Every summer, my husband and I love taking our kids somewhere new for vacation. We believe that habitually going the same places every year gets boring and when it comes to vacation we want to be anything but routine. This year we chose Tennessee as our destination for “new” fun. It is remote, far away from where we live, and has all the components for the great time we were looking for. Wanting to add a little spontaneity to our trip we didn’t book a hotel or anything in advance. We packed our bags, hooked up the GPS, loaded up the van and took off for our Tennessee adventure!

Arriving in Tennessee my family and I expected to see a lot of hills, however, as we got further in what we saw captured our hearts and still does to this day- The Great Smoky Mountains! At first thought it may seem like the mountains are nothing more than an area for great hiking, however you will soon discover that the mountains hold so much more! Within the nearby towns, there is a lot of entertainment and fun for everyone!

After driving awhile, we came to a town called Sevierville. It was there that we saw something off the main road that captured our attention with a massive lit-up funnel like structure coming off the side of it’s building: Wilderness at the Smokies. It is known as Tennessee’s largest family resort and includes one sizable indoor and two outdoor waterparks. It is a great place for families to stay and relax while also having a lot of fun. The outdoor waterparks– Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark and Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark– are only open during the summer. The indoor water park (Wild WaterDome Indoor Waterpark), however, is open year-round! The water parks include several water slides, tube slides, water racers, surf riders, lagoons, rivers, and even spas for us mommies. Our family really loved the Storm Chaser Thrill Ride- which we eventually figured out was the massive funnel like structure that caught our attention to begin with- which is a waterslide that gives its riders a hair-raising experience! Four guests plummet 55 feet down a thrilling, dark tunnel ride before dropping through a zero gravity fall into a funnel where they experience several fast oscillations before splashing into a pool below. Be prepared for the ride of your life! Note: A few of the water rides include a minimum height requirement of 48’’.

After spending 5 hours at the waterparks, my husband and I decided (along with much begging from the kids) that we had to stay overnight at the resort… and we were in luck, a room was actually available! Normally I would suggest booking ahead as they tend to stay booked up.

There are a few different lodging options to choose from at Wilderness. Since we are a family of five, we opted to stay at the River Lodge. We wanted to be sure we chose a room that had enough space for all of us as well as comfort and boy did it deliver! River Lodge offers a variety of suite styles that are designed to accommodate families while allowing for the convenience of extra room to spread out. Our largest suite sleeps up to 15 people, which includes multiple sleeping rooms, a full kitchen and family room with fireplace. River Lodge is also connected to the Wild WaterDome Indoor Waterpark and also has many other features including: Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark, Cataloochee Creek Adventure Golf, The Thirsty Miner Restaurant, Mountain Marketplace, Outpost Gift Shop, Back Country Arcade, Paint Your Own Pottery, a Fitness Center and Guest Laundry.

Another option, Stone Hill Lodge features upscale furnishings, with a mountain-modern decor. Rooms have flat screen TV’s, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, irons and ironing boards and in-room safes. Stone Hill Lodge also features: Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark, Hidden Trail Bar and Grill, Black Bear Boutique, Back Country Arcade, a Fitness Center, a Business Center and Guest Laundry. From double queen hotel rooms to king executive suites, they are sure to have the room that is perfect for your family.

Lastly there is Sanctuary Villas, which are luxurious, golf front villas, less than a mile from all the other Wilderness amenities. All Villas are fully furnished with every amenity your family might desire along with a private terrace and game room. Enjoy golf course seclusion and also waterpark access!

After we checked out of our room and went to the waterparks for one last time, my kids started to get really cranky- partly because they didn’t want to leave but also partly because they were exhausted and were in the need of some good food. When traveling, Trip Advisor is my best friend. My husband and I searched for local places with great reviews and found the Hatflields & McCoys Dinner Show all I had to do was read the online description and instantly it cheered the kids up! If you’re searching for a place to eat and have a laugh, look no further! At the Hatfield & McCoy’s Dinner Show you can enjoy a nice homemade, country style dinner while watching one of the best comedy shows in Pigeon Forge. Dinner includes an all-you-can-eat line-up featuring some of the best food in Pigeon Ford, according to Trip Advisor- and we’d have to agree. The menu included country fried chicken, open pit pork barbeque, a southern style creamy vegetable soup (my absolute favorite – I was even able to buy the soup mix in the gift shop after the show to take home to make), corn on the cob, mashed taters, coleslaw, homemade rolls, and a specialty dessert. Everything was amazing and the chicken was so tender and juicy—we definitely had to ask for seconds and our waiter was all to happy to oblige. We received excellent service and with a smile!

The on-stage staff delivered an outstanding show called “A Family Feud.” We were laughing so hard watching folks dressed in country-style attire—men with straw hats and overalls pick guitars and sing and women with plaid dresses and boots dance and sing and give a great story line filled with humor. There was never a dull moment watching the two families banter back and forth. Just be sure you chew and swallow your food quickly… or the person sitting across from you may not be very happy when coleslaw comes flying across the table because you let out a big belly laugh!

If after Hatfield & McCoy’s your begging for more comedy on your trip be sure to check out The Comedy Barn also located in Pigeon Forge. The Comedy Barn is actually a sister venue to the Hatfield & McCoy’s and combo tickets are available at a discount when you book both. Just like The Hatfield and McCoy’s Dinner Show the Comedy Barn offered up a ton of laughs and a great meal. Dinner for this show however is served at The Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Cafe right next door. There your family will receive an amazing feast that includes Savory Pot Roast, Fried Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Macaroni and Cheese, Green Beans, Homemade Pasta Salad, Cream of Chicken Soup, Rolls, and for dessert Banana Pudding or Chocolate Cake. The Comedy Barn show times are 5pm and 8:15pm nightly. Tickets are $29.95 per adult and $9.95 per child. You can ADD ON the dinner option for $19.95 per adult and $9.95 per child.

The Comedy Barn has a variety of acts: magicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, amazing trained animals, tap dancing, live country and gospel music! They also bring unsuspecting audience members into different parts of the show and trust me when I say that will leave your stomach sore from laughing so hard! The Comedy Barn show offers seasonal acts as well and has a special Christmas Show for the holidays. Your family is sure to have endless streams of laughter and fun!

