Family vacations used to mean a camping trip or a Disney vacation but today that’s changed and people are looking for more extravagant vacations to take with their families. The cruise industry realized this pretty early on and began tailoring some of their events and even whole cruises to accommodate families with children.

The cruises geared towards families like to keep a nice balance between fun activities and events that are more educational. There are Disney character ships with ridiculously fun water slides and rock walls that break out of adventure to create an atmosphere of incredible excitement. But metered with the fun are activities that teach skills or cultural differences like computer programming, stargazing, ukulele classes and an introduction to hula dancing. And with all these activities meant to entertain the kids, it’s easy for the parents to slip away for some private time or to explore the boat by themselves. So why not gather the family together and pick a family cruise for your next vacation?

Passports

When planning a family cruise vacation one of the first things to consider is your passports. The rules about passports and travel are getting more stringent and its wise just to have a passport for everyone but they may not be required. Check with the cruise line of your choice as they will know if it is a closed loop cruise and if the ports of call require a passport or if they just want a birth certificate and photo ID. For more information on travel requirements the Department of Homeland Security’s website is full of useful tips for United States citizens and travelers.

Photo credit: Phil of Ottawa

Westerdam docked at Grand Turk

Picking Your Family Cruise

The next step, and the most fun step for most families, is educating yourself about all of the cruises available, which ones are geared toward families, and then what activities they offer. Some cruises are definitely targeting a younger crowd and if you have teenaged children this may seem boring and some cruises target an older crowd and younger ones may not have anything to do. Make sure you select a cruise that will best appeal to your children. When picking your cruise you want to consider more than just the cruise activities but also pay particular attention to the ports of call and what they have to offer.

Pick a Family Cruise Length

Cruises vary in time length and for some families three days on a cruise is more than enough time but for others taking an extended cruise is the perfect vacation. There are plusses and minuses to a cruise that have to be considered when taking a family cruise. The minus is that you are staying in a small cabin with your children and cramped spaces can often lead to arguments with children. Another minus is that there are a limited number of activities on a ship and they may not be as appealing as you anticipated. The bonuses are almost no thought needs to be given to meals and the prices are all included. There are activities that your child may not have normally experienced that will entertain and enlighten them. And the ports of call may provide enough added entertainment and educational experiences to make the trip packed full of memories that will last a lifetime.

Photo credit: flickrized

Game of shuffleboard

Budget for your Family Cruise

Cruises offer some budget helpers and then some options that can completely blow a budget. It’s important that you sit down and thoroughly review your cruise options before signing up. The cost of getting to the cruise and the cruise itself are obvious expenses but there are others that can add up quickly. Any scheduled events you sign up for at the ports of call will typically carry an additional price tag and many of them are pretty hefty. The meals on board are all included in your price but anything you may want to pick up at cruise shops are not and drinks typically are not included. Souvenirs at ports of call also aren’t included. And expect to have your picture taken regularly and then be asked to purchase that picture as a souvenir. Make sure you give yourself enough play room in your budget to explore the destinations and take home some mementos.

Sign Up in Advance

When you’ve selected the cruise you want then you need to narrow down the activities you and your family will participate in. Try to sign up for everything in advance if possible because space is often limited and sometimes there are discounts for committing in advance. Make sure you check schedules so nothing conflicts and if your activities occur at one of the destinations then you’ll need to take travel time into consideration as well.

Book your Family Cruise

Part of the research process should have included talking with a travel agent. Travel agencies that specialize in cruises have a wealth of information and they typically can get you the best prices available. Some cruise lines are working to change this and level the playing field, but even then the cruise specialists can probably get you a better rate than you could find on your own and they might be able to work in an upgrade for you as well. There may also be other benefits when you book with a cruise specific travel agency like gas cards to get you to the dock or discounted hotel rooms. This of course doesn’t mean you have to use a travel agency, many people prefer to handle travel plans on their own and you certainly can book your own family cruise without additional assistance.

Finally, make sure to sit back and enjoy your family cruise vacation. One of the great benefits of taking a family cruise is that everything is preplanned and almost everything is taken care of for you. A family cruise is a great way for families to spend time together, explore new destinations and activities and just unwind.
Photo credit: Rob Inh00d

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How to Plan a Family Cruise Vacation

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Despite its return to Chinese rule, Hong Kong is still a fantastic place for a vacation and if you are considering taking your kids with you, then there are heaps of possiblities for family fun here. It’s a great family destination because it’s exotic but pretty safe, and also has a few attractions which kids and kids-at-heart just won’t be able to pass up, including:

• Ocean Park is a sea-themed amusement park that has been operating for over thirty years and gets five million visitors a year – it must be good. As well as heaps of theme park rides and attractions, there are also various aquariums and opportunities to meet sea animals.
• On Hong Kong Island, check out the Hong Kong Park which includes a fantastic children’s playground spread over several levels, providing hours of entertainment.
• When you get hungry, having a Dim Sum style meal is great for kids, who love the idea of picking out different individual dishes from the trolleys that go past. With each dish being small and cheap, it doesn’t even matter if the kids pick something they end up not liking – someone else at the table can enjoy it.
• Taking a ride on the Peak Tram, a furnicular railway that looks cute and goes up the very steep Peak Hill and is a lot of fun for kids.
• Last but definitely not least, Hong Kong also has its own official Disneyland, which has some slightly Chinese elements but is otherwise similar to other Disneylands; it’s being expanded at the moment with new areas all ready to open by 2014.

Photo credit: Chi King

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Family Fun in Hong Kong

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Cancun obviously inspires images of romantic escapes but it’s also an incredible place to take your family for a vacation of a lifetime. Imagine the wonder the ancient ruins of the Mayan can inspire. The incredible delight your family will experience with an intimate dolphin encounter. The fun you can have playing and exploring Xcaret. The learning experiences a submarine or snorkeling adventure can instill. And the relaxing fun you and your family can have just spending a day on the beach taking in the sun, sand and surf. Cancun is actually a perfect vacation spot for an entire family as there are so many different options for activities and many of them have a built in educational component.

Water Fun

What better place to enjoy the water and water activities than an island, and Cancun is one of the best islands for visitors to explore? The beaches of Cancun are one of its biggest draws with powder soft white sand and miles of space. All of the beaches are public property and open to everyone but some are easier to access than others. If you’re looking for snorkeling fun then the area near the Westin Regina, on the southern tip of the hotel zone, is an excellent spot. Swimming is best done on the Caribbean side of the island. The opposite side, Nichupte Lagoon isn’t the best place to swim as there are crocodiles in the lagoon, although they’re not aggressive. But Nichupte Lagoon is a great place to try your hand at some other water activities such as jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, parasailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing. For those who prefer their aquatic adventures from a further distance there are a huge variety of boat trips that let you see the beautiful natural environment and the diversity of wildlife in this tourist paradise.

Crocodile Adventure

If the idea of encountering crocodiles sounds like family fun and excitement to you then maybe you’ll want to go on a Crocodile Adventure. Take a cruise through the wetlands of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere and keep your eyes peeled for wild giant crocodiles. Sian Ka’an is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean and is exciting and beautiful in its own right, but it’s the crocodiles that really make the experience one to remember. But remember this trip can be a little scary for some so keep your child’s age and personality in mind before embarking.

Jeep Tour

If you’d like to go on a do-it-yourself tour then Joe’s Jeep Adventure might be the solution for you and your family. Take a self drive jeep tour into the jungles of Cancun and onto a private jungle nature reserve, explore a Mayan Ruin and swim in an underground cavern, visit the petting zoo, explore a Mexican village, and enjoy a buffet lunch on the beach. If you want just a bit more thrill and excitement, try a zip line ride through the jungle for only $15 more.

Theme Parks

Cancun isn’t known for its theme parks but there are a few that are must see experiences that could make for an unforgettable weekend getaway. Xcaret is an ancient Mayan archaeological site that has been transformed into an eco park. Visitors to Xcaret can immerse themselves in the culture by taking a complete archaeological site tour or explore individual sections. Additional activities include temascal, sharks tour, snuba and snorkeling adventures, paradise river, dolphin experiences, natural pools, the beach, the lagoon, underground rivers, the sea trek and a variety of local flora and fauna to explore.

Another exciting adventure park in Cancun is Xel-Ha, another Mayan archaeological site, but this one is focused on the water with a natural aquarium lagoon with a shark fence around that is open for guests of the park. In the Xel-Ha inlet there are hundreds of native species and a turtle preserve which works to maintain local populations. At the park you can create experiences with the creatures of Cancun through snorkeling, scuba diving, and special dolphin excursions.

Another interesting park experience in Cancun is the Atlantis Submarine it’s a great opportunity for those who don’t scuba dive to take a look at the marvels under the sea. The submarine seats 48 people and each seat has a porthole for viewing. You will drop down to 100 feet and explore the Chankanaab reef closely. The tour is guided and completely safe so it’s perfect for all visitors to Cancun

Archeological Vacation

Cancun is full of archeological wonders and it’s the perfect vacation hotspot for tourists looking to go on an archeological tour. The list of sites is impressive and includes Coba, Tulum, El Rey, El Meco, Kohunlich, Kinichna, Dzibnache, Oxtankah, Chacchoben, Muyil, and more. Some of the more popular sites are Paseo Kukulkan which is a smaller site but features two main plazas with streets which has important implications. Chichen Itza is the most extensive complex of Mayan ruins and dates back to 600 AD, this is easily the most popular tourist attraction. Coba is one of the largest Mayan cities with the Nohoch Mul which is 138 feet tall. Tulum was the only walled city in close proximity to the ocean that the Mayans built. It was a later site, built between 1200 and 1500, and is a bit of a distance from Cancun proper. Xel-Ha is usually combined with a trip to Tulum and visitors to Xel-Ha can take in the archeological wonders from a different perspective as they snorkel in the natural inlet.

Dolphin Discovery

Dive into the water with dolphins and manatees for an experience that will create memories that last a lifetime. Your trip to Dolphin Discovery will begin with an educational lesson on the creatures you will soon be meeting. Then you get an up close and personal experience with these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. Staff will guide you through the experience and at the end you’ll receive a memorable token of affection, a kiss from a dolphin and one from a manatee.

Photo credit: Mom the Barbarian

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Cancun

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Miami isn’t known for catering to families, in fact it’s quite the opposite with its tops optional beaches, all night partying, club hopping culture and celebrity sprinkled streets. But there is another side to Miami and there are more than enough activities for family fun.

Jungle Island

Jungle Island began in 1936 as a pet project (literally) of Franz Scherr where he let birds fly free. He spent his own time, money and labor building a nature trail through coral rock, leaving much of the natural environment as it was. He only had a few birds so he ordered 25 Macaws and charged visitors a quarter to view the birds and the environment. Today Jungle Island is home to 1,100 tropical birds, 2,000 varieties of plants and flowers and a really incredible trained bird show.

