Archive for the ‘Family Travels’ Category

How to Make Sure That Your Family and Kids Get Through Airport Security

Monday, May 5th, 2008

How to Make Sure That You and Your Kids Get Through Airport Security

How to Make Sure That You, Your Family, and Your Kids Get Through Airport Security

Airport security is at a heightened level these days. Ever since the attacks of September 11th, airports throughout the world have been doing their part to ensure safe travel for all who take to the friendly skies to get to their destinations. With the increased security at these airports, there are new rules and regulations in place as well. The following will provide some tips to help you and your kids get through airport security in an easier manner.

Consult the Airport Safety Regulations Before Traveling

Consult the Airport Safety Regulations Before Traveling

Before traveling by air it is a good idea to consult the airport website if they have one. This will provide information with regard to airport security requirements at that particular airport in addition to federal TSA rules and regulations which you must be aware of as well. This way both you and your kids will be prepared as you step up to the front of the security line.

Don’t Pack Liquids - Airport Security Won’t Let You Through

Don't Pack Liquids - Airport Security Won't Let You Through

There is also a relatively new requirement where liquids are forbidden in carry on items. Therefore, check your items and make sure that the liquids are packed in the checked luggage. If you have to bring some type of liquid in your carry on bags or purse make sure that it is in a Ziploc bag to prevent it from leaking.

What if I have a Baby or Toddler That Needs a Cup or a Bottle on the Plane?

I would say that you then bring an empty bottle or baby cup and then buy apple juice or milk on the plane. I would also bring powdered formula and then fill up with bottled water or tap water (if they are older than 6 months old). As soon as you get on the plane, explain to the flight attendant your situation and ask if you can buy water, milk,  or apple juice before the flight begins so that you can comfort your baby. I am sure that the last thing that the flight attendant will want is a crying baby on the plane and they will assist you.

Shoes Off and Ready to Go to Get Through Airport Security

Shoes Off and Ready to Go to Get Through Airport Security

Another way in which you and your kids can not only get through airport security but do so in a speedy fashion is to have your shoes off and ready to go when you are at the front of the security line. Just make sure that the shoes off requirement is still in effect at your airport. You will be able to tell simply by watching the people already at the front of the line.

Keep Your Kids Quiet and Attentive When Approaching the Front of the Airport Security Line

Keep Your Kids Quiet and Attentive When Approaching the Front of the Airport Security Line

It is also a good idea to try and have your kids standing as quietly as possible when you are approaching the front of the line. TSA agents do not like rowdy kids as they can often slow down the movement of the line. Try to pay attention to not only what your children are doing but also what is going on at the front of the line. Being quiet and attentive will help to move things along a bit and get you through airport security.

Identification and Airplane Tickets in Hand - Keep TSA Agents Happy

Identification and Airplane Tickets in Hand - Keep TSA Agents Happy

An additional way to ensure that you get through airport security is to have your tickets and identification in your hand as you approach security. You should also have your children’s tickets ready and waiting as well. This will make the TSA agent pleased as they don’t have to wait for you to fumble around for the necessary documentation.

Have Everything in the Conveyor Belt Boxes to Go Through the Metal Detectors

Have Everything in the Conveyor Belt Boxes to Go Through the Metal Detectorsu

You should also try to have everything in the boxes which go through the metal detectors. Having this done in an orderly fashion will help to ensure that the metal detector portion of the security area is undertaken in a quick manner.

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Top 10 Most Dangerous Places That You Should Never Travel to with Kids

Thursday, May 1st, 2008

Top 10 Places That You Should Never Visit With Your Kids - Most Dangerous Places to Travel with Children in the World



Top 10 Most Dangerous Places That You Should Never Travel to with Your Kids

Although it is hard to limit the places which you should never visit with kids to 10 locations, there are 10 spots which should currently be avoided at all costs, especially when traveling with children. These locations are just a few of the various destinations cited by the State Department of the United States as being places to steer clear of.

Iraq

Perhaps the number one destination to avoid traveling to with children is Iraq. Due to the past years of war and violence throughout this country, it is a wise idea to stay out of Iraq altogether as the country is still unstable.