Back in the van and a few minutes away from Pigeon Forge, we arrived in a quaint little mountain town called Gatlinburg. As we drove in we saw a billboard advertising an awesome-sounding attraction called Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. I quickly Googled it and found out that it was voted “The Best U.S. Aquarium” by USA Today in 2017 and it’s no wonder why, it has something to offer the whole family! From penguin encounters, to swimming with stingrays and painting with penguins… no matter what activity you choose at the Aquarium, you and the family will never get bored!

Ages 4 and up can make a new furry little friend— a penguin! Staff members are on-site to monitor the encounters. The penguins are well trained to interact with visitors. They can pet the penguins and even get a photo with them. Children ages 4-7 must be chaperoned by an adult and the staff. Prices are $44.99 for one adult to chaperone one child.

Ever wanted to get up close and interact with a stingray? If so and if you are at least 40” tall and 5 years old, you can splash (swim) with the stingrays for only $29.99! My family was able to swim with the stingrays together and it is something we will never forget! Just be sure not to forget your swimsuit / trunks as they are required attire for this activity. Towels however are provided.

Feeling artsy? And love penguins too? Try a penguin painting class with these little furry friends! For only $79.99 per person, you can help a penguin create a cool work of art. You will choose a color or two, dip your penguin’s feet in the colors, and watch your penguin get to work as he or she walks colored footprints all over a piece of 8×10 white canvas paper! My youngest son absolutely loved this activity because he loves painting and penguins are his favorite animals! Again a chaperone is required here for children ages 4-7 and it’s an additional $19.99 to chaperone one child in addition to the general penguin painting class admission.

Some other cool opportunities at the aquarium include live shows; gift shops; cafés; viewing coral reefs and coral fish; the Discovery Center (where you can get hands-on with aquatic creatures of many types); Gallery of the Seas (you can view octopuses, jellyfish, lionfish, spider crabs, cuttlefish, and other mesmerizing ocean creatures); Stingray Bay; Penguin Playhouse; Ocean Realm; Shark Lagoon; Touch A Ray Bay; and Tropical Rainforest (creatures of the rainforest). The aquarium also offers birthday parties and group activities such as Sleeping with the Sharks (spend a night under a dome watching the sharks), classroom field trips and events (includes discounts for teachers and students and advanced group booking online). General admission is $34.99 per Adult, Children ages 6-11 are $19.99 each and Children ages 2-5 are only $9.99 each. If you would like an Aquarium guide, it is an additional $2.99. Ripley’s also offers combo tickets to Aquarium as well as some of its other attractions.

Beyond waterparks, comedy shows, great food and the aquarium, another amazing way to experience the area is to explore the Great Smoky Mountains itself! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must! The park covers a large area from Tennessee to the North Carolina border. It is known as America’s most visited National park for a reason—there’s so much wildlife diversity, so many beautiful views, great hiking trails and interesting things to do there. While hiking we came across a couple black bears in the distance (always hike with caution), a beautiful assortment of wildflowers, a variety of birds, and fireflies once it got dark along with many other mysterious and interesting creatures that reside within the mountains.

One of the most popular areas of the National Park is Cades Cove. Cades Cove is an isolated valley located in the Tennessee section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The valley was home to numerous settlers before the formation of the national park. It is a very popular place to capture breathtaking views of the mountains. Here, it was possible for my family to see a lot of white-spotted deer, black bears, raccoons, turkeys and other animals. There was even the opportunity to set-up camp close by (with tents and RV’s) if you wish to be further immersed in the wildlife! Around the area we saw a lot of historical houses that dated back to the 19th century. My husband (who is a History Channel buff) loved this! Some of the things we came across were churches, windmills, log homes, barns and old school houses. No matter what you come across, there is sure to be some kind of historic story or fact behind it providing a great opportunity for a history lesson for the kiddos!

Open year-round, the Smoky Mountains of course offers a lot of opportunity for great hiking and even kid-friendly hikes. Some of the more popular destination hikes include Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Rainbow Falls (a hike to a beautiful 80 foot waterfall that shapes into an hourglass in the winter), and Chimney Tops (a much steeper climb/hike). Our family’s favorite was Rainbow Falls- the waterfall was amazingly beautiful!

Yes, this Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains “Adventure” left my family feeling more than satisfied with our spontaneous and un-routine vacation. Whether your interest is hiking, swimming, laughing until you hurt or getting up close and personal with natures furry and feathery residents, you are bound to have an awesome time and make unforgettable family memories with a Great Smoky Mountains’ Vacay! What are you waiting for!?!

The post Get Away with a Great Smoky Mountains Vacay! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Don’t let those pesky bills keep you from getting away! These are a few great ways to afford a much needed vacation.

Whether you already have a destination picked out or you’re still debating places, what you do know is that vacations cost a lot of money. And if you’re anything like me, your savings account can’t even pay for one plane ticket, let alone the whole families! But we’ve got you covered: here are a few ways to save for, or save on, vacation.

1. Groupon

Photo credit: groupon.com

Groupon is my go to place for finding everything from bulk groceries to cheap spa packages. Their vacation section is a great place to find cheap hotel deals and even vacation packages that can save you up to $1,000. Once you have a hotel booked, change your Groupon location to your destination city. This way, you can save on activities and food while you’re there and won’t have to spend all of your vacation on the computer.

2. Start a dedicated vacation account

Photo credit: Mentalfloss.com

Whether it’s in a bank or under your bed, start saving at least 6 months before your trip to be able to go on your dream vacation. Many banks will offer special rates when you open a new savings account, and you can even link up your paycheck so that 5% of each check goes directly into savings. You can also try different savings plans, like putting $10 away the first two weeks of the month, and $15 away the next two. You’ll end up with $300 in 6 months, possibly more if you put it in a savings account.

3. Open a special credit card

Photo credit: alabamacu.com

If you’re going to be making large purchases soon, look into getting a card that provides extra airline points or hotel points. You can also look into credit cards who have high cash back at grocery stores, gas stations, and the like. You can use the rewards to pay for hotels, flights, and even restaurants. You can compare credit cards on Nerd Wallet to find which one will work best for your family.