Monkey Jungle

Monkey Jungle is similar to Jungle Island but the focus isn’t on birds, it’s on monkeys, in fact Franz Scherr consulted with Joseph DuMond to get tips before opening Jungle Island. Joseph DuMond was an animal behaviorist who released six monkeys into the wilds of Florida in 1933. Those monkeys thrived and grew and now there is a large group of them at Monkey Jungle. In fact there are nearly 400 primates that run free on the 30 acre preserve and this is one of the only protected habitats for endangered primates in the United States that the public can explore.

Everglades Alligator Farm

The Everglades Alligator Farm is actually a working farm which came about in 1985 when the State of Florid allowed commercial farming of alligators to protect the species from extinction. Currently there are about 2,000 alligators on the farm and visitors can see them at all stages of growth and life. There are also a large variety of other local animals and a large number of snakes. Make sure to time your visit so you can catch the alligator and snake shows.

Miami Seaquarium

The Miami Seaquarium is so much more than your typical aquarium experience because you can get up close and personal with the critters and see them perform some incredible feats. This 38 acre aquarium is a world class marine life entertainment park with eight different shows and daily presentations. Make your visit even more memorable by signing up to partake in a dolphin experience.

Miami Metrozoo

Miami does love its animals and the Miami Metrozoo is another testament to this fact. Back in 1948 the zoo got its start as a road show got stranded near Miami and three monkeys, one goat, and two black bears were bought and brought to Crandon Park Zoo. The collection grew and Crandon Park Zoo The Crandon Zoo was wiped out by a hurricane and enthusiasm to build a new zoo was established as was the Miami Metrozoo. Today the zoo stretches over 740 acres with more than 2,000 animals and 40 endangered species. There are also more than 1000 species of trees, plants and palms.

Everglades Safari Park

Everglades Safari Park is the way to view the everglades, from an airboat. The fleet of airboats feature a number of sizes so you can arrange for a private tour or join a group. No matter what type of trip you decide to take you get an experienced tour guide who not only knows information about the local flora and fauna, but knows the habits of the animals in the everglades and will give you the best opportunity to see these critters in the wild. In addition to the airboat rides the Safari Park features a Nature and Wildlife show and you can get a hands on experience with one of the alligators.

Grapeland Water Park/Black Beard’s Beach

Miami was late to the water park scene but with Grapeland Water Park or Black Beard’s Beach it’s finally joined the fray. The park is designed for kids of all ages with specific areas for children under five and a resort area for adults. In addition to the exciting water park attractions there is also a baseball complex, a community center, an art room and a computer room. The prices can’t be beat as its only $10 for non-residents over age 14 and there is definitely a day’s worth of fun and thrills for the family.

Historical Museum of Southern Florida

The Historical Museum of Southern Florida gives visitors and locals a deeper understanding of the history of south Florida and the Caribbean. Since 1979 this museum has been enlightening the public. There are both permanent exhibits, which cover more than 12,000 years of history, and temporary exhibits. There is also a research facility on the grounds and classrooms for educational programs. It’s a great place to learn more about the region’s past and its possible future.

Miami Children’s Museum

The Miami Children’s Museum gives younger children a hands on way to explore the world around them and to learn by actively participating in the exhibits. In addition to the exhibits at the museum there are also a number of programs that you and your children can get involved in to spark creative little minds and provide more fun learning experiences.

Miami Science Museum

The Miami Science Museum is a wonderful way for a family to spend a day in Miami. The museum houses the noted Space-Transit Planetarium, the Weintraub Observatory and a wildlife center. The museum began in 1949 but rapidly grew and expanded to include different exhibits and displays as well as establishing some outreach programs for the community.

Wings Over Miami Museum

The Wings Over Miami Museum was designed as attribute to veterans and aviators who were instrumental in civilian and military aviation. The collection includes both display planes and information inside the hangar and then additional craft that reside outside the hangar. There is also a Pacific Room with three different exhibits. Because the museum is housed on the Kendall-Tamiami Airport you’ll not only get to examine aviation’s past but see it in its present day operations.
Photo credit: Román Emin

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Miami

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San Francisco is definitely a city worthy of stealing your heart, it has a little bit of something for everyone and it’s a great place for a family to explore and share everyone’s interests.

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is best known as The Rock but this island actually has a history that goes beyond its years as a prison. Originally it was home to the first lighthouse and a U.S. fort. It was while the island was a military base that it first served as a prison for Civil War prisoners. Then it housed prisoners of the Spanish-American war. It was during the 1906 earthquake that civilian prisoners were transferred to Alcatraz and that was for their protection. The facility served its purpose so well that many noted inmates did time at Alcatraz. But as mentioned above the island is more than a prison. The Indians of All Tribes twice liberated the island in an effort to establish tribal rights in the United States and theirs is a fascinating story. There is also a slew of natural beauty on the island, some that can’t be found anywhere else.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is considered one of the most beautiful suspension bridges in the world. Spanning the opening of the San Francisco Bay onto the Pacific Ocean the 1.7 miles draws an estimated 9 million people annually and visitors can either drive, bike, or walk across the famed span. Construction began on the bridge in 1933 and was finished in 1937. Visitors to the bridge can drive, walk, bike or roller blade across the bridge and if the weather is clear, catch spectacular views of the city beyond. On an entirely different note, the Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular place to commit suicide in the United States and one of the most popular in the world. No accurate number of suicides is known as many of these events aren’t witnessed but in 2005 it was estimated that there was one suicide or attempt every two weeks.

Cable Car Barn

Think of San Francisco and images of cable cars winding up and down steep grades comes to mind. Learn more about San Francisco’s cable cars with a visit to the Cable Car Barn. The first cable car started in 1873 and rose in popularity until 1892 when the first electric streetcars started running. The earthquake of 1906 contributed to the downfall of the cable car and by 1944 only two lines existed. A few groups worked to restore and maintain the remaining lines and by 1984 several lines were running and restored. Now the cable cars serve mainly as a tourist experiences but some locals still use them in their regular commute. The Cable Car Barn lets you view an actual cable winding and watch the path as it enters the building and leaves underneath the street. The museum houses many great artifacts, including the first cable car from 1873.

Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco has three different environments for visitors to explore; Discovery the Bay, Under the Bay and Touch the Bay. In Discovery the Bay you and your family will learn about the ecosystem of San Francisco Bay and the live within that ecosystem. Under the Bay takes you deeper into the water and through two crystal clear tunnels surrounded by 700,000 gallons of bay water and more than 20,000 critters. Touch the Bay is one of the favorite stops in the aquarium, especially for children. The interactive exhibits let visitors actually touch land and marine animals in addition to being involved in hands-on experiments and activities.

San Francisco Whale Tours

One trip that every family should take at least once is a whale watching tour. In San Francisco the whale tour is a day cruise to the Farallon Islands where grey whales and humpback whales migrate. The Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary is a very unique ecosystem and has more to offer than just whales, but whales are the goal.

Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is a fascinating house and the attached ghost story is sure to give your kids a little thrill and chill. The home once belonged to Sarah Winchester whose husband was the famous gun maker William Wirt Winchester. Mrs. Winchester believed her home was haunted by ghosts of people killed with Winchester rifles so she insisted that construction builders work round the clock from 1884 until her death in 1922. The house is a mess of nonsensical rooms, hallways and staircases. It was seven stories high until the 1906 earthquake which destroyed a large portion of the house. The home was then rebuilt at only four stories high and today includes about 160 rooms, 40 bedrooms, two ballrooms, 47 fireplaces and 17 chimneys, two basements and three elevators. Tours are open to the public daily but if you’ve got older kids who really like a scare try to schedule your visit to coincide with a Halloween or Friday the 13^th flashlight tour.

Fort Point

Fort Point has what is perhaps the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge as it was originally positioned to protect the harbor from Confederate and foreign attack during and after the U.S. Civil War. But Fort Point’s history reaches back to the first Spanish settlement in San Francisco in 1776 when a mission and presidio was built and the area where Fort Point now stands was fortified for protection. As the San Francisco harbor has been safe for some time the importance of Fort Point has diminished. It is now most famous for its view which can be seen on numerous films and it’s also made an appearance in the wildly popular computer game Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas which should be popular with the kids.

This is just a handful of the exciting activities that a family can do together on a trip to the San Francisco region. Explore the many things this city has to offer.
photo credit: Maschinenraum

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in San Francisco

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If you’re taking a family vacation then San Francisco is definitely some place you should consider visiting. San Francisco is a unique city with a combination of family activities that ranges from haunted history to modern fun. Each family attraction you visit can be turned into a fun learning activity for the entire family.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge spans the area where the San Francisco Bay meets the Pacific Ocean. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was completed and is easily recognizable in many films and television programs. The bridge is open to autos and bicycles 24 hours a day, pedestrians are allowed on the bridge during daylight hours. Take the family across the bridge on foot to really get an idea of its immensity. City Guides also offer regular free tours of the bridge if you’d like a more in-depth experience. One side note you may not want to share with your family is that the Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular place to commit suicide in the United States and one of the most popular in the world. There is no exact number of suicides but the estimate is that there is an attempt made at least once every two weeks.

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is one of the most infamous prisons in the world but it also is noted for its 18 month occupation by Indians of All Tribes and it’s amazing natural beauty and bird colonies. Even though the history at Alcatraz Island is actually quite varied, it’s the prison history that has given it its most infamous nickname, The Rock. This small island originally housed a lighthouse and still remains host to this lighthouse, the oldest operating one on the west coast of the United States. Eventually its location proved to be a good one for defenses and became a military fort. The fort was officially converted into a prison in 1907 and became a federal prison in 1933. Tours of Alcatraz Island feature in depth information about the prison and its notorious inmates but it also introduces guests to the other aspects of the island including the American Indian occupation and the natural habitat.

Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is a fascinating house and the attached ghost story is sure to give your kids a little thrill and chill. The home once belonged to Sarah Winchester whose husband was the famous gun maker William Wirt Winchester. Mrs. Winchester believed her home was haunted by ghosts of people killed with Winchester rifles so she insisted that construction builders work round the clock from 1884 until her death in 1922. The house is a mess of nonsensical rooms, hallways and staircases. It was seven stories high until the 1906 earthquake which destroyed a large portion of the house. The home was then rebuilt at only four stories high and today includes about 160 rooms, 40 bedrooms, two ballrooms, 47 fireplaces and 17 chimneys, two basements and three elevators. Tours are open to the public daily but if you’ve got older kids who really like a scare try to schedule your visit to coincide with a Halloween or Friday the 13^th flashlight tour.

Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay is a 65,000 square foot facility with acrylic tunnels that wind through 700,000 gallons of Bay water. Visitors get to experience more than 20,000 aquatic animals including sharks, bat rays, skates, octopus, jelly fish and many more. The Aquarium of the Bay is organized into three different environments, Discover the Bay, Under the Bay and Touch the Bay. At Discover the Bay you are introduced to the environment and the marine life that is most prevalent in the region. Under the Bay takes you beneath the bay to a unique view of life above the tunnels. Touch the Bay is an interactive lab with local and exotic land animals.

Cable Car Museum

The Cable Car Museum chronicles this history of cable cars in San Francisco from its first run in 1873 to the present. Visitors can learn about the inventor, the technologies that made cable cars possible, the great rise in popularity and fall and what is being done now to keep them alive. After your visit through the Cable Car Museum there is nothing better than actually taking a cable car ride through the streets of San Francisco.

Haas-Lilienthal House

The Haas-Lilienthal House is a beautiful Queen Anne style Victorian home built in 1886 and it’s the only private home from that period open to the public. The home is furnished with authentic pieces and artifacts and tour guides are available to give you information on both the home and the furnishings. In addition you’ll learn more about the Haas-Lilienthal family who settled in the area in 1868 and amassed a fortune.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco and Pier 39 is probably its most popular destination but the wharf has a lot of exciting activities for the entire family including Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum, the Musee Mecanique, the Wax Museum at Fisherman’s Wharf, Forbes Island and a number of stores, restaurants and excitement for everyone. A streetcar runs through the area and two of the cable cars run close so you can combine this visit with another family attraction and make a big venture out of the trip. But no matter what you do, make sure you stop to have some fresh seafood at the wharf, it’s some of the best in the world because it’s so remarkably fresh.

Exploratorium

Perfect for the kids is the Exploratorium in San Francisco with its hundreds of hands-on exhibits designed to give insight into science and art. If you’d like to prepare your children for the visit the website has several activities that children can do and learn from online before their visit. The Exploratorium features several areas including: Seeing, Traits of Life – a Living Laboratory, Matter/World, Listen, and Mind. Plan on spending an entire day at the Exploratorium with your children or tailor your visit to coincide with their specific tastes and interests.

Photo credit: Schlüsselbein2007

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in San Francisco

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Cleveland may not be the first place you think of when you’re looking for a theme park, but maybe it should be. Although it doesn’t have the magic mouse the Cleveland area does have a variety of parks including a child’s park, a water park, and a park that holds more roller coasters than any other park in the world. Cleveland is full of exciting theme park adventures for the entire family and is sure to make everyone happy.

Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom Amusement Park

Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom Amusement Park outside Cleveland has a variety of adventure levels so the park has a little bit of everything for everyone, from sitting bit poolside in a cabana to wild adventures on a liquid roller coaster. This water park was actually originally founded in 1888 but was a more traditional theme park at that time. Throughout the years the park has passed through a large variety of hands, each creating their own version of the amusement park. But in 2007 the park would take a dramatic turn as the current owner, Cedar Fair, announced that they would close the park and would end its reign as a traditional amusement park and reopen it in 2008 as a water park. The amusement half of the park was closed entirely and the rides and other equipment were auctioned off. Although much smaller and more focused than it was in the past, Geauga Lake’s Wildwater Kingdom Amusement Park is still a very popular destination for local and visitors looking to escape the heat and enjoy the water.

Cedar Point

Cedar Point is a world renowned theme park and has been rated the number one amusement park on the planet. Cedar Point is also the second oldest amusement park in the United States having a history that stretches back to 1870. But the 1870’s Cedar Point was much different than it is today, it was a beer garden with bathhouse and dance floor that you could access by steamboat. Not until 1892 did there first appear a roller coaster, the Switchback Railway. Today the park rests on 365 acres along the Lake Erie shore and holds the world record for the most roller coasters, 17, in on park. It also is home to the world’s second tallest and second fastest roller coaster, the Top Thrill Dragster which reaches 420 feet into the air and hits speeds of 120 miles per hour. But the Top Thrill Dragster is hardly the only exciting ride in Cedar Point as there are four other coasters which reach up higher than 200 feet. The park caters to everyone who wants a little thrill and features many rides that appeal to families and smaller children, but the roller coasters are by far the most exciting and popular rides at Cedar Point.

Soak City

Located within Cedar Point is the Cedar Point Soak City, a water park which features a mile long sand beach on the shore of Lake Erie. This 18 acre park began as an indoor water park and has expanded to include a wide variety of rides from lazy rivers that can accommodate little ones to liquid roller coasters which will thrill you as much as get you soaking wet. In addition to regular water attractions and the kids’ zone Soak City features a Breakers Bay which is a wave action pool with lifeguards on duty, two inner tube rivers and one family inner tube ride, 10 different slides, an island bar for adults only, and private cabanas for families to congregate or others to lounge.

Memphis Kiddie Park

If you’re looking for a park near Cleveland that specifically caters to younger ones then the Memphis Kiddie Park is perfect for you. But please note that many of the rides require a height minimum of 50 inches. The Memphis Kiddie Park opened in 1952 and features 11 different amusement park rides specifically designed for children, an arcade, miniature golf, and a concession stand. It’s not a park for older kids and may not fill a day for little ones full of energy but it’s a great distraction.

Zoombezi Bay Water Park

Zoombezi Bay Water Park is a new addition to the Cleveland area water parks with 22.7 acres on what was previously known as Wyandot Lake. 15 new state of the art water slides, a wave pool, an action river, a lazy river, kiddie attractions and private cabanas make this formidable competition for the other water parks in the area.

Coney Island

Located in Cincinnati, Ohio Coney Island has held a fond place in the hearts of many since its inception in 1867 when an apple farmer purchased a 20 acre apple orchard and began renting the land for group picnics instead of farming. He added a dining hall, dance hall, bowling alley and a mule powered merry go round. The farm was sold in 1886 and was named Ohio Grove, the Coney Island of the West, hoping to bank on some of the popularity of the New York Coney Island. The focus was shifted to riverboat rides and that became an important staple of the park. In the 1900s several roller coasters joined the lineup of activities at Coney Island in Ohio and a local icon was born. Although it’s seen its share of ups and downs throughout the years, to the point where it was abandoned and left for dead at one point, the park is now alive and kicking and thrilling the pants off of young and old visitors alike.

Kings Island

Kings Island in Ohio is a little bit of everything with a 364 acre amusement and water park. There are more than 80 rides, large production shows, and other attractions that will give you something to do all day long. The park is packed with 15 roller coasters including the new Diamondback. Part of Kings Island is Boomerang Bay, the 15 acre water park with more than 50 different water attractions, 30 of which are slides. Admission to the water park is free with purchase of a ticket to Kings Island. The park has activities for all age groups and is quite proud of their award winning children’s area.

Photo credit: Andrew 94

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Theme Parks in Cleveland

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Boston provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience an incredibly wide variety of activities from historic landmarks, to culture and arts, to local sports teams, and local natural beauty. For families it’s a rare chance to combine fun activities with educational experiences that will bring history alive and leave a wonderful lasting impression.

The Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail in Boston is a 2.5 mile walking train which takes you past 16 historic sites which tell the story of the American Revolution and what has happened since. Since the trail is a self guided walk you’re free to start wherever you want, spend as much time as you’d like and end when the mood moves you. The historic stops along the way include: The Boston Common, The State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King’s Chapel, King’s Chapel Burying Ground, Benjamin Franklin Statue/Boston Latin School, Old Corner Book Store, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, The Old North Church, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.

Boston Public Garden

Public Garden in Boston was created in 1837 and was designed to feature garden art and Victorian notions of gardening with showing flowers in bright colors in meticulous beds. One of the more popular attractions in the Boston Public Garden are the Swan Boats, which are a wonderful way for a family to spend part of their day in Boston. The swan shaped boats are pedaled around by guides from the region, so you can pump them for information on insider family attractions while you’re enjoying the lake.

Boston Common

Another public park created by the city of Boston is Boston Common which was founded in 1634 and is one of the oldest city parks in the United States. Originally the area was not seen as a modern park but it served as an open cow pasture for many families. The park also was a camp for the British before the Revolutionary War and then as a location for public hangings. It’s also been a popular gathering place for speakers and protesters. In 1987 Boston Common became a National Historic Landmark and today it serves as a traditional modern park.

Fenway Park

Fenway Park has been the home ballpark for the Boston Red Sox since its inception in 1912 and is the oldest major league baseball stadium still in use. Throughout the years the park has undergone a number of additions and renovations and doesn’t even resemble the original stadium, but it is still located in the same exact spot and has some unique features that have stood the test of time. The park’s had its ups and down when it comes to attendance and in the 1965 season there were two games with less than 500 fans in attendance, but in 2009 the Red Sox and Fenway Park celebrated its 500^th consecutive sellout.

Museum of Science

The Boston Museum of Science was established in 1830 when a handful of people established the Boston Society of Natural History and began collecting and studying natural history specimens. But it wasn’t until 1864 that the group got a permanent facility. Throughout the years the museum has grown and expanded and now contains more than 500 interactive exhibits, features live presentations every day, there is a Planetarium and IMAX and is home to more than 100 rescued and rehabilitated animals.

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium was founded in 1969 and is currently one of the most popular attractions in the city of Boston. The aquarium is different from most you’ve probably seen because their emphasis is on creating a more natural setting for the critters they house. They also stress their commitment on conservation, research and education, not putting entertainment last but bringing that element in as well. There are a variety of exhibits and habitats including: New Balance Foundation Marine Mammal Center, Atlantic Harbor Seals, Amazon Rainforest, Edge of the Sea, Giant Ocean Tank, Gulf of Maine, Pacific Reef Community, Penguins, Seadragons and Amazing Jellies.

Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands are a national recreation area with a Civil War era fort, historic lighthouses, tide pools, hiking trails, swimming areas, picnicking facilities, and camping groups. There are also several programs throughout the year which provide educational experiences for children, adults and families. One of the popular tours is the Boston Light Climbing Tour which is a 3 hour trip with a boat ride, a lighthouse tour, and information packed tour guides to lead you on your way. You can also sign up for Island Kayak Tours which are lead by experienced guides. These tours are not difficult or strenuous but do require a bit of skill. You reach the islands by ferry which charges a nominal fee. The two most popular islands are the Georges Island which is a national historic landmark and is home to Fort Warren, and Spectacle Island which has lifeguards so it’s one of the best swimming spots. There are also free jazz concerts on Sunday afternoons in the summer.

