Deer Valley on a budget: How to plan a skiing trip

During my visit to Deer Valley last ski season, I repeatedly heard two things: it's so expensive, and the dining scene is amazing. After spending two nights and three days at Deer Valley, Utah, I can tell you one of these things is true. Deer Valley has an amazing culinary scene that you will want to indulge in. However, this resort is not the most expensive in Utah. In fact, lift ticket rates … [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...]

Salt Lake City: Natural History Museum of Utah with kids

Considering a visit to Salt Lake City's Natural History Museum of Utah with kids? Absolutely go! This is one of the best natural history museums we've visited, with five stories of exhibits on earth and life science. The museum is located on the University of Utah campus  in Salt Lake City, and families can easily spend a full morning or afternoon here. If you're visiting in the warmer … [Read more...]

Alta for everyone: Why this Utah resort should be on your radar

With fourteen ski resorts within 45 minutes of Salt Lake City, it can be hard to decide which to call your own for your next destination ski trip. I love Park City, but don't forget about the resorts tucked into the canyons just behind Provo, too! Alta Ski Resort sits in Little Cottonwood Canyon right next to Snowbird. Due to the terrain, skiers immediately feel completely tucked away and … [Read more...]

Grown-Up Getaway: Sundance Resort Utah

You probably don't need an excuse to plan a luxurious grown-up getaway this fall or winter, but just in case, I've got the ultimate: a stay at Sundance Resort. An easy commute from Salt Lake City, Sundance is located in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains directly under the shadow of dramatic Mt. Timpanogos. It's affectionately known as 'Bob's place', for founder and owner Robert Redford. And yes, … [Read more...]

Educational Travel: California Trail Center Elko Nevada

Yes, you can still travel with your kids after back-to-school...just make it educational! In the following weeks, we'll be highlighting historical and educational pit stops to explore with your school-aged kids. The California Trail Center Elko Nevada a gem along I-80. Housed in a beautiful building just off the interstate; don't pass it, as you won't see another turn off to return to it for … [Read more...]

Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum

As Northern California natives and Oregon residents, we're well-versed in Oregon Trail pioneering history, and specifically, the Donner Party. We've taken the kids to Sutter's Fort State Park in Sacramento, CA, where they first learned about the ill-fated party, and when we found ourselves on Interstate 80 at the beautiful Donner Summit during our Thanksgiving break travels, we just had to make a … [Read more...]

Starved Rock State Park

The following pit stop was submitted by Pit Stops for Kids reader Erica Smith. Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois' most beautiful natural landmarks. Located in Utica, Illinois and filled with canyons and waterfalls, Starved Rock offers breathtaking hiking, biking, exploration, and lodging. Families can stop by for the day, or consider it a destination! Distance from the … [Read more...]

A Pit Stop a Day (Day 15): Westgate Park City Resort and Spa

On Day 15, we traveled down Hwy 89 from Grand Teton National Park to Park City, Utah to stay overnight at the Westgate Park City. The Westgate Park City is a beautiful resort nestled against the base of The Canyons ski resort about five minutes from downtown Park City. Winter is their peak season (no pun intended!), which makes it a great choice in the summer months to beat both high prices and … [Read more...]

Alameda Historical Museum

2324 Alameda Avenue Alameda, CA Sometimes, you need to find kid-friendly pit stops in the center of urban areas, too! Whether your destination is the San Francisco Bay Area or you're just passing through, The Alameda Historical Museum is a fun place to stop near the Oakland International Airport if your family is learning about Victorian history. Kids can learn about the past by touring living … [Read more...]