4. Part Time Job

Photo credit: lyft.com

Ok, so this one may be a little tough to schedule, but definitely worth it if you’re saving for a big getaway. If you live in a big enough city, check out becoming a Lyft driver; you can set your hours and drive your own car. Also look into local grocery stores and clothing stores, as these places often have a fair amount of flexibility and some even offer benefits!

5. Sell your stuff

Photo credit: renters.apartments.com

You’re going to want to clean before going on vacation, so why not get a head start and sell your stuff while you’re at it? Exercise equipment, top label clothing, and even clothes in good condition can be sold online or brought to high end thrift shops to get make some quick cash. Don’t be afraid to sell on Craigslist, just be sure to have detailed conversations with the person and try to meet in public places.

6. Airbnb

Photo Credit: airbnb.com

Airbnb has become one of the most trusted house renting sites out there, thanks to background checks and insurance provided from the website. If you live in a popular tourist area, post your house on Airbnb to make some money while you’re away. Depending on the area and the size of the house, you can get anywhere from $70-150 a night. While you’re at it, use Airbnb instead of a hotel for wherever you’re going on vacation. You’ll often find rates that are very competitive with hotels and you also have access to a kitchen so you don’t have to go out to eat every night.

7. Reevaluating your expenses

Photo credit: moneymanagement.org

Are you actually using that $200 a month gym membership? Do you go out to eat almost every night of the week? When planning for your vacation, take a good look at your current expenses and see what you can cut. You’d be surprised how much extra you’re spending at each month at restaurants and the grocery store. Try to make a budget and stick to it, using your future vacation as your motivation to bring your lunch to work instead of going out to eat.

The post How to Afford Your Next Vacation appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

By Shandley McMurray

It’s no secret that the holidays are a stressful time. Scheduling parties, buying presents, cooking and cleaning for hours in preparation for a meal that will be eaten within minutes. Then there’s the driving. Combating snow squalled highways to visit aunts, grandmas and cousins. While it’s great to see family (most of the time), sometimes it can be overwhelming and exhausting.

Why not take a break from it all this year and create memories that will last a lifetime? Instead of spending money on gifts kids will most likely outgrow (physically or emotionally), agree to cut down on pressies and put the money towards a family trip. Involve the kids with choosing a location that’s within your budget and ask them for help in planning how to celebrate the holidays while you’re away. Maybe they’ll want to bring a small artificial Christmas tree or light a menorah on the beach. Whatever the plan, make it special and take time during your trip to sit back, relax and enjoy the luxury of being in one place during a very busy season.

Worried it won’t feel like the holidays? Don’t. Most hotels and resorts offer special holiday-themed dinners and activities to keep kids in the festive spirit and you in the backseat in terms of food preparation and clean-up. You could rent a villa in France or Spain (it’s cheaper at this time of year) or book a B&B in the English Cotswolds. A bit too far (and expensive) to stray? Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly vacation spots that are a bit closer to home:

Atlantis Paradise Island
Where: Nassau, Bahamas

What it offers: A 141-acre waterpark featuring a lazy river, slides through tanks filled with sharks and a children’s pool complete with water cannons. Kids can feed or swim with dolphins, take a tour through the Caribbean’s
largest marine displays with over 50,000 sea animals and forget all about you while having fun in the kids’ club. You, meanwhile, can dream about sugar plums while relaxing in the spa or play 18-holes on a par 72 championship golf course.

Photos courtesy of Shandley McMurray

Holiday festivities: For an additional fee ($400 per family), Santa will visit your room on December 22nd and 23rd to read his favorite holiday story, share a sweet treat and take photos.

Price: Rooms range in price from $593* per night in the Beach tower to $806 in The Royal Towers and include access to the waterpark. (*price for a family of four traveling from December 24th to 31st, 2014).

Great Wolf Lodge
Where: Niagara Falls, Canada

What it offers: Kids will be so busy here they’ll forget to miss Grandma. Between speeding along the 727 foot water roller coaster in the waterpark, playing games in the arcade and beating Dad at the bowling alley, there’s a
bevy of fun activities for kids to choose from. When they get tired, send your young fashionistas to the Scoops Spa, a pampering space just for them featuring ice-cream themed manis and pedis.

Holiday festivities: Watch a holiday show, meet Santa, sit through an indoor snowfall and get your boogie on at the Ugly Sweater Dance Party. Top it all off with a meal in a life-sized gingerbread house (reservations required and a fee of $20 to support Ronald McDonald’s House Charities).

Price: $460 CDN* for a family suite or $490 for a wolf den suite complete with in-suite cave. (*Based on a family of four staying from December 22nd to the 29th).

Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts
Where: Times Square, New York City

Photos: C NYC & Company/Photographer Name as noted by NYC & Company

What it offers: Who needs water parks when you have Times Square at your doorstep? Just steps away from the action, kids will get to feel the excitement of living in the heart of the city that never sleeps. The rooms are spacious by New York City standards and the beds are comfy.

Holiday festivities: While they don’t offer festive crafts or holiday shows, you’re in a prime location for booking the kids in to see the famous Rockettes in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or take them skating at Rockefeller Centre by the biggest Christmas tree they’ll ever see. A trip to FAO Schwartz will make you even more popular than Santa (almost).

                     Photographed by: Will Steacy                                               Photographed by: Joe Buglewicz

Price: From $377* per night for a 2 Double Bed, Sky View Room (*Based on a family of four staying from December 22nd to 29th).

Loews Coronado Resort
Where: San Diego, California

Photos courtesy of Loews Coronado Bay Resort 

What it offers: With three pools and direct access to the beach, what’s not to love? Plus, the hotel gives small welcome gifts to younger kids and offers a teen-only food bar. The kids will go bananas over the animals at the San Diego Zoo and they’ll love catching a glimpse of Shamu at the nearby SeaWorld. Want to ensure they love you forever? Spend a day at Legoland.

Holiday festivities: Tell Santa your wishes over a stack of pancakes at Breakfast with Santa on December 20th. ($9 per child and $19 per adult)

Price: From $239* per night for a partial bay view room. (*Based on a family of four staying from December 21st to 28th).

Vail Marriott Mountain Resort
Where: Vail, Colorado

Photos courtesy of: Jack Affleck, Vail Resorts

What it offers: Situated at the base of Vail Mountain, this gorgeous hotel boasts a spa for weary grownups and a pool for energetic kids. A winter wonderland, it’s a perfect place to spend a white Christmas. The hotel is a mere three-minute walk to the Eagle-Bahn gondola, which will take you up to some of the best skiing trails in the world. Another bonus: you can rent ski equipment at the hotel, which means less stuff to fit in your suitcases.

Holiday festivities: Decorate Christmas cookies, get creative in the snowman-making competition and have your photo taken with Santa. Then take the hotel’s complimentary bus into town to shop or attend a concert. When you’re feeling famished, chow down at the Christmas Day or New Year’s buffet (for an additional fee). On Christmas Eve, Santa makes a special pit stop to tuck little ones in for their long winter’s nap! (Just make sure to request it ahead of time.) The festivities are endless.

Photos courtesy of: Jack Affleck, Vail Resorts

Price: From $569 per night in a standard guest room with two double beds (*Based on four people staying from December 21st to 28th; lift tickets not included).

Two ultra luxury options if you’re up for breaking the bank:

The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort and Spa
Where: Silhouette Island, Seychelles

What it offers: As the only hotel on a small island, you’re guaranteed a quiet, relaxing stay. Spend your days snorkelling, swimming, visiting the turtle sanctuary or trekking through the rain forest. Build your own Christmas Sand castle while you soak up some much-needed vitamin D.

Holiday festivities: Christmas carol sing-alongs, a tree-lighting ceremony and a five-star Christmas dinner that you didn’t have to cook. These are just a few of the festive treats the staff at Hilton Labriz have in store for their guests. There’ll be live entertainment and special activities for the kids. On New Year’s Eve, guests can attend the gala dinner and follow it up with a delicious buffet the next morning.

Price: From $624 per night for the King Beach Front Villa (based on a family of four staying from December 19th to 26th, not including flights or meals).

Schloss Fuschl Resort and Spa
Where: On Lake Fuschl just outside of Salzburg, Austria

Photos courtesy of Shandley McMurray

What it offers: Set in the idyllic Salzkammergut region, this spectacular castle (featured in The Sound of Music) boasts truly breath taking views. Surrounded by mountains, meadows and forests, your stay at the Schloss Fuschl is sure to be both quiet and luxurious. Enjoy a rich hot chocolate while snuggling under furs on the porch or head out for a day of nearby skiing and tobogganing. Don’t miss a visit to the Berchtesgaden salt mine, a short drive away. Kids will be fascinated by touring the underground tunnels, walking across the German border underground. Salzburg is beautiful, especially during the holidays. Spend at least a day in town to wander through the festive markets, skate in the main square and enjoy fresh pretzels, chocolates and other delicacies.

 

Holiday festivities: Munch on roasted chestnuts, sip on homemade mulled wine and wander through the Christmas Market set up right outside the hotel’s castle. Complete with a blacksmith, woodworkers, musicians and a spectacular view, this market will make even the most Scrooge-like visitor feel jolly.

Price: From $581* per night for the Junior Suite, lake view. (*based on a family of four staying from January 2nd to 9th; flights not included )

Plan your trip
Christmas is one of the most expensive times to travel. That’s why it’s best to try to book your trip in advance. If time is a luxury you can’t afford, try a last-minute booking site such as lastminute.com or farm out the work to a reputable travel agent in your area. Travel agents are a great resource as most of them have been to the places you’re interested in visiting so they can give first-hand recommendations and tips. They can also speak with the hotel on your behalf to help deal with special requests, such as an additional bed, etc.

Some of our favorite online booking sites include: travelocity.com and expedia.com. They often have comparable deals and can be remarkably cheaper than booking through the hotel or airline directly. Once you’ve chosen the hotel you like, check out online reviews before you book. It’s an easy way to find out if your hotel’s often plagued by bed bugs, uncomfortable mattresses or bad customer service.

What to pack
Beyond the basics (socks and extra undies) make sure to pack presents, wrapping paper, scissors and tape. Sometimes customs officers will rip open wrapped packages during safety checks, so it’s easiest to leave them unwrapped when you travel. Hide them from the kids to make sure they’ve still got a surprise when the time comes to open them. You may also want to pack a few cheap decorations like a plastic menorah, fake tree and battery-operated lights to make your hotel room feel more festive. Don’t forget the stockings if you celebrate Christmas. A few holiday books and DVDS will help to keep the festive spirit alive during down times.

How to break the news
It’s never easy to tell the family you’d like a hall pass from their holiday celebrations. That’s why it’s important to break the news tactfully. Here are a few of our tips:

1. Tell them in person If you live far away, a FaceTime or Skype conversation is the best option. Texting or e mailing will seem too impersonal.

2. It’s us, not you Smooth any tensions or worries by letting your family know that you just want a year off to celebrate with your own little family. This doesn’t mean that you don’t like them or their traditions; you merely
want a year to yourselves.

3. Shop early Make sure to buy and wrap your family’s presents before you go. They don’t need to be expensive, but leaving behind a few tokens will help them remember that you’re thinking of them.

4. Chat on Christmas Don’t forget to call or video chat with your family on Christmas Day. They won’t feel so left out if they know you remembered them.

The post Escape holiday stress – Literally! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a great example of tourism and culture that thrive through community engagement. Tourism in the city is a wonderful trifecta of color, sight and sound! From folk art, conservation and botany, to farmer’s markets, trains and road trips, Santa Fe, New Mexico offers its community—and those who happen to become a part of its community through tourism—the satisfying slice of life known to those “in the know” as variety.

And with the world having recently celebrated World Tourism Day on September 27, 2014, the city of Santa Fe is definitely a place that should peak right at the top of your fall travel destinations. The city’s dedication to the preservation of culture and history, as well as what it offers to the public to reflect this preservation, speak to the educational impact which travel and tourism can and should have in our lives.

So what are you waiting for? Make a date to visit Santa Fe, New Mexico this fall! Rest assured that, in doing so, you will be aiding in teaching your children about the place of community and social responsibility in our lives and, most importantly, in our playtime.

The following list contains a few noteworthy activities that will not only make your stay in Santa Fe more memorable, but that will help both you and your children see the value and necessity of learning and community engagement in both work and play!

Museum of International Folk Art

The Museum of International Folk Art is a great place to begin a vacation filled with educational experiences through tourism! With exhibition galleries that invite your child’s participation through interactive activities, hands-on arts and crafts which are led by friendly and knowledgeable staff members, and a host of other exciting events, your family will find a full immersion into community engagement all while having loads of fun at this Santa Fe favorite!

Though the museum offers ample amounts of fun all year long, families with children should be sure to call ahead or visit the museum’s website for a full calendar of events that are targeted to younger audiences. You can peruse the museum’s guide online or pick one up right before the fun. For some exhibits, such as Wooden Menagerie exhibit, be sure to pick up an iPad Touch, which will allow the entire family to take part in the interactive learning experience while perusing the kid-friendly galleries.

Wooden Menagerie: Made in New Mexico, runs until February 15, 2015, and exhibits the wonderful history of animal wood carving in New Mexico, as well as its influence on other forms of art on both the national and international level. Not only will children be able to view an amazing display of local craftsmanship, but they’ll be able to take part in mask making as well!

• Museum of International Folk Art Homepage: http://www.internationalfolkart.org/
• For a full listing of current exhibits at the Museum of International Folk Art, be sure to visit: http://www.internationalfolkart.org/exhibitions/current.html

Santa Fe School of Cooking

Are you looking for an altogether unique and rewarding learning experience for your child? Something inspired and educational and … well … fun? Well then be sure to plan a visit to the Santa Fe School of Cooking, which has been hailed as one of the top places to visit while in Santa Fe! With its hands-on fun, the place is a wonderful blend of community engagement and inspired learning – education through tourism at its finest!

The Santa Fe School of Cooking allows for colorful and creative kitchen time for the entire family. Kids can work alongside parents in learning how to prepare and create local foods. Let your kids join in on the fun and make some of their favorite eats, such as tacos or even burritos! Classes are conducted throughout the week, and include varied menus which sample from Spanish, Native American, Mexican, and New Mexican food, to name but a few.

And for those families looking for a comprehensive culinary adventure? The school is also known for its entirely entertaining restaurant walking tours. Take a page from a bevy of other travelers who have raved about this experience on Trip Advisor and book your very own tour. Even Fodor’s has hailed the school’s restaurant tours as an unforgettable experience while in Santa Fe!

The tour begins at The Santa Fe School of Cooking, where you’ll be prepped on the festivities and offered a sampling of what the school itself has to offer. Meet and greet your fellow tour participants before heading out to sample the best of Santa Fe’s culinary scene.

• Santa Fe School of Cooking Homepage: http://santafeschoolofcooking.com/
• Schedule of cooking classes at the Santa Fe School of Cooking: http://santafeschoolofcooking.com/Cooking_Classes/index.html
• To read more about the restaurant walking tours, visit: http://santafeschoolofcooking.com/Restaurant_Tours/

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum offers a variety of events and programs that cater to both children and adults alike. The museum makes it a point to itemize its activities into sections that will help you decide what best to do with your family while visiting the museum. These sections include: Adult, Family, Youth, Special Events, and Art & Leadership. There is also a section for Teachers as well.

The free family art programs are particularly noteworthy. “Music and Math” will take place in October 2014, an exciting program led by faculty from the Santa Fe Institute.

Another interesting program for families this October, one that you should definitely check out if in town, will focus on the art of Miguel Covarrubias. The free program will actually explore the artist’s work not only through talking about the colorful characters in his art, but by creating dances inspired by the artwork! That’s right! With the help of a museum and dance educator, parents and children alike will be able to explore their own artistic vein through dance and appreciation in an engaging community of like-minded individuals.

• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum Homepage: http://www.okeeffemuseumevents.org/

El Rancho De Las Golondrinas

If your family has a penchant for live entertainment, prepare to be thoroughly amazed at El Rancho De Las Golondrinas—treat your family to an imaginative delight for the senses at this incredibly picturesque living history museum!

Located on 200 acres of rural farmland, this historic ranch, translated as “Ranch of the Swallows,” actually dates from the early 1700s. This blast from the past also includes original colonial buildings that still stand on the site to this day. Children and adults alike can watch in awe and amazement as villagers, dressed in period clothing, reenact early frontier life in New Mexico.

With programs, events and festivals that highlight the life and times of the Southwest during 18^th and 19^th century New Mexico, there’s plenty to be seen and done here. Music, dance and daily life are but a few of the items explored through this living history project that combines aspects from Mexican, Spanish and Territorial life of the period.

The ranch also offers summer camp and special classes, including the Horno baking class, where visitors can bake bread while learning about the traditional outdoor ovens brought to New Mexico by the Spanish.

• El Rancho De Las Golondrinas Homepage: http://golondrinas.org
• For a calendar of events at El Rancho De Las Golondrinas, visit: http://golondrinas.org/Calendar_of_Events/index.html

The post Tasteful Tourism in Santa Fe, New Mexico appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

So what might your family find along Delaware’s iconic coastline you ask? Why grand adventures with small-town charm, of course! That’s right. The gorgeous state of Delaware is a veritable beacon for history buffs, beach bums, family-friendly travel and tremendous amounts of fun.

Still not convinced? How about historic boardwalks and environmentally-sound beaches? Coastal train rides and watersports galore?

Don’t worry—you don’t have to choose just one amazing experience while getting your travel fix along the Northeast’s gorgeous stretch of coastline. Visiting Delaware’s shoreline will allow you to partake in the greatness that is choice, to bask in the sand and the sun, to eat like a foodie and explore our nation’s history all while visiting some of the best family-friendly beaches around!

So head to the Atlantic coast and kick off your shoes. Live in the sand for a spell; enjoy life like a local—Delaware’s iconic coastline will definitely have you covered from sunrise to sunset!

Strong Accolades for the Eclectic Coast

The Natural Resources Defense Council, called “One of the nation’s most powerful environmental groups” by The New York Times, has designated not one but two of Delaware’s beaches as the cleanest in the United States. This recognition has indeed placed both Dewey and Rehoboth Beach as two of the top rated beaches in the United States!

• Dewey Beach: https://www.beach-fun.com/dewey-beach-info.html
• Rehoboth Beach: https://www.beach-fun.com/rehoboth-beach-info.html

But wait … there’s more!

