arkansas to Arizona to surprise my Mom for her birthday. We hadn’t seen her in nine months and she lives two states away (one of those states is Texas). My husband and I talked for a week before we made a decision about the trip and it was not an easy decision to make. We decided to go with the idea that we’d be diligent, overly-cautious, and not take any unnecessary risks. 

    Road-tripping during a pandemic is a scary prospect, even more so to do it with children. There are a lot of things to consider and a lot of things we’d need to do differently for this trip. However, I found that by taking some protective measures, along with a few changes to our typical routine, we had a great COVID-safe roadtrip experience! Today, I’d like to share some of the steps I took to make our trip safe and successful. 

    Laying the plans and making tough decisions

    I’ve made this drive at least five times already, but this time would be different. Normally, I am not one to stress over road trips, but if I’m being honest, this one made me worry. I approached our road trip planning (which is also a foreign concept to me as I rarely plan these shenanigans) with an overabundance of caution. We talked about all the options for overnights: camping versus hotels versus AirBnB‘s versus sleeping in the car.

    After seeing if my kids and I could squeeze in the back of our Subaru Outback (not really), we decided against that option. I prefer more remote, dispersed camping, so public campgrounds with shared bathrooms were not an option for me during this trip. We don’t have an RV (though renting one may be a great solution!). After looking into the status of forest lands, I decided we would avoid them. Some lands are still closed within New Mexico and Arizona, and it is advisable to avoid Indigenous communities entirely due to the COVID outbreak. That left hotels and vacation rentals – both of which have their own issues and restrictions, but they were the best and safest option for us. 

    Tips and advice for a covid safe roadtrip with kids

    COVID-related safety precautions while roadtripping

    Our final decision was to make the drive in two days rather than three, to minimize exposure. After careful research, our opinion was that hotels were probably the cleanest they’d ever been and I felt okay about staying in hotels. I picked a Drury Inn in our destination for day one (Albuquerque) and we left at home at 6 AM.

    We are no strangers to long days in the car, but this one was different. Most of our favorite stopping points were either closed or not the best idea to visit. Palo Duro Canyon and Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. The Blue Hole in Santa Rosa and Meow Wolf in Santa Fe. Not everything was closed – the Texas State Parks are open but require advance tickets purchased online and there are capacity limitations in place.

    One of the great things about traveling out west (or anywhere) with a highly capable vehicle, is the ability to roll down unknown roads to find a breaking spot. We took several rest breaks along back roads and side roads. We avoided people and got the chance to experience some beautiful countryside.

    covid safe roadtrips with kids

    COVID-related hotel safety precautions

    After a long 13 hour day of driving, we finally pulled into a familiar Drury Inn (we’d stayed there two times before). I wasn’t sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised upon our arrival to find the hotel very quiet with hardly any cars in the parking lot. The check-in process was smooth, all the employees and guests wore masks (my children and I included; it was required in the lobby). I was impressed with their social distancing measures in place.

    To minimize any exposures, I carried one backpack into our room with what we would need for the night, plus our electronics. I wiped down any surfaces we would touch and we all relaxed for a moment while I ordered Panera for pick up. The restaurant was in the parking lot for the hotel and was incredibly convenient. Our hotel room was impeccably clean and any blankets, throw pillows, or comforters had been removed from the room so the beds only had sheets and pillows. We found that staying in a hotel and getting food to go felt perfectly safe with the excessive protective measures in place. 

    hotel safety precautions during the pandemic

    Roadtripping pit stops during a pandemic

    We left Albuquerque the next day at 5 AM (mainly because my kids wake up ridiculously early). I stopped at a Starbucks because I know they require employees to wear masks and gloves. A few hours down the road (and every cheesy photo op along the way) we made a stop on a random dirt road off the interstate. That turned out to be a great choice because my kids got out to run free, I made some more coffee and even got their bikes down for them to burn some energy off.

    When we needed to stop for gas, we took extra precautions. When pumping gas, I used a paper towel as a barrier between my hand and the gas pump. I wiped my card down after inserting it into the card reader. I brought my own hand soap to use in the bathrooms and sanitized my hands immediately after getting gas or going inside. If we went inside a gas station, we all wore masks.

    covid safe roadtrip tips and tricks for parents

    The bathroom situation…

    There’s one question that I know you’re wondering about, so let’s just get it out there. Yes, we also used the bathroom there. No, I didn’t bring a toilet along. And yes, we adhered to Leave No Trace principles. Yes, that kind of bathroom stop too.

    I planned for roadside bathroom breaks and brought along toilet paper and a disposable bag to put used toilet paper in and planned to throw away at our next gas stop. Public bathrooms don’t totally terrify me, but we found it faster and smoother (less exposure) to use back roads and side roads for this COVID-safe trip. Depending on where you’re traveling, this option isn’t always possible, but it made us feel safer.

    Here are few roadside bathroom break tips:

    • urinate on hard surfaces;
    • dig cat-holes for number two;
    • bring extra toilet paper and/or flushable wet wipes;
    • bring a disposable bag to store any used toilet paper with you;
    • if you need privacy, open both passenger doors and hide in between them;
    • if you are traveling with younger children, bringing a small, portable toilet for the little ones to use.

    covid safe roadtrips with kids pit stop

    National Parks are re-opening…slowly

    We also stopped at Petrified Forest National Park along the way, thanks to our Annual Parks Pass. I researched ahead of time to make sure the park was open and read about any restrictions or cautions. There were not many crowds and nearly everyone wore masks at any potentially crowded stops. Luckily, we had nearly every stop to ourselves. Most people were really great about keeping distance and being respectful of space. It also felt good to get out and stretch for a while.

    When visiting a national park this time of year, it’s important to go early, bring sun protection, and carry plenty of water. We hiked the relatively short Blue Mesa loop and enjoyed the views of the Painted Desert along the way. If you plan on visiting a national park (or any park) along your way, do your research. It’s imperative that you check websites ahead of time for closures or capacity limits. Some parks are requiring reservations via advance ticket purchases. Please be respectful and obey city/state guidelines, especially within Indigenous communities. To learn more about recreating responsibly, please take some time to read this guide.

    blue mesa petrified forest covid roadtrip with kids

    Things to bring on a COVID-safe roadtrip

    Before heading out, we added a few things to our packing list to make this a COVID-safe roadtrip. I realize that wearing masks is a contentious topic (we’re not here to debate this), but they are required for some states. I am a practiced sewist, and made masks for my family with pockets for medical-grade filters.  You can order masks from many different outlets now, depending on what your preferences are. My “clean all the things” bag contained: two kinds of hand sanitizer, a hand sanitizer in spray format, antibacterial wipes, baby wipes, Lysol spray, and extra masks.

    I also decided to pack our food for breakfast and lunch. Snacks, drinks and a cooler are all a must. I’m okay with ordering food to go, but thought that eating out only for dinner would minimize any risks. Coffee is a necessity for me when I’m doing these massive solo road trips, and our backpacking stove is a great tool for making coffee on the road. Paired with my JavaDrip, it’s a fairly quick and easy process.

    I would also recommend a backpack to carry things into a hotel for an overnight stay. Choose one that large enough to hold things for the whole family, so you’re not taking in multiple suitcases. My kids were not allowed to bring their stuffed animals into the hotel just to minimize any exposures. For more about my solo travel safety tips (and my backpack system) check out THIS post. 

    what to pack for a covid safe roadtrip with kids

    COVID-safe roadtrip recommendations & tips

    Wherever you’re going, read ahead and do your research! Now is not necessarily the time for spontaneity and winging it along the way. Call ahead, check websites, ask questions, get suggestions and make reservations. Campgrounds are filling up fast due to more people camping and utilizing RV travel. Some parks are open, some are not. All of these things can be researched before you go to minimize stress, inconvenience and confusion. Also, bear in mind that the guidelines for masks vary from city to city and state to state. Bring them and be prepared to wear them (or make alternative plans if you choose not to). 

    Before leaving the house, lay out a tentative route plan, but allow for flexibility. We noted two small towns along our way that were closed to outside visitors. Knowing this let us plan ahead for pit stops. One of my favorite things I’d highly recommend is cheesy photo ops along the way! Say yes to these! You may not be able to get into the museums or attractions, but you can grab some super fun photos to commemorate your journey. Most of these are free from people and you don’t have to touch anything. Plus, it’s a great way to get out and stretch your legs. Atlas Obscura is one of my favorite resources for finding these fun photo ops. Just remember to be respectful of private property and follow local rules and guidelines. 

    covid road trips with kids roadside photo ops

    The payoff

    The main (well, and only) reason we made this big trip was to surprise my Mom for her birthday. She had absolutely no idea we were coming and I sneaky planned it with the help of my stepdad. My husband wasn’t able to come along due to work commitments, but gave me his full support for this endeavor. We could barely contain our excitement, nor could we wait for 6:30 AM, the decided-upon time to surprise her.

    I hauled cardboard boxes with us from home. I bet my parent’s neighbors were very curious as to why I was assembling boxes on the corner so early in the morning. We tiptoed our way down the street and my kids hid in the boxes on the front step. I rang the doorbell then hid around the corner. It was without a doubt the BEST surprise of my life! I’ll never forget the joy and happiness when my Mom realized it was my kids in those boxes. We. Missed. Our. Family. Friends, I know you do too. I encourage you to take the trip. Do so with caution, but not with fear. For some extra-happy goodness, check out the full surprise video HERE. 100% worth it. 

    covid safe roadtrips with kids

    COVID-safe roadtrip resources

    For a full list of the things we brought along to make this trip safe- click HERE. 

    For a list of helpful things to entertain kids on long trips – click HERE. 

    Be sure to follow me on Instagram at coleyraeh to see all of our adventures and shenanigans, including the return trip home.

    You can read more about our family on my website.

    Thanks for reading friends, if you have any questions please feel free to message me on Instagram or send me an email.

    covid safe roadtrips with kids petrified forest national park

    About the author

    Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl, and they are on their fifth year of homeschooling. She has been married to her best friend for nearly thirteen years and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road-tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can usually find her in the woods somewhere (probably up a creek and jumping off waterfalls), or on an epic road-tripping adventure with the kids.

    You can find Nichole online in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.luckeywanderers.com
    Instagram: @coleyraeh
    RWMC posts: Nichole

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Tips & Advice for RVing with Kids

    We’ve had a few recent posts here on Run Wild My Child about what it’s like to go RV camping with kids. (spoiler alert: it’s awesome!) But how do you even get started going on an RV adventure with your whole family? Where do you go? What do you pack? How do you cook? Well, today we have the amazing Kathleen White, photographer and full-time RVing homeschool mom of three here sharing everything you need to know to get started RVing with kids. Kathleen and her family are just beginning their adventures across the country and are documenting the entire journey (links below where you can follow along). If you have any questions about how to get started on your own RV adventure, she’s here to help!

    RVing with kids 101 - tips and advice for RV camping with kids

    Let the adventure begin!

    As a kid, my summers were filled with pool days, going to camp, and traveling. I cherish those simple childhood memories and will never forget our adventures. Now, as a mother to three, I want to fill my children’s childhood with amazing memories, too. As they say, we only get 18 summers with our kids. If that’s not a motivator to soak it all up, then I don’t know what is! It’s what spurred our year-long RV roadtrip across the USA, with three kids in tow in a 300 sq. ft. RV. Adventure is out there and we haven’t looked back!

    Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind, and fills your life with stories to tell.” -Paula Bendfeldt

    How to get started RVing with kids

    RVing with kids tips and advice

    Whether you are looking to go full-time in your RV or are just planning your next weekend adventure, getting started RVing with kids can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you even begin to know what to pack, where to park or what to bring? What do you eat? Where does everyone sleep? And how do you make your RV feel like home? If you’ve ever had these burning question, wonder no more! Based on our travels and adventure experience, I’m here to share some helpful tips and advice for RVing with kids to get you started on your next RV trip.

    RVing with kids tips and advice

    How to choose the right RV for your family

    There are so many personal decisions and consideration to take into account when purchasing your RV. Starting the RV buying process is extremely overwhelming. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A’s…oh my! Where do you even start? And then you need to consider price and condition (used vs. new), gas mileage, features, etc. Making this decision is not easy and every family’s needs will be different. I could write an entire post on just this one decision – actually, I did! If you want more information on how we chose the right RV for our family, check out our post on how to decide between a travel trailer and a fifth wheel.

    Safety first

    Before the adventure begins, you have to make sure you are protecting your precious cargo. Remember, when RVing with kids, you are never in so much of a rush to disregard safety! Mistakes are more likely to happen when you are rushing, so slow it down, if you can. Towing an RV is a whole other beast on its own and there are a few things you must be aware of. First, always double-check that your tow vehicle and RV are set up correctly. Second, always do a walk around your entire rig before pulling off. Third, be sure to check your towing capacity and cargo weight to make sure you are not overcapacity. We also carry a first aid kit, tool kit, emergency roadside kit, plenty of flashlights, and extra water, just in case.

    This is obviously not an extensive list of all the safety tips when RVing with kids, but it’s a good place to start.

    What to pack and how to cook when RVing with kids

    You know your child best

    RVing with kids allows you to experience things with your family in a whole new way and in lots of new places. Your RV can take you on adventures you never thought possible. The world is literally right outside your door and you get to choose your own adventure daily. However, sometimes that can be a bit much for kids. As the parent, you know your kids best. Can they hike for a while on their own, or do they get tired easily? Do they love being in the water or do they come alive in the forest?

    Knowing your kids and planning your adventures to suit their strengths and interests will really help with keeping your kids excited about the trip and minimizes meltdowns! Of course, there will be an adjustment period after first setting out on your adventure. Especially if they are used to constant streaming shows, video games, and larger spaces. However, don’t give up! The reward is so great when you see them playing outside, experiencing new things and interacting with nature on their own!

    Just have patience, and remember why you are RVing with kids in the first place!

    Best tips and advice for beginner RVing with kidsRVing with kids tips and advice for beginners

    Setting up your RV

    Once you arrive at your awesome new location, it’s time to set up! The first thing to do is check into your campsite, if you need to and park according to the rules (is it a pull-through or do you need to back in?). Make sure there are no low-hanging branches to scratch your vehicle or interfere with awnings, pop-outs, etc. Once you’re positioned on flat ground or leveled out, park and unhook the RV from the truck. Connect your power/water/gas hookups and check to make sure everything is working properly. Assigning tasks to each person can also be helpful to make things go smoothly!

    Next, we put out our outdoor rug and chairs and call wherever we are at home for a little while. I even set out a candle, plants, and pillows inside which helps make the RV feel homier. This is one of my favorite parts about RVing!

    Beginner RVing with kids 101How to make your RV feel like home for your kids

    Full hookups vs. dry camping vs. boondocking

    If you are coming from a “sticks & bricks” house, then you are used to the conveniences of home (long showers and A/C all the time!). This is why a lot of RVers love full-service campsite that have electric, water, and sewer hookups. You can shower to your heart’s content and not have to worry about filling up your black and grey tanks. You can run the A/C and have a movie night if you want! A lot of them also include other amenities such as laundry facilities, pools, playgrounds, restaurants, shops and dumpsters. However, these kinds of RV parks usually come with close neighbors and high price tags.

    The other types of RV camping are dry camping or boondocking. Dry camping essentially means staying in a campground without hookups, whereas, boondocking typically means staying in a completely undeveloped area (also without hookups).

    There is a time and a place for each type of camping and they all have their pros and cons. While I love having amenities, some of my favorite campsites have been when we are boondocking. If you’re wanting to get away and have a place to yourself, this is definitely the way to go. Just be sure to check the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service for rules and regulations.

    How to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids storage and organization

    Cooking in an RV

    There are many ways to prepare food in an RV, which many people don’t realize! If you have electric hookups or a generator, you can use your Instant Pot, crockpot, microwave, toaster oven or other electric cooking appliance. I love using the Instant Pot because it makes a lot of food in a short time!

    Another way I love making food when we’re RVing is using our stove, which I can use anywhere and anytime since it runs off of propane. There is really no limit to what you can cook. RVing adventures are not just eating BBQ and s’mores (although those are really yummy!).

    Keep in mind that RV refrigerators are a bit smaller depending on your RV type. Buying refrigerated perishables in bulk is not necessary. We are a family of 5 and have had no issues with not having enough food. We also use our pantry to store dry goods, snacks, and household goods. And because we have kids, we always have plenty of snacks on hand. Being active outdoors makes for hungry kiddos! Crackers, granola bars, fruit, and pretzels are some of our favorites.

    RV storage organization tips and advice

    RV organization

    One of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to RV life is, “How in the world do you store all your stuff?!” Well, the first answer is to downsize, downsize, downsize. Everything in your RV needs to have a place, and there aren’t a lot of places. I highly recommend downsizing before starting your RV adventure. We downsized our clothing, furniture, pots and pans, and the kids’ toys. It is so refreshing to get rid of so much stuff and eye-opening to see how little we really need.

    As for what we kept, my husband and I each have a closet in the bedroom and we use hanging storage organizers for our clothes. The kids each have a storage bin filled with all of their clothes. If it doesn’t fit anymore, we donate it. Right now, all of their clothes have to fit in the bins!

    When organizing your RV, storage baskets will become your best friends. Baskets and bins make everything look less cluttered. We also use hanging organizers for the back of the pantry and bathroom doors to maximize storage, which is my favorite RV storage hack!

    What to pack for full-time RVing with kidsHow to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids

    Enjoy the memories

    Spending time together on your RV adventures is an incredible experience your entire family will never forget. RVing allows you to camp in some of the most amazing places and experience the world in a whole new way. We have just begun our RV journey and the hard work of RVing has been so worth it. The memories we will make together make up for all the stress of planning, downsizing, and packing. RVing is an experience in and of itself. I can give you all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way, but my best piece of advice is to soak it up and enjoy the journey.

    RVing with kidsHow to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids basic tips and adviceWhat to pack when full-time RVing with kidsFull Time RVing with kids and homeschoolingBenefits of RVing with kids

    What questions do you have about RVing with kids?

    About the Author

    Kathleen
    Arizona
    @faithboundtravel

    I’m Kathleen, wife to my high school sweetheart and mama to 3 energetic littles. I’m a photographer in love with telling compelling stories of life’s beautiful chaos and photographing families authentically. I am slightly obsessed with window light, Saturday morning snuggles, and documenting our adventures. We recently took the biggest leap of faith in our lives and are traveling full-time around the United States in our RV! You can follow our adventures at http://www.faithboundtravel.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel.

     

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    A Day in the Life of a Road School Family

    Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and hitting the road with your family for an extended indefinite adventure? How would you feel waking up every day in a new location of your choosing, surrounded by nature and new places to explore? Today, we have a wonderful post from Emily Kimball, mom of 3 kids and a pup, living life on the road while unschooling and adventuring. Emily’s sharing all the beauty in a day of her road school life and insight as to what she’s gained through this experience. This post seriously makes me want to sell everything and hit the road!

    a day in the life of a road school family

    Greeting the morning

    I awake in the early morning to the songs the birds sing. Their melodies are filled with cheer as they welcome the new day. I tiptoe to my living room where my daughter is awake eagerly awaiting my arrival. “Mama, the ducklings are back!” We open the window and watch the mama duck with her babes enjoying a morning feast.

    I step outside with my golden doodle pup, Rosie, and watch the morning come to life. The river is peaceful this time of day, the Nuttall sandstone mountains still covered in the dawn’s fog, not quite ready to awaken. I breathe in deep and am grateful for this unique life I live with my family. Today, my feet are on the banks of one of the longest rivers in the world, the New River in West Virginia. Last week I lived in a little town in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The week before, the outskirts of Washington DC. And a month before that I awoke to the sound of waves and sand under my feet in the Outerbanks of North Carolina.

    why we decided to roadschool our kids

    A colorful trade up

    We chose to leave our life of normalcy, of knowing which local coffee shop served the best lattes, which park had the largest playground and where to find almond milk at the grocery store. We left all of that and more – our family, friends, neighbors and community. Instead, we chose to live on the road. We sold nearly everything we owned, stored a few things in a storage unit and the rest is in our motorhome. It’s been a year since we said goodbye to life in Orange County, California and we said hello to living a different type of life.  To quote P.T. Barnum, “Trade that typical for something colorful.” We took that advice to heart.

    A life of adventure

    Since we left our comfortable lives for a life of adventure, my children (8, 6 and 4) have swum in glacier lakes in Montana, had a close encounter with a bear in Wyoming and saw alligators in South Carolina. They’ve experienced countless incredible thunderstorms, had a couple of close-encounters with tornados and witnessed breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. They have met more people in a year than I had met in the previous 5 years. We’ve lived in mountain towns, coal mining towns, urban forests, beach towns, metropolitans and quiet national forests. We have visited 20 states so far and hope to see them all. Yes, even Alaska and Hawaii.

    roadschool family adventures

    City scouting

    I try to plan at least one day dedicated to seeing the city we are in. Although, we typically see much more of a city than we can in just one day while we’re there. Between grocery shopping, getting acquainted with the local coffee shop, finding a book store, visiting science and children museums (through our reciprocity program we are apart of) and scouting the best places to hike, we can get a pretty good idea of any town. Traveling is a way of life for now, but we do eventually have a goal of finding somewhere we can permanently live. For now, we are having a lot of fun and have no intention of stopping.

    a day in the life of a roadschooling family

    Exploring a state park

    This week of road school, I planned for us to stay near Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia so we could visit it without having to travel far and to explore the darling little town near it. As we adventured into the park, we descended down to the path that led to the Natural Bridge. We stopped along the way reading every sign and learning why the water is brown and admiring the remains of the now-extinct white cedar trees.

    Road schooling has been such an incredible blessing. Learning side-by-side with my children is a gift I do not take for granted. Are there days that are hard? Yes. Are there days of bickering and frustration? Of course! Are there days that I want to give up or maybe just take a leave of absence? Absolutely! But today? Oh, what a joy today is!

    Roadschooling with kids

    Taking in the history

    The moss-covered rocks are incredible, as is the slow-moving river that has worked for thousands of years to make this gorge. We walk in awe. The arch is 215 feet above us, birds fly overhead making nests on landings. Flowers sprout from limestone walls as cool water drips on our heads from the rocks soaked with moisture. Legend says that George Washington walked the same path we are now on and then climbed up the side of this natural bridge and carved his initials into the side. Thomas Jefferson’s father owned this land and centuries later the state of Virginia was able to buy it and turn it into a state park preserving it for generations to come.

    family road school adventures

    Of course, Thomas Jefferson was not the first owner of this land. The Monacan Indians lived here long before any Europeans came to the Americas. A small village shows what life was like for the Native American tribe. The exhibit gave us a sense of the intuitiveness that was needed to thrive in this place. One huge benefit to being a road school family, is being able to see places during the week, without crowds. The reenactors of the Monacan village linger with us, probably the only children they will see that day. They take time to answer our questions and give their knowledge freely.

    roadschooling adventures with kids

    Hikes and home base

    This was a short trail, one mile each way. But, as any mother knows, even short trails require loads of snacks. Butterflies and wildflowers provide lovely distractions while we snack. As do hidden caves, mystery bones, and beautiful lace waterfalls. However, we have to make sure not to get too distracted, as one of my sons nearly touched a Northern Mole Kingsnake on accident!

    a day in the life of a roadschooling family

    Our road school days aren’t always filled with adventuring out of the campground. Sometimes we stay around the motorhome the entire day and explore. I tend to think the greatest adventures happen at our campsite. Today, while my children ate breakfast outside, three families of geese with their babies swim by. What a delight to see! It feels like we are living in the book Trumpet of the Swan by E.B.White and we were Sam Beaver getting a front-row seat to see these babies.

    roadschooling adventures with kids

    Welcoming the seasons

    Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Monarchs and Red- Spotted Purple butterflies flutter about us. We research if carpenter bees are friends or foes. We literally watch, for the first time in any of our lives, winter turn into spring. I was born and raised in Southern California, where the change of seasons is swift. It’s nothing compared to spring on the East Coast where life emerges tentatively, with a delicate sense of trepidation. What an educator mother nature is and only now am I learning what a treasure she is.

    roadschooling life and adventures with kids

    This life is full of wonderment. And while it might seem easier for me to observe these changes in my California backyard, nothing has prepared me for how amazing this experience has been. I believe it is the posture I have taken to open my eyes to truly see the beauty of life around me. What an amazing experience this road school lifestyle has been for our family.   exploring state parks on roadschool adventures

    If you could hit the road, where would you go first?

     

     

    About the author

    Hi there, I’m Emily.
    Road school mom of 3.
    My family and I travel the country full time searching for beauty.
    I am an artist, mother + wife.
    You can find my writings and pictures on Instagram: @kimball5wanderlust
  • CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Pop-Up Camping With a Large Family

    Camping is a summertime essential activity! If you haven’t gone camping with your kids yet, what’s holding you back? Does it sound intimidating? Do you not think you have the right gear? Don’t know where to go? Have more kids than fit in a tent? We’re here to help! Camping might sound overwhelming, but it’s always worth it. Seasoned campers will tell you that sometimes even the most disastrous camping trips are the most memorable and fun. Today, we have the absolutely wonderful Ginny from 1000 Hours Outside here to share her best tips and advice on how to do pop-up camping with a large family. Ginny has 5 kids, an old pop-up camper and a great sense of humor. That’s the perfect recipe for a great adventure! Here’s how their family does camping. 

    Pop-Up Camping with a Large Family

    Less stuff, more fun!

    We live in an age where we celebrate minimalism. Less is more! If it doesn’t bring you joy, pitch it! As it relates to parenting, we are encouraged to own fewer toys, fewer clothes, and to have less clutter. You either own your stuff or your stuff owns you, as the old adage goes. There are certainly many benefits of a more minimalistic approach to life, but one area of childhood that we should not want to have less of is experiences. Why? Because experiences equate to learning and they bond us together as friends and as family.

    Today, I want to encourage you to build as many outdoor experiences into childhood as you possibly can! Outdoor play provides significant developmental benefits to children. One way our family has substantially increased our yearly outside time is through camping. Camping can be done in a myriad of ways such as tent camping, hammock camping, car camping, staying in a rustic cabin, or even sleeping directly under the stars. With five young kids, we have tried several of the options above (hammock camping hasn’t happened yet). We found that pop-up camping with a large family is a great way to get out and see the world!

    Pop-Up Camping with KidsPop-up Camping tips and advice for large families

    Benefits of camping

    Life is hectic and no one can really prepare you for the demands that children bring along with them. Beyond the wants and needs of children, there are many other adult responsibilities to juggle. Sometimes it’s nice to get away from it all. Camping is an excellent choice for R&R because it’s affordable, accessible, and it completely removes you from the daily hustle and bustle. It’s a quick and convenient way to set all the expectations aside for a few days and to reconnect with family, friends, and with nature.

    In nature, children disperse and become engaged with their surroundings. In this way, camping is an ideal vacation when you have young kids because it’s not the type of vacation that you need a vacation from. When you camp, nature surrounds you and your kids! Nature deeply occupies any age child and so this simple change of surroundings can offer some desperately needed moments of reprieve for parents and caregivers.

    Why a pop-up camper?

    After many years of camping with children, we found that camping with a pop-camper made camping indescribably easier and more accessible. Because it’s easy, this means camping happens more often! Campers come in all shapes and sizes, but pop-up campers tend to be on the cheaper end of the spectrum and they can offer a notable amount of sleeping space. We bought an ‘experienced’ camper (15 years old to be exact). It cost about the same as a week or two of lodging at a summer cabin. In exchange for one week of luxurious accommodations, we purchased an item that has the potential to offer us years of adventures.

    Inside the Pop-Up Camper with KIdsCamping tips and advice for large families

    Vacationing as a large family

    No one talks too much about large family logistics. In fact, the only thing people told as baby number four was about to make her debut was that once we had four kids we would never get invited anywhere again. We still weasel our way into people’s lives, but the truth is there are some logistical issues once you hit the category of “large family.” Hotel rooms don’t accommodate large families well. Our vehicle choices are limited. Restaurant waits are much longer. Given these “obstacles,” camping quickly becomes an ideal way to see the world.

    Pop-up camping with 5 kids

    Our pop-up camper provided the answer to so many of our large family vacationing problems. To begin with, we all fit! We searched for the largest pop-up we could find. Double beds aren’t going to cut it but if you can find a pop-up with at least one king bed, you’ll find there will be ample inside space and storage. We actually found a camper with two king-sized beds that pull out on either end! Plus, there’s a bench that turns into a small bed, and a table that also turns into a small bed, fitting all seven of us comfortably inside.

    Our bedtimes in the camper have provided some of our favorite memories, all together laughing and telling stories. Additionally, camping is a vacation where you can easily plan your own meals and bring your own food. Most pop-ups have storage where you can leave kitchen items at the ready! We took a quick trip to a goodwill shop to originally stock up for what we needed. Finally, we can travel and explore almost any area of the country at a fraction of the cost! The savings for a nightly campsite versus two (or more) hotel rooms rings in around 70 – 90%!

    Pop-Up Camping Tips for large familiesget immersed in nature through camping

    Pop-up camping tips for large families

    Once your pop-up is packed with essentials, you are only a few outfits and a grocery trip away from some lifelong memories. Here are a few of our best pop-up camping tips that we’ve tried, tested and approved!

    1. Research your campground and your campsite

    Different campgrounds have different things to offer. Depending on the ages of your kids you might be looking for a campground that has a play structure, one with a great bike-riding trail, one with a beach you can walk to, or one with all of the above. There are typically so many options to choose from!  Some have pools and others have laundry facilities. We read about a campground in Virginia that had wild rabbits running all around! Once you’ve narrowed down your campground, think through your campsite. Do you prefer shade or sunny? Close to the bathroom or closer to the beach? At each campground we visit, we make a few notes about our favorite sites for if we book again in the future.

    2. Organize clothes by how they are used

    With a large family, we have found that it is easiest to organize our clothes by what we use them for. We pack all PJs together in a bag. Everyone’s swimsuits and towels are packed in another bag, while jackets and long pants also get their own bag. We pack complete outfits (including diaper or underwear) so getting dressed in the morning is never a hassle. We store the bags on the beds during the day and then place them on the floor when it’s time to sleep.

    Camping with kids - tips for large families

    3. Add a few special touches

    We have a few small things that always stay in the camper. A set of matchbox cars, one small stuffed animal and flashlight for each child, a pack of glow sticks, and a special tablecloth. We only use these items on family camping trips, so they hold special sentiment for the kids. In case it rains, we also always bring along some card games and some books.

    4. Think through your ideal restroom situation

    As a mom, sometimes the most stressful parts of the day (and night) is figuring out how to navigate young kids to the restroom. We’ve found that keeping a small potty seat in our camper has worked wonders (we use the actual toilet area for storage). As far as showers go, we purchased a few small bathroom caddies that we keep stocked with washcloths, soap, and shampoo. Buy an extra pair of cheap flip-flops to keep feet clean in the camp showers and keep the day-to-day shoes from getting soaked. If getting to the shower is too much of a hassle, remember that toddlers and preschoolers love a bubble bath in a plastic tub at the end of the day!

    Camping Memories and Experiences

    Bring on the memories!

    Our pop-up camper has given our large family easy accessibility to the grandeur of nature, from magnificent sunsets to breathtaking waterfalls. I often tell people it is the best thing we have ever purchased as a large family because of the multitude of foundational memories it has provided us. As our culture becomes increasingly screen-heavy, we are all in for anything that helps us increase real-life moments. 

