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Tips for celebrating the 4th of July in Washington DC

July 4, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Will you be in our nation’s capital for Independence Day? We were there last year, and it was one of the memorable holidays we’ve celebrated while traveling! The number of activities, programs, and performances, as well as the sheer number of people, can be intimidating, so we’ve compiled our top tips for celebrating the 4th of July in Washington DC:

1. Book a hotel within walking distance of the National Mall:

No matter what you decide to do on the 4th, it will probably happen on or around the Mall. And trust me, you don’t want to have to park a car anywhere in the vicinity on July 4th. Taking a cab is tricky too, since so many road closures are in effect (your fare could be high as cabbies take detours). When we visited, we took the Metro to the Mall on the 4th of July to save our feet from extra mileage, but walked back when the festivities were over. When we passed the first two Metro stations en route, the line to simply access the escalators spanned almost a block! Be in walking distance and you’ll be happier for it!

2. Take an afternoon siesta:

If you start your Independence Day watching the parade down Constitution Avenue and end it with the firework display and Capitol 4th concert, you’re looking at a 14-16 hour day. Opt to focus on the morning activities or evening activities, or, if you must do both, take an afternoon break. We spent 3 pm to 6 pm at our hotel, resting, watching TV, and snacking. If you can’t make it back to your accommodations, rest on a blanket in the shade or take an extended break in a museum cafe, enjoying the A/C.

3. ‘Preview’ the parade:

Don’t want to stake your claim curbside on Constitution Avenue by 7 am to watch the parade? Neither did we. Instead, we arrived on the Mall around 10 am, and headed to the Smithsonian museums (they’re all open on the 4th). During our walk along the Mall from the Smithsonian Metro stop, we viewed a good number of the inflatables, floats, and bands queuing up for their position in the parade. We were happy with this sneak peek and even heard bands warming up. The museums were quiet and uncrowded until the parade wrapped up around 1 pm. If you’re not a ‘parade person’, this is the way to go!

4. Watch the Capitol 4th dress rehearsal:

Likewise, if the idea of crowding onto the Capitol lawn with 200,000 close friends on the 4th doesn’t suit you, go to the dress rehearsal of this top tier outdoor concert on July 3rd. It starts at 8 pm, and is free and open to the public. Unlike for the real deal, there’s no need to get there earlier than 7 pm. Bring a picnic or grab hot dogs from street side vendors, and enjoy a patriotic evening…a day early.

5. Plan your fireworks location with views and kids in mind:

We were told there’s no reason to go snag a spot to watch the fireworks until approximately 6:30 pm (fireworks start at 9:10 pm). We doubted this advice, and got to a spot just under the Washington Monument by 5:30 pm. We should have listened…the lawn didn’t fill up until about 7 pm. Before arriving, we could have eaten a relaxed meal at our hotel or spent more time in the museums. Here’s a rundown of the best fireworks viewing locations in DC (and their pros and cons):

Washington Monument: This is where we ended up, and we loved this location. It’s in one of the security-controlled areas, which means you go through security at one of (I believe) four entrances along this part of the Mall. There’s no alcohol allowed, and of course no firearms or other weapons. We felt very safe. Security didn’t take long to go through (people stagger their arrival), and by setting up our spot on the hillside just under the monument, we had unobstructed views of the Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool (where the fireworks are set off). Limited food vendors are located inside the secure area (overpriced hot dogs, funnel cakes, and sandwiches).

Lincoln Memorial: We heard this is a fun place to be, but also more crowded, and less comfortable (you’re sitting on the steps if you get there early enough, and sitting on the sides if not).

On the Mall in front of the Smithsonian museums: This is another secure area (as is Lincoln) and offers lots of entertainment while you wait. Your views of the fireworks will be against the backdrop of the Washington Monument (you won’t see the Lincoln Memorial or Reflecting Pool). During the day, we enjoyed playing pick-up soccer games on the grass, and checking out the Smithsonian Folk Festival. As evening descends, these entertaining options give way to blankets and lawn chairs. You’re closer to more food options here. Tip: to get healthier food, we went into the National Museum of Natural History’s cafe, and got sandwiches, salads, and trail mix to go. It was still expensive, but much higher quality than the food vendors onsite. From our Washington Monument location, it was a hike to get this food, but worth it.

On the White House lawn: I was tempted by this secure location simply for the novelty of it (you can sit in the Ellipse area), but in the end, it was a smaller space with more trees, and we didn’t like the view as much.

At the Capitol: This is ground zero for the concert, and where you’ll want to be if you didn’t see the dress rehearsal and wanted to stay late to listen. The concert starts at 8 pm. It’s also one of the most crowded locations.

