The way to see Grand Teton National Park with kids: OARS Jackson Lake 2-Day Trip

When I knew my family and I would be spending time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park, I immediately looked for an OARS trip to take in the area. After our five-day Rogue River rafting trip with OARS, it was the easy choice. OARS is just that good at what they do. I’ve already talked about what sets OARS apart. In a nutshell, the guides are professionals but also become … [Read more...]

Exploring the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: navigating Upper and Lower Falls

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring Yellowstone, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Located a full 50 miles away from the central hub (and congestion) of Yellowstone National Park's Old … [Read more...]

Best Mountain Towns: Jackson Hole Wyoming

Ready for a Western vacation in a breathtaking setting? Jackson, Wyoming is one of the best vacation towns for families, in any season. We love to visit in summer, where we can base ourselves in Jackson to explore Grand Teton National Park, the Snake River, and area lakes and hikes. Here's what you can expect in Jackson Hole, what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. Read on for our Jackson … [Read more...]

Road Trip Travel Hack: Stay nights at KOA Kampgrounds!

We love to review destination hotels and resorts, but let's face it: roadside motels booked solely for the purpose of an overnight pit stop en route on a road trip are usually nothing to write home about. Plus, an average motel stay is now over $100 per night. In the last year or so, we've been thinking outside the box (or motel room) and booking cabin, yurt, or campground stays instead. I … [Read more...]

Family dude ranch vacation: a stay at Triangle X Ranch

There are many family dude ranch vacation options to choose from, and the time to book for next summer is...now. Dude ranches fill up fast, as many families book repeat visits. What sets Triangle X Ranch apart? Let’s start with the family history. And I’m not talking about the Turner family history, even though this Wyoming family has owned and run the ranch for five generations (and counting). … [Read more...]

Little America: a classic Wyoming travel center

If you find yourself driving on I-80 through Wyoming, you'll need a pit stop, and trust us, they're hard to come by. Your oasis: Little America, the somewhat odd rest stop complex with an even odder name. Located at exit 68 of I-80, Little America is the only show in miles, and it delivers: families can find a shaded playground, a few picnic tables, a large mini-market, a quick service dining … [Read more...]

Old Trail Town Cody Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming is bursting with family-friendly historical sites. Not to be overlooked is Old Trail Town Cody Wyoming. While this Cody attraction won't take families as long to tour as the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, it makes for a worthy hour of exploration. Each of the 26 historic buildings in Trail Town are authentic dwellings from the 1850s-1910s, brought to Cody from all corners of … [Read more...]

Cody Wyoming restaurants: where to eat on Sheridan Street with kids

Visitors to Cody, Wyoming will quickly see that this authentic cowboy town has a lot to offer in rich history, touristy shopping, and outdoor recreation. It also has a lot of saloons and bars, but family-friendly restaurants in Cody do exist in ready supply! Below, our top five picks for where to eat in Cody Wyoming for breakfast, lunch, and dinner: Adriano's Italian: For a nice dinner out, … [Read more...]

Days Inn Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis Wyoming

Pulling up to the Days Inn Hot Springs State Park in the town of Thermopolis Wyoming, I was instantly reminded of family road trip motels of my childhood. This Days Inn certainly has a 'slice of Americana' feel with its traditional motel layout, aging exterior, and eclectic decor, and like all good American roadside motels, has a personality of its own. In the Days Inn Hot Springs State Park's … [Read more...]

Visiting Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis Wyoming

Approximately two hours outside of Cody, Wyoming and 2.5 from Yellowstone National Park, the town of Thermopolis Wyoming plays host to Hot Springs State Park, the oldest state park in Wyoming. Families may find themselves passing through en route to either aforementioned destination, and Thermopolis' unique attractions make it an excellent pit stop. Upon entering Hot Springs State Park, you'll … [Read more...]