    Are you a camping family?
    Share some of your favorite camping memories below!

     

    Ginny
    Michigan
    @1000hoursoutside

    Ginny is a Michigan homeschooling mother of five and the founder of 1000 Hours Outside. She is a thought-leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children. Her 1000 Hours Outside Challenge spans the globe and many people from all walks of life look to her for inspiration as well as practical tips on how to put down the screens and get outside. Ginny has a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Michigan. She is also a children’s book author and illustrator. Her book, The Little Farmhouse in West Virginia was published in February 2019. You can find her online at http://www.1000HoursOutside.com.

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Southwest National Parks Family Trip: Zion, Bryce & Grand Canyon

    If you’ve ever wanted to cross multiple National Parks off your bucket list in one fun week-long adventure, this is the post for you! Today, we have Katie Walsh, teacher, explorer and mom of 2, sharing her family’s most recent national parks trip through 3 amazing national parks – the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. Plus they hit a handful of state parks and national monuments along the way. She’s sharing where they stayed, what to pack, the best kid-friendly hikes and info on getting those coveted Junior Ranger badges. Are you ready for an adventure?

    Planning a Southwest National Parks Trip with Kids - Zion, Bryce Canyon & Grand Canyon National Parks

    Planning our national parks trip

    We are a family of adventurers. There we stood looking at our National Park map. Tiny pins dotted the states representing the places we’d been. Up next? A spring break trip to the Southwest where we’d explore 3 amazing national parks – the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. Our 5-year-old and 7-year-old could hardly wait to lace up their hiking shoes and get started! 

    These three parks had been on our bucket list for a while. We did a lot of research and planning on exactly where to go, when to go, what to do and where to stay on this national parks trip. But, first things first, we had to pack! Deciding what to pack for a whirlwind adventure that would take us to three different states and a variety of terrain seemed harder than planning the actual trip! 

    choosing our national parks from our map

    What to pack

    We were planning our trip for seven days of adventure in mid-March and would be visiting three different states. All of these states have different weather patterns this time of year. Packing light for our whole family was going to be quite a challenge!

    The answer…layers! Oh, so many layers. We didn’t want to overpack, so here are the essentials that we took for each person:

    • Wools socks
    • Fleece jacket
    • T-shirts
    • Long sleeve tees
    • Jacket shell
    • Hat and gloves
    • One pair of hiking/sturdy shoes
    • 2 pair of pants
    • 1 pair of shorts
    • 1 Reusable water bottle for each (there are refill stations in the airport and at the parks)
    • Sunscreen

    Best hiking shoes for kids

    One of the most important items to have on a national parks trip like this is sturdy shoes. We did a ton of walking, hiking, climbing and running around. Good shoes were a must. I recommend going with shoes that have grip on the bottom for hiking and climbing. Trust me, purchasing the right shoes for yourself and your kids is money well spent. We discovered this during our first hike up a sandstone trail. 

    After doing some research, my husband and I decided on the Merrel Big Kid’s Moab FST Low Waterproof shoes for our children. They didn’t disappoint!

    Grand Canyon from the plane

    Trip details

    With 7 days of traveling and many sights to see, we researched and put together an outline of activities before we left for our national parks trip. And of course, we made sure we had plenty of wiggle room to wander and explore built-in, just in case we found fun things to do along the way.  We booked an early flight to Nevada, and finally, we were off! We landed in Las Vegas bright and early, giving us a headstart (plus, a two-hour time change).  Once we hopped in our rental car, our national parks journey officially began!

    Hoover Dam Exploring the Hoover Dam with kids

    Hoover Dam and Route 66

    On our way to the Grand Canyon, we checked out the renowned Hoover Dam. While we didn’t take the dam tour (saying this never gets old), but there are plenty of turnouts to stop and admire this engineering wonder while completing the scenic drive.

    Exploring Historic Route 66 with kids

    From there, we hopped on the historic Route 66 and made our way toward Kingman, Arizona. With grumbling tummies, we stopped at Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner for lunch. It was the perfect spot to get out, stretch our legs, and enjoy a meal.

    Exploring Grand Canyon National Park with KidsGrand Canyon lodging

    The first night of our trip, we stayed at the Yavapai Lodge located in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The North Rim is closed this time of year.  

    Pro travel tip: To stay at one of the lodges in the Grand Canyon, get a reservation a year in advance. We were late to the party and lucked out due to a cancellation. We could only stay one night. Too bad. The lodge was perfect! Nothing fancy, but you’re not there for the accommodations, you’re there for the incredible view.

    There were elk meandering the grounds. Guests are reminded to stay 100 feet away from these gentle creatures, but it became increasingly difficult as they wandered right next to the paths. Clearly, this was their home and we were all just visiting.

    The South Rim has more opportunities for viewing the Grand Canyon. It also has many family-oriented activities and trails to experience with younger children.

    Grand Canyon National Park with kids

    The view was majestic. No words can describe this geological wonder.

    Sunrise at Hopi Point

    Bright and early on day 2, we got up early to enjoy the sunrise at Hopi Point. I highly recommend doing this! Although it was certainly a challenge getting everyone out the door on time (especially after the previous day’s travel), we knew we wouldn’t regret it. And we certainly did not! It was stunning!

    6:27 am sunrise

    Pro travel tip: If you go in March, it’s freezing in the morning! Bundle up!

    We finished our cold adventure with a trip to the Lodge’s restaurant and enjoyed steamy hot chocolate and a plate of delicious pancakes. Once again, the elk stopped by to watch us enjoy our morning feast.

    Kid-friendly breakfast at Grand Canyon National Park

    With full bellies again (notice a pattern? The key to hiking with children is always to have snacks and yummy food at the ready!), we set off to explore the Grand Canyon.

    Planning a trip to Grand Canyon with kids Pro travel tips for exploring the Grand Canyon with kids

    Pro travel tip: To get an overview of the Grand Canyon, I highly recommend watching the park film Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder at the visitor center. It’s a must see and as a bonus, one of the activity options to be completed for children to earn their Junior Ranger badge. The film covered the reintroduction of species such as the California Peregrine, the erosion and creation of the canyon, John Wesley Powell’s brave mission to be the first to chart the Colorado River, and how the Grand Canyon is an animal sanctuary and refuge for animals. It’s truly a wonderful film.

    Desert View Watchtower

    Next, we took a scenic drive to the eastern part of the canyon to explore the 70-foot historic stone watchtower. Perched on the rim, this watchtower reflects the architecture of the ancestral Puebloans. We climbed the narrow, winding staircase to the top to get a 360-view of the canyon, the Colorado River, and surrounding landscape.

    Desert View Watchtower with kids

    Our kids also earned another Junior Ranger badge here.

    Desert View Watchtower Junior Ranger Badge

    Additional family-friendly trails/programs at Grand Canyon

    If you’re looking for more kid-friendly and family-friendly trails and programs at Grand Canyon National Park, here are few that you should definitely check out:

    • Bright Angel Trail
    • Hermit Road Scenic Route (take by free shuttle, bike, on foot)
    • Maricopa Point
    • Powell Point
    • Trailview Overlook
    • Geology Glimpse (daily ranger-led program)
    • Critter Chat (daily ranger-led program)
    • Grand Canyon Special Event Calendar (including a star party for junior astronomers!)

    Trail App

    One of our favorite apps to use when searching for new trails is All Trails. This totally free app allows you to search by park, trail name, city, etc. to get a wealth of information on nearby hikes in your area. It provides lots of details on what you need to know before you go and even lets you upload photos from your hike.

    Homebase – Kanab, Utah

    From Arizona, we made our way to a beautiful town called Kanab located in southern Utah. It’s surrounded by towering Navajo sandstone cliffs and near three national parks, five national monuments, a renowned national recreation area, and two national forests.  Talk about a great location! 

    Pro travel tip: Stop at the Kanab town visitor center for insightful tips and information. We learned that there are many areas with preserved dinosaur tracks. Our kids were super excited!

    Kanab lodging

    After doing some research, we rented a house through VRBO and made Kanab our “base-camp” for the next few days. The home was within a 30-minute drive to Zion, 90 minutes to Bryce Canyon, and 10 minutes to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Plus, the town is loaded with awesome trails to boot!

    While there are many amazing options for camping, which we love to do, we chose to rent a house. Here’s why:

    • It’s nice to have a home base, especially after a long day of hiking
    • Washing machine and dryer = less packing
    • A refrigerator = grocery shopping for the week = saving money on lunches and dinners
    • Added perk (although not necessary) – the neighborhood pool!
    • Price – we got more for the price that was nearly equivalent to a hotel

    In the future, we’d definitely like to return and camp. There are many great sites that we discovered along the way, which I’ll briefly talk about.

    kid-friendly hikes in Kanab Utah

    Kanab kid-friendly trails & hikes

    Right outside our backdoor the red cliffs towered above our neighborhood that was loaded with trailheads. It was nice to get up in the morning, go for a hike, return to the house for breakfast, map our plans for the day, then take off. Here are a few kid-friendly hikes and trails we liked:

    • K-Hill Trail
    • Squaw Trailhead
    • Sand Caves- the climb was steep in parts along the slick rock
    • Moqui Cave

    Kanab kid-friendly trails & hikes Best hikes for kids in Kanab Utah Canyon hiking in Kanab Utah with kids

    Our favorite family-friendly Kanab restaurants

    For a sweet treat at the end of the day, we enjoyed Soda Fountain, a small ice cream parlor attached to the town’s drug store that was established in 1916. I’m pretty sure we became frequent visitors. Perhaps they know us by name?

    Toad Stools in Grand Staircase-Escalante

    Ah, yes. The Toad Stools. This was our children’s favorite spot to hike. Hidden along the roadside, it’s a short 2-mile roundtrip hike to see a land of balanced rock formations that look like mushrooms. Located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument, this is truly nature’s playground for children. This was a great beginner hike to teach our children about following trails and proper footing while climbing.

    Pro travel tip: There is climbing involved, although considered a moderate hike, children should always be supervised closely. Also, be prepared with enough water and sunscreen. This environment is an open and shadeless desert.

    Exploring Toad Stools in Grand Staircase-Escalante with kids Toad Stools in Grand Staircase-Escalante Hiking the Toad Stools in Grand Staircase-Escalante with kids Best Kid-friendly hikes in Toad Stools in Grand Staircase-Escalante

    Zion National Park

    Zion National Park was next on our national parks trip and it was magical! We were in awe of the red and white walls of Navajo sandstone, waterfalls, slot canyons, natural arches, and so much more. But it was busy! Due to the record amount of visitors and preservation of the area, you leave your car in a parking lot and take the free shuttle into the park. Buses arrive every 10-15 minutes.

