Downhill mountain biking with Northstar Bike Academy

In the process of soaking up all the summer ski resort activities on offer at Northstar California this July, the whole family took part in the Northstar Bike Academy Bike 101 package. Bike 101 includes a full day lift ticket, half-day bike and protective equipment rental, and Bike 101 lesson, and is perfect for families new to the sport of downhill mountain biking. Families sign up for Bike … [Read more...]

A family lodge stay: The Lodge at Suttle Lake, Sisters Oregon

A mountain lake lodge that's equally appealing to adults and kids isn't easy to find...unless you're in Oregon. (It must be something about my home state's laid-back, outdoorsy atmosphere.) The Lodge at Suttle Lake, located just outside of Sisters, Oregon, is one of them. Easily accessed from Highway 20 (30 minutes from Bend, Oregon on Highway 97 or two hours from Salem, Oregon on I-5), the Lodge … [Read more...]

5 things to do at Northstar California in summer with kids

Think ski resorts are only for winter? Families can get great ski resort lodging deals in the summer, and pair them with outdoor seasonal activities perfect for all ages. We spent a sunny three days at Tahoe, CA's Northstar this July, where we were faced with enough recreational and event options to last any family a month. How did we pick the best summer activities at Tahoe? We turned to … [Read more...]

Best Beach Towns: Monterey CA

There are so many things to do in Monterey, CA with kids, it's hard to know where to begin. Families can enjoy beaches, biking, nature walks, shopping, world-class educational attractions, nature, and fine (or fun) dining, all in a few square miles of stunning coastline. I can't guarantee you won't need a sweater at times (average summer temperatures are in the 60s), but the typical California … [Read more...]

Hearst Castle State Park

Families traveling on a California Highway 1 road trip will want to stop at Hearst Castle State Park, especially if their car-load comprises of school-aged kids, tween, and teens. Visible (and impressive!) even from the highway, Hearst Castle is a half-day stop right outside San Simeon, CA. From the visitor's center located near the coastline, guests can choose from several tour options before … [Read more...]

How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids

Families looking for things to do in San Francisco will want to devote at least one day to exploring and enjoying Golden Gate Park. In fair weather or foul (San Francisco gets a few of those, you know), Golden Gate Park offers indoor and outdoor fun for families in a unique San Francisco environment. How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids? Read on for our itemized Golden Gate Park … [Read more...]

Exploratorium Museum of Science

A short MUNI bus ride from just about all points in the city, the Exploratorium is a wonderful activity for kids in San Francisco. Located conveniently at Pier 15, the Exploratorium is a hands-on science mecca for preschoolers through teens. We love how this cavernous building is set up to encourage kids (and their parents) to really let loose: explore its exhibits in any order, for any … [Read more...]

California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences is by far one of the best things to do with kids in San Francisco. Ideal for school-aged kids but also entertaining for preschoolers and toddlers, the California Academy of Sciences is a trifecta of scientific fun, featuring a planetarium, aquarium, and life science museum all under one (living) roof, which is an exhibit of its own. Families will want to … [Read more...]

Three Highway 1 beach pit stops from Monterey to San Simeon, CA

Some of the most beautiful coastline in the world exists on California's Highway 1 between Monterey, CA and San Simeon, CA. Directly after Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Monterey (definitely stop there before beginning your day), the way is windy and slow, but never fear: the California Highway 1 road trip is made to be savored with frequent pit stops, so even young passengers can handle the … [Read more...]

San Francisco Pier 39 attractions for kids

Families touring San Francisco could easily dedicate a full day to the busy, touristy region of Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39. And while not to replace visiting other parts of the city, a day here is well spent. We definitely suggest beginning your day with a family tour of Alcatraz Island, but this still leaves you with an afternoon and evening to fill at the wharf. Here's our picks for how to … [Read more...]