Afghanistan

This country is also plagued with violence due to the incidents throughout the past five to ten years. Troops still have a firm place within the country and it is advisable to not travel there at all, especially if you are traveling with kids.

Iran

If you are an American citizen you may also find that travel to Iran should be avoided. There have been incidents of hostilities occurring to Americans within this region and recent issues between Iran and neighboring countries have caused need for worry. Therefore, traveling here with children is not advisable.

Haiti

Travel to and from Haiti is restricted in nature. However, those who are able to visit the country should avoid doing so if with children. In 2007, there were 29 kidnappings of Americans and 13 in 2008 as of the month of April. Therefore, traveling here with children should not be undertaken.

Israel, the West Bank and Gaza

Since the early 2000’s, the West Bank and Gaza Strip areas have been in turmoil. Israel itself proves to be dangerous to those who visit the region. Therefore, you should choose not to visit this area when you have children with you.

Colombia

Colombia is another place you should not visit with your kids at the moment. This country sees its share of kidnappings, especially involving those individuals who are from outside of the country. The State Department of the United States warns individuals of the dangers with regard to visiting Colombia.

Various Regions throughout Africa

Africa is a continent which sees its share of political and social unrest. Civil war rages in various nations throughout Africa. Some of the locales to avoid when traveling with children include the Congo, Algeria, Chad, Eritrea, Central African Republic, Kenya, Sudan, Cote D’ Ivoire, Somalia and Nigeria. These areas have seen war torn conditions and various locations are plagued with various disease-related issues. For the health and safety of the children, it is best to avoid areas known for unsafe conditions such as these.

Nepal

In the past few years, Nepal has seen increasingly dangerous conditions. Visitors to the area have experienced issues regarding violence against women, acts of terrorism and have been the victims of other violent crimes. Traveling here with children should be advised against.

Yemen

Yemen is another location to avoid when traveling with children. Terrorist acts have occurred here recently and the overall atmosphere of the area is one which is unsafe for tourists, especially those with children.

Syria

Syria has also been experiencing turmoil and visitors to this country have been known to be the victims of various criminal acts. In addition, terrorism acts have occurred which make the area unsafe for a good amount of visitors. Therefore, traveling to Syria with children may not be a wise thing to do.

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Ideas for Very Unique Family Vacations

Sunday, April 27th, 2008

Ideas for Very Unique Family Vacations



Ideas for Very Unique Family Vacations

When families start to ponder how they are going to spend their family vacation, some feel as if they want a unique family retreat this year and one which is different from all of the prior ones. There are many unique family vacations which will entertain and delight the entire family. Some are located in the surrounding areas whereas others may be in an entirely different country. The ones which follow are examples of family retreats which are unusual and unique.

Environmentally Friendly Vacations

Environmentally Friendly Vacations

For those who are environmentally conscious and wish to remain so on their vacation, there are environmentally friendly vacations to go on. One vacation resort which offers an environmental option for a vacation destination is the Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt in Austria. Although it may be costly for some, if a green destination is what you desire and luxury is a key component then this resort is sure to please. Another environmentally friendly vacation resort is the Tiamo Resorts in the Bahamas. At this resort families will enjoy solar power energy which allows them to enjoy comfort while being environmentally sound.

Family Vacation at a Working Farm

Vacation at a Working Farm

Another unique family vacation option is to visit and stay at a working farm. This is a way to not only have a great time with family members but also provide insight into how a farm truly operates. At these types of vacation destinations, families can help out with feeding the animals, cooking and working at various farm-related tasks. Some farm vacation destinations include the Weatherbury Farm in Avella, Pennsylvania, Berkson Farms in Enosburg Falls, Vermont and Apple Pond Farm in Callicoon Center, New York.

Teaching Family Vacations

Teaching Family Vacations

There are also family vacations which center around teaching family members a certain trade or skill while they enjoy their vacation. Skills such as cooking, music and art appreciation are just a few different types of teaching vacations which are available to families. The individuals will stay at the location and each day they will embark on a different aspect of the trade or skill all the while having a great time with each other. When you come home from your vacation not only can you say you had a wonderful time but you may have acquired a new trade or skill in the long run.