    Pro travel tip: Arrive at Zion by 8:00 am or earlier to avoid crowds and find parking. Parking lots are usually full from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. You can also park in the nearby town of Springdale and take a free shuttle into the park.

    Exploring Zion National Park with kids Zion NP with kids Planning a National Parks Trip with Kids Family Friendly National Parks Trip - Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon

    Favorite Zion National Park hikes with kids

    • Emerald Pools- small streams and waterfalls with a view of Mountain of the Sun. It’s was beautiful!
    • Weeping Rock Trail
    • Riverside Walk
    • The Grotto Trail

    Due to flooding, many trails were closed, including the famous Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.

    Favorite Zion National Park hikes with kids

    Bryce Canyon

    Our next adventure on our national parks trip took us to Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah. We fell in love with Bryce Canyon! We went from shorts and sunshine at Zion to snow, hats, and mittens at Bryce. It made it for a challenging, and often slippery hike, but well worth it. Bryce Canyon was much less crowded and the kids enjoyed earning their ranger badges while taking in the extreme rock formations known as the hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations.

    Bryce Canyon with kids Exploring Bryce Canyon National Park with kids

    Due to an avalanche and melting snow, some trails at Bryce Canyon were closed. We discovered that in the winter and spring, the weather from park to park is very unpredictable. However, there is always something to be discovered, nonetheless! We got there just in time to watch the prairie dogs wake up from their winter hibernation. Let’s just say they were not happy to see snow!

    Hiking Bryce Canyon NP with Kids Waterfalls in Bryce Canyon National Park

    Pipe Spring National Monument

    While not a national park, Pipe Spring National Monument lies on the Arizona strip about 20-minutes west of Kanab, on the Paiute Reservation. Although a dry, desert area, this land has drawn a succession of people because of the aquifers that hold water underground and push it to the surface in Pipe Spring.

    There is so much history here. We took a tour of the Winsor Castle and learned about the relationship between the American Indians and Mormon ranchers as well as the plants and animals that still depend on this water.

    Pipe Spring National Monument with kids

    Our kids earned another junior ranger badge here at Pipe Spring.

    Pipe Spring National Monument Junior Ranger Badge

    You can take a self-guided tour or join a ranger for an educational talk.

    Hiking Pipe Spring National Monument with kids

    Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah

    Continuing west on our national parks trip, we added a state park! We made our way to St. George, Utah to visit Snow Canyon State Park. This place was awesome and has so much to offer! Snow Canyon State Park is a 7,400-acre scenic park among lava flows and sandstone cliffs. The hiking is fantastic.

    Pro travel tip: Be advised, there is a $10 entrance fee.

    Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah with Kids Hiking Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah with Kids Best Kid-friendly hikes in Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah Hiking Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah with kids

    With more than 38-miles of hiking trails from easy to more advanced, a three-mile paved walking/biking trail, and over 15-miles of equestrian trails, it’s all about picking what’s right for you. We completed a moderate hike that was 2.5 miles to see the volcanic caves and tubes. And we did some additional climbing. There is also great camping here. We checked out the beautiful campground and agreed that if we return, this would make a great home base. Our kids didn’t want to leave. There is so much to explore!

    Snow Canyon State Park in St. George, Utah

    Red Cliffs

    One final place you may want to check out on your trip is Red Cliffs. Unfortunately, on the day we arrived, the grounds were full and there was no parking available. We decided to skip it this time to avoid the crowds. There are short, scenic trails that take you along the canyon narrows along with a little waterfall. Camping is also available at the Red Cliffs Recreation Area.

    We’ll be back!

    This national parks trip was absolutely amazing. The night before we left was somber – we didn’t want to go home! It was hard to say goodbye to the incredible landscape and magical beauty of this region. With so many more outdoor treasures to explore and be seen, you can count on us to return to this 4-season wonderland in the future. 

    About the author

    Katie is a mom of two adventure-loving children, a kindergarten teacher, and a writer for adults and children. She and her family love to travel, be outdoors, and live a sustainable life as much as possible. Katie enjoys finding ways to share these bigs ideas with the little ones who will shape the future of our world.

    Follow Katie on Instagram: @adventuresparenting
    Or learn more about her through her website: https://katiewalsh.blog

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, PHOTOGRAPHY

    Lessons Learned while Traveling with Kids

    Traveling with kids is never easy and takes lots of preparation, planning, and patience. Today, I’m excited to bring you a wonderful post all about the lessons parents learn while traveling with kids. Andrew Song is a photographer and father of three from Toronto. He’s here sharing packing tips and travel advice, plus some relatable travel mistakes they’ve made along the way while traveling with 3 kids. If you’re planning a trip with kids anytime soon, you’re going to want to read this post about learning to roll with the punches, because traveling with kids is not for the faint-hearted!

    Traveling with Kids Tips Advice Lessons

    Traveling with kids

    Let’s be honest, when you’re a parent and traveling with kids, the thrill of a vacation rarely comes without the anxiety of preparation. You’re exhausted and sleep deprived. The kids just went to bed after an hour of telling you no. Only then do you realize you need to start packing! Cue the panic.

    If no one has told you this yet, no matter how much time and thought you put into preparing, you’ll never be prepared for every single scenario. Over the course of a year, my wife and I traveled with our three kids (twin daughters and their big brother) to France, Germany, Netherlands, Mexico, and most recently, California. Not once did we find ourselves being prepared for everything! The good news is…there was nothing we could not solve. And we learned from each mistake we made. Today, I want to share with you some of our learnings that will hopefully help you be better prepared for traveling with your kids and for taking photos of them along the way!

    tips for traveling with kids and car seats strollers

    Car seat and stroller decisions

    If you have small kids that require car seats and a stroller, undoubtedly, you’ll have research to do on what to pack, what to rent or what to buy. The options are fairly universal: you can bring your own, rent, or buy new ones locally when you reach your destination. Your decision will be based on price, convenience, availability and how much other stuff you need to pack. Sometimes the choices seem overwhelming or they all seem costly and inconvenient. That’s just part of traveling. Make sure to budget for these expenses ahead of time and plan in advance for different scenarios.

    Rent or buy

    When we traveled to California, after much discussion and unneeded debates, we decided not to bring our own car seats or strollers. For those of you who have backpacked a car seat on a trip, you can imagine the challenge it would have been to carry two of them through the airport, along with all our other luggage and the kids! Since we were renting a car for the trip, we chose to rent car seats from our car rental company. We were able to rent car seats for $100 each for 10-days. Yes, it’s a little pricey, but the convenience of having the car seats at the airport car rental ready for us far outweighed the cost of us lugging around the heavy car seats through multiple airports. (Did I mention we also had a layover?)

    lessons learned while traveling with kids

    As for the strollers, we decided to leave our beloved larger, more expensive and comfortable stroller at home and purchase new strollers at a local Target once we arrived in California. That way we didn’t have to lug a giant double-stroller around or risk damaging or devaluing it. While it probably sounds cheaper to rent a stroller, we needed a double stroller for 10-days. It ended up being the same price as buying two separate umbrella strollers from Target. We bought them when we got there and then got to keep them afterward for future travel!

    lessons learned from traveling with family and kids

    Learn from unexpected mistakes (we all make them)

    Picture this…it’s go time. Our cab arrives on time. We throw our luggage and carry-on bags into the cab, remind the kids to go potty, and we’re out the door. On the freeway there’s no traffic, so we get to the airport in record time and well ahead of schedule. The kids are fascinated by the airport so they are on their best behavior. We use the self-check-in kiosk and there’s an error. Typical (insert eye roll). Technology never works at the most inconvenient times. We try again…error. OK, maybe there’s something wrong with how we checked in online?

    And that’s when they told us, “You cannot have 5 people sitting in a row of three seats.” To which we replied, “Yes, we understand, however, our twins do not have their own seats, they will be sitting on our laps and want to sit together.” To which they replied, “It is against FAA regulations to have 5 persons sitting in a 3-seated row because there are only 4 air masks available in the event of an emergency. We’ll have to separate your family.” No!

    Pack multiple bags

    The problem was that we only packed ONE bag for our kids’ entertainment. OK, don’t worry, don’t panic, we thought. We’ll just split up the toys…no big deal. Turns out, it was a big deal. Our twins were not cooperating on the flight, constantly wanting the other parent or what the other twin was playing with. They started to scream, cry and kick the seats. As much as you read online to ignore the naysayers and head shakers in the rows around you, you can’t help but feel bad that your kids are the reason why people around you cannot relax. No parent wants to be in this situation. But when the going gets tough (and it will at some point), concentrate on taking care of your kids and ignore those around you.

    Next time, book seats across the aisle so you stay somewhat close together. Or pack multiple bags of entertainment and snacks. Lesson learned.

    tips for traveling with kids

    Pace yourself 

    Our California trip itinerary was packed full of sightseeing which included Hollywood Blvd, Griffith Observatory, Disney Concert Hall, San Diego Zoo, Santa Monica beach, Laguna Beach, Venice Beach, Melrose Ave, Urban Light sculpture, and most importantly, Disneyland!

    Disneyland was by far one of the best experiences in California, but the most challenging as well. We all know why it’s the best; the attractions, the rides, the Disney characters and the feeling of being in a fantasy world you never want to escape! But on the same token, it takes a toll on both the parents and the kids. We purchased a three-day pass because we wanted to experience everything it had to offer. In hindsight, that was our mistake. We underestimated the sheer exhaustion of walking for 10+ hours under the hot California sun, the lines and the crowded atmosphere.

    tips for traveling with kids disneyland californiatraveling with kids - expert tips and advice

    Go slow

    Not knowing any better, we went out hard and did way too much on the first day, instead of pacing ourselves. We learned our lesson quickly when we weren’t even sure we wanted to go back on Day 2. So, if you have three days, use them wisely and spread out the activities as much as you can. If you only have one day there, prioritize the attractions for your kids but still take it slow and enjoy the moment without feeling rushed or trying to cram so much in that the rest of your trip suffers.

    tips for planning a trip with kids

    Choose activities wisely

    Coming from Toronto Canada, we don’t have easy access to gorgeous beaches. While in California, we wanted to spend as much time by the ocean as possible. The waves, sand and fresh breeze are something we do not get to experience a lot of so we definitely wanted to take advantage of it. Our son must have been a fish in another life because he loves the water. He even has dreams to compete in the Olympics! Needless to say, he loved the beach and our time there.

    travel tips and advice for trips with kids

    Our girls, on the other hand, not so much. They were apprehensive at first and unfortunately for us, they fell into a wave as they tried to escape it from touching their feet, resulting in sand and salt water everywhere. Needless to say, that was game over for them. The only way they’d get close to the waves after that was in our arms. Takeaway lesson: exercise caution when trying new things and ease kids into new situations.

    traveling photographer - what gear to pack

    Packing tips for the photographer

    Let’s switch gears and talk photography, shall we? In my opinion, there are three main tips that are vital when traveling as a photographer. (You with the camera, yes you…you’re the photographer!)

    photography gear to pack when traveling with kids

    Tip #1 – minimize your gear

    And then minimize some more. When I first started to travel with photography gear, I wanted to bring everything. I had major FOMO (fear of missing out) of an opportunity because I didn’t have the “proper” lens. I packed a backpack full of lenses, tripod, gimbal, microphone, filters, etc. The list goes on. As I traveled, the burden of carrying so much gear started to weigh on me physically. I began to reduce my load each trip until I was down to one camera body and one standard zoom lens.

    And guess what happened? I never had FOMO. I realized it’s much more important to focus on the subject (my family) than stressing the importance of having the right gear. In fact, worrying about proper gear is a crutch and distracts me from my family. That’s the exact opposite of what a vacation is about. Pick your favorite lens and you’ll learn to use it in ways you never thought possible.

    photography tips for traveling with kids

    Tip #2 – location scout with Instagram

    When you choose the location(s) you will visit, use Instagram to scout out what’s there to see, do and explore. Instagram can show you beautiful photos based on a location search. This allows you to plan your family trip to incorporate the highlights. Instagram is an amazing resource for inspiration. I do this ALL the time even when I’m not traveling. Not because I want to recreate the same images, but it gives me a visual sense of the environment and gets me started thinking of compositions that appeal to me.

    photography tips for family travel

    Tip #3 – bring a backup drive!

    If you’re using a camera with only 1 memory card, it is vital you bring an external hard drive to back up your photos. This may seem excessive, but imagine something WERE to happen to your memory card, those memories you would have cherished for years to come can suddenly vanish in an instant. Not worth the risk. Back up your images on your external hard drive every night when you’re back at the hotel/house.

    lessons learned while traveling the globe with three kids

    Relax, enjoy, repeat

    When your day is done, take time to unwind and relax! As much as we parents may think it’s only exhausting for us, constantly being on the move is also exhausting for the kids. Now that we’re a little more experienced in traveling with our kids, we plan our days better. We always try to sight-see in the morning and then dedicate a large portion of the afternoon and early evening to one or two areas. And mainly, we just try to relax. Consider staying at places (hotel, vacation home or Airbnb) that have kid-friendly amenities. Pools, board games, puzzles, movies or other activities kids can enjoy in their down time.

    The one piece of advice I want you to remember from this article is to enjoy the moments you share with family. Find time to enjoy the little things, just as much as the grand and extravagant events you’ve planned. Look around and take it all in. Just noticing a garden on someone’s front lawn can be a moment to share and cherish. When I think back to when I was a child, the most memorable moments weren’t about the places we visited. I remember the random moments with my family. The karaoke contests between my siblings in the car going to the restaurant. The races downhill to see who can still stand after being dizzy from spinning. Let your vacation be defined by the moments you share with your family and loved ones, not the physical places you visit.

    About Andrew Song

    I am a Family & Lifestyle photographer from Toronto, Canada. Together with my wife, we are raising a trio of misfits who always seems to get us to smile. Watching them grow up is definitely our favorite past time. Living in a country where half the calendar year is spent in the cold, we try to travel and spend as much time outdoors as possible. The camera comes along everywhere we go. Life happens so quickly and pictures help preserve those moments.

    Personal Instagram @andrewsong_
    Family & Lifestyle Photography @storiesbysong
    Website http://www.storiesbysong.com

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SKI/SNOW, WINTER

    48 Hours in Banff National Park with Kids

    Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park, comprised of 6,641 square kilometers of unparalleled mountain scenery nestled in the heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Banff is home to world-class skiing and snowboarding, the emerald waters of Lake Louise and the breath-taking towering jagged peaks lining the Icefields Parkway. Today we are thrilled to have local mom and outdoor adventurist, Krista, here to take us on a 48 adventure through Banff National Park, with her 4 year-old in tow. Krista is sharing all the details on where to stay, what to do and where to eat while you’re in Banff for an epic outdoor winter weekend family adventure.

    Banff National Park with Kids - Winter Activities and Travel

    Welcome to Banff

    My family an I are lucky to live within driving distance to the Canadian Rockies.  To recharge our batteries after a busy January, we decided to take a quick road trip to Banff National Park for the weekend. One might think we are crazy to plan an outdoor adventure during the coldest time of the year, but there’s something to be said about freshly fallen snow and frozen lakes. If you haven’t experienced it, I highly recommend you give it a try. And when you have a 4 year old adventure seeker, outside (even during the winter) is the best place to be.

    Exploring Banff National Park with Kids in Winter

    Where to stay

    Typically, on a quick weekend getaway we stay at a hotel in the area. We are regulars at the Banff Park Lodge, as it suits our needs quite well. The hotel is located smack dab in the center of town, but is still surrounded by nature. Often you can see elk randomly crossing the street in the middle of town!  By staying here, we are able to walk to restaurants, trails and even a market without our kiddo getting too tired. However, if you’re looking to stay longer or want other accommodations, there are a ton of amazing cottages and condo style accommodations available in the area and around the park.

    Banff National Park with Kids - Winter Activities and TravelWinter Activities in Banff for Kids

    Winter Activities

    While we love the area year-round, both the town of Banff and the park are absolutely glorious during the winter. Skiing is the main attraction, but there’s so much more to do in Banff than just heading down the slopes of the Rockies. Travelers come from around the globe to meander the snow-covered, shop-lined streets, nestle into the world famous hotel or overlook the infamous view from Chateau Lake Louise. Families can also indulge in unique winter activities such as dog sledging, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, snowshoeing or a game of curling. The drive along the world-renowned Icefields Parkway towards Jasper is absolutely breathtaking. And the experience of standing on the ancient Athabasca Glacier is well worth the trip.

    Lake Louise

    Lake Louise is by far our favorite place to visit in the entire province of Alberta, no matter what season! The lake is about a 45 minute drive from Banff, so we turn on our favorite playlist and before we know it, we’re there! The views and photo ops at Lake Louise are unparalleled, year-round. During the winter, the lake is frozen solid. This means there are people skating, playing hockey and even snowshoeing. It’s spectacular! Whether you’re a skating pro or first-timer, it doesn’t get much more Canadian than skating on a natural lake rink in a national park beside an ice castle! Skate rentals are available and a large section of the lake is serviced by a makeshift Zamboni that helps smooth out the surface. To warm up, just head inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and enjoy a rich steamy hot chocolate.

    Lake Louise Banff Skating Winter Kids Activities

    Banff Gondola

    Located just minutes from town center the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain is a must with kids. After purchasing tickets, kids receive a Junior Explorer booklet so they can do a little scavenger hunt when they arrive at the top of the mountain. The ride up the mountain is so much fun! For those that are not a fan of heights, beware; it will make your heart race! However, the ride is only about 8 minutes long. At the peak (an elevation of 2,281m or 7,486 ft), you’ll enjoy an incredible vista of six mountain ranges.

    At the top of the gondola, there’s lots to do. There’s a little cafe called the Sky Bistro, which offers up top notch food with spectacular views (definitely worth a splurge). However, be advised that is often closed for a few weeks in January for annual maintenance, so check before you head out. Also, there’s a hike to Sanson’s Peak (which we haven’t done yet as it has always been too slippery) and an interpretation center. The center has interactive games and a cinema room where you can watch bears and other wildlife up close in their habitat. Prepare to spend at least a morning or afternoon here. For more information and pricing check out the Banff Gondola website.

    Exploring Banff National Park with Kids in Winter

    Banff Red Chair Movement

    Another favorite family activity is finding the red chairs. Adorable red Adirondack chairs are located in several popular hot spots around the picturesque town. Some chairs are easy to find and others will have you exploring — around the forest, on top of a ski hill and at the mouth of a large glacial lake. There is a map to print off to help you find the locations of all the chairs. We’ve had some good luck over our last few visits but still haven’t managed to find them all…yet! Make sure you take a selfie once you find the chairs and share it with Parks Canada by using the hashtag #sharethechair.

    Banff National Park with Kids - Winter Activities and TravelWinter Activities Banff National Park with Kids

    Kid-friendly eateries

    Beaver Tails – Indulge in a decadent piece of fried dough smothered in Nutella. YUM. And if you are feeling extra hungry, be sure to try their poutine!

    Eddie Burger & Bar – A small restaurant and usually pretty busy, but well worth the wait!  They have a variety of menu items that will entice even the pickiest of eaters.

    Boston Pizza – A chain pizza joint that offers both eat in and take-out options.  Lots of menu choices and a big hit with our kiddo!

    Kid friendly dining restaurants in Banff

    Hope you enjoyed exploring some of what Banff National Park has to offer families!
    If you’ve been to Banff, we’d love to hear what your family favorites are – leave a comment below.

     

     

     

    Hi, I’m Krista! A 30-something, coffee-drinking mama of one kiddo (4) and wife to an amazing guy. We live in Alberta (yes, the Winters are freezing) and have the Canadian Rockies as our playground.  I can plan an epic road trip – complete with a playlist – at the drop of a hat, just don’t ask me to get crafty!