Bethany Beach, located north of Fenwick Island and next to the ever popular Rehoboth Beach, was ranked as one of the top 10 Best Beaches for Families by Family Vacation Critic in 2013. Add to this accolade the praise from Travel + Leisure Magazine, which named Bethany Beach not only a favorite family beach but, along with Fenwick Island, one of the “Best Secret Beaches on Earth” and you have a beauty of a beach that’s safe, fun, and family-oriented!

Visit the Bethany Beach Boardwalk for ample sightseeing and fine dining! The Bluecoast Seafood Grill is a great place to bring the family. Try the steamed shrimp dumplings for a starter. And for the main course, the spice seared tuna.

• Bluecoast Seafood Grill: http://www.bluecoastseafoodgrill.com/

The boardwalk is also home to community events, such as movies on the beach and the upcoming 36th Annual Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival on September 6th, 2014. The arts festival will include a number of activities for children, a Farmers’ Market, wine tasting and, of course, fine art.

• Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival: http://web.bethany-fenwick.org/events/36th-Bethany-Beach-Boardwalk-Arts-Festival-662/details

With restaurants, walking trails, a boardwalk and the interactive Bethany Beach Nature Center, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the charming town of Bethany Beach.

• Town of Bethany Beach: http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/
• Bethany Beach Nature Center: http://www.inlandbays.org/visit-us-bethany-beach-nature-center/

Diamonds in the Rough

Just south of Bethany Beach lies the equally unassuming Fenwick Island. But don’t be fooled by Fenwick’s unpretentious nature—this coastal treasure packs a punch!

Whether you happen to be tuckered out from paddle boarding, parasailing, wave runners or banana boat rides at Shark’s Cove Marina, or pontoon boats and kayaking from Coastal Kayak or DalMarVa Board Sport Adventures, or simply filled to the brim from all the fresh seafood at one of Fenwick Island’s outstanding seafood restaurants, such as Just Hooked or Catch 54, be sure to save some time for some downtime!

• Shark’s Cove Marina: http://www.sharkscovemarina.com/
• Coastal Kayak: http://coastalkayak.com/
• DalMarVa Board Sport Adventures: http://www.delmarvaboardsportadventures.com/
• Just Hooked Restaurant: http://justhookedfi.com/
• Catch 54: http://www.catch54.com/

You can unwind from it all with a comprehensive assortment of nearby lodgings! Both the Seaside Inn and the Fenwick Islander Motel offer fantastic lodgings only steps from the beach. There is even the possibility of vacation home rentals for larger events, such as family reunions.

• Seaside Inn: http://seasideinnfenwick.com/
• Fenwick Islander Motel: http://www.fenwickislander.com/

With mini-golf, go-carts, waterslides and lazy rivers at the always popular Viking Golf Amusements and Thunder Lagoon Water Park, the summer fun just doesn’t have to end! In the mood for a bit of fun on “dry land?”  Visit Fenwick Island State Park, complete with drive-on beaches, designated surfing and lifeguards.

• Viking Golf Amusements and Thunder Lagoon Water Park: http://www.vikinggolfamusements.com/
• Fenwick Island State Park: http://www.destateparks.com/park/fenwick-island/index.asp

With the insurmountable beauty of the Atlantic coastline, you’ll soon see why these two quiet destinations crouched between Rehoboth Beach and Ocean City, Maryland are truly worth a visit!

The post Discover the Charm of Delaware’s Iconic Coastline appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Did you know that the state of Pennsylvania, home to Gettysburg and the famous Liberty Bell and Hershey’s chocolate, is also home to a wonderful abundance of kid-friendly activities? It’s true! In fact, there are many cities in Pennsylvania that offer both attractions and lodgings where kids can indulge their curiosity with a bevy of hands-on fun!

So if you’re looking for a scenic road trip in the middle of the original thirteen colonies, or a getaway to occupy the idle hands of your inquisitive children, a place where hands-on fun is not only allowed but encouraged, be sure to tack on the following two destinations to your travel itinerary while on vacation in the great state of Pennsylvania!

A Colorful, Out-of-the-Box Experience!

Are you ready for an educational experience that is sure to captivate both children and adults alike? Well then head to the birthplace of Crayola crayons in the beautiful city of Easton. Located in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, Easton is an hour or so away from both Philadelphia and New York City.

What’s more, Easton has the distinct pleasure of being home to the one-of-a-kind Crayola Factory, a hands-on museum showcasing the magic of Crayola crayons through art, technology and a plethora of hands-on creativity. With 21 separate attractions to engage with, guests can choose from making their own crayon with a personal label, interacting with a digital projection screen where the colorful animations created can actually come to life, building a custom marker, and even learning about Crayola crayons from the resident Crayonologist!

Redesigned in 2013 to ensure more thrills and more fun, the new Crayola Experience is sure to be the highlight of your family’s trip to Pennsylvania! And don’t worry: if your family’s not able to make it to family-friendly Pennsylvania, or if you simply want to experience the magic of Crayola crayons in a completely different setting, doors will soon be opening on an Orlando, Florida location as well!

The Crayola Experience: http://www.crayolaexperience.com/

Birds and Bats and Monsters, Oh My!

Want more educational fun for the family? You’ve got it, then! Visit SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment’s loveable Sesame Place, located in Langhorne, and prepare to be simply amazed!

Sesame Place offers families an assortment of friendly entertainment, from shows, parades, water fun, and a host of other hands-on attractions. See Elmo the Musical or join in on a Neighborhood Street Parade. Get soaked on Bert & Ernie’s Slip & Slide and then laugh until your sides split on Big Bird’s Rambling River.

But that’s not all! With Cookie’s Monster Land now open, kids can also delve into the furry fun that the Cookie Monster has in store for them with exciting rides, a net-climb and a soft-play area for younger children. And to preserve your child’s memories at Cookie’s Monster Land, be sure to visit the interactive photo location before leaving!

Don’t want the fun to end so soon? Then book an overnight package and let the fun spill over to another memorable day: http://sesameplace.com/en/langhorne/stay/

With packages such as the “Play More, Wait Less,” “Build Your Own Package” and the limited-time only “Buy 2 Nights Get 1 Night Free” package, there’s sure to be an overnight package that fits the bill for your family. Keep in mind that to take advantage of the “Buy 2 Nights Get 1 Night Free” package, it must be booked by 9/1/14, while your family’s arrival date must be 10/26/14 or earlier.

With seasonal events and a calendar of back-to-back fun, be sure to visit Sesame Place’s website for its full-range of activities!

Sesame Place: http://sesameplace.com/langhorne/

The post Pennsylvania: Two Friendly Attractions for Hands-On Family Fun! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

This summer, be sure to satisfy your family’s need for wet and wild fun in a truly adventurous way! Try visiting some of the best waterparks around and see for yourself if they’re worthy of boasting the “longest pool” or “tallest slide.”  Want a real thrill? Check out Ohio, the birthplace of Steven Spielberg, the Wright Brothers, Paul Newman, and Clark Gable, and which also happens to have a rather long list of some of the best waterparks in the U.S.

So grab some sunblock, a towel and an appetite for adventure—Ohio is calling your name!

The following list offers a few indoor and outdoor waterparks that have been deemed both kid- and family-friendly, as well as offering additional amenities other than the traditional staple of waterslides and pools. Dig in and get wet!

Coney Island, an outdoor waterpark located in Cincinnati, is one of the most affordable waterparks in Ohio! Discounted ticket prices for children under 48”. Do you want to visit North America’s largest flat-surfaced recirculating pool? How about the world’s largest? Well you can visit them both in one place: Coney Island’s Sunlite Pool! In addition to the 20 feet wide, 401 feet long pool, there are also four exciting waterslides, as well as a cabana area for eating and drinking. If getting soaked isn’t your scene, stay dry with bumper cars and mini golf! Passes are available now!

For more information, visit http://coneyislandpark.com/sunlite_pool.php. (513) 232-8230.

The Beach Waterpark, situated in Mason, is one of the largest waterparks in North America, at 1,524,600 sq. feet. Part of Adventure Landing Park properties, you can be sure that you are in good hands with this entertainment company whose core mission involves “providing affordable family entertainment.” Offering over 40 slides, a beach, interactive play areas and a wide array of other family-fun activities, The Beach Waterpark even has a heated wave pool and a 600-gallon dumping bucket! Be sure to check out Big Creek Beach for surf and sand, as well as a host of other new and exciting areas built just for kids! On Tuesday nights, be sure to visit Club Splash, a cool night club for teens!

For more information, visit http://www.thebeachwaterpark.com/public/about_us/index.cfm. (513) 398-SWIM.  

Castaway Bay Indoor Resort – Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, is one of the newest parks, having just opened its doors in January of 2014. This five-story structure with a Caribbean theme will take your breath away with its beauty and bevy of attractions. The Toddler’s Tide Pool, Lookout Lagoon Family Funhouse, tube slides and wave pool will all ensure that there is indeed some watery fun for every member of the family at this premier waterpark. Be sure to visit the arcade as well. Packages available for Cedar Point’s Castaway Bay resort guests. Day and evening passes available at the front desk or online.

For more information, visit http://www.castawaybay.com/public/explore/waterpark/index.cfm. For reservations, call (419) 627-2106. For general information, call (419) 627-2500.

Coco Key Water Resort, an indoor waterpark in Newark, is located just steps away from the beautiful grounds of the Cherry Valley Lodge! Discounts and hotel packages are available for guests. All 50,000 sq. ft. of this central Ohio destination screams fun, fun, fun with activities for younger children, children under 48” and older kids alike! Explore water slides, water cannons, whirlpools, the fast-paced Coconut Grove Adventure River, and the interactive Coral Reef Cavern. Be sure to also check out the Key Quest Arcade and the Callaloo Grille, serving up pizza, snacks, ice cream and burgers!

For more information or to make a reservation, visit http://www.cherryvalleylodge.com/coco-key-en.html. (740) 788-1200 or toll free at (800) 788-8008.

The post The Best Waterparks in Ohio! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The fun and frenzy of classroom field trips is something that practically every child looks forward to. But does the fun have to stop once the school year ends? Why not aid in your child’s education by ensuring that outdoor activities, such as your annual summer vacation, mimic the experience of a field trip by going on your own educational, hands-on vacation.

One such place to ensure maximum fun while engaging in learning is the majestic state of Montana!

Montana happens to be a great state for extending the lesson/activity methodology of the classroom setting. Montana simply has it all, boasting national parks, museums, family-friendly hotels, breathtaking scenery, family-friendly activities, and much more.

Additionally, vacationing in Montana means that your child can take part in fun-filled activities that focus on the historic Lewis and Clark expedition that took place from 1804-1806! In other words, your child can actually be immersed in the beauty of nature as well as unrivaled fun all while learning about a fascinating part of American history.

Be sure to start your adventure at the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, which is located (about halfway up) on the 4,000 mile long Lewis and Clark Expedition Route. The center boasts the prestige of being the largest museum dedicated to every facet of the famous expedition, providing an indispensable menu of year-round activities and exhibits.

For example, in addition to the sheer wealth of information housed at the center, you can take part in the living history area along the Missouri River, known as the River Camp, and take part in demonstrations which highlight daily life on the expedition, as well as the influence and interaction with native cultures along the route! There are also live programs, films and hands-on activities. For additional information, visit: www.fs.fed.us/r1/lewisclark/lcic.htm, (406) 727-8733.

Near Billings, Montana, Pompey’s Pillar National Monument (www.pompeyspillar.org or (406) 875-2233) will leave your family in awe. The 200-foot sandstone outcropping is home to the only “graffiti” left on the expedition route. That’s right: on the return trip, Clark actually carved his name on the rock! In addition, be sure to plan your visit during the last weekend in July if possible, as area historians host Captain William Clark Days every year at the site. The fun event includes campfire stories, demonstrations, canoe trips, nature hikes, and stargazing!

The school environment will be sure to continue as you visit Montana State University and the spectacular Museum of the Rockies (www.montana.edu/wwwmor)! The museum allows kids to interact with the exhibits in a user-friendly way by highlighting designated areas with yellow “KidSpace” signs.