River Rafting Family Vacations

River Rafting Family Vacations

For the outdoor enthusiasts, a vacation centered around whitewater rafting might be the perfect getaway. There are various vacation offerings with this activity at the center thereof where family members can spend the day braving the water and the nights camping under the stars. For the adventuresome families, a whitewater river rafting vacation might be the perfect thing to enjoy. One river rafting company which offers family vacations is Western River Expeditions which has its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. This company offers many different river adventures in states such as Utah, Idaho and Colorado, to name just a few.

Bike Tour Family Vacations

Bike Tour Family Vacations

Another outdoor activity which will provide great times and good exercise is a bike tour vacation. Bike tour vacations come in a variety of forms and families can choose the one which best suits their tastes. The bike tours can be based on a beginner bike route or advanced one and the individuals may be able to stay in hotels at night or campgrounds, depending on the type of vacation that they choose.

Volunteer Family Vacations

Family Volunteer Vacations

For the families who like to help others while vacationing in a different location, volunteer vacations provide a good option. There are certain tour providers which prepare a vacation for the individuals where they volunteer during the course of their stay at their vacation destination. This way the family members can mix relaxation with helping others while away on their trip.

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Places to Travel When You Have Kids and Dogs - Family Vacations with Pets

Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008

Places to Travel When You Have Kids and Dogs - Family Vacations with Pets



Places to Travel When You Have Kids and Dogs - Family Vacations with Pets

Traveling with children and dogs can be challenging at times due to the availability of places which are both child-friendly and animal-friendly in nature. The good news is that more and more establishments are offering accommodations for people who have children and pets which makes planning your vacation a bit easier than it used to be in the past. The following will list some places where you can take your children and dogs where all will not only be allowed but welcomed as well.

Hotels and Motels Which Cater to Children and Pets

Hotels and Motels Which Cater to Children and Pets

Certain lodging establishments will advertise their accommodations in relation to being child-friendly and pet-friendly. These types of motels and hotels will often provide free lodging and even food for kids as well as allow pets in their establishments. With regard to taking your dog with you on vacation, the lodging establishment may require a pet deposit but having the option of bringing your furry family member along is well worth the deposit money.

Campgrounds Are Great for Kids and Dogs

Campgrounds Are Great for Kids and Dogs

If you and your family like to camp, campgrounds are the perfect spot for kids and animals. Although not all campgrounds will be pet-friendly, many of them are which is a great option for vacations when it comes to bringing along the kids and the dogs. This way the dogs have room to run and play which will not be disturbing to other guests and one will not have to worry about keeping their dog restricted to a hotel room.

Beach Resorts Where Pets and Kids Are Welcomed

Beach Resorts Where Pets and Kids Are Welcomed

When it comes to beach vacations, kids are always welcome at beach resorts however dogs may not be as much so. With that said, there are beach resorts where bringing your dog along is a fine thing to do. Check not only with the place that you will be staying to see if dogs are allowed but also determine if dogs are allowed on the beach. There are certain beach resorts where dogs are allowed to go onto the beach and they too can enjoy the sand and surf along with the entire family.

Mountain Retreats Where Kids and Dogs Can Roam Around Happily

Mountain Retreats Where Kids and Dogs Can Roam Around Happily

No matter which mountain range you decide to vacation around, mountain retreats are great places for kids and dogs. Everyone can spend time outside in the fresh air and families can take their dogs with them if they are outside. In addition, certain lodging facilities in mountain areas, such as motels or private home rentals, will allow dogs which is a great way for the whole family to get away on vacation.

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Good Aquariums for Families with Young Children

Thursday, April 17th, 2008

Good Aquariums for Families with Young Children



Family Travel Ideas - Great Aquariums to Take Your Young Children and Toddlers - These Aquariums Make a Great Family Vacation

Good Aquariums for Families with Young Children

When searching for a nice family friendly activity, there are quite a few options to consider. One wonderful activity for families to take part in is visiting an aquarium. This is an especially good choice for families with young children. The following will list some of the more popular choices of aquariums for those individuals who have small children.



Sea World

Good Aquariums for Families with Young Children



Known as the aquarium of all aquariums, Sea World is a great place to visit, especially for those families with small children. This aquarium is in a few different states including Florida, Texas and California. From dolphins to whales and every aquatic animal in between young children will absolutely love all that Sea World has to offer. Since this is such a well-known and longstanding aquarium, it is no wonder that families with children keep coming back for more.



New England Aquarium

Good Aquariums for Families with Young Children

The New England Aquarium in Boston, Massachusetts is another great aquarium for small children. This aquarium has a section called the Curious George Discovery Corner which is suited for younger visitors. Within this section kids can look at toys, videos and take part in hands-on demonstrations. In addition to this area, children of all ages will love the penguins, harbor seals and the multitude of fish which swim through the areas of the New England Aquarium.



National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD

New England Aquarium - Family Friendly Aquariums

Another famous aquarium which is perfect for kids of all ages but especially the little ones is the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland. Two of the newer exhibits at the aquarium which young children will especially love are Frogs! A Chorus of Colors and Play! The Dolphin Show. These shows bring children close to favored animals like frogs and dolphins and provide educational fun. In addition, the normal exhibits of a vast array of fish and water mammals are perfect to delight the little ones.



Monterey Bay Aquarium on the West Coast

National Aquarium in Baltimore Maryland for Good Aquariums for Families with Young Kids

For those who are on the West Coast the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must see for families with young children. The kids will really love the Splash Zone exhibit which features a wide array of fish and animals ranging anywhere from sea anemone to penguins. The daily sea otter program will also provide so much fun and entertainment for kids big and small.



Texas State Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium on the West Coast is a good aquarium for young kids and toddlers

In the South one of the larger aquariums is the Texas State Aquarium. Perfect for families of any size and children of all ages, the Texas State Aquarium has fun exhibits for the young kids including Dolphin Bay, Otter Creek and Living Shores. In the Living Shores exhibit the young ones can interact with sea creatures in the touch pools and have interactive fun on the computers.



Shedd Aquarium

Texas State Aquarium Great Aquariums for families with young children

The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago provides a great day for young children. This aquarium has all of the usual exhibits seen at other aquariums such as dolphins and sharks but also has a really neat lizard exhibit. The little ones will love seeing the lizards climb around and learning all about their habitat.







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Top Educational Family Trips in the US by Region

Monday, April 14th, 2008

Top Educational Family Trips in the US by Region



Top Educational Family Trips by Region

When families plan vacations perhaps the number one goal is to make them fun in nature. A close runner up to the fun aspect is education since many parents would like their children to get something out of the vacation besides a good tan and fond memories. The following will list some of the top educational family trips by region.

Educational Trips to Northeast

Educational Trips in the Northeast

Known for its scenic areas and historical value, the New England region is a wealth of educational family trips as well. Boston, Massachusetts is a great place to visit for those families who want to learn about the American Revolution. The Battles of Lexington, Concord and Bunker Hill were important parts of the Revolution and there are many wonderful historic sites throughout the Boston area which families can tour and learn more about this historic event.

Touring lighthouses throughout the New England region is another educational trip for families to take. Throughout states such as Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut, a multitude of lighthouses are present and offer families some insight into coastal issues and marine life. For lighthouse lovers, a family trip based around lighthouse tours is a wonderful idea to consider.

Further south in the Northeast region of the United States lies New York City. This popular city is home to wonderful forms of entertainment and fun as well as a vast array of educational hot spots. Places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, Ellis Island, Museum of Modern Art and the Guggenheim Museum are just a few of the many educational tourist attractions which New York City offers its visitors.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania also offers a wide array of educational tourist spots for vacationing families to enjoy. This city is filled to the brim with education and enlightenment opportunities sure to please the whole family. Historic sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross’ House and a number of fabulous museums are all great spots to visit while staying in Philadelphia.