     

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Costa Rica with Kids

    I’m thrilled to bring you an amazing guest post today from the adventurous and talented Giselle Wyckoff. Giselle is a NYC mom of 2. She recently spent a week in Costa Rica with her family and documented the entire journey for us! She’s here to share all their amazing adventures, activities and experiences – giving some tips, advice and recommendations on how to successfully do Costa Rica with kids. If you have any questions for Giselle, leave them in the comments below! Pura Vida!

    family-friendly travel: costa rica with kids

    I consider myself a lover of travel, amateur photographer, and a mom who likes to expose her kids to the world around them, while capturing as many memories as I can.  I have a ten-year-old boy and a seven-year-old girl. We live in New York City and consider ourselves true urbanites.  However, we wanted to take the kids out of their city comfort zone on a true outdoor adventure. This past October we traveled to the Papagayo peninsula of Costa Rica. Our experiences from wildlife-watching and tasting fresh fruit, to surfing and ziplining, brought out the inner child and adventurist in all of us.

    costa rica travel tips

    Traveling to Costa Rica 

    Papagayo is in the Guanacaste region on the southern pacific coast of Costa Rica.  To get there you fly into Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Liberia (LIR). Jet Blue, American and other airlines have direct flights from multiple cities in the United States. Upon arrival, we were greeted by very friendly locals and felt safe during our entire stay.  The Costa Rican people (“Ticos”) live by the motto, “Pura Vida,” which translates into ‘pure life.’ Pura Vida is more than a phrase, it’s truly a way of living. It’s used for greetings and farewells – it encompasses the optimism and easy-goingness of their lifestyle.

    costa rica with kids

    Weather

    Costa Rica has two seasons: dry (December-June) and rainy (July-November). And rainy definitely means rainy!  The rainy season is a great time to explore the lush forests. It’s also the perfect time take advantage of the swells when surfing and the full rivers when rafting. It’s usually sunny in the morning with tropical showers in the afternoon. The temperature is warm throughout, with the average temp in Guanacaste hovering around 75-800 F year-round. Make sure to pack your raincoats, water shoes and a water-resistant/waterproof bag for day trips. Don’t forget hiking shoes and bathing suits, as well. Make sure to pack bug spray…and lots of it.

    costa rica travel advicefamily-friendly travel: costa rica with kidstraveling with kids costa rica

    Where we stayed

    We stayed at the Andaz Papagayo  which is part of the Hyatt group. The hotel is a 40 minute scenic drive from the airport, which was lush and beautiful. We saw many of the local crops (sugar cane) and native birds and animals.  The beautifully landscaped property of the hotel is set between two beaches and surrounded by all things tropical.  The wildlife on the property is an unexpected added bonus. Our kids enjoyed seeing the monkeys and colorful birds right outside our room!

    where to stay in costa rica with kidskid friendly costa rica hotelskid friendly costa rica hotels

    Like most of the hotels throughout the region, a lot of attention is paid to nature and conservation. All of the employees were eager to share their knowledge about the local wildlife, foliage and ecosystem, which was interesting for all of us.  The concierge at the Andaz helped us with our daily itineraries and activity planning. They also connected us with Tropical Comfort Tours, who arranged all the activities, adventures and day trips throughout our stay.

    costa rica wildlife with kids

    What we ate

    Coffee, sugarcane, tropical fruit, rice, beans, seafood and meat are all locally grown and harvested.  Only the freshest of the fresh! Our meals were truly authentic as we ate in several local restaurants. Favorite local foods include plantains, casados (rice and beans) and seafood ceviches.  Bottled water is offered everywhere; however, we did not find drinking the ice or water at any of the restaurants outside our resort to be an issue.

    beaches in costa rica for kids

    Day trips

    There are so many amazing activities to do and day trips to take in Costa Rica. It’s an adventure-lover’s dream come true. It’s also an amazing place to relax surrounded by nature. Whether you’re looking for a thrill ziplining through the jungle or just want to spend a day lounging at the beach, Costa Rica has something for everyone in the family. There are so many things to do, you can spend every day of your trip doing something different. Most hotels can make day trip arrangements for you, or steer you to a reputable third party for activity planning. We chose a combination of action-adventure outings and relaxation for each day.

    exploring costa rica with kidsfamily-friendly travel: costa rica with kids

    Day 1: Surfing

    Surfing in Costa Rica was at the top of our bucket list.  We took a trip to Playa Tamarindo which is about an hour away from the resort.  It is a long, rocky beach with shallow waters and breaks perfect for surfing, especially for beginners.  There were quite a few surfing companies on the strip, and we used Iguana Surf. They provided the instructor, surfboards and the rash guards.  There was a twenty-minute tutorial on the beach which included safety, paddling out, and popping up on to the board, and then it was time to hit the water!

    surfing costa rica with kids

    The conditions were suitable for my family with the light crowd, long wide beach and knee to waist high swells.  The instructor guided each of us on how best to effectively get up and ride the wave.  Our son took to it almost immediately! Within minutes he was up and riding small waves. He’s asked for a surfboard every day since!

    costa rica surfing with kids

    Day 2: Ziplining

    There is nothing like the rush you feel zipping through the clouds hundreds of feet in the air!  We took a trip to Monteverde, a cloud forest reserve found in the Central Highlands of Costa Rica.  Jairo (our guide and fifth family member on the trip) from Tropical Comfort Tours drove us in a van to the top of the mountain. The trip was nearly four hours of breathtaking views and exposure to several diverse Costa Rican communities.  We stopped for an authentic Costa Rican breakfast of Gallo Pinto (eggs with rice and beans), and then headed for the forest.

    kid friendly activities in costa rica

    Monteverde has something for every adventure-lover, including ziplining, horseback riding, nighttime nature/animal hikes, hanging bridge canopy tours, bungee jumping and coffee making and chocolate tours.  Two days is probably ideal to cover most of this, but since we only had a day, we opted for the ziplining and the hanging bridge tours. There were eight ziplines, which ranged from 500 to 2500 feet in length, and up to 300 feet in the air, spanning over the clouds and forest, which had our hearts racing.

    ziplining with kids in costa ricafamily-friendly travel: costa rica with kids

    The guides from Sky Adventure were amazing, and really put an emphasis on safety, making sure everyone was comfortable at all points. My seven-year-old had to zipline with an instructor due to the lack of weight (which actually made me happy), although she would have probably liked to have gone solo!  The views from above were both exhilarating and breathtaking! The extensive ecological biodiversity on the hike among the canopy of the forest was astonishing for the kids.

    ziplining with kids costa rica

    Day 3: White water rafting

    We went to Canon de la Vieja for a family outing for some white-water rafting. Next time, we will do it in the dry season!  The rapids were classified as level 2, but because we were at the end of rainy season, it became more of a level 3/4 course.  Saftey is priority – helmets and life vests are required for everyone. I would also recommend that children are capable swimmers if they are going to participate. We were each in separate dokis (inflatable boats) with our own guides, although they put both kids together to balance out their boat.

    white water rafting with kids in costa rica

    It was an intense 45 minutes of dips, turns and splashes, but a pure thrill, and we felt especially safe with safety guides in two extra boats in front and behind us.  In between fighting the rapids, there were stretches where we would peacefully drift down the river, and we were able to observe the nature around us – birds, bats,  frogs, trees, etc. The contrast between the rocky bumps and the tranquility of the calm river was beautiful.

    Day 4: Relaxation

    We spent the fourth day relaxing and enjoying our surroundings.  Because of our limited time in Costa Rica, I had everyone running like the Energizer bunny the first three days. I kept reminding myself that they are still kids, so our last day was completely unscheduled. We walked along the nature trails observing the wildlife — white-faced capuchin monkeys swinging from the trees above us and the family of coatis (small, cuter raccoons) playing and eating in the forest.

    family-friendly travel: costa rica with kids

    We also walked the beach and saw many species of crabs, fish and shells. But alas, the kids wanted some time at the Andaz Kids Club, Cambio. They played board games, baked and decorated cupcakes, and did art projects.  They got to play on the swings near the beach and relax in the pool. And most importantly to them, they enjoyed a pineapple smoothie sitting next to an iguana! I reluctantly obliged, and found myself a hammock, rounding out another wonderful day.

    kid friendly costa rica activities and accommodationsfamily-friendly travel: costa rica with kidstraveling with kids to costa rica

    Trip takeaway

    Costa Rica was wonderful and we loved everything we did. And amazingly, there is so much more than we were able to experience, including volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls and national parks.  Everything that we did was new and incredible to us. There is nothing like sharing new experiences with your children. Seeing their excitement, watching them overcome fears, and broadening their minds was everything I hoped that this vacation would be.  I am most grateful for this trip because everything we did, ALL of us did, creating long lasting memories and tighter bonds.

    costa rica monkey

    To Costa Rica with love…this is not good-bye, this is see you later…Pura Vida!

     

    Giselle Wyckoff is from New York City, mom to Max (10 years old) and Sam (7 years old), an operating room nurse and amateur photographer. Growing up in the metro area has given her a love for food, travel and adventure, but she also likes to break away to the east end of Long Island for a little tranquility and downtime. In her free time, she enjoys tennis, the beach, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying all that NYC has to offer- restaurants, museums, and fashion. Her passion for photography is influenced by these interests, focusing on capturing the vibrance and beauty in family shots, street and travel photography. You can find her at the following locations:

    Instagram: gisellewyckoffphotography
    Email: gisellewyckoffphoto@gmail.com

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, MCFAMILY, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Out & About in Overland Park with Kids

    This post was sponsored by Visit Overland Park. Some accommodations, events, and activities were comped for review purposes. All opinions expressed and photos contained in this post belong to the author.

    Kansas City Kid Friendly Activities Adventures and Restaurants

    Last weekend we had the pleasure of spending some time in and around the Overland Park, Kansas area with the kids. Overland Park is a suburb of Kansas City and chock-full of fun attractions, amazing food and kid-friendly experiences. It’s the second largest city in Kansas, located in the midst of the bi-state Kansas City metro. Overland Park is 29 miles from the KCI Airport, and within a 15- to 20-minute drive of beloved Kansas City destinations, including downtown and the Plaza.

    Kansas City is about a 1-hour flight, a 4-hour drive or a 5-hour train ride from the St. Louis area, making it the perfect little weekend getaway. There’s so much to do in Overland Park and the Kansas City area for the entire family – from professional sporting events (Royals and Chiefs!) to unique children’s museums. We’ve put together a great list of local attractions, holiday events, outdoor activities, kid-friendly eateries, shops and accommodations. We hope this will help you plan the perfect family trip to Overland Park and Kansas City this season.

    Fun Things to Do with Kids in Kansas City

    Kid-Friendly Attractions

    iFLY – If you’ve ever dreamed of flying or thought skydiving would be fun, you must check out iFLY in Overland Park. This indoor skydiving experience gives fliers a chance to experience the thrill and adrenaline rush of skydiving in a fun and safe indoor environment. Instructors provide some brief training and then suit you up for flight. They’re there to help first time flyers maximize the fun as you feel the sensation of free fall in the two story wind tunnel. The flying experience is great for kids and open for anyone aged 3 and up!

    Pinstripes – Pinstripes is Kansas City’s premier bowling, bocce and bistro experience in the Prariefire complex in Overland Park. Pinstripes offers classic bowling lanes, indoor bocce courts, fire pits, great Italian food and killer drinks – all under one roof, making it a fun experience for the entire family. All ages are welcome, they offer tot playtime from 10 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday, and parents bowl free.