Want more fun while traversing “The Big Sky State?” Be sure to check out these additional sites when planning your Montana itinerary this summer:

• Lewis & Clark Dugout Days Camps: www.fs.fed.us/r1/lewisclark/lcic
• USA National Park Service: www.nps.gov/lecl
• National Council of the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial: www.lewisandclark200.org
• Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation (Montana): www.lewisandclark.org
• The Dillon Visitor Center: http://lewisandclark.state.mt.us

As far as lodging is concerned, the possibilities are virtually endless, and depend on your family’s needs and the type of vacation you’re looking for! You can choose from dude ranches, hotels, motels, camping inside national parks, RV camping, and many other options!

The following list has a few fun and noteworthy lodgings to consider for your stay:

• Holiday Inn Grand Montana, Billings, MT: http://www.higrandmt.com/
• The Lodge, Big Sky, MT: http://www.lodgeatbigsky.com/
• The Dude Ranchers’ Association: http://www.duderanch.org/montana-dude-ranch
• Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp Resorts, Missoula, MT: http://www.campjellystone.com/campgrounds/montana-campgrounds/
• U.S. Farm Stay Association: http://www.farmstayus.com/search#state=26

The post Education Outside of Your Child’s Classroom in Scenic Montana! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

What comes to mind when you think of South Dakota? If you said fun in the sun and a plethora of educational adventures for the entire family, you’d be right on the money! South Dakota is one state that doesn’t disappoint: from the famous Mount Rushmore to the Badlands National Park, this beautiful northern state boasts a host of adventures and experiences for a lifetime for those families that are so inclined.

Here is a short list of some of South Dakota’s greatest treasures. Be sure that your family’s itinerary includes some of these remarkable – and historical – gems!

1.  Mount Rushmore

We’ve seen the four great faces of past American presidents both in our history books and on TV before. But why not visit the historical site and give your kids something to tell their friends and teachers once the school year begins again? That’s right: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (http://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm) is waiting for your family to step up and make its own history by visiting this must-see icon of American history. Located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, this testament to American ingenuity took over 14 years to complete! Your child will definitely have stories to tell as Lincoln, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Washington inspire the American spirit upon those who grace the smooth granite hills! Activities for kids abound with junior ranger programs and dynamite simulations.

2.  Deadwood

A popular HBO series a few years back, Deadwood (http://www.deadwood.org) is most known for its Wild West days, with Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane of notable fame. Both infamous characters are buried in town (Mount Moriah Cemetery) and add colorful tales to the town’s history. Though other frontier towns of the Wild West might have died out, Deadwood has survived well into the present and has become a very lucrative tourist destination. Kids can relive the Old West days and mine for gold or talk with the costumed townsfolk while visiting the city. Also popular is the spectacular experience of a real-life rodeo!

3.  Ingalls Homestead

In case you weren’t aware, the popular literature series, Little House on the Prairie, took place in South Dakota! It was the very same love of living on the prairies of South Dakota that inspired Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the popular book series, to write about both the joys and challenges of growing up in De Smet, South Dakota. If you happen to visit the homestead while on vacation, your family can experience a bit of what it would have been like to live like Laura Ingalls Wilder! You can actually take a ride in a covered wagon on the prairie, as well as take a class in the very same 1880s Little Prairie School (http://www.ingallshomestead.com/).

4.  Custer State Park

The second-largest state park in the U.S., your family can still see herds of buffalo roaming free while visiting Custer State Park! Be sure to take part in the annual autumn buffalo roundup. Your family can watch cowboys round up herds of buffalo right in front of your very eyes! Also, there are scenic drives where buffalo and burro roam free. The outdoor chuck wagon supper will have your kids feeling like they’re truly back in the Old West, while active families can fish, hike, go horseback riding or take thrilling jeep tours (http://gfp.sd.gov/state-parks/directory/custer/)!

5.  Sight-seeing via Train

Climb aboard a vintage 19th-century steam train, known as the 1880 train, where your family will be immersed in the beauty and majesty of the Black Hills. The popular sight-seeing trip includes visits to the Holy Terror Mine, Old Baldy Mountain, the Indian Cliffs, and Harney Peak. There is even a trip dedicated to smaller children: “Day out with Thomas” will take you on a 25-minute trip that is led by Thomas the Tank Engine (http://www.1880train.com/)!

The post Five Family-Fun Adventures in South Dakota appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Maybe all you can manage this spring break is a long weekend.  Here are some city getaways that are guaranteed to please, even if you have just a few days.  For more Spring Getaway ideas, check out Taking the Kid’s Super Spring Break section!   

FORT WORTH, TX brings Cowboy lore to life with weekly cattle roundups, Stockyard tours and Western art museums., BuffaloBill’s Wild West Show at Cowtown Coliseum and  even the Fort Worth Herd’s free Cow Camp  See what we said about our visit here.  

WASHINGTON, DC  where The National Cherry Blossom Festival starts and lasts until April 13 and even includes a special Blossom Kite Festival.  There are plenty of  freebies (or nearly free)  like  seeing  the stars in Rock Creek Park at the only planetarium operated by the National Park Service, touring the National Mall and the Smithsonian’s many museums.  My Kids Guide to Washington DC can help the kids lead the way.  

MONTREAL is a great place to give the kids a bonafide foreign experience without crossing the ocean. They can practice their French, eat crepes, hit a museum including Montreal’s Space for Life, Canada’s largest natural science museum with a botanical garden, insectarium, and new Planetarium. Everyone loves Mount Royal-right in the middle of the city and the Sun Life Olympic Park Esplanade which has been certified a “Children friendly Institution by local parents.  Skateboarders especially like the Big “O” a concrete tunnel built for the 1976 summer Olympics that now is considered a top place in the world for skateboarders.  

SAN FRANCISCO with its cable cars that kids liken to a “roller coaster on the street “, honking sea lions at Pier 39, the biggest Chinatown outside of Asia,  California Academy of Sciences with its “living” roof and new Exploratorium on the waterfront that may be one of the coolest science museums anywhere. Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge or encourage the kids to try some new dishes in this foodie mecca.

BOSTON Here’s your chance to see a baseball game in the oldest major league stadium still in use-historic Fenway Park, if you can get tickets to see the Champion Red Sox play.  We love Boston because it’s so easy to time travel back to the 18th century on the Freedom Trail and back to the 21st at guaranteed -to-please hands-on museums like the New England Aquarium, the Children’s Museum of Boston, the  Boston Museum of Science  and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts with its many family art workshops. 

Let the kids lead the way!   

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