USS Constitution

The USS Constitution or Old Ironsides and its museum is a great family adventure as it’s a chance to see a bit of history that isn’t readily available in other parts of the world. The USS Constitution is a wood hulled, three mast frigate. The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat in the world, and was named by President George Washington himself. First launched in 1797 the USS Constitution was designed to be an integral part of the newly formed navy. Throughout her storied history the USS Constitution served a variety of functions until 1907 when she became a museum ship, touring from port to port. In 1997 the USS Constitution sailed on her own steam for the anniversary of her 200^th year. Today you can visit the USS Constitution and its museum to get a better understanding of the Navy’s role in war and peace, the history of the ship and her crew and important functions the ship has served throughout the centuries.

Photo credit: Global Jet

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Boston

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A trip to Atlanta is an excellent way to bond with your family and take in all that this magnificent city has to offer. Atlanta can be an expensive city to visit, so we’ve included a few free attractions on our list just to make your family trip to Atlanta more budget friendly.

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is really a must see attraction for anyone headed to Atlanta whether you have your family along or not. As the world’s largest aquarium it features more animals than any other aquarium and holds an astonishing eight million gallons of water. Touring all sixty exhibits will take the majority of the day but you’ll walk away with a much deeper understanding of the waterways of the world. Some of the highlights of the Georgia Aquarium are the whale sharks, the beluga whales, a great hammerhead shark, and a manta ray who is the only one on display in the country. The exhibits are set up in five different galleries: Georgia Explorer, Tropical Diver, Ocean Voyager, Cold Water Quest and River Scout. Each gallery gives you an up close and personal look at these aquatic beauties and seeks to bring you closer to the world around you.

Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta is the city’s oldest cultural attraction having its roots in the circus. In 1889 a traveling circus was traveling to Marietta and stalled, having severe financial problems the owner went into bankruptcy and abandoned the animals. A local businessman purchased the animals and donated them to the city. The city placed the animals in Grant Park and the first zoo was born. As times changed the zoo changed and grew but not all of it was good. By 1984 the zoo was considered one of the worst in the country and it looked like the institution would close. Instead a proactive approach was taken and Zoo Atlanta is now something to be proud of and a lesson to everyone about the importance of the other creatures that share this world with us.

Six Flags Over Georgia

Nothing says family fun like an amusement park and Six Flags Over Georgia offers loads of fun for everyone in the family. Located on more than 230 acres the theme park prides itself on its collection of roller coasters but there are a huge number of other rides and attractions as well including several water park adventures. One highlight of Six Flags Over Georgia is the Riverview Carousel it is one of only three remaining five abreast carousels and has landed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Six Flags White Water

Speaking of Six Flags the addition of a separate water park has made Six Flags White Water one of the most popular summer time destinations for local kids looking for an escape from the heat. White Water is the largest water park in the south with 50 attractions and according to the Travel Channel one of the top 10 water parks. There are rides and attractions for every age group from the Little Squirt’s Island to the challenging world’s tallest free fall and everything in between.

Centennial Olympic Park

One of the free attractions in Atlanta is Centennial Olympic Park. The park used to be one of the most run down areas of the city but once the Olympics decided to make Atlanta their home base in 1996 the city moved ahead and restored this area into a noted park. Unfortunately the park had a bit of a notorious beginning as there was a bombing during the Olympics. But since then it has grown to be a beloved area for many residents and host to numerous events throughout the year.

Piedmont Park Conservancy

If your family is active and likes to spend time outdoors then Piedmont Park Conservancy may be a better choice than Centennial Olympic Park because a lot of activities are prevented at the Olympic Park. Piedmont welcomes anyone who wants to fish, grill, picnic, use the playground, skate, bike, play soccer, softball, volleyball, tennis, go swimming, take a walk, jog, and bird watch. In fact an industrious activity nut can probably load several activities into one day. If you’re there during the Green Market make sure to take a trip through this farmer’s market to select a few local goodies and take them into the park for a picnic that’s all Atlanta. This is another free activity in Atlanta.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

A more somber stop is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which honors this great man’s affect on the United States through the preservation of his birth home. Tours are free but are filled on a first come, first serve basis so make sure to register at the Visitor Center as soon as you arrive. Only 15 people get to go on the guided tour each hour but it’s well worth the wait as it inspires hope and belief in individuals and the power of this country.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Atlanta was a hot bed during the Civil War and remains full of fascinating history. The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park brings you into the past, to a time filled with history and lore. The battlefield is situated on almost 3,000 acres and was once home to the Atlanta Campaign which lasted from June 19^th to July 2^nd 1864. The grounds are now basically empty but were once packed with 100,000 soldiers in the Sherman Army and 63,000 in Johnston’s. More than 67,000 men were killed, wounded or captured during this battle. It’s an awesome place to visit and one of Atlanta’s free family attractions.

The best part about visiting Atlanta with your family is there is really a little bit of everything to enjoy. Whether your family is interested in the great outdoors and physical activity or if they prefer the thrills of an amusement park. Whether your family seeks deeper understanding of the creatures who share the world with us or of United States history it all can be found in Atlanta.

Photo credit: coka_koehler

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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Dallas is a great city for a family vacation as it’s loaded with things to do for every age. As they say, everything is bigger in Texas and this definitely applies to the list of Family Attractions in Dallas.

Dallas World Aquarium

The Dallas World Aquarium is pretty amazing for a landlocked city. The building was a warehouse until 1992 when it was turned into an aquarium and opened to the public. This family attraction was so popular that in 1996 adjacent buildings were purchased and the Dallas World Aquarium expanded. Since there were several buildings a unique opportunity arose, the alley between the buildings was transformed into ORINOCO: Secrets of the River and now serves as an exhibit between the freshwater and saltwater exhibits. The exhibits seek to give you a greater understanding of certain areas that are water based, but not necessarily just fish. The Wilds of Borneo is a 200 foot entrance ramp with plants and animals that represent this part of the world. Inside the aquarium there is a South Africa Exhibit, a Madagascar display that is opened seasonally, a Mundo Maya exhibit with a 40 long tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, and an upper level with the Tree of Life.

Frontiers of Flight Museum

The Frontiers of Flight Museum walks you through the dream of aviation from the original quest to the success of the Wright brothers and beyond into today’s outer space exploration in their Flight Thru Time. The Frontiers of Flight Museum is most noted for its Lighter Than Air exhibit which features artifacts from the historical blimps of the past, including pieces from the Hindenburg. There are also a load of war related aviation machines and information for those military buffs who would like to learn how this area of the country did their share during times of strained foreign relations. The Dallas/Fort Worth area is claiming to be the current aviation capital of the world so it’s a great place to explore the legacy of aviation in the world.

Dallas Zoo

The Dallas Zoo is the largest zoo in Texas with 95 acres to explore and thousands of animals to examine. And, believe it or not, the zoo is about to expand. The City Council voted for constructing a 10 acre Giants of the Savanna habitat which will open to the public sometime in 2010. Founded in 1888 the Dallas Zoo is the first zoological park in the Southwest and features several different ways for you and your family to get involved and learn more about the creatures who share this world with us. There are Animal Adventure Summer Camps, a 4D Adventure Theater, a new alligator exhibit, preschool hands-on clinics, a behind the scenes video tour, a children’s zoo, and many, many exhibits full of wonderful and awesome animals.

Observation Station

If the Frontiers of Flight Museum was a big hit with your family then you’ll want to take them over to Observation Station at Founders Plaza in the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. This very busy airport typically sees more than 2,000 takeoffs and landings a day. From the Observation Station you can watch the air traffic above and use the binoculars provided to get a better view. The graph board and control tower audio let you in on the action. It’s the perfect addition to the air museum as it gives you a unique perspective of modern commercial aviation.

Museum of the American Railroad

The Museum of the American Railroad features one of the most comprehensive heavyweight passenger collections in the United States. The Museum of the American Railroad is home to a pre World War II passenger train, a Railway Post Office and baggage car, coaches, lounge cars, Pullman sleeping cars and a dining car. In addition to the magnificent large car displays the museum also features smaller artifacts that make the collection more complete. Throughout the year there are events designed specifically for children so if you have a train junkie in the family make sure to stop by during their special events.

Dallas Heritage Village

Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park gives visitors a unique look at Dallas as it was from 1840 to 1910. The Dallas Heritage Museum is actually a collection of 38 historic structures on 13 wooded acres filled with different exhibits, including a working Civil War era farm, a traditional Jewish household, several Victorian homes, a school, a church and many commercial buildings. Look to see if they’re holding a special event, such as their Living History where actors bring that period of time to life.

Dallas Nature Center

The Dallas Nature Center is a 633 acre preserve and one of the only remaining natural areas in the entire county. Spend a good deal of your day wandering through the 10 miles of hiking trails visiting the native plant nursery, taking pictures in the butterfly gardens, exploring educational areas or having a family picnic in one of the designated spots. The Dallas Nature Center is a great way to look at the natural environment of this region and get some physical activity outdoors with your family.

Dallas Farmers Market

If you enjoyed the Dallas Nature Center then the Dallas Farmers Market may also be something you and your family would enjoy. In 1941 the farmer’s market started and currently is one of the largest in the country. Take advantage of the local harvest by purchasing your own treats and goodies for a special picnic or bring some treats home as an inexpensive souvenir.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

If you have older children then a visit to The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is an incredible experience that brings history to light in their eyes. The museum is located where Lee Harvey Oswald sat while he stalked and then shot President John F. Kennedy but they do a good job of not focusing on the assassination but rather on the life and legacy of an American president who captured the nation’s heart. This homage is a great way for you and your family to get a firm grasp on the situation while standing in the exact spot where history happened.

McKinney Avenue Trolley

While you’re running about Dallas, trying to take in all the highlights with your family, use the McKinney Avenue Trolley to get you from here to there in style. The McKinney Avenue Trolleys let you sit back and absorb the sites of the town for no charge at all. A free ride through the city of Dallas, who can beat that. The trolleys are antique electric cars that have been carefully restored and still run on the original streetcar tracks. Five of the cars are in operation, but look for the Winnie which is the only air conditioned one.
photo credit: Tim Lee Photographic Art

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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The mile high city of Denver Colorado is rich with history and vibrant activities, the perfect place to take a family on vacation. You’ll find so much to see and do in Denver that you’ll probably want to come back for your next vacation too.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens were one of the first of its kind in the country, with a strong emphasis on native plants for the region and a history of providing people with information on how to promote local ecology. If you’re interested in attending a class when you’re visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens check their website for schedules. You may also want to see if they’re having a concert series event the evening of your visit, it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the gardens at the end of your busy day.

Grant-Frontier Park

Denver was originally known as Montana City but this site was quickly abandoned as the city grew and expanded and became Denver. Grant-Frontier Park is believed to be the original site of Montana City and was discovered, cleaned and restored by teachers and students at the nearby Grant Middle School. On the part is a log cabin replica of what may have originally existed on or around the area and mining equipment that would have been used by early settlers. The park offers little educational value though, instead it’s a great patch of park for a quiet family picnic.

Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver seems almost like a visit to a different world as the entire aquarium is setup to feature different themed regions. And rather than the standard tanks with fish the entire room has atmosphere which attempts to transport you away. The habitats invite you to come and explore the entire experience which doesn’t strictly stick to a fish only guideline as you’ll see birds and land critters as well. It’s a great learning experience and a fun day adventure for both adults and children.

Four Mile Historic Park

Four Mile Historic Park is truly a historic look at old Denver. The 12 acre park is located on Cherry Creek and includes the oldest standing structure in the entire city, Four Mile House. The house was built in 1859 and has served many functions throughout its life including wayside inn, stage shop, tavern and National Historic Landmark. In addition to the historical significance, the park is a great place to picnic and play. They hold regular programs and events for children so check their website if you’re looking for outdoor activities to participate in.

Photo credit: Mess of Pottage

Stegosaur and Allosaur Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Denver Museum of Nature and Science

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is considered one of the country’s premiere museums. The official date of its founding is listed as 1900 but some of the museum’s collections actually stretch back to 1868. Edwin Carter was a noted local pioneer and naturalist who loved collecting and displaying his finds in his home. He drew such a crowd and had such an extensive collection that his home became dubbed the Carter Museum. Eventually this collection formed the foundation of the Colorado Museum of Natural History. Others began donating their collections to the museum and it’s been expanding ever since.

16^th Street Mall

One stop that has a bit of something for every single person in the family, even people not on vacation who may want a souvenir from your trip is the 16^th Street Mall. This shopping extravaganza is a 16 block stretch of stores, dining, entertainment and a slew of tourist shops. Its downtown location makes it perfect for a day of exploring or a quick stop on your way to another local attraction.

Molly Brown House Museum

Another historic stop in Denver is the home of the famed “Unsinkable” Molly Brown or Margaret Tobin Brown one of the Titanic survivors. Molly Brown was a noted socialite, activist and philanthropist and became more famous after her ordeal upon the ill-fated Titanic. The home was built by architect William A. Lang in the 1880s and is also called the House of Lions. Obviously the home was quite elaborate and ornate but the depression rubbed the polish off and by the 1970s the home was set for demolitions. Historic Denver, Inc. decided to save the home and has since polished it back up to its original splendor.

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is the largest art museum has long roots that reach back to the 1890s when it was then called the Denver Artists’ Club and was a series of meeting places for local artists. In 1949 the group got its own museum which is now the Denver Art Museum. The 356,000 square foot building features collection gallery space, three temporary exhibit areas and an auditorium for presentations.

Photo credit: Paraflyer

Colorado, Railroad Museum

Colorado Railroad Museum

The Colorado Railroad Museum is celebrating 50 years in 2009 and featuring exciting events throughout the year to commemorate the anniversary. In 1959 Robert W. Richardson and Cornelius W. Hauck opened the museum to preserve the past for the future. Colorado has a pretty colorful railroad history with treacherous mountain passes, a gold rush, and the continued progression through technological advances. The museum building itself is a replica of a 1880s style depot and houses thousands of artifacts from the local history reaching back more than 125 years. If you’re looking for research the Robert W. Richardson Library is world renowned and features more than 10,000 railroad specific tomes.

Denver Mint

The Denver Mint couldn’t be in a better place, a city built on the gold rush that served as a vital hub for this industry. In 1863 the Denver Mint was established and still manufactures all denominations of circulating coins, coin dies, and the Denver portion of uncirculated sets and commemorative coins. The Denver Mint also serves as home to the country’s gold and silver bullion. Tours are free and open to the public so it’s a great family activity that gives you a deeper look behind the scenes of something you probably handle each and every day.
photo credit: nalilo

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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Sometimes keeping kids occupied on vacation is difficult, especially when your vacation is in a foreign country. But a trip to London with the family is one that is sure to be fun for everyone as there is so much to see and do. Use our handpicked family fun guide below to find the best attractions for you and your family when visiting London.

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures was originally a zoo but in 1987 a theme park was added which has grown and grown to become one of the top attractions in the region for families. The zoo part of the park is split in two with a Trail of Kings, a walkthrough attraction where you get up close and personal with some large animals and the other half of the zoo which houses smaller critters. There is also a children’s zoo area with many farm-type animals. If you prefer animals of the aquatic variety there are many tropical fish tanks, a walk-through tunnel to the sharks, sea lions and Creepy Caves. For those visitors headed to Chessington for the attractions and not the animals, then you have even more options for fun. Beanoland is a theme park based around the Beano Comic, Forbidden Kingdom features two rides with Ancient Egyptian motifs, Land of the Dragons has a large number of rides and children’s activities, Market Square is the center and is a great place for snacks, meals, and arcade games, Mexicana has a Mexican and Far West environment and features two very popular roller coasters, the Mystic East has an oriental theme and more roller coasters and a panning for gold game, in Pirates Cove is just as it sounds and features a pirate’s theme, Toytown is in the center and tailors its rides toward the younger set and finally, Transylvania which sounds scary and sports one of the scariest rides, the Vampire, it also houses one of the more fun family rides, Bubbleworks, which is great for all ages but its mainly an advertisement for Imperial Leather. Come to Chessington World of Adventures with a list of priorities because it’s almost impossible to do everything in one day.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds London is the original famed wax museum although there have been several branches throughout the world. Wax sculptor Marie Tussaud learned the craft through her mother’s employer, Dr. Philippe Curtius whose work was exhibited widely in the 1700’s. Marie followed suit and traveled around Europe with her wax models until 1835 when she settled down in Baker Street and opened a museum. Unfortunately many of her original pieces were destroyed in a fire or by German bombs in 1941 but the casts survived and some of the pieces have been replicated. The rather creepy life-like representations of persons of note (both good and evil) give one a deeper connection to these people, especially the historical figures which almost seem to come to life.

SEA LIFE London Aquarium/SEA LIFE Center

SEA LIFE London Aquarium contains more than 350 species of fish on three floors with 14 different zones. There are daily talks, feeds and dives for a more interactive experience so check with the ticket office when you arrive to see when and where each even it occurring the day of your visit. Some of the encounter experiences include up close and personal experiences with sting rays, sea turtles, sharks, seahorses, terrapins, catfish, piranhas and coral reef inhabitants.

Mudchute Park & Farm

Mudchute Park & Farm is the largest city farm in London with 32 acres of countryside in the middle of Isle of Dogs. Mudchute focuses on care of the environment and their oasis in the middle of the city offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Their wonderful collection of British rare breeds include more than 200 animals and fowl. The buildings on the outskirts contain rare breed animals, horses, and ponies who are allowed to graze in the outer fields. In the center of the farm is the Pets Corner where the cuddly critters are raised for guests to have encounters with. Guests are invited to help with rounding up the critters at the end of the day for bedtime so find your favorites and see what help you can provide.

Photo credit: Nevalenx

Horseman at Buckingham palace-Nevalenx802

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has been home to Britain’s royalty since 1837 and hosts many receptions as well as visitors. There are 775 rooms in the palace including 52 royal and guest rooms and 188 staff bedrooms. There are several different tours available at Buckingham Palace including The State Rooms which are used extensively by the Queen and royal family as they receive guests for official ceremonies and events. The Royal Mews tour which is the working stable at the palace and gives you a glimpse at all of the work that goes on behind the scenes to simply provide road transport for the Queen and her family. The Queen’s Gallery tour lets you visit the permanent space dedicated to changing exhibits from the Royal Collection. But the most popular tour at Buckingham Palace is probably the Changing of the Guard, the change takes place at 11:30 daily from May until the end of July and then on alternate days. The guards arrive at the palace forecourt and are accompanied by a band, the entire display takes about 40 minutes.

British Museum

The British Museum is one of the great museums of the world with exhibits reaching from prehistoric times to the present day. Founded in 1753 the collections, which include more than seven million objects, house such famous artifacts as the Rosetta Stone, sculptures from the Parthenon, Greek and Roman artifacts, Egyptian antiquities and many other pieces not seen anywhere else in the world in one location. Relics in the British Museum cover all eras of human culture and feature pieces from every continent. Exploring the entire museum is a huge undertaking and cannot be thoroughly enjoyed in one day, luckily the museum is free to everyone so you can come back again and again to explore the whole thing or examine your favorite areas in greater detail.

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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According to the U.S. Travel Association, approximately 54 percent of American households are planning a summer vacation. If you’re one of 38 million U.S. adults that have not yet decided whether or not to take your family on a summer vacation, here are some great ideas to plan a vacation without breaking the budget.

First, you need to decide what kind of vacation that you want. Do you want to go sightseeing? Or relax at a resort and do nothing? Or maybe connect with nature? Whatever your family chooses, make sure it’s a vacation that everyone is going to enjoy. If members in your family have different ideas on what they want to do, then try to compromise and plan a few activities that will appeal to each family member.

Now that you know what you want to do, you need to create a budget and set a date. Consider traveling during off-peak times if possible, and avoid traveling during holidays. Compare airfare, hotel and rental car costs at your selected destination. If you’re considering a travel package, make sure the break the package into individual components and see if you’re really getting a deal. Sometimes it’s cheaper to bundle your airfare and hotel and then get the rental car separately. Also, you might be able to get them at a lesser rate if you’re willing to travel during the week rather than on the weekend. Not only will you save money, but it will be less crowded and you’ll probably get better service.

Another way to save on your vacation is to eat-in by cooking your meals at the hotel rather than eating out. You might pay more for the hotel room that includes a kitchen, but if you factor in the costs of feeding a family of four at a restaurant versus eating-in at your hotel, you’ll probably find that the upgraded hotel room is a greater savings. Bring pre-packaged snacks and water for your day excursions, and avoid paying the higher prices for snacks at the theme parks.

Make sure that your family budget includes shopping for souvenirs. U.S. Travel Association notes that the most popular domestic trip activity is shopping. It’s an easy way to break your family budget while on vacation. If you’re traveling with kids, let them know ahead of time what their souvenir budget is. It will make everyone more conscious of their spending and reduce buyer’s remorse.
photo credit: Nicholas_T

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Plan a Vacation without Breaking the Family Budget

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Chicago is one of those hidden secrets as it’s a great big city with a lot of heart and loads of things to do but somehow it always seems to get overlooked. If you’re looking for a place to take the family for a weekend give Chicago a try, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Shedd Aquarium

One of the best aquariums in the country (if you ask me) is the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. At the Shedd Aquarium you can explore the Wild Reef and get up close with some ferocious sharks, watch the Amazon Rising and spot giant turtles, poisonous frogs and a variety of fish, travel the Waters of the World in 90 different aquatic habitats, see a Caribbean Reef and watch a diving feed sharks, rays and a sea turtle. Or the highlight of the trip, Oceanarium Reimagined where you can see some of the aquarium’s largest animals in a performance or view the world’s most charming character, the beluga whale.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre

The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre offers a slew of theatre excursions for you and your family and is ranked as one of the top 10 largest professional theaters in the Chicago area. The slate of performances changes often and includes a wide variety of programs. There is certain to be something that appeals to your family. Remember that some of the best actors around (Harrison Ford, Joan & John Cusack, Kim Novak, John Belushi, Bill Murray and many more) came from the Chicago area.