    Crown Center – Located in the heart of Kansas City, the Crown Center is one of the premier family destinations in the Midwest. Housing more than 5,000 sea creatures and 30 displays, the Sea Life Aquarium provides astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. If you have a Lego-lover in the family, the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center offers a fun, highly interactive and educational two to three-hour indoor experience ideal for families with children 3-10 years old, featuring 2 rides, 10 LEGO build & play zones, a 4D cinema & much more! If your kid is a budding artist, make sure to check out Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope, where kids use their imaginations to make art with left-over materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes. There are also 2 live theaters and the city’s only public outdoor ice skating rink (during the winter).

    Apex Climbing Gym – If your whole family is up for some adventure, Apex Climbing Gym is built entirely around the principle that exercise should be fun and bring family closer together. Try your hand at the Warped Wall and other ninja warrior-inspired obstacles. Or see if you have what it takes to top-out in the expansive climbing area. They also offer yoga to further improve your mobility, flexibility, and strength.

    The College Basketball Experience – Located inside the Sprint Center in the heart of downtown Kansas City, the College Basketball Experience is perfect for the sports lover in your family. With hands-on, high-energy exhibits throughout the facility, visitors are put in electrifying game-like situations, from sinking the game-winning shot to announcing the play-by-play action at the “ESPNU broadcast desk.” This is also the home of the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

    Outdoor Activities for Kids in Overland Park

    Overland Park Outdoor Adventures

    Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens – For nature lovers, the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens stretches over an incredible 300 acres filled with more than a dozen gardens, nearly five miles of hiking trails and a 180-acre prairie that showcases native grasses and wildflowers in their full splendor. The Arboretum is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of eight natural ecosystems. The paved and wood chip trails wind throughout the picturesque arboretum and gardens. Gardens include Monet Garden, Children’s Discovery Garden and the International Sculpture Garden. While you’re there, check out all the fairy and gnome houses! They were one of the highlights of our trip!

    Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead – This unique farm is bursting with things to see and do. The Farmstead is home to nearly 200 animals, vegetable and flower gardens, a fishing pond and more! Kids will love the pony rides, bottle feeding baby goats or petting a cow in the Dairy Barn. Other animals include horses, donkeys, turkeys, bison, prairie dogs and bobcats. Visit historical replicas of a country schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, mining camp, barber shop and Indian village. Pile the entire family into a wagon pulled by Belgian draft horses for a ride through the woods. Catch a fish with an old-fashioned cane pole or compete in a push pedal tractor race. This twelve acres of wholesome family fun and entertainment is open every day from April 1-October 31. On Monday through Thursday, admission is FREE!

    Indian Creek Hike and Bike Trail – Looking for some outdoor exercise with a view? The Indian Creek Bike/Hike Trail links two states, four communities and a multitude of parks along Indian Creek. The trail includes plenty of parks, playgrounds and picturesque places to stop for a picnic. The trail starts in Kansas City and continues (around 20 miles) through the heart of Overland Park. The asphalt paths are ideal for hiking, biking and skating. Because they’re mostly shaded, the trail is a great recreation option even during the hot summer months. A trail map can be found and downloaded HERE.

    Snow Creek – Who says you can’t ski in the Midwest? Snow Creek is a winter sports destination with no mountains required! Located 40 miles north of Kansas City, Snow Creek has over 60 snow-making machines with the capacity to pump 3,000 gallons of water per minute, covering 100% of the terrain in as little as 72 hours! As long as temps stay below freezing they have snow! Snow Creek offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing. They have 12 trails, 5 lifts and 2 terrain parks. Rent your equipment there and take advantage of all their amenities such as bar, restaurant, pizzaria, private/group lessons and souvenir shop. Open mid-December through mid-March.

    Holiday Activities in Overland Park

    Holiday Activities in Overland Park

    Farmstead Lane Light Show – The annual light display at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead has new features this year including lots of new fun animation. The 38-minute show is synchronized with music. Tune into 90.5 FM to hear holiday music as you watch the spectacular show from the warmth of your car!

    Nutcracker – Don’t miss the magic and tradition of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Performed by the American Youth Ballet, with a 40ft growing tree, snow falling on stage, and a live orchestra. The Nutcracker is a highlight and an Overland Park tradition. Saturday show times are 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday show times are 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

    Luminary Walk – Stroll down candlelit trails through the gardens and woods at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Thousands of candles line the walkways and trails with holiday lights on display from trees, buildings and bridges. It also features live music, Santa Claus, horse-drawn wagon rides and hot cider around a campfire. Even the mystical gnome and fairy villages are lit up. The Luminary Walk is held from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday nights, Nov. 24-25, Dec. 1-2, and Dec. 8-9.

    Ice Skating at Park Place – The Ice at Park Place is Leawood’s only outdoor ice rink. It’s open November 17th through February 19th, including holidays. The Ice is surrounded by seasonal festivities, warm food and drink options and unique holiday shopping. Now in its tenth season, enjoy special events like Skating with Santa, Princess Skate and Valentine’s Day Skate. Skate rentals are available, but bring your own helmets for the kids.

    Carriage Ride – If you want to go all out for the holiday, book a horse-drawn carriage ride to take you through Country Club Plaza to see the lights and sights. From November to mid-January, Kansas City Carriages offers horse-drawn carriage rides to the public. Rides are available daily starting at 5 p.m. from the corner of Nichols Road and Pennsylvania Avenue and hit all the highlights as the lights illuminate the area’s pretty Spanish architecture. Reservations are recommended if you don’t want to wait in line for hours. Dress warmly and grab some hot chocolate from a nearby coffee shop for the ride.

    Best Food and Restaurants in Overland Park

    Overland Park Eateries

    Grimaldi’s Pizza – For authentic, coal-fired brick oven pizza, look no farther than Grimaldi’s at Prariefire in Overland Park. Pizza and calzones are baked to perfection in coal burning ovens, which offer a unique flavor and a crisp crust that is not possible from gas, convection or wood-burning ovens. Made with fresh ingredients, handmade mozzarella, ‘secret recipe’ dough and pizza sauce, Gramadi’s is the most award-winning pizzeria in the US. The kids loved “The Don” pizza and my husband and I fought over the last piece of “Brooklyn Bridge.”

    The Big Biscuit – The folks at the Big Biscuit pride themselves on having the friendliest service in town. They’re known for portions that are impossibly generous and a staff with Big smiles. They’ve been serving up breakfast at lunch to the Kansas City area for 17 years, from a variety of locations. No matter which part of KC you’re in, you can usually find a Big Biscuit near you.

    Decadent – Decadent is a delicious dessert and coffee bar in Overland Park’s Prairiefire district. Pastries and desserts are made from scratch daily, which also means the selection regularly rotates. Pair your sweet treat with a freshly made espresso beverage or a decadent drinking chocolate. Want to go all out? Try the skillet chocolate chip cookie topped with vanilla bean gelato, hot fudge, caramel sauce and whipped cream. Heaven, I tell you. They also serve ice cream, wine and beer!

    Q39 – You cannot take a trip to Kansas City without having some world-famous BBQ. Q39 is a relatively new BBQ restaurant, with a created-from-scratch menu by classically trained chef Rob Magee. Prior to opening Q39 he worked the competitive barbecue circuit (and won a lot)! The restaurant is fun and contemporary, while also being rustic and friendly. You can’t go wrong with any of their amazing BBQ dinner entrees, served with apple coleslaw and your choice of beans or potato salad. It draws a crowd on a weekend night, so go early with and try the brisket. You won’t be disappointed!

    McLain’s Market – The stocked pastry case at McLain’s Market is a dessert lover’s dream—cupcakes, brownies, donuts and pastries, oh my (plus a whole lot more). They serve an incredible breakfast and lunch, too – everything from breakfast BLTs to veggie spring rolls and avocado toast. There’s even a Poutine made from housemade fries covered in a goat cheese fondue with bacon and chives. Consider yourself warned!

    Gigi’s Cupcakes – If you’ve never tasted the best gourmet cupcake to ever come out of a Kansas grandma’s kitchen, you need to go to Gigi’s. Featuring 30 varieties of cupcakes each week, in addition to adorable mini cupcakes and the perfect-sized cheesecakes. Everything is baked fresh each day. They even have gluten friendly fans covered with three different gluten friendly cupcakes made daily.  Try the chocolate salted caramel cupcake, a dark chocolate cupcake that’s filled with caramel, then topped with caramel frosting, dipped in ganache and sprinkled with sea salt. Amazing.

    Shops for Littles

    Scheels – While a mega sporting goods store might not sound like the most kid-friendly destination, this one certainly is entertaining! Kids can marvel at a 16,000-gallon overhead aquarium, hear from fully animated talking presidents along the Walk of the U.S. Presidents and ride a 65 foot indoor Ferris wheel! Scheels is the largest selection of sports, sportswear and footwear – under one roof – in the entire state of Kansas! There’s also a deli and fudge shop, sport simulators (golf, soccer, hockey, baseball, football and basketball), plus a wildlife mountain.

    American Girl – At the American Girl Store in Overland Park, your little one can explore the doll collections like BeForever, Girl of the Year, Truly Me, and The Bitty Baby. The store is full of fun accessories to browse and a full library of award-winning books. Make a pampering date and treat your doll to a new look in the doll hair salon or get her ears pieced. Dolls in need of a little TLC can be brought to the store and admitted to the Doll Hospital for refresh and repair.  There are also exciting programs and special events held throughout the year.

    Fat Brain Toys – Fat Brain Toys in the Prariefire complex in Overland Park is a fun place to learn while you play! The highly educated staff includes real school teachers that will help you find the perfect educational game, activity or toy. Kids also have the chance to try, learn, and play before you buy to ensure satisfaction! The store boasts over 7,500 in stock toys, games, and gifts, including their own original line of educational toys.

    Overland Park hotels and kid-friendly accommodations

    Places to Stay in Overland Park

    Mariott Overland Park – This hotel boasts gracefully designed accommodations, superb service and an excellent convenient location. You’ll find our hotel just moments from premier shopping centers, as well as museums, attractions and the convention center. Epicure restaurant and the 210 Bar and Grill both have delicious American cuisine and innovative cocktails. There’s a fitness center for the parents and an indoor/outdoor pool for the kids!

    Convention Center hotels – Are you headed to Overland Park for a meeting, convention or corporate event? The Overland Park Convention Center is within walking distance of 1,000 hotel rooms, including Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn and Courtyard by Marriott. The Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center is attached to the Overland Park Convention Center for the ultimate in convenient access.

    I hope you’ve enjoyed this overview of all the fun family-friendly activities, adventures and outings in and around the Overland Park and Kansas City area. Keep this in mind when planning your next weekend getaway with the kids. And make sure to check out the Visit Overland Park website for the most up-to-date info on local events and happenings.

    Have you been to Kansas City?
    What’s your favorite KC activity?