Throughout the day on the 4th, impromptu concerts, bands, festivals, and games pop up all over the Mall, so try to stay as spontaneous as possible. Enjoy your Independence Day in the nation’s capitol!

Disney’s Grand Floridian review: what guests can expect for the deluxe resort price

May 20, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

What to expect at Disney's Grand Floridian, and why this resort can be worth the rate.

Before our stay for the purpose of a Disney’s Grand Floridian review, I admit to harboring high expectations. I imagine this is typical; after all, the Grand Floridian is Walt Disney World’s flagship resort. The moment we stepped off the Disney Magical Express bus into the generously appointed porte-cochère and were greeted by no fewer than three cast members, however, I knew we were in for a memorable stay.

Excellent service can (and should) be expected at all Disney resorts, of course, from deluxe to value, but for the room rate at the Grand Floridian, it’s natural to look for that little something extra. I’m happy to say we found it during our three day stay…again and again throughout the property. First off, there’s the attention to detail to the property itself. High quality storytelling and immersion is the Disney standard, but it’s on overdrive at the Grand Floridian. Every aspect of the buildings and grounds echo back to the golden era of the Florida beach holiday, from the immaculate white buildings to the meandering walkways and the water views in many directions.

The lobby is visually stunning; the moment we walked in, we simply had to look up. The eye just goes north, up story after story to elegant chandeliers and inside balconies. The entire main building is light and airy, filled with furniture to match the Victorian charm of the architecture. There’s a grand staircase leading to the second floor shops and Monorail station (more on that in a moment) and countless verandahs and benches where guests can settle in and take in the passing activity.

We were given a third-floor room in Building 5, Sago Cay. With a Seven Seas Lagoon view looking directly to Space Mountain in the Magic Kingdom, we loved this location. We were only one building away from the quick-service food offerings at Gasparilla Grill, and were steps from the marina, where guests have a perfect view of Wishes (fireworks show). We were located on the far side of Sago Cay, toward the maintenance area and the convention center, so we did notice some noise in the mornings, and we did not have a view of the Magic Kingdom castle. If this is important to you, a room on the water-side of Sago Cay would likely fit the bill. Each building in the Grand Floridian has its own smaller lobby, complete with comfortable seating, and each is small enough that there’s never a long shag to the room.

Our room included two queen beds, plus a couch/day bed that could be used by a small child. The room was larger than most by Disney resort standards, and included a balcony with table and chairs. There is room service available at the Grand Floridian, and cuisinart coffee makers in every room. There are also hair dryers, of course, complimentary wifi, and robes. What we did not have: a mini fridge.

A noticeable omission: as we covered, the Grand Floridian sports luxury hotel room rates, but there were a few omissions from their service that we’d never see in other luxury properties. Firstly, we were not asked if we’d like a bellman to assist us with our luggage. Did we need one? No, but the service should be offered to all guests. Secondly, doors were not held open, and at times, landscaping and maintenance work presided over guest areas during day time hours. Again, did we mind? No, not particularly, but we’re easy to please. It’s worth noting as this is a departure from top level luxury service elsewhere.

Grand Floridian pools, activities, and recreation:

The Grand Floridian boasts two large pools, the Courtyard Pool and the Beach Pool, plus a water play area with climbing areas and slides. There is also a beach area (for sand play only; no swimming), but at the time of our visit in 2013, the beach was closed due to the construction of the Grand Floridian Villas. The Courtyard pool includes beach-entry (gradual), with wading depth for most of the pool. There’s also a hot tub and poolside snacks and drinks. At the Beach Pool, kids will find a quite ambitious water slide (for resort hotels), plus a full bar and quick service dining venue. There are also cabanas for rent.

If you’re feeling very adventurous, the marina offers a variety of personalized watercraft rentals, and the generously staffed concierge staff can assist you with any other dining reservations, golf tee times, or spa treatments. (The Grand Floridian is currently the only Disney resort with an on-site spa, though at the time of this writing, another is under construction at Sarasoga Springs Resort.) Side note (because it seems to be but an afterthought for Disney, too): a small video game arcade is located at the back of Gasparilla’s.

In addition to the character dining experiences available at the Grand Floridian’s 1900 Park Faire, the Grand Floridian hosts an afternoon tea for children with Alice in Wonderland and a Pirate Adventure from the Marina. These activities are open to any WDW guest, but are highly convenient to Grand Floridian guests. There is also a full brass band that plays live in the evenings, and poolside games and entertainment in the afternoons. On select nights, outdoor Disney movie events are held on the Courtyard lawn.

Theme park transportation:

One of the best aspects of a Grand Floridian stay is the ease of Disney transportation options to and from the parks. Transportation to and from the Magic Kingdom is so convenient, in fact, that you never feel as though you’ve left the ‘magic’ at all. To the park, you simply take the Monorail from the second story of the main building directly to the park, a five-minute commute. Back to the Grand Floridian, you take the boat: the dock is located directly across from the theme park exit, and boats come every 15-20 minutes. The boat ride takes no more than 10 minutes, and is fun for kids and relaxing for parents. During our stay at the Grand Floridian, we also took the Monorail easily to dining options at the Contemporary and the Polynesian. We also took it to Epcot, but this does require a transfer, adding to the commute. Still, it was quicker than bus service, and more fun. For bus service to Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Downtown Disney, the Grand Floridian is the final resort stop (of three), making it a direct commute. (However, on the return, you can expect to stop at the Contemporary and Polynesian before arriving at the Grand Floridian.)

Dining at Grand Floridian:

The Grand Floridian is home to some of Walt Disney World’s finest dining, including Victoria and Albert’s, Citricos, and and Narcoossee’s. Did we eat at any of the above? No, though had we time for a parents’ night out, babysitting is available at the Grand Floridian. Instead, we focused on the quick service venues, which were less crowded than their counterparts in moderate and value Disney resorts. We loved the poolside service, and the Grand Floridian Cafe, which offers relaxing table-service meals in a kid-friendly environment. (Breakfast is especially great here.) The aforementioned character dining experiences at 1900 Park Fare will appeal most to little princesses and those hoping to see Alice’s gang at the Wonderland Tea Party or Mary Poppins at the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast. At night, 1900 Park Fare turns into Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner.

Throughout our stay, we felt relaxed, happy, and well-immersed in the famous Disney magic. Is is possible to feel this way at less expensive Disney on-site resorts? Yes…if you don’t think so, you’re doing it wrong. However, with the constant views of the lagoon and passing Monorail, the glimpses of the castle as you round a bend, and the cheerful greetings at every turn, you’d have a hard time not feeling the love.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit (mid-April), room rates began at approximately $600 per night. During ‘value’ season, you can find them for less. Like at all Disney resorts, room rates include Disney transportation (including Magical Express transport from the airport), extra and early magic hours, and the option of the Disney Dining Plan add-on.

Is it worth it?

I hear this question more often than any other when it comes to Disney–or any–luxury resorts. Of course, whether a particular resort is ‘worth it’ to you will depend on your personal tastes, budget, and expectations. That said, having reviewed many luxury and not-so-luxury resorts for kids, here are our opinions on circumstances in which the Grand Floridian may be worth the splurge:

1. If you have small children or babies, and plan to spend the majority of your time at Magic Kingdom. The beauty of the Monorail system (to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and three deluxe resorts) is that babies and toddlers do not have to be taken out of strollers. No need to fold it up as you would on the bus: simply roll it in and out, letting sleeping children sleep. This in itself, but especially combined with the very fast commute to the Magic Kingdom, makes the Grand Floridian a prime resort for the younger set.

2. If you have kids of any age and ease of Disney transportation is a high priority to you. There’s nothing more tiring at the end of a long theme park day than trudging along winding paths to your bus stop or room, or enduring long bus commutes. You’ll experience considerable less of this at Grand Floridian. As mentioned above, it’s the last bus stop en route to parks, and the option of the Monorail and boat are highly convenient. Also of note: the property is not nearly as spread out as some Disney resorts in the moderate and value categories. What does this mean? You won’t be walking half a mile to your room from the bus stop. We were a one minute walk to and from the bus stop at Grand Floridian, in Building 5.

3. If you plan to spend significant time in your resort (as opposed to spending every waking moment in the parks).
Let’s face it: if you pay for the ambiance and comfort of the Grand Floridian, you want to spend some time enjoying it. If you’re the type of family who likes to spend all day (and into the night) at the theme parks, your vacation dollars might be better spent elsewhere. However, if you want a slower-paced Disney experience, you would do well to stay at the Grand Floridian and take afternoons off pool-side or get late starts after leisurely breakfasts by the marina.

As I disclose whenever applicable, I stayed at the Grand Floridian as a guest of Disney for the purpose of review.

Where to stay in Miami: Hampton Inn & Suites Midtown Miami review

April 4, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

A midtown Miami hotel is a good choice for a pre or post-cruise stay with easy access to the airport, or can be centrally-located for a Miami weekend away from South Beach. I recently checked out the brand new Hampton Inn & Suites Midtown Miami on a recent stay, and was very pleasantly surprised.

Where to stay in Miami:

The Hampton Inn & Suites Midtown Miami is without a doubt the prettiest, hippest Hampton Inn & Suites I’ve seen. The lobby is chic and spacious, but better yet, there’s an entire second floor of lounge space and seating, which reminded me more of a boutique hotel than of a economy hotel. The second floