 |
|
Posts Tagged ‘hiking’
Thursday, January 6th, 2011
Located on one of the most spectacular spots of real estate in the world, everything at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona seems to have been created to allow the scenic landscape take center stage.
Sedona’s famed Enchantment Resort
An Enchanting Welcome
The minute we arrived at Enchantment, someone was there with a warm welcome to walk us to check-in. There was no ornate, grand entrance to the hotel’s lobby. Instead, natural elements like stonework, vibrant green vines, colorful flowers, and cyprus trees led to an unobtrusive stucco building. The children were greeted with a gift bag filled with a stuffed toy coyote and a coloring or puzzle book. You can warm up by the fire in over-sized leather chairs in the lounge here before dinner or duck into the game room to watch television or play board games with the kids.
Entrance to the Enchantment Resort lobby
Boynton Canyon Hiking Trails
One of my favorite memories from this trip was hiking the Vista Trail with just my little girl, Karissa. We paused to stare at tiny wildflowers, note the strange purplish hue of the prickly pear cactus fruits, and guess where our room was from where we stood on the trail. Karissa kept asking if we could take Sedona home with us. When I asked her what she meant, she said, “I want to keep it and put it in our back yard because it’s soooo pretty here!”
There are several hiking trails accessible from Enchantment. Two of Sedona’s most beloved trails are located just behind Mii amo Spa. Head to the left for Boynton Canyon Trail, which is 2.4 miles each way. Go to the right to hike Vista Trail up to Kachina Woman rock formation, which stands guard over one of Sedona’s famous energy vortexes. This hike should take about 20 minutes up and 15 minutes down, unless you are hiking with a five-year-old, then it takes longer! Both were too rigorous for my two-and-a-half-year-old to hike for any distance.
My daughter beaming with pride at the top of Vista Trail below Kachina Woman rock formation
Camp Coyote
Our daughter begged to go back to Camp Coyote after her half-day adventure here. This kids’ camp is for children ages four to 12. Choose from half-day or full-day camps plus summer evening camps. The camp is renowned for incorporating its natural surroundings and the Native American heritage of the area into its activities. Campers might take guided nature walks where they learn about Boynton Canyon’s plants, insects, mule and white-tailed deer, jackrabbits, and other inhabitants. Or they might do sand painting, weave dream catchers or design arrowhead necklaces. Standard kids’ camp fun is available too in the form of trucks, toys, and craft projects.
Camp Coyote
Mii amo Spa
This spa is located on the same property as Enchantment Resort and is open to Enchantment guests but is also a destination spa with guest rooms of its own. From sunrise stretches to medicine walks, aqua aerobics, and cooking demonstrations…activities and lectures abound at Mii amo. I didn’t get a chance to try any of these out, but I was able to indulge in a massage at this world-renowned spa. The facilities are nearly as stunning as the setting. After my treatment I took a dip in the indoor pool with its soothing fountains. Then I relaxed in the outdoor hot tub while staring at the breathtaking view of Boynton Canyon, overwhelmed with a feeling of gratitude to experience such beauty.
Indoor and outdoor pools with a spectacular view at Mii amo Spa
Dining Options
Two of the onsite restaurants feature expansive windows to allow diners to gape at the gorgeous red rocks in which the resort is nestled. One of the most upscale dining options in all of Sedona is located here, Yavapai Restaurant, which offers 180-degree views of Boynton Canyon.
We had dinner one night at Tii Gavo, the more casual dining option at Enchantment. With its candlelight and swanky bar-like atmosphere, this would make a lovely date night option. However, eating here with our noisy young children was like leading a marching band blaring through a church as my husband and I (unsuccessfully) attempted to keep our offspring from annoying the other diners. The mushroom empanadas appetizer was the star of the meal with its earthy mushrooms, flaky crust, and tasty tomatillo sauce.
Mushroom Empanada at Tii Gavo
A third restaurant is available at neighboring Mii amo Spa. Since the spa is for guests 16 and older, don’t plan to bring little kiddies here to eat. Before my spa treatment I enjoyed a quiet solo lunch at Mii amo Cafe of miso soup and a salmon Caesar salad. Everything was fresh, light, and delicious -the picture-perfect spa cuisine.
Each morning, a charming bucket of orange juice and a USA Today is delivered to resort guests. We brought a few breakfast items with us and supplemented them with coffee made in-room and a couple of room service items, which saved on time and money. Try the homemade granola – it’s heavenly!
Morning delivery of orange juice and the paper
Accommodations
Guest rooms are designed for comfort at Enchantment. If you are traveling with children and can afford a glorious upgrade, I suggest booking a casita. Our one-bedroom casita was decked out with a patio and outdoor barbecue plus my kids’ favorite, a gas-powered fireplace around which we warmed our tootsies after chilly fall hikes.
The eat-in kitchen featured a stove, microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, pots, pans, dishes, eating utensils, and even a toaster. The spacious family room was so large and comfy; it felt more like a home than a hotel. The Murphy bed was more restful than a sofa pull-out and took up no space when stowed away. The bedroom had two queen-sized beds and a second television plus its own bathroom.
My kids warming up by our in-room fireplace
So, Is It Worth the Splurge?
Although there are more affordable accommodation options in Sedona, I think Enchantment Resort is worth a splurge. My husband announced during our stay, “I never want to leave here.” I asked him why and he said, “Because it’s beautiful and there’s a fireplace and even the soap smells good. Seriously, there are no worries here.” (The soap, by the way, was made with olive oil and it did smell really, really good!)
This is the most upscale resort in Sedona. Could you stay somewhere for less money? Yes. But you come to Sedona to stand in awe of something bigger than yourself, to breathe in fresh air, listen to the sounds of gravel crunching beneath your feet, climb to the top of something majestic, and forget about your inbox, laundry, and to-do list for awhile. Staying at Enchantment submerses you in all that beauty and relaxation. Isn’t that the point?