Adler Planetarium

Within walking distance of the Shedd Aquarium is the Adler Planetarium, if you’re not worn out the two together make a great day of learning and discovery. At the Definiti Space Theater you’ll experience a virtual trip into the outer reaches of space, the Sky Theater is a traditional planetarium experience held in the historic Zeiss planetarium, the Universe Theater is holding a special 400^th anniversary of the Galileo telescope event with a 3-D production with symphonic accompaniment. At the Doane Observatory you can use Chicago’s largest public telescope to actually view space with your own eyes. In addition, the planetarium features many temporary and permanent exhibits that give you a greater understanding of the universe around us and leave many with an unshakeable sense of awe.

Adventure Stage Chicago

If you have smaller children and want a theater experience that is geared toward their sensibilities then the Adventure Stage Chicago might be a better place to catch a performance. The Adventure Stage Chicago seeks to create dynamic performances that are specifically designed for children and that encourage imaginative thought. Shows are selected and performed with an audience of 8 to 14 year olds in mind. If your child is particularly interested in the theater check out the classes and camps schedule.

The Field Museum

The Field Museum is another interesting experience for both kids and adults. This museum is part of the lakefront Museum Campus along with the Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium. The Field Museum’s collections include many artifacts from the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 which are the core of the museum’s collection. There is a public learning center which is great for children as it provides an outreach program that brings artifacts and specimens to children. The Field Museum is still a working scientific research facility and serves as an international leader in evolutionary biology and paleontology, and archaeology and ethnography. But the two things that will probably thrill little ones the most is their current traveling exhibit Real Pirates which features more than 200 artifacts from the slave ship turned pirate ship, Whydah. The other hit with children is Sue, the world’s largest, most complete and best preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Museum of Science and Industry

The actual Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is a bit dated and although they’re doing their best to update some of the really old exhibits there are still things which feel a bit dated and remedial for our computer aged world. But the traveling exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry is reason enough to come to the city. The best portable exhibits in the world typically make a stop at this museum. Currently Harry Potter: The Exhibition is being featured but past hits have included Gunther von Hagens’ Body Worlds, Titanic: The Exhibition, Leonardo Da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius, CSI: The Experience, Robots Like Us, City of the Future, Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination and many others. And don’t get me wrong, some of the permanent displays are really wonderful as well

Navy Pier

If you’re lucky enough to hit a day with good weather then the Navy Pier is a must. There is simply no lack of entertainment at the pier, from rides to restaurants, exhibitions to entertainment, shopping to dining cruises and tour boats all packed into 50 acres of Navy Pier. There is a 15 story Ferris wheel which gives you some of the best views of the city, a children’s museum that can occupy hours of time, and roving entertainers and the Pepsi Skyline Stage. And if all of that seems to hectic for you, take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the area gardens while your kids are enjoying something more frenetic.

CoCo Key West Water Resort

If you’re trying to find a place to stay with your family then CoCo Key West Water Resort might be just the ticket. This indoor water park is currently the largest in Illinois at 65,000 square feet of watery fun. With this as your overnight destination you may find that you don’t even want to explore the city around or you can skip the overnight and simply buy a day ticket for the water park. No matter which route you take, your kids will be very happy you decided to spend some time at CoCo Key West.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to family attractions and activities in Chicago. It’s easy to find that your time has just slipped by and you’ve missed out on the boat tours of the city, a lesson in the great architecture and the World’s Fair, shopping along the Magnificent Mile, a ton of incredible parks and recreation activities not to mention all of the festivals which always seem to be happening.
Photo credit: JOE M500

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Chicago

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Looking for a great place to take the family on vacation? Leave the mouse in the south and instead head to Philadelphia for a family vacation that’s packed with fun and excitement and little tidbits of information everywhere you turn.

Philadelphia was originally known as a Lenape (Delaware) Indian city called Shackamaxon but by the 1600s the Dutch, British, and Swedish had established settlements and what was eventually to become Philadelphia grew by leaps and bounds due to its central location in the original colonies, its easy access by land and water and its reputation as a great trading center. But Philadelphia became even more important to the newly established government as the First and Second Continental Congresses were held there and some very important documents were introduced such as the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

It’s the historical significance of Philadelphia that inspires the first must see attractions in our list.

Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell

Independence National Historic Park encompasses three city blocks in the heart of Philadelphia, its most notable tourist destinations are Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. It was in Independence Hall that both the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were penned and signed by some of this country’s founders. During 1790 and 1800 Philadelphia served as the country’s capitol and these original ideas and freedoms were first put to the test. It’s amazing that many of these historical buildings were not only preserved but still remain intact and open to the public today. One of the artifacts from this era is the famed Liberty Bell, which evolves from a history lesson to an actual gateway to our historical past for your children as they come face to face with the icon. It’s something that every American should experience, sort of a homecoming.

Lights of Liberty

So you’ve filled your day with fun and adventure but now you need something to keep the little ones occupied at night. The Lights of Liberty is just the ticket. Located in Independence National Historic Park, Lights of Liberty is the first ambulatory sound and light show of its kind in the world. Through this amazing display you and your family will able to actually visualize the American Revolution as it’s projected onto the buildings above you. Throughout the entire display it’s hard not to be moved with the knowledge that more than 200 years ago the activities you are watching above occurred right on the ground you’re sitting and standing on today. All of it accompanied by the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Betsy Ross House

Just blocks from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell is the home of our country’s most famous seamstress, Betsy Ross. The 1740’s row house is restored to its 1777 condition, when Betsy lived and sewed in this very location. The self guided tour with audio accompaniment is the perfect way to explore her home, the area, and learn about what life was like in this trying time for a businesswoman, wife, mother, and entrepreneur. Much more than a woman sitting at her rocker, stitching stars onto a flag, Betsy Ross was a pioneer and an innovator who is still inspiring today. In the spring and summer the House is a flutter with activity as colonial crafters set up displays to show you what skills were valued in the past, the Once Upon a Nation storytelling bench comes alive with narrators and the courtyard stage is set for your amusement.

Franklin Institute Science Museum

The Franklin Institute Science Museum pays homage to its namesake, the great innovator and scientist himself, Benjamin Franklin. Located within the museum’s rotunda is the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial. This 20 foot marble statue is impressive, as is the rest of the rotunda, but it’s the science that Franklin loved so much that makes this museum adventure a stop that will be loved by everyone in the family. The Franklin Institute Science Museum houses permanent exhibits such as The Giant Heart, Space Command, Amazing Machine, Sports Challenge, The Franklin Airshow, The Train Factory, Sir Isaac’s Loft, Kid Science and the Joel N. Bloom Observatory. In addition to these exciting regular exhibits there are great traveling exhibits such as the Chronicles of Narnia and Galileo. More than a day’s worth of interesting and educational inspiration is housed here.

Adventure Aquarium

For a learning experience that isn’t based on American history but rather based on Mother Nature, Adventure Aquarium is the place to go. Once known as the New Jersey State Aquarium, the newly renovated facility has more than just fish. With hippos, penguins, and seals you can immediately see it’s more than your typical fish tank. This is an experience not to be missed and heavy emphasis on interactive exhibits will leave your entire family enthralled by the experience. If you want to get a little more involved, consider purchasing a package that has you swimming with the sharks, feeding sea turtles, going behind the scenes with penguins, or training seals.

photo credit: fPat

Cougar at Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo

Combining history with animal adventures, the Philadelphia Zoo is the oldest zoo in the country, having opened in 1874. The zoo fell into a state of disrepair by the 1970s and but has since been rejuvenated and is once again considered a leader in the nation with almost 1,800 animals. Some of their noted exhibits include PECO Primate Reserve, Zooballoon, Carnivore Kingdom, Jungle Bird Walk, the Treehouse, a Children’s Zoo and a number of exciting rides. But these are just a few of the incredible exhibits set on this beautiful 42 acre preserve. Come early and plan to spend all day at this exciting attraction.

With all that there is to see and do in Philadelphia we’ve only just scratched the surface, there are  many more historical experiences, amusement and water parks, animal adventures, recreation areas, and natural wonders. Philadelphia is the perfect place for a family vacation as there are so many activities that everyone can find something they’re really interested in and there’s room to discover something you never knew before.
photo credit: michaelwm25

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Travel to Philadelphia

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In an effort to create more value and build more “in park” revenue Walt Disney has been putting a lot of marketing effort behind the Disney Dining Plan. Is the plan worth it, and does it create a more enjoyable experience? We put the Disney Dining plan to the test last fall, and I’ll share my review and give you some helpful tips.

Disney Dining Plan Basics

The Disney Dining plan is an option for guests booking on property vacations, and comes with a few different choices:

• Magic Your Way Package Plus Quick-Service Dining
• Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining
• Magic Your Way Package Plus Deluxe Dining
• Magic Your Way Platinum Package

The Quick Service Dining plan gives you one breakfast, lunch and dinner meal per person at any counter service restaurant in the park or the hotels (this usually includes the buffet style restaurants in most resorts). As a rule of thumb if the restaurant has a waiter it’s not included.

The Plus Dining plan gives you one breakfast and lunch or dinner per person at any counter service restaurant in the park or the hotels. You also get one snack and one full service restaurant meal per day. Full service restaurants are generally restaurants with a with a waiter, but some exclusions do apply. You can use the full service meal for lunch or dinner it’s up to you.

The Plus Deluxe Dining plan gives you everything the The Plus Dining plan has, plus an extra snack per day and a refillable drink mug, per person.

The Platinum Dining Package gives you three full service meals per day per day, two snacks and one refillable drink mug.

You get all of your credits the moment you check into your hotel and can use them anyway you want. So if you want two counter service meals for lunch and dinner one day, and two full service meals the next day, it’s not a problem.However just keep an eye on how many meal credits you are using so you don’t run out before the end of your stay. You can check your balance at any of the guest service areas in the parks or at the hotels.

Planning Ahead

To get the most out of any Disney Vacation you really have to spend some time and plan ahead, showing up at the park, without a plan is a recipe for disappointment or disaster. Disney allows you to book restaurant preferred seating arrangements up to six months in advance (there are no reservations at Disney Restaurants). It’s strongly suggested that you take advantage of this as popular restaurants will often fill up at peak eating times very quickly. If you don’t mind eating lunch at 3:00 in the afternoon or dinner at 9:00 you can ignore that advice. Since Disney has made such a big push to get guests to adopt the dining plan, it has become extremely difficult to walk into a full service sit down restaurant and get a table with less than an hour or more wait. This is probably the biggest downside of the program. You may not want to plan your meals 3 months or more in advance, but even if you aren’t on the dining plan, walk up seating without a wait is pretty unlikely, and at Disney time equals money.

Your best plan of action is to figure out which days you want to be at which parks. Looking at early openings, extra magic hours, and parade and fireworks shows, will help you narrow your choices. Unless you are on the quick service or platinum plan you’ll have to decide do you want your “full service” meal to be lunch or dinner. if the parks are closing early 7 or 8 PM, I’d suggest making it lunch, and using the buffet at your hotel. If the parks are open until 9pm or later with extra magic hours dinner is usually a better bet.

Next look at some of the restaurants, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, choose the most expensive restaurants (be aware some restaurants are excluded). However it’s really hard to make a bad choice, you get a full meal and a dessert, so chances are you’ll be leaving stuffed rather than hungry. When you’re making selections have an alternate choice, in case your first choice isn’t available. Once you’ve got your selections ready make your reservations preferred seating arrangements as soon as you can, you will be rewarded at the time of your park visit.

Was it Worth It

We tried the Disney Dining Plan last December and were pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. To be honest we had some trepidation about having limited choices for snacks or meals, but it just never occurred. We did occasionally go off plan and have to pay for soda’s, water, a snack or ice cream, but only two or three times during the entire week long trip, overall everything was included. We saved all of our receipts and and tallied up the cost of our meals and compared it to what we would have spent had we paid, and it we got over two times more than the meal plan cost us. Admittedly we probably would not have had a dessert at every meal, but the value was still there. Additionally we ate at some of the better quality restaurants, had better food and much better service.

So was it worth it and do I recommend it … absolutely! If you can deal with making your dinner plans a few months in advance, it’s totally worth it and will definitely save you money on your Disney Vacation.

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

How to get the Most out of The Disney Dining Plan

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Ft. Lauderdale is known as “America’s Venice” because of the number of canals it has. There are water taxis that make it fun for the whole family to go on aquatic tours. It also has the deepest port, Port Everglades, in Florida making it a major boating industry hub.

Museum of Discovery and Science is not only a kid’s paradise, but the best educational system in Florida with hands on exhibits. The Discovery Center includes the Florida Ecoscapes, living coral, bats, bees, frogs, turtles and alligators. The IMAX theater shows science and other films daily. In the front atrium the family will enjoy 52-foot tall Great Gravity Clock, a kinetic energy sculpture. With over 200 interactive exhibits, the whole day will be filled with wonder and educational fun.

Hollywood North Beach Park offers a nice and easy walk for nature lovers (perfect for the family). It’s filled with lush trees and plants. Walk along the boardwalks built over sand dunes and enjoy the occasional sea turtle that likes to pop up at the delight of children and adults alike. The beach comes complete with lifeguard and picnic tables, so bring along a deli lunch. Public bathrooms are available also.

Wannado City is children’s roll playing theme park. This child-size representation of a city allows children to pick and choose which careers they want to participate in. They might choose to be a fireman in the morning, stop at lunch time to be a pizza baker and spend the afternoon as an actor or fashion photographer. It will make you want to be a kid just so you can try out some different jobs. The parents lounge is complete with computers, TVs, coffee house and “Wannafinder” which locates your child in the park.

Ann Kolb Nature Center was named after a dedicated naturalist. The 1,400 park is one of the largest wildlife parks in Florida. The family can explore the mangrove wetlands by canoe, foot or bicycle. On Saturdays they offer 40-minute guided canoe trips, January through March. Admission is free making it, as an added bonus, a budget friendly attraction.

photo credit: Nick Hobgood

Red and black Piano key butterfly at Butterfly World

Butterfly World is a teaching attraction filled with everything butterfly. The family will learn how butterflies grow and what they eat. You’ll learn just what to plant in order to lure them into your garden. Explore the butterfly laboratory to learn how they breed and the butterfly museum where there are exhibits of different types of butterflies from all around the world.

Jungle Queen Riverboat has been giving water tours for the past fifty years. The family will enjoy the three hour day tour while mom and dad may enjoy the four hour dinner voyage, although kids are welcome too, where they will dine among the tropical atmosphere of a nearby island.

Water Taxi is not just a unique and fun way to travel along the canals, intracoastal waterways and rivers of Ft. Lauderdale, it’s also convenient. End at your destination of restaurants, shops and offices and then pick up the next water taxi to make your way back. The crew will even help you plan your day to see all the waterway sites on the water taxi. Or take the South Beach Express for a day cruise. If you are a large group, you can even charter one of the taxis.

Bonnet House is a 35-acre plantation and house which offers a guided tour that takes you through historic Florida. The two-story water front home was built in 1921 and is surrounded by a tropical garden. It’s a fun tour that takes an hour and a quarter to complete in which you will meet interesting people, see period artwork, lush estate grounds and architecture of the historic times.

Sawgrass Recreation Park, as part of the Everglade ecosystem, can be enjoyed by all. The kids will flip over the small zoo which includes a white alligator, tortoises and crocodile. There’s an RV park if you’ve traveled in the family home-away-from-home vehicle. The whole family will enjoy walking through the replica Native village. Don’t leave until you’ve had an airboat ride, the 30-minute ride is free with admission.

Old Ft. Lauderdale Village and Museum consists of a preserved schoolhouse, a research center and three 19^th century buildings. Hands-on reenactments are setup for the children including a schoolhouse class programs. Guided tours of the exhibits and grounds are also offered. Lectures are given throughout the year.

Museum of Art is more than just an art museum with alternating exhibits, there are classes in music, art and exercise are available to visitors. The permanent exhibits such as “Diana a Celebration” and Ansel Adam’s black and white photography are among the most popular. Bold Latino artwork from artist in residence, Carolos Luna, is among their newest exhibits.

Seldom Seen Gallery offers one-of-a-kind American made furnishings and crafts. Also for sale are handmade jewelry, blown glass, ceramics and wooden crafts all of great diversity. A fun place to visit and shop while you are visiting Ft. Lauderdale. The kids will love the airplanes hanging from the 20-foot ceilings and the swinging music. Dancing is encouraged.

International Swimming Hall of Fame offers walking and group tours. The hall of fame is located at the back of the aquatic center. It includes exhibits in swimming, diving, water polo and synchronized swimming. You’ll see the world’s largest and the world’s smallest trophies. There is a photo gallery and video archives available.
photo credit: Mark Sadowski

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Ft. Lauderdale

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Montreal draws visitors from around the globe through all four seasons. This family friendly capital of Quebec has more to offer than you could enjoy in one trip. That’s why so many people make an annual visit. Whether you are here in the winter enjoying the Snow Festival or during the summer for Montreal’s International Fireworks Festival, there is no doubt that you’ll be astonished at the city’s beauty, friendliness and number of family attractions.

Montreal Planetarium (Planetarium De Montreal) is the largest planetarium in all of Canada. The three major shows each day, The Sky This Month, Main Exhibit and Feature Show all deal with new discoveries and events from the past 40 years. For an added bonus there is a new show, Extinctions, which shows how some earth species may have taken place through astronomical phenomena. Extinctions is scheduled for 2:30 PM every afternoon. Just for Children, the planetarium offers “The Quest for Galactium,” where kids ages 7 and up can explore the Milky Way.

The Snow Festival (or Winter Festival) is totally family orientated. If your looking for a cool winter family vacation destination look no further than Montreal and their Snow Festival. The festival lasts from January’s last Saturday until the second Sunday in February. Enjoy the beautiful views of Montreal as the family ice skates along an icy path beside the St. Lawrence. Play hockey or tube down the fourteen tubing slopes. Kids, ages 5 to 8 are offered free beginning ski instructions with all their ski equipment provided free. And finally, take a family sleigh ride at Parc Jean-Drapeau to complete your day.

Insectarium Montreal is a joy for kids who are mesmerized by the insect world. It’s a complete insect museum with both live and dead specimens. They’ll marvel at the live displays of tarantulas and scorpions. There are butterflies from around the world with a location map that shows just where, in the world, they can be found in their natural habitat. The whole family will enjoy learning the importance of insects on earth.

St. Leonard Cavern is estimated to be 15,000 years old. Take the 90-minute guided tour, which includes a slide show and interesting scientific information, but they are so busy during the summer that you will need to make reservations. This natural underground cave is 35-feet long and as deep as 8-feet at some locations.

Horizon Roc is a great place for the kids to burn off some of that extra energy as they climb and swing on the Tarzan Swings. There is lots of supervision to make sure the kids are safe and secure. Interesting surfaces for climbing take in mind all ages (3 and up) and climbing abilities. There are also two mezaines where you can keep an eye on your brood from above. And there’s free parking.

Just for Laughs Festival includes gala performances, comedy films, theater shows and open air venues. Every summer 14 countries comprised of over 700 artists work hard over eleven days to keep over 2 million people laughing. Although this event is fun for the whole family there are some evening events that are not appropriate for the under 16 age group. This is the largest festival of it’s kind in the world.

Montreal Bio Dome is home to four different ecosystems. This ecological zoo and science center is home to a lush tropical forest and polar worlds of the arctic and Antarctic. Their “Birdfest” is offered in April and they have a new attraction called “Moonlit Evening.” Especially for kids, ages 6 to 12 the bio dome offers “Nature Missions” which is an hands-on, interactive exhibit. Everyone will enjoy learning more about the plants and animals of the bio domes.

Montreal International Jazz Festival is a great Montreal destination for music lovers and families with teens. Although during this festival there is jazz being played throughout the city, there is a specific 5-block location that centralizes the Jazz Festival. The outdoor venues are all free to any who pass by and enjoy the music. There are also indoor performances that can be enjoyed for a fee. Have lunch or dinner outdoors and one of the many restaurants while you enjoy the jazz. Many CD’s featuring playing artists can be purchased very reasonably. So, if you hear someone you really enjoy you can take the music with you on the rest of your trip.

Mount Royal Park seems to be located in the heavens as you stand at the observation point and see the panoramic view of Montreal. If the kids want to take a closer look they can use one of the coin-operated telescopes. Take the drive up and park for a small fee while you enjoy the view. Or, if you are an athletic family, hike up to the top of the hill on foot. The park is called the “Jewel of Montreal” and you will see why when you visit. There’s plenty of room to picnic, take a jog and in the winter time you can ice skate and cross country ski.

Granby Zoo, located right off of highway 10, it’s a convenient stop over and a fun experience for the whole family. It’s just the right size so that the entire zoo can be viewed in a single day. Visit Misha, a four-year-old, zoo born tiger, Leo the western low-land gorilla who weighs in at 337 pounds and Kisumu, the 1993 Christmas baby giraffe who weighs over a ton. In addition the Granby Zoo offers an amusement park full of fun rides such as the Anaconda Roller Coaster, bumper cars, train and Ferris wheel to name a few.

Montreal Botanical Gardens is comprised of an extensive green house with plants from around the world as well as numerous outdoor themed gardens. The budding botanist in the family will find a scientific enjoyment to this expedition and the rest of the family will enjoy the natural surroundings. The gardens opened in 1931 during the height of the great depression. As the family peruses through the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, Alpine Garden and The First Nations Garden they will likely see many plants they had never imagined before. Everyone will be surprised by the beauty in the Orchids and Aroids Conservatory.

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

Family Attractions in Montreal

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The reasons for taking your family to Philadelphia for a vacation are numerous. Simply put, it’s a great place to for a family vacation whether you’re looking for fun, excitement or an educational experience. The only problem with family vacations in a new city, any new city, is finding family dining options that are both welcoming of your family and nutritious. Below you’ll find a list of some family dining options in Philadelphia that should take off some of your stress and make everyone happy at meal times.

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Almost every kid loves spaghetti and it’s chock full of healthy ingredients so Maggiano’s Little Italy is the perfect place to take your family for dinner. Maggiano’s serves quality Italian-American fare so you’re not stuck with spaghetti if your tastes are a little more exotic and something along the lines of Tuscan mussels sounds more appealing. Even though Maggiano’s serves up some of the best tasting Italian meals, the atmosphere is more conducive to family dining than fine dining. Red checkered table cloths greet you and the friendly staff makes you feel welcome. If Maggiano’s feels familiar it’s because it is a chain restaurant and slowly expanding across the globe.

Winnie’s LeBus Manayunk

Home cooking done right is what you’ll get at Winnie’s LeBus Manayunk. There is simply nothing better than some home cooked comfort food when you’re on vacation, especially if you don’t have to do the cooking. Winnie’s is a consistent local favorite garnering many accolades and honors and all of them are well deserved. Housed in a renovated old mill, this restaurant is comfortably charming and a bit out of the norm, which is exciting for little ones. The great circular bar in the center of the dining room is exciting for bigger ones as it can help take the edge off a long day of sightseeing. Winnie’s isn’t just for dinner so keep this destination in mind whenever your tribe gets hungry.

Marathon on the Square

Marathon on the Square offers a standard fare which is served in a pseudo-euro diner. The food is suitable and so is the atmosphere. Not the best restaurant in town, but totally accepting of families and conveniently located. Marathon on the Square also has convenient hours and an all day breakfast menu so there’s a large variety of selections that will leave everyone satisfied.

Farmicia Food and Tonics

Farmicia Food and Tonics is, in one word, fresh. If you’re looking to experience the city of Philadelphia fully then a visit to this restaurant is a great way to get in on the local cuisine. Ingredients are fresh, local and creatively prepared. Farmicia is based on the owner’s concept that food should be simply crafted yet delicious and they accomplish this by focusing on local organic and artisan producers. The atmosphere is relaxed and thus welcoming to younger diners. If you’re stopping by for a snack or a breakfast pastry the front of Farmicia houses Metropolitan Café which is a great place to stop for a delicious fresh baked local treat.

Ralph’s Italian Restaurant

Philly is known for its great Italian food, so expect to see more than your fair share of Italian inspired restaurants, but most of them cannot boast the history that Ralph’s Italian Restaurant can with more than 100 years under its belt. In 1893 Francesco and Catherine Dispigno arrived at Ellis Island with their three year old in tow. By 1900 they had saved up just enough to rent a building and open their first restaurant. Since then the incredible traditional recipes at Ralph’s has drawn celebrities including Theodore Roosevelt, Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Durante, Lena Horne, Tony Bennett, Heather Locklear and many, many others.  The food is simply wonderful, based on traditional family restaurants and with a century of satisfied diners backing them up, Ralph’s is bound to please everyone in the family.

Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat

Honey’s Sit ‘n Eat is a cozy rustic little diner that makes your family feel right at home but introduces them to some cuisine that they may not be too familiar with. It’s the best way to experiment with some Jewish and Southern comfort foods. But don’t feel trapped into trying something unusual or different, there are plenty of old standbys on the menu too. Style, charm and great food are Honey’s staples, but the word is out and this restaurant can be very busy, i.e. there may be a line outside waiting for a table so if you’re in a hurry then this may not be the place for you and your crew.

Pietro’s Coal Oven Pizzeria

Everyone loves pizza and everyone loves Pietro’s Coal Oven Pizzeria. This can be your hold out restaurant option that you can pull out to reward good behavior or brighten tired spirits. Pietro’s is a little classier than your standard pizzeria but the pizza is also better as quality ingredients are the mantra. Fresh and delicious, each ingredient is carefully selected and then fired in a coal oven to give you a delightfully crisp crust. If you haven’t had enough pasta, there is also a healthy list of homemade pasta entrees and some of the best desserts all around. Pietro’s is a treat for everyone in the family and will leave you wishing you could eat here again and again.

Dave & Buster’s

So if the pizza restaurant doesn’t work as a bribe or a treat for your kids then this chain restaurant definitely will. Dave & Busters is more about fun than food but who cares when there is so much fun to be had. Gigantic game rooms are stacked with a variety of games for all age groups and skills. You can easily fill hours with games and activities that will keep your kids smiling and wear them out. And you can grab a cocktail and unwind in your own way, whether your idea of relaxing is sitting back and watching the fun or joining in and playing along. As far as the food, Dave and Buster’s has a lot of variety and if you choose carefully you can find good, healthy choices for everyone.

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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Romantic honeymoon location, Niagara Falls doesn’t usually come to mind as the first place to take your family vacation, but it’s actually a wonderful place for a family trip. The area is not simply waterfalls but many other excursions packed into one tourist Mecca, there’s even a learning experience or two. The falls themselves get the heart racing and for some it stirs a romantic sensation but for others the feeling is pulse pounding excitement. One of the best ways to experience the falls is with a trip behind the magnificent waterfalls.

Journey Behind the Falls

Journey Behind the Falls is an incredible way to view the waterfalls, it’s a private tour behind the scenes if you will. The thunderous roar of the falls is even more thrilling from the other side of the curtain of water as you travel deep behind the Horseshoe Falls. Elevators take you 150 feet down through rock to the Cataract Portal and the Great Falls Portal which gives you a view from the upper and lower observation decks.  As you’re watching, remember that you’re watching one fifth of the world’s fresh water crashing around you. In the winter months it’s a little chilly behind the falls but it’s something that isn’t to be missed as the mist around you freezes into ice formations that are as unique and incredible as snowflakes. In the summer months you can expect to get a little wet but you’ll receive a souvenir biodegradable rain poncho to provide some protection.

Maid of the Mist

If you’re a little afraid of heading behind the curtain of water, how about viewing it from the water below on the Maid of the Mist. As one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America the Maid of the Mist has been in operation since 1846 and gives visitors an up close and personal view of the waterfalls as they crash into the water around you. The ride takes you past the Canadian docks to the base of the American falls and then onto the basin of the Canadian Horseshow Falls. Unfortunately the Maid of the Mist only runs in the summer months but that’s probably best because you’re bound to get a little wet on this trip.

Niagara Skywheel

So you’ve either seen the falls from the front or back at fall level, how about a view from the sky? The Niagara Skywheel is an amazing way to gaze and the magnificent falls from one of the tallest Ferris wheels in North America, standing a full 175 feet in the air. Not only do you get to take in the spectacular waterfalls, both the Horseshoe and American Falls, but you also get to see the surrounding Niagara River area. On this ride you wont get wet, even if its raining, each cabin on the Ferris wheel is completely enclosed and climate controlled so you’ll be cozy and comfortable and you’ll also feel a little more secure for those of you who feel a little trepidation at the sight of the Niagara Skywheel so high in the sky with the water so far below.

Skylon Tower

Another great way to glimpse the incredible Niagara Falls from the sky is on the Skylon Tower. The tower offers you even another view of the American Falls and Horseshoe Falls but it also gives a broader view of the area encompassing the Great Gorge, the Niagara wine district, and the skylines of Buffalo, New York and Toronto. The Skylon Tower features enclosed exterior elevators which take you to the top in a speedy 52 seconds, uncovering all of the sites are you are swept upward. At the top of the tower are two revolving restaurants so you can relax and take in the complete 360 degree view while having a fine dining experience.

Niagara Falls Aviary/Bird Kingdom

The Niagara Falls Aviary or Bird Kingdom is housed in one of the first poured concrete buildings ever made in Canada, the Spirella Corset Factory from 1907. The building has been many things in its lifetime but it wasn’t until 2000 that it grew and became the Bird Kingdom. The Aviary is filling with winged creatures and is a thrilling experience for people of every age. There are a huge variety of habitats to explore including the small aviary, nocturnal birds, java house, a reptile zone, a macaw market and much more. If you’re a true bird enthusiast you should check the website to see if you can get an enhanced experience with one of their educational and specialty programs, an encounter experience, or the free flight bid show that is a must for all visitors.

Butterfly Conservatory

The Butterfly Conservatory offers more winged creatures but these ones are pin-drop silent as they drift and glide through the air. It’s a welcome respite after the thunderous roar of Niagara Falls, simply relax and let their graceful beauty envelope you as you wait for one of them to alight on you. The Butterfly Conservatory is home to more than 2000 tropical butterflies and equally brilliant and exotic greenery. Spend hours wandering through the rainforest like setting which, of course, includes a waterfall. At the Emergence window you can watch butterfly pupae emerge and take their first flight. This is the perfect way to wind down after an exciting day at the falls.

Marineland

With water abound Marineland seems an obvious choice for a family excursion when visiting Niagara Falls. Marineland plays host to a wide variety of sea creatures and has a little bit of something for everyone. Trained animals, including killer whales, entertain the crowds with choreographed performances. But beyond the staged attractions there is so much more. Educational experiences are yours for the taking to enrich your visit. Imagine your child’s (or your) excitement as you get the rare opportunity to interact with a beluga whale at the feeding and touching experience.  And there’s even a wild amusement park included in Marineland which features unlimited rides for guests looking to get a big thrill out of their day.

Both the Canadian and American sides of Niagara Falls offers an exciting experience that starts with the heart pounding thunderous roar of Mother Nature and then ends with more than a handful of exciting activities for the entire family to explore, whether natural or manmade.

This post originally came from Kathika Travel Blog. Stop by and read our most popular travel blog posts.

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