Educational Trips to South

Educational Trips in the South US Civil War Reenactments

The southern region of the United States also has so much to offer families who are searching for educational family vacation spots. Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia is a great vacation destination for those who are yearning for education as well as fun. View the various reenactments, tour the colonial town and see how things were in years past. This is a great history lesson for individuals of all ages.

Various locations throughout the South also provide insight into the Civil War. From South Carolina to Alabama and surrounding states, there are a number of famous Civil War battlefields which history buffs can visit. Planning a family vacation with Civil War battlefields as the focal point is an educational trip all around.

Educational Trips to Midwest

Educational Trips in the Midwest a lot o great museums for kids and family

For families who wish to travel to vacation destinations in cities throughout the Midwest region, there are so many great options which will provide the family members with educational fun. Most of the larger cities throughout the Midwest such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Milwaukee and Detroit will offer so many different cultural attractions such as art museums to hold one’s interest. In addition to art museums, families can visit the historical attractions located within each city such as those pertaining to how the city got started and various landmarks within city limits.

Educational Trips to West

Family educational trips to the west including native indian reservations

If you are planning a family trip to one of the states in the West, you too will have numerous options with regard to educational activities. Depending on the state which you are visiting you may be able to tour national parks, American Indian reservations and other historical landmarks. No matter what type of educational activity you desire, there is certain to be one to your liking in the western United States.

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Family Travel Ideas for Family Vacations to Nebraska with your Kids

Tuesday, April 1st, 2008
Ideas for Family Vacations in Nebraska with your Kids

Ideas for Family Vacations to Nebraska with your Kids

 

 

A summer vacation to Nebraska is filled with fun from A-Z (well, okay, it’s A-Y for the cities from Ashland to York). You might opt to spend your vacation in a small rural town, in one of the larger cities of Nebraska or traveling throughout the state. Whatever you choose, you’ll be able to find enough to keep you occupied if you start by considering some of the following travel spots and ideas for a Nebraska summer family vacation.

 

Ashland

Ashland is a small town in Nebraska and one that often gets overlooked by people who aren’t familiar with the state. But its friendly community, proximity to state parks and low-cost accommodations make it a great place for families seeking a summer getaway. Within Ashland itself, you can enjoy unique attractions like Willow Point Gallery where 30 stuffed big game animals are set against a backdrop of materials natural to the area. You can also go enjoy that nature yourself since Ashland is located next to three great state parks: Mahoney, Memphis and Platte River. Mahoney is one of the most popular summer getaways in Nebraska, offering lakeside camping and a recreation activity center.

 

Omaha and Lincoln

 

If your family wants to spend the summer in one of the more urban areas of Nebraska, then you should plan a trip to either Omaha or Lincoln. Better yet, check out both cities. Omaha is the largest city in the state and, of course, Lincoln is the capital so both offer plenty of activities. They each have large zoos, children’s museums, and family fun centers. Lincoln has more in the way of interesting museums (such as the National Museum of Roller Skating) but Omaha is located right off of the Platte River so it’s hard to pick which is the better spot for urban travelers.

 

Nebraska Road Trip

 

Why spend your family summer vacation in just one Nebraska city when you could take a tour of the entire state (or at least make your way through one or two of Nebraska’s major regions)? It’s possible to enjoy many different scenic drives throughout the state, many of which are filled with the potential to experience a bit of history during the drive. For example, take Highway 385 which is also known as The Gold Rush Byway and see the strange rock formations that makeup “The Courthouse and Jail Rocks”. On this same highway, you can check out the manmade semi-reconstruction of Stonehenge known as “Carhenge”. For more information on this byway and the other scenic routes throughout the state, visit the Nebraska travel website.

 

The Panhandle

 

Highway 385 runs through part of The Panhandle of Nebraska but it doesn’t cover all of it. If you’re taking a road trip in this area, or if you’re just looking for a general region of Nebraska to explore more thoroughly on your family summer vacation, then you should think about checking out what The Panhandle has to offer. In the city of Alliance, you’ll find such potential stops as Dobby’s Frontier Town historic area and The Sandhills Drive-in Movie Theatre. Other stops in The Panhandle may include historic sites associated with The Oregon Trail, outdoor fun at spots like the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area and modern fun at places like The Great Escape family fun center.

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Ideas for Family Vacations in Nevada with your Kids

Thursday, March 27th, 2008
Family Travel Ideas for Family Vacations to Nevada with your Kids

Ideas for Family Vacations in Nevada with your Kids


If you’re thinking about taking a summer family vacation in the state of Nevada, there’s a good chance that you’re planning to go to Vegas. It’s a good place for a trip, especially with those low-cost buffet meals that you can find if you look around. But it’s not the only city in Nevada and it’s not the only spot in the state offering summer vacation options for your family. Don’t be afraid to go to Vegas “ but don’t be afraid to think about going somewhere else in Nevada either!

Las Vegas

For awhile, Vegas was really beginning to be considered a family destination. Some of that has faded away and a lot of what the city has to offer is in the manner of adult fun, but there are still some great spots for families. Hotels that cater to kids (like Circus Circus), shows that are good for all ages (such as The Tournament of Kings), and nearby day trips that take you out of the city (like Hoover Dam) all make for great family fun. And Vegas is good for parents who might want to enjoy some fun away from the kids because it is a place with reputable babysitters or kids’ rooms available in many hotels and attractions areas. For more details information on what to do with your kids in Vegas, visit Las Vegas Kids, Kids in Vegas and The Vegas.com site’s page on kids.

Lake Tahoe

If Vegas is the big city destination for families on summer vacation in Nevada, then Lake Tahoe is the big natural destination. This awesome location offers every kind of lake activity that you can imagine, including camping and family-friendly lodging on the shore. You can go to the north shore or the south shore, or you can start at and take “The Most Beautiful Drive in America” to reach the other. In addition to activities on the lake, you can visit historical sites, do some shopping and enjoy some great food at the local restaurants.

Scenic Byways

The drive along the shore of Lake Tahoe may be beautiful, but it’s not the only scenic drive in the state of Nevada. If you do the RV thing with your family, or if you’re open to the idea of a road trip this summer, you’ll find that there are nine other scenic byways in Nevada that offer terrific views and interesting activities. See the Nevada travel website for more details about these trips.

Valley of Fire / Lake Mead

For a destination that is popular but may be less hectic than Vegas or Tahoe, think about heading to the area near Lake Mead. Valley of Fire State Park, located here, is great for picture-taking since its home to Nevada’s red sandstone formations. It’s also good for getting some Native American history in since there are petroglyphs here to take a look at. And it’s located right near Lake Mead so you’ll be able to ecape the heat with some water activities.

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Ideas for Family Vacations in New Hampshire with your Kids

Wednesday, March 26th, 2008
Family Travel Ideas for Vacations in New Hampshire with your Kids

Ideas for Family Vacations in New Hampshire with your Kids


If you go to the official web page for the state of New Hampshire, you’ll find that the first thing you see there is the slogan: “New Hampshire: You’ll Love It Here”. It may sound presumptuous, especially for such a little state. But after spending your summer family vacation in the state, you’re likely to find that you agree with the motto. If that’s not enough to convince you, maybe you’d like to know that under the link titled simply, “Why NH?”, their second reason given is “fun and affordable family vacations”. And if that’s still not reason enough to book your summer vacation to this New England destination, then take a look at these trip ideas for a visit to the state:

Hands-on Science

New Hampshire offers many indoor spots for exploring science with your kids. The SEE Science Center, the Mt. Washington Observatory’s Weather Discovery Center and the Christa McAuliffe Planetarium are some of the major science center spots that you could visit on a science tour throughout the small state. If you’re planning such a tour, you should also consider the state’s children’s museums as destinations which might have science stuff for your kids to enjoy. The Children’s Museum of Portsmouth is one of the choices in that category.