What resort do you think is worth the splurge? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• A Mommy-Daughter Vacation in Puerto Rico
• Phoenix Restaurants Worthy of Craving
• Quiznos Giveaway – New Year, New You, New Travel Plans!
• Sedona, Arizona – Beyond Imagination
A Note from The Travel Mama: The Enchantment Resort provided my family with complimentary accommodations, our dinner at Tii Gavo, and my spa treatment. I always provide my honest opinion, no matter who’s footing the bill.
Tags: Arizona, Camp Coyote, Enchantment Resort, hiking, kids' club, Mii Amo, pool, Sedona, spa, Tii Gavo
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews | 7 Comments »
Tuesday, November 2nd, 2010
I had never been to Maine before. I expected gorgeous scenery, walks in the woods, and delicious seafood in Freeport. I didn’t know by the end of my trip I’d be dreaming of someday moving to a town like this on the East Coast. Here are some tips to make the most of a weekend escape to the lovely town of Freeport, Maine.
Pick the Right Travel Companion
When Hilton Garden Inn invited me and a guest to Freeport for a weekend, I wasn’t sure who to bring. Lacking in childcare, a romantic getaway with my husband wasn’t possible. For a two-night vacation, it was not practical to bring one of my kids at their respective ages of five and two for such long coast-to-coast travel from our home in California.
I could invite a friend, but this would not be the typical girlfriend getaway filled with spa treatments and nightclubs. I wanted a travel companion with whom I could talk for hours and go for long walks in the woods, without feeling uptight, uncomfortable, or bored. My husband said, “Take Erin. I’ve never seen you laugh as much as you do when you’re with her.”
Erin and I met nearly 20 years ago. We share a birthday separated by one year. My second child and her first baby had the same due date. We were roommates during college and spent weeks backpacking through Europe together one summer. Now she and I see each other about twice a year, when she accompanies her husband to an annual conference in San Diego and when I return home to the Phoenix area every Thanksgiving.
Erin and I landed in Portland after sleepless red-eye flights on a rainy, gusty day. When my umbrella flipped inside out and my travel neck pillow flew across the parking lot, Erin broke into hysterics. I knew then it was going to be a good weekend, no matter the rain or lack of sleep.
The welcoming lobby at the Hilton Garden Inn Freeport
Choose the Right Place to Stay
The Hilton Garden Inn Freeport is about a half-hour drive from the airport in Portland. This hotel was named the #1 mid-scale full service hotel for eight of the past nine years by J.D. Power & Associates. I can see why. The lobby with a fire burning in a central hearth surrounded by cozy chairs was a welcome reprieve from the howling “Nor-Easter” winds. In the evenings, guests flock here for drinks from the bar and lively conversations.
The hotel’s indoor pool and hot tub beckoned but Erin didn’t bring a swimsuit. TRAVEL MAMA TIP: Always, always, always bring a swimsuit! It takes up almost no space in your luggage and you never know when it might come in handy!
This Hilton Garden Inn has the welcoming feel of a country bed & breakfast, but with the amenities and privacy of a larger hotel. It is centrally located, making it easy to walk to Freeport’s darling downtown. We were there long before check-in so we lingered over our breakfast of made-to-order omelets and scrumptious cinnamon rolls in the onsite café. We downed a carafe of coffee each.
Indoor pool at Hilton Garden Inn Freeport
Shop Like Crazy
Sufficiently caffeinated, we decided to brave the blustery, wet conditions outside. Sort-of. We asked the front desk to call a cab to drive us two blocks so we could go shopping.
Freeport draws visitors from nearby and faraway for its quaint, walk-able downtown and its surplus of outlet stores and unique boutiques. Outlet shopping options include Coach Factory, Gymboree, Banana Republic, and oh so much more!
We spent oodles of time exploring the town’s centerpiece, L.L. Bean’s Flagship Store. This massive complex full of comfy clothes and outdoorsy supplies could keep any shopper or warmth-seeking tourist happy and entertained for hours.
Erin making a fishy face in a pop-up bubble in the L.L. Bean trout and salmon filled aquarium
Enjoy the Outdoors
Hailing from Arizona and Southern California respectively, Erin and I were enthralled by the vibrant fall foliage during our October visit. We wandered across the street from our hotel to get a closer peek at the amber, russet, and scarlet leaves. There we stumbled upon Leon Gorman Park, a surprising patch of wilderness situated between a parking lot and neighborhood homes. It is owned by none other than L.L. Bean. We wandered through its trails, saying things like, “Can you believe how pretty this is?” and “Wow!”
Another day, we couldn’t decide between two local farms that offer nature trails, so we asked the gal at the Hilton Garden Inn front desk which was prettier. We were not disappointed with our choice to visit Wolfe’s Neck Farm per her suggestion. Find out why our visit brought tears to my eyes in this post about the Fall Festival at Wolfe’s Neck Farm.
The other choice, Pineland Farms in nearby New Gloucester sounds just as appealing with its public garden, pond stocked for fishing and maintained for ice-skating in the winter, horseback riding, tours of their creamery, and onsite café.
You can experience the outdoors in and around Freeport by kayaking, fly-fishing, canoeing, and camping in warmer months plus snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the winter. L.L. Bean offers numerous classes and tours for adventures like these through their Outdoor Discovery Schools.
In the winter, families can gather at Leon Gorman Park for ice skating on this pond
Get to Know the Locals
We became pretty well-acquainted with our cab driver, Dan, during our short stay. He owns AB Cab Company, the only taxi in town. It’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and Dan only recently hired two more drivers to help him out. He said he loves driving around town meeting folks like us so much, it doesn’t feel like work to him.
One night when our dinner seemed to take too long, Dan had started to drive back to our restaurant to check on us before we had a chance to call him for our return trip to the hotel. He wanted to be sure we got back safe and sound. He was a wonderful resource for where to eat, shop, and play during our visit.
Erin and I having a few glasses of wine in the Hilton Garden Inn Freeport lobby
Slow Down and Catch Up
A getaway to Freeport provides the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and with your travel mate, whether vacationing with your honey, your children, or a close friend.
