Family vacation destination: San Diego

If you’re looking for a family vacation destination, why not consider San Diego? The southern California city is known for having great weather and beaches, along with a laid-back atmosphere. There are a few downsides—for example, San Diego is one of the most congested cities in the country as far as traffic and roadways. San Diego is also a pretty expensive destination, which is true for most … [Read more...]

Skiing Sugar Bowl Ski Resort with kids

Growing up in Northern California, Sugar Bowl Ski Resort was my hands-down favorite. I loved the front face of Mt. Lincoln, with its exciting dips and gullies, and the historic lodge reminded me I was truly in a Tahoe of a different era. I didn't get back to Sugar Bowl for a long time, and when I did, I found that much had changed...in all the right ways. The historic lodge is still there; it's … [Read more...]

Winter holiday season at Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows

We've reviewed Squaw Valley in the past, and the info linked is still relevant, helping you plan your Squaw Valley ski trip! But we're in the heart of the holiday season at Squaw Valley right now, and it's amazing! For a taste of what this iconic ski resort is like during the festive holiday season, read on! Holiday season at Squaw Valley: For our family, spending the holidays at a ski resort … [Read more...]

Two days in Joshua Tree National Park and Indian Cove Campground with Kids

Joshua Tree National Park is a gem! With a higher elevation than our other favorite desert camping location, Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree offers a desert experience with more vegetation, wildflowers, and of course, Joshua Tree’s fabled rock climbing boulders. You don’t have to be rock climbers to enjoy it, though you’ll see plenty of that ilk. Our kids absolutely loved the freedom of … [Read more...]

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and Mt. San Jacinto State Park

If you have a few days in Palm Springs, a trip to the Aerial Tramway  is well-worth your time. This ‘world’s largest rotating tram’ takes visitors from the desert floor to over 8,000 feet in elevation to Mt. San Jacinto State Park in just a few minutes. The tram ride itself is fun for everyone (even those who experience ski resort gondolas and trams often), but the real gem is at the top. Mt. San … [Read more...]

Three west coast trip must-visit destinations for families

The west coast of the USA is one of the most stunning road trips in the world. It is a trip that offers so much: ferry rides in the Puget Sound, hikes through the redwood forests in Oregon, wine-tasting in Napa Valley, the windy roads of San Francisco, beach lounging on Cannon Beach, the bright lights of Las Vegas, and amazing coastal drives for hours. Below are three west coast trip … [Read more...]

One week in San Diego with kids: San Diego itinerary

San Diego is one of our favorite spring destinations: it's warm, offers up both beaches and culture, and can be affordable for a week-long visit. Here's what not to miss with kids during a one week San Diego itinerary: As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and … [Read more...]

Budget-friendly Spring Break destinations you haven’t thought of

Planning a Spring Break vacation? With only a week or so off school, it can be hard to find a vacation that's both easy to plan and easy on the wallet. Below, we have over a dozen ideas throughout the US, Caribbean, and Mexico for budget-friendly Spring Break destinations. Desert destinations: An easy way to enjoy a warm-weather vacation while saving money is to head to the desert instead of to … [Read more...]

Tahoe with kids: Skiing Alpine Meadows

Planning to go to Tahoe with kids? Alpine Meadows, located between Truckee and Lake Tahoe, California, has some of the best skiing in the Tahoe area. Plus, it's rarely crowded and always easy to navigate with kids in tow. Often overshadowed by Squaw Valley, the two resorts are now on the same 'team'; one lift ticket now allows families to explore both mountains (connected by 15 minute shuttle … [Read more...]

Tahoe with kids: Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort review

When we visit Lake Tahoe, we visit for the skiing, and we tend to stay slopeside at ski resorts. However, there's a lot to do in North Lake Tahoe in the winter and summer that does not involve downhill skiing! If your family prefers lakeside relaxation, snow play, Tahoe dining, or summer Tahoe beach-going, hiking, and mountain biking, stay at the lakeshore instead of in ski … [Read more...]