Get outside

Science centers offer great indoor fun but if you’re going to go all the way to New Hampshire, you should make sure to see the scenery of this absolutely gorgeous state. The summertime in New Hampshire is nice enough to make hiking, camping and other such outdoor activities more than pleasant. State parks that you might enjoy with your family include Coleman State Park, Deer Mountain Campground and Pawtuckaway State Park. See the New Hampshire State Parks website for more info on these and other spots. In addition to the state parks, you can visit waterfalls in the White Mountains or safely see wildlife at spots like the Silk Farm Audubon Center.

Ride the Rails

No, you’re not going to go so far as to jump on the backs of moving trains during your New Hampshire vacation, but you should definitely be sure to book yourself a seat on one of the scenic railroad routes that are located all throughout the state. Your choices include Conway Scenic Road, Hobo Railroad, Mt. Washington Cog Railway, White Mountain Central Railroad and Winnipesaukee Railroad. Your kids will love the chance to ride on a real train and you’ll get to sit back, relax and enjoy the New Hampshire scenery.

See the Strange

New Hampshire is beautiful and offers the chance for a family vacation that’s pleasant and fun. But perhaps your family is more Osbornes than Cleaver. Okay, so you’re not that strange, but you do have a penchant for seeking out oddities with your kids in order to make for memorable vacations. In New Hampshire, some such oddities might include The Storyland children’s theme park in the city of Glen, the rock profiles of George Washington (in Jackson) and “an Indian head” in Franconia Notch or the Mack Truck Museum in Hillsborough. For more ideas about oddities to see on a New Hampshire summer vacation, check out Roadside Attractions.

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Ideas for Family Vacations in New Jersey with your Kids

Wednesday, March 19th, 2008
Ideas for Family Vacations in New Jersey with your Kids

Ideas for Family Vacations in New Jersey with your Kids


Your kids might laugh and you might rapidly hear things about “Joisey” if you’re thinking about taking your summer family vacation to this state that many consider to be a suburb of New York City. However, after spending a few days laughing it up at the Jersey Shore or a week exploring the ins and outs of the rest of New Jersey, your kids may have a different take on the situation. And your summer vacation might have you thinking that this state deserves recognition all its own despite its proximity to the biggest of American cities.

The Jersey Shore

You really shouldn’t take a family vacation to New Jersey without spending at least a day at the Jersey Shore. Not only is it one of the most popular attractions in the state of New Jersey, but it offers all of the family that basically define summer for a kid: amusement park rides, beach activities, and boardwalk goodies. There are several different beaches along the Jersey Shore, such as Long Beach Island and Beach Haven. And if the basic beach and boardwalk fun of this area isn’t enough to make the family feel like they’ve had an exciting summer, a couple of days spent at the Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park and wildlife safari should do the trick.

Watch the Wildlife

The wildlife safari park at Great Adventures isn’t the only spot in the state for checking out some interesting wildlife. In fact, you might be surprised to know just how many opportunities there are to see exotic animals during a vacation in New Jersey. There are at least five zoos, an aquarium, a national wildlife refuge and a whale watching center all located within this small state. More details can be found here.

Day trip to NYC

Okay, so it’s cheating a little bit to think about going to New York City when you have the fun of New Jersey at your fingertips. But it’s an unforgettable place and a day there can supplement the rest of your New Jersey summer vacation. See the city; just don’t neglect the wonders of New Jersey in the process.

Trenton


Of course, New Jersey has cities of its own. The capital of Trenton clearly can’t compete with the glamour and activity of New York City but it shouldn’t be overlooked during a family summer vacation in the state. Check out the Grounds for Sculpture Art Park, a 22-acre activity-filled urban park. Enjoy water activities with the family on the Delaware River. Or go watch a baseball game at Mercer County Waterfront Park. Trenton is also a spot that gives you great access to several state parks so if you’re looking for a home base for your New Jersey vacation, it’s a good one to think about.

Jamesburg

Perhaps it’s not a city that you’re looking to spend the summer in but rather a small town. There are plenty of these throughout New Jersey that you can choose from but Jamesburg stands out because of its friendly air and historic quaintness. If you want a place where you can wind down and let the kids entertain themselves with nature walks, afternoons at the soda shops and reading books in corner parks, Jamesburg is a good place to begin.

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