During our weekend away, Erin and I stayed up late chatting over glasses of wine, slept in late (a glorious indulgence for parents with little kids!), ate lots of yummy food, and hiked through the woods. And we talked. A lot.
Erin and I don’t talk on the phone much. As busy moms, phone calls don’t seem to make it into the schedule. When we do talk, it’s hard to make it past the standard stuff. How is potty training coming along? How’s your volunteer work going? Have you decided on a preschool?
With some friends, after catching up on the kids, the husbands, and the latest gossip – the conversation runs dry. You start wracking your brain for topics yet uncovered. With good friends, after the initial chitchat is over, that’s when the really good talks start. That’s when you open up about the stuff that hurts, the stuff that makes your heart soar, the stuff you don’t tell most people. That’s how it was this weekend.
Dream of Freeport
Maybe it was the company or the break from the fun, but chaotic duties of parenting that have me daydreaming about my trip to Freeport. But something about this experience has gotten a hold of me. I love my Southern California life, but I now find myself longing to live in a place with distinct seasons, where hiking trails are stumbled upon, and where the beauty of nature is ever-present.
Win a Hilton Garden Inn Getaway
Would you like to escape for a weekend getaway at a Hilton Garden Inn like Erin and I did? You can! Enter to win a two-night stay plus breakfast for a family of four at ANY Hilton Garden Inn in the WORLD. Enter once per day through November 7, 2010.
You might also like:
• Fall Beauty at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine
• Plan a Girlfriend Getaway…and Appreciate Home More
• 7 Tips for a Fabo Cabo Girlfriend Getaway
• Win a Weekend Getaway to Any Hilton Garden Inn in the World
A note from The Travel Mama: The Hilton Garden Inn Freeport sponsored my weekend getaway to Maine and this giveaway. Want to know more about my stay in Freeport? Check back later this week for my story about food, drinks, and sweets in Freeport.
Tags: Freeport, girlfriend getaway, hiking, Hilton Garden Inn, indoor pool, L.L. Bean, Leon Gorman Park, Maine, Pineland Farms, shopping, Wolfe's Neck Farm
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways, Hotel Reviews | 10 Comments »
Thursday, October 28th, 2010
America’s state parks, reserves, and beaches enable families to connect with nature. Unfortunately, the future of America’s natural treasures is being threatened by budget cuts and lack of funds. Here are three of my favorite family-friendly nature spots in my adopted home state of California.
Redwood tree in Pfeiffer State Park, Big Sur
Best Place to Forget Your Worries
A California park that holds special memories for me is Pfeiffer State Park in Big Sur. As a Midwest girl by birth, while I love the sandy, palm-lined landscape of San Diego, I often long for walks in the woods. I want to breathe in the scent of pine, hear leaves crunching underfoot, and feel small in the shade of big trees.
My husband, Phil, and I visited Big Sur a few years ago during the sixth month of a stressful pregnancy and amidst the shocking beginning of what has been a financially rocky few years for our family. My mom watched our toddler daughter while Phil and I took a respite our troubles for a few days. Escaping to this breathtaking spot of nature’s beauty gave us time to breathe, to connect, to remember why we had chosen each other before there were children and the weight of constant worry.
Big trees were what I was looking for, and that’s just what I found at Pfeiffer State Park. In addition to Conifers, Oaks, Sycamores, Cottonwoods, Maples, Alders and Willows, this park is home to redwoods, the tallest tree species in the world. Redwoods can grow up to 360 feet in height! Standing next to something that huge, that beautiful…reminded me how insignificant my problems were compared to largeness of the world.
Hiking with my daughter at Torrey Pines State Reserve in 2007
Where to Experience Southern California’s Natural Beauty
One of my family’s favorite spots to connect with nature is at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla. On weekends you can often find us hiking one of the Torrey Pines State Reserve’s eight trails. My favorite is Beach Trail, which descends over three-quarters of a mile from its cliff top to the beach. It provides gorgeous, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. That hike tends to be a bit too much for our two-and-a-half-year-old, so we often stick to the easiest path, Guy Fleming Trail, a more manageable two-third mile loop.
No matter which trail you choose, all provide an opportunity to experience Southern California’s indigenous beauty. The reserve is named for the rare, twisted Torrey Pine Trees. You can also spot Yucca, Prickly Pear Cactus, and colorful wildflowers. If you’re lucky, you may even see California Gray Whales on their migration between the Bering Sea and Mexico.
My husband and daughter splashing in the waves at Torrey Pines State Beach, La Jolla in 2008
Favorite Family-Friendly Beach
During the summer, we lay out a blanket and picnic lunch on the beach below the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve at Torrey Pines State Beach. For eye-candy and an eclectic party vibe, head to Pacific Beach or Ocean Beach. For a pristine, upscale beach, head to South Beach on Coronado, which stretches out before the famed Hotel del Coronado. But if you want a laid-back, family-friendly beach scene, come to Torrey Pines State Beach.
This is my family’s favorite beach in San Diego County. We love its long stretch of sandy shoreline set against the beautiful backdrop of the reserve’s cliff. It doesn’t hurt that it’s a ten-minute drive from our house!
Proposition 21
A rallying cry was sent out by my friend and fellow travel blogger, Bridget A. Smith of Family Adventure Guidebooks, to help save California’s state parks and conservation efforts by supporting Proposition 21. According to the California Voters’ Guide, “A YES vote on this measure means: An $18 annual surcharge would be added to the amount paid when a person registers a motor vehicle. The surcharge revenues would be used to provide funding for state park and wildlife conservation programs. Vehicles subject to the surcharge would have free admission and parking at all state parks.”
This proposition will keep California’s parks, beaches, and other natural reserves open and safe for residents and visitors. Learn more about about Proposition 21 on YesForStateParks.com. Read more blog posts supporting California’s State Parks on Trekaroo’s Spotlight Thursday: State Parks Edition.
Do you tweet? If so, join me on Monday, November 1, 2010 at a Twitter Party to support America’s state and national parks, 6 to 7 pm PST. Just follow the #TMOM hashtag. Learn more now.
What is your favorite family-friendly place to connect with nature? Please leave your thoughts about nature conservation in America and beyond in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Fall Beauty at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine
• 5 of California’s Best & Most Diverse Beaches
• How to Camp with Kids
• Yosemite Kid-Sized Adventures
Tags: beach, Big Sur, California, hiking, Pfeiffer State Park, places to connect with nature, Proposition 21, Torrey Pines State Beach, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Posted in Family Vacations | 6 Comments »
Thursday, September 2nd, 2010
I have a love affair with islands. No matter where I go in the world, from Shelter Island that’s almost in my backyard, to more far-flung locales - islands conjure up a dreamy melding of adventure, romance and relaxing satisfaction. Here are five of my favorite isles.
1. The Azores, Portugal
The nine islands that make up the Azores are a delightful mix of the traditional and the contemporary, along with plenty of dazzling and quirky features. Each island has a distinct personality and I’ll give you my take on just a few.
The town of Furnas on Sao Miguel is a land of boiling hot springs, steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools. Don’t miss watching the locals and the staff of the Terra Nostra Garden Hotelcooking pots of cozido, a stew of chicken, sausage, beef, cabbage and kale, in the hot earth alongside the lake. Then have a hearty bowl for lunch and afterwards, take a romantic stroll through the garden past exotic plants and rocky grottoes.
On Faial, you’ve got a wonderful contrast of the lively port city of Hortawhere the quayside’s walls are decorated withbold murals painted by visiting yachtsmen, the twisty roads edged withtall hydrangea hedgerows and the stark western edge of the island where abandoned houses poke above the thick black ash, thanks to volcanic eruptions fin the late 1950s.
I’m a cheese lover and that made Sao Jorge a perfect visit. Sao Jorge has eight factories and, when I visited one, I observed milk being delivered, learned how cheese is manufactured, and even got a taste of the tangy product.
2. Sardinia, Italy
On Sardinia’s less developed west coast, the picturesque town of Alghero makes a perfect base for a multi-day trip. Rather than settling on my beach blanket day after day, I did a self-guided audio tour where I climbed the 70-foot-high terrace of the 16th century Porto Terra Tower for panoramic views. Then, I rented a bicycle – though you could just as easily drive the route – and peddled to Palmavera Nuraghe to explore the ruins of this prehistoric village.
Farther along, the little-visited Regional Forest of Porto Conte – appropriately dubbed Noah’s Ark – has some curious creatures wandering about, including white donkeys, petite horses, and Tibetan goats. Though most visitors sign up for a boat tour to reach the famous Grotto di Nettune with its cave network, a more memorable journey for me was walking the 654 steps of the Goat’s Stairway down the cliff face.
3. Corsica, France
Most people flock to accommodations along Corsica’s coast, but I found that walking, hiking, and driving in the mountainous interior provided a more authentic experience. In even the most remote areas, you’ll come upon a village, like Casamaccioli, that provides some of the most spectacular views of the island’s high peaks. Because some villages are situated far from markets, another unusual feature that you’ll find are grocery trucks that stop like school buses, bringing produce to the locals.
One of my favorite and, again, off-the-beaten-track areas of Corsica is La Balagne where an artisan’s route allows you to drive from hamlet to hamlet where men and women are practicing age-old craft traditions, from pottery to glass blowing. A purchase at any of the workshops along the way makes for a perfect souvenir.
4. The Lofotens, Norway
With an intriguing name like Å, how could I not make this Norwegian town my ultimate destination? Making my way in the pristine Lofoten Islands from the town of Svolvaerto 19th century Å, I easily lost track of time as I passed soaring cliffs, fisherman’s huts (known as rorbuers) that are perched on stilts, as well as snug harbors.
Among the highlights of my journey to the Lofotens was eating cod fish tongue -who even knew they had tongues? I also enjoyed staying overnight in a fisherman’s hut that had a hole cut in the floor in case I needed to drop a fishing line.
5. Bozcaada, Turkey
In Turkey, Bozcaada Island inspires disparate opinions. One couple I met told me they planned to spend four days and were leaving early because there was nothing to do. Another pair thought the island would make a perfect locale for a summer house. I fall into the “wished I had more time” category of visitor.
I rented a bicycle and pedaled past old stone farmhouses and thick pine forests that open up to a long row of wind turbines. Everyone on the island flocks to Ayazmar Beach but you can bicycle to two slivers of sand, Sulubahce and Hubbele, in quiet coves that see few visitors. Other lanes wind between vineyards and even more desolate stretches of sand.
Vineyards and wine tastings are a highlight of any visit to Bozcaada but you can’t get away from the island’s history. After climbing the battlements of the island’s fortress that Venetians and Genoese once occupied, I found ancient urns, cannons, tombstones, and columns inside the walls. All of these sights plus a handful of contemporary art galleries means that a three-day stay isn’t enough time to enjoy everything Bozcaada has to offer.
Travel and food writer Jeanine Barone is a native New Yorker who travels the world looking for little visited venues. Her articles appear in National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, the Boston Globe, and a variety of other magazines and newspapers. Her blog, J The Travel Authority, is very much about what she calls hidden treasure travel (writing about boutique hotels, restaurants, galleries, shops, trails, and other sights that are often missed by many a visitor).
What is your favorite island escape? Leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• A Day on the Farm in Sicily
• Family-Friendly Singapore
• Morocco with Kids – A Unique Journey for the Senses
• The Travel Mama’s Top 3 Hidden Gem Destinations
Tags: Bozcaada, cheese, Corsica, France, hiking, islands, Italy, Jeanine Barone, Lofotens, Norway, Portugal, Sardinia, The Azores, Turkey, Vis, wine
Posted in Grown-Up Getaways | 4 Comments »
Thursday, July 29th, 2010
When you think of Washington State things that come to mind might include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Starbucks Coffee, and if you were a teen during the 90s, maybe The Real World on Pier 70. As much as I enjoy all of these wonderful Washington icons, I hope tourists come to see more than just Seattle in my home state. Some of my favorite destinations are just an hour or two from Seattle and can fit easily into a day trip while visiting the Emerald City.
At the foothills of Washington’s majestic Mount Rainier
Visit a Volcano – Mount Rainier or Mount Saint Helens (2 – 3½ Hours South of Seattle)
The sleeping beauties Mount Saint Helens and Mount Rainier are breathtaking from afar and even more so up close. Each mountain has something different to offer.
If you enjoy historical trips, visit Mount Saint Helens to learn about that fateful day of the volcano’s eruption in 1980. As you travel towards the mountain you will see how the land was forever changed and how it has re-grown to what it is today. Even in just the last few years Mt. Saint Helens has begun forming a new dome and is considered the most active volcano in the Cascades.
Love to hike or looking for some snow? Visit Mount Rainier in the winter for skiing or in the spring for endless fields of flowers and a true Kodak moment. This sleeping volcano has not erupted in over 150 years but could erupt again in our lifetime.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma
Tacoma & Gig Harbor (40 Minutes South of Seattle)
Tacoma, a popular destination for both locals and tourists, has many activities to offer. Pack a lunch and spend the day at Point Defiance Park with its beautiful five-mile drive or visit the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.
Head to downtown Tacoma for a delicious variety of restaurants such as the Old Spaghetti factory, the Melting Pot, or if you’re looking for a premiere steakhouse and you’re not afraid to dish out a Benjamin Franklin, then El Gaucho will suit your taste. Before or after your meal, visit the world-renowned Dale Chihuly Museum of Glass to take a look at beautiful art that will even inspire the little ones. Make your way to the “Hot Shop” studio where you can watch the artists firsthand as they blow glass into masterpieces.
Cross over the Narrows Bridge from Tacoma for a visit to picturesque Gig Harbor. This small, but growing city lines the waters of the Puget Sound and has a very walk-able downtown. Ever heard of Galloping Gertie? That was the name of the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge that now lies under the water – which fell down due to high winds and structural failure in 1940. A new bridge was built soon after, which was named the Tacoma Narrow and in 2009 they added a second Narrows above the replacement bridge.
State Capital Building in Olympia
Visit the Capital (1 Hour South of Seattle)
My hometown, Olympia, is Washington’s capital city and boasts culture, clean streets, and activities for the whole family. The State Capital, summer water fountain and waterfront boardwalk are all FREE and can be done in a day. Olympia also has plenty of fun parks for the kids and the Chehalis Western Trail has more than 44 scenic miles dedicated to biking, walking, or jogging.
The Coast (2 Hours 45 Minutes from Seattle)
Although we don’t have beaches that make you want to whip out the suntan lotion and towels, Washington coast lines are majestic and can’t be beat for kite flying! Head Northwest to Port Angeles or drive Southwest to Ocean Shores for a day of building sand castles, horseback riding, or Geoduck hunting (pronounced gooey duck). If you’re thinking a Geoduck goes “Quack Quack,” you’re quite mistaken. This native clam is harvested from deep in the sand and is considered a delicacy in Asian countries.
Welcome to the Evergreen State!
These Northwest locations are just a small sampling of what Washington has to offer. Other sites that might pique your interest include the Yakima desert, the deepest lake in North America (Lake Chelan), and the Grand Coulee Dam. I know Washington will wow you with its vast array of sights to see all in one beautiful state!
Crystal is married and raising her two young children in the beautiful Northwest, all while bringing her family along on adventures around the world and around the corner! She loves sharing travel tips, reviews, and advice on her blog Travelers Barista.
What is your favorite thing to do in Washington? Please leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• A Family that Bicycles Together…Sees the World Together
• Dream Trips on a Budget
• 5 of California’s Best & Most Diverse Beaches
• Orange County with Kids – Beyond Disneyland
Tags: aquarium, beach, dale chihuly museum of glass, hiking, Seattle, volcano, Washington, zoo
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways | 4 Comments »
Thursday, April 29th, 2010
One of the things I love most about living in California is being in such close proximity to some of the most amazing beaches in the world. Even after 32 years of life near the coast, my breath is still taken away every time I round a bend and get that first glimpse of the ocean. As I have lived in and explored both Northern and Southern California, I have grown to especially love the diversity that our coast holds. Here are five very different but very spectacular California Beaches.
Ultimate Southern California Beach – Santa Monica Beach & Pier
This is the prototypical Southern California beach: palm trees swaying, wide expanses of sand, and surfers searching for the perfect wave. Santa Monica ups the ante and includes a picture perfect pier complete with Ferris wheel, surfside dining, and sunglass-sporting salesmen hawking photo opps with a cutout version of your favorite star. It’s the perfect beach to get active whether you rent a bike and go for a ride or bring a volley ball and hit the courts. Feeling lazy? Pick your preferred parcel of sand and catch some rays while the little ones perfect their castle-making skills.
Most Majestic Beach – Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
This scenic beach is not what comes to mind when people think of California. Way up in Humbolt County, California takes on a new identity. One of my favorite beaches here is Gold Bluffs. The beach itself is wide and sandy, but it is often shrouded by fog and its waters can be described as bone-chilling at best. Elk can be spotted on the beach and there is an amazing fern and Redwood filled hike right near the shore.
Best Beaches for Spotting Wildlife – Beaches of Point Reyes
The beaches on Point Reyes are so rugged and remote, it’s hard to believe they are less than thirty miles from San Francisco. Kayaking, hiking, and wildlife-viewing are just some of the activities families can enjoy while on this incredible stretch of beach. On our last visit we saw both elephant seals and Tule elk. On one side of the point, thunderous waves crash down onto the sandy shores while on the other, the calm water of Tomales Bay provide the perfect place to get out and paddle.
Best Old School Beach – Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove is a great place to get a glimpse of what Southern California beaches looked like nearly a century ago. Most of the park is still wild and there isn’t a single multi-million dollar home occupying the bluffs above the ocean. There are only a few beach bungalows on one section of the beach. These are historic properties from the 1930s and ‘40s, which are available for rent through the State Park system at a very reasonable rate. There is also a fun restaurant right on the sand and a shake shack at the top of the hill so you don’t have to leave the beach or pack a meal while you are there. There is no surfing at Crystal Cove but there is plenty of scuba diving, water play, and tide pooling. My kids love searching for sea stars and hermit crabs in the pools that gather around the rocks.
Best Beach for a Sunset Stroll - Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Magic happens on a point near where Monterey Bay ends and Big Sur begins. Cypress trees reveal their enchanting, twisted beauty as they cling to rocky cliffs above the sea. The ocean produces the most amazing blues and greens before it rears back and crashes into the shore. Children will love spotting the seals, sea lions, sea otters, and countless birds that call this area home. There are fantastic coastal walks that lead you along some of the most breathtaking coast California has to offer. It is said that Point Lobos is the “greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” After spending the day at this beach, it’s hard to disagree.
Sharlene Earnshaw is an Orange County, CA based writer who loves nothing more than to travel with her husband and three-year-old twins and then share their adventures on her blog, Double The Adventure. She has written about everything from a three-week summer road trip across the Western U.S. and Canada to local hikes and day trips. You can also find her on Trekaroo where she has recently taken on the role as Blog Editor in Chief.
What is your favorite beach? Leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• 5 Yosemite Kid-Sized Adventures
• Orange County with Kids – Beyond Disneyland
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
Tags: beach, California, crystal cove, hiking, point lobos, point reyes, redwoods, santa monica pier
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways | 4 Comments »
Thursday, March 4th, 2010
Yosemite National Park in California has a special place in my heart. I’m lucky enough to have spent at least of couple of weeks there almost every summer thanks to a family cabin in the park. As an adult, I have now begun to relive some of my most cherished childhood experiences with my kids (ages five and two).
Whether you’ve never been before or have visited annually since you were a kid, there’s always something to discover in Yosemite. My husband and I are especially keen on low-cost, off-the-beaten-path activities that are fun for the little ones. Here’s how you can enjoy five of our favorite Yosemite adventures:
Enjoy a stagecoach ride in Wawona’s Pioneer Yosemite History Center
1. Take a Trip Back in Time
I admit I’m partial to Wawona– a tiny town located about 10 minutes from the South entrance. It’s home to the family cabin and is a quiet refuge from the crowds that Yosemite draws every summer. Here you can stop by the historic Wawona Hotel with its enormous grass lawn that beckons you to enjoy a picnic or an afternoon snack.
Another of Wawona’s gems is the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, complete with historic structures from different eras of Yosemite history including a jail cell, blacksmith shop, and covered bridge. For just a few dollars, you can take a ride (albeit, a rather bumpy one) on a horse-drawn stagecoach with a driver who’s been giving rides since he was 14-years-old!
Insider tip: After roaming through the Pioneer History Center, cross the covered bridge and head down to the South Fork Merced River. Let the kids search for rocks to skip or dip their feet in the water. Pack a snack (or lunch) and plan to spend a few hours here.
Posing underneath the famous California Tunnel Tree at the Mariposa Grove
2. Head to the Big Trees
The Mariposa Grove, located just two miles from the South Entrance to the park, is home to roughly 500 giant sequoias. These trees are some of the largest living things on the planet. They stand so tall you’ll have to strain your neck trying to see the tops. This place inspired my oldest to utter one of his first words: “trees.”
There are hiking trails to explore as well as a one-hour tram tour. The Grove is open from April through November, weather permitting. You can reach the entrance by car or, during the summer, take advantage of the free Wawona-Mariposa Grove shuttle.
Insider tip: Skip the pricey tram ride and scout out the surroundings on foot. We usually take the short hike to two of the more famous trees in the Grove: The Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree.
Dreaming of the day he’ll become a Yosemite junior ranger
3. Become a Junior Ranger
Kids 7 through 13 can become a Yosemite Junior Ranger. This program allows kids to interact with the park at their own pace, then share their findings with a park ranger. To participate, simply buy and complete an inexpensive self-guided booklet at one of several locations throughout the park. To earn a patch, kids will also need to collect a bag of trash and attend a ranger-led program.
Insider tip: If your kids are too young to be junior rangers (like ours), you can still take advantage of ranger-led events. I always learn something new and I’ve got almost 40 years worth of visits to the park under my belt!
4. Visit the Nature Center
A visit to the Nature Center at Happy Isles is a great way to introduce kids to the plants and animals found in the park — and it’s free! There are plenty of hands-on, interactive displays, plus stuffed replicas of local wildlife. My kids love pressing the buttons to hear the sounds each animal makes.
Insider tip: Just outside the center are four short trails worth investigating. My five-year-old likes to play follow-the-leader on the short “hike” to the center from the shuttle stop. Don’t forget to stop and admire the Merced River flowing right alongside the path.
Tyke hikes need rewards, like this great waterfall view
5. Enjoy a Tyke Hike
No trip to Yosemite is complete without a hike. There’s simply no better way to see the park than on foot.
When it comes to hiking with little ones, success comes with short trails that offer big payoffs. Our favorites are the Lower Yosemite Falls trail and the path to Bridalveil Falls. If you’ve got older kids, take the steeper three-mile trek to Vernal Falls.
Insider tip: For a quieter experience, check out the Chilnualna Falls Trail in Wawona. The complete hike is more than 8 miles long, but kids will be content to stop about a quarter of a mile in, when you’re rewarded with two waterfall cascades.
Debi Huang is a Los Angeles-based wife, mom and adventure guide for two young boys. Her blog at GoExploreNature.com is all about getting kids and families outdoors and connected to nature. You can follow her on Twitter at @goexplorenature.
Do you have a favorite spot or activity in Yosemite that’s great for kids? Leave a comment below!
If you like this story, you might also like:
• Camping & Outdoor Pursuits Resources
• How to Camp with Kids
• Roar & Snore Campout at the San Diego Wild Animal Park
• The Travel Mama’s Top 3 Hidden Gem Destinations
Tags: California, hiking, junior ranger, national park, stagecoach, waterfall, wawona hotel, yosemite
Posted in Family Vacations | 5 Comments »
Thursday, February 18th, 2010
Many parents, like myself, have romanticized memories of great family camping adventures in our own childhoods, but that was a long time ago and the little details about what made those trips so fun, escapes us now. If you are one of the millions of moms or dads who is considering a family camping vacation this spring or summer, one of the issues you might be curious about is how to make camping fun and interesting to your kids.
Fortunately, these worries are more about our own insecurities and less about our children’s ability to enjoy being outdoors, as a family. Kids love the outdoors – maybe in a different way than us adults, but it’s still a genuine and honest love. One of my childhood memories is the first time I saw a banana slug in one of the redwood forests. The great, majestic old trees were of little interest to me, but those huge yellow slugs were like aliens from another planet!
My kids were just as excited as I was, at their age, when they spotted this banana slug in Oregon’s Coast Range mountains
Memories like this, from my childhood, help me to slow down and let my kids exercise their own curiosities when we are camping. If they want to stop and skip rocks across a stream, or poke a mud puddle with a stick for twenty minutes, well, our hike to the falls or the rock formation might just have to wait.
Where to Go Camping
When we, as parents, think about camping, we usually have grand visions of the great parks like Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, or the Great Smoky Mountains. These are certainly awe-inspiring destinations, but your kids will probably be just as happy in your local county or state park and they will be even happier with less time spent in the car and more time spent at the campsite.
If you are new to camping, you might be surprised to find out that your city or county may manage campgrounds. These are usually great places to take the family camping, because many other people don’t know about them, either. This makes it much easier to reserve a campsite during the busy summer months, when more popular destinations are already full. You can find out if your city or county offers campgrounds by visiting the parks and recreation section of their website.
A tent site in one of California’s many state beach campgrounds
State parks are also great family camping destinations. Many of these parks are located near outdoor recreational attractions, such as lakes, which can provide your family with additional opportunities for fun and adventure. Many state parks also offer entertainment attractions, such as music and Junior Ranger programs, throughout the summer months. You can find out more about the state parks in your area by searching on your state’s name, along with the keywords ‘state parks’.
Gear You Will Need
If you are new to camping, the last thing that you want to do is to run out and spend a lot of money on camping gear. One of the benefits of family camping during these tough economic times is that it is an inexpensive vacation. Also, if you do not have a lot of experience camping as a family it is difficult to figure out exactly what kind of gear will work best for you.
A much better alternative, and one that is offered by many reputable outdoor gear stores throughout the country, is renting your camping gear. Renting gear not only makes sense from a budgetary standpoint, it’s also a great way to tryout different types of gear before you invest in purchasing for the long term.
You will need a tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads and a camping stove. It makes sense to purchase gear that you can also use for other family activities, such as an ice chest and camping chairs. When renting gear, plan to practice setting up the tent and trying out the stove at home – both to ensure you understand how everything goes together, and to check that none of the parts are missing.
Things to Do
Hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, or roasting marshmallows around the campfire – there are a lot of fun family activities that you can look forward to, on your family camping vacation. The campground’s web page will give you some specific ideas, based on the specific activities available. They will also provide a calendar of family events, like Junior Ranger programs, if available.
Card games are an easy and fun picnic table activity
When camping with kids you can never have too many games, for those down times when everyone is relaxing at the campsite. Our kids love to play Uno® and those memory card-matching games, which are easy to pack and can be played on a picnic table. Soccer balls, Frisbees® and an inexpensive horseshoe set or ring-toss game can also keep the kids busy, around the campsite.
‘F’ is for ferns!
Venturing away from the campground usually means hiking, which can sometimes be challenging with kids. One way to add interest to a hike is to make a game out of it. Start with the letter ‘A’ and challenge your kids to spot something that begins with that letter. After they see something, go to the next letter, and so on. The alphabet scavenger hunt is also a great way to fill up a family camping scrapbook, if you take a picture of each object that your kids discover. Plan on lots of breaks and bring along plenty of trail snacks and drinks.
Have Fun
Camping with kids can be as much fun for the parents, as it is for the kids. There are few things more satisfying than watching your kids explore and experience nature. This is where memories are made; catching their first fish, seeing their first wild animals, learning to skip a rock across the water – the things they’ll brag to all their friends about, when they get back to school.
Roy Scribner helps parents experience the great outdoors with their kids at CampingBlogger.net. He is a Travel Daddy to three children, ranging in ages from five to nine. You can follow him on Twitter at @campingblogger.
Do you have any camping with kids questions or a favorite camping location/activity you’d like to share? Please leave a comment below!
For more information on this topic see:
• Camping & Outdoor Pursuits
• Roar & Snore Campout the San Diego Wild Animal Park
• The Travel Mama’s Top 3 Hidden Gem Destinations
****
Tags: camping, fishing, games, hiking, marshmallows, swimming
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 7 Comments »
Thursday, February 4th, 2010
Since Orange County, California is probably best known as the home of Disneyland, it’s easy to overlook how many other amazing things there are to do! Here are several other family-friendly activities in the OC:
Katie’s husband and sons exploring tide pools at Crystal Cove Beach
Pretend City
This is a new attraction in Orange County that is rapidly gaining attention of families. You should plan to spend an entire morning or afternoon exploring the small scale town at Pretend City. Parents can sit and relax while children work in the field (picking plastic fruit out of the cubbies in the walls), work at the café (serving pretend drinks), or performing the duties of many other occupations. The kids earn play money by performing each task. It’s a great learning experience that keeps the kids entertained for hours!
Discovery Science Center
Located in Santa Ana just off the Interstate 5, the “Discovery Cube” it is hard to miss – it’s the giant black 3-D cube next the freeway. Admission is quite inexpensive and it offers a great educational experience for the children. The Discovery Science Center alternates different learning programs every couple of months and have a number of unique exhibits that kids love!
The Irvine Park Railroad
Irvine Park
There’s so much to do here it’s hard to know where to start! With the Irvine Railroad, hiking, Orange County Zoo, pony rides, paddle boats, and more; it’s easy to be overwhelmed with choices at Irvine Park. There are numerous holiday themed activities occurring throughout the year, so be sure to check their website to see the current events scheduled.
Knott’s Berry Farm
This Orange County amusement park often gets lost in Disneyland’s shadow. With a multitude of rides, shops and other entertainment, Knott’s Berry Farm is a great value! A tip is to buy and print your tickets at home through their website to receive almost 20% in discounts for adults. They also offer AAA discounts. Be sure to say hi to Snoopy!
Santa Ana Zoo
California is very lucky to have a number of wonderful zoos, but one that frequently gets overlooked is the Santa Ana Zoo. The admission price is very affordable and has a number of attractions ranging from the Zoofari Express Train Ride and the Conservation Carousel (with endangered animals) to the Crean Family Farm and the Colors of the Amazon Aviary to Amazon’s Edge. You can spend an entire day here exploring!
Tide pools at Aliso Creek County Beach
Tide Pooling
Exploring the sea creatures and plant life in tide pools, or shallow rock pools beside the ocean, is a free and relaxing way to break up an active vacation. We have a number of beaches here in OC, but my family’s top two favorites for tide pooling are Crystal Cove California State Beach (right off Pacific Coast Highway at the Laguna Beach/Newport Beach border) and Aliso Creek County Beach/Montage Beach (south of downtown Laguna Beach).
More Fun
Other favorites if you have the chance…If you’re here in late winter/early spring, check out the whale watching boat tours that leave from Dana Point. They are spectacular! Take the ferry out to Catalina Island; it’s just a plain fun day trip! If you visit during the summer, be sure to check out Wild Rivers for a day of water slides, lazy rivers and wave action for the whole family!
Katie writes about anything and everything that pertains to families at OCMomActivities and Disneyland-specific content at KidsandMice. Katie is a busy, working mother of two boys ages eight and six. When they aren’t riding the roller coasters at Disneyland, heading to the beach, or on some other adventure, you’ll find them at home in South Orange County, CA. You can follow Katie on Twitter as @OCMomActivities or become a fan on Facebook.
What is your favorite Orange County activity? Please leave a comment below!
For more information on this topic see:
• Amusement Park & Disney Resources
• Holidays at Disneyland
• Inspiration from a Disney Expert
• Top 10 Disneyland Rides and Attractions for Babies and Toddlers
Tags: amusement park, California, carousel, hiking, Orange County, tide pooles, zoo
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 4 Comments »
Saturday, April 4th, 2009
Traveling with children is not as relaxing as seeing the world without kids. It is harder. It requires more planning. It requires more compromise. But the same is true of parenting. And the joys of parenting more than make up for the inconveniences. Children live so much in the present moment that we are forced to slow down and see things as they do…right now…right here. And that brings traveling to a whole new and exciting dimension.
A few months ago my husband, Phil, and I took our two kids on a road trip to the quaint town of Julian, California for the day. It is a town known for its abundance of apple pie shops and its country small-town-ness.
We had a quick lunch at the Cowgirl Café before savoring slices of apple pie with vanilla ice cream at Mom’s Pie House. Then we perused kitschy shops as long as the kids would allow it. The baby, Leo, began flailing his head into my chest and grunting. Our preschooler, Karissa, got that scary overtired glean in her eyes as she started tossing merchandise from shelves. This was our signal – time for naps!
The winding drive to go apple picking at a local orchard induced sleep for both kids. My husband and I lingered in the parking lot and chatted quietly while the kids dozed.
A short while later, we pushed Leo in his stroller through rows of apple trees while Karissa delighted in filling her paper sack with tiny ruby and green fruit. She zipped through the orchard, grinning through bites of apple. She cried when it was time to leave.
Next we drove to Lake Cuyamaca, a smallish lake lined by colorful fall trees. I marched ahead with the baby strapped to my tummy in his carrier. I wanted some solace from three-year-old squeals and was lacking the patience to go at a three-year-old’s pace.
At one point I was so far ahead that I could neither see Phil and Karissa behind me, nor hear any sign of them. I worried I had walked too far ahead and my daughter had gotten tired, forcing them to head back. I stopped to stare at the lake through a twinkling of golden leaves. I hugged my son to me, leaned my face into the warmth of his fuzzy head and breathed in his baby smell. I enjoyed the serenity of that moment.
But even then, I felt a tugging at me. I wanted to be with my other child too. I wanted to see her reaction to the leaves as they crunched beneath her. I longed to watch her blue-moccasined feet scamper through the grasses, arms spread like an airplane’s wings. I strained to hear those squeals I had sought to escape.
I waited.
Soon I heard, “Mommmmmy! Where aaaaaare youuuuu?!” Then I saw her, a streak of hot pink running toward me. I was greeted by a giant smile and little arms encircling my legs and stories of birds seen in the sky.
Karissa led our pack of four back down the path to our car. We rambled over rocks and roots and fallen leaves. We wound through trees, over tall grasses, around muddy puddles and past a lake dotted with tiny boats.
I witnessed, and therefore was part of, my child’s pure joy in the journey.
And that, my fellow Travel Mamas, is why traveling with children is worth the interrupted sleep, the noisy meals and the constant potty breaks.
What are your thoughts about traveling with children? Please leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• Give a Little…Get a Lot
• Romance at Disneyland
• The Travel Mama’s Top 3 Hidden Gem Destinations
• Vacation Savoring Lessons Learned in Sorrento & Pompeii
Tags: apple picking, California, hiking, Julian, Lake Cuyamaca, pie, why we travel with children
Posted in Family Vacations, Travel Tips | 8 Comments »
|
|
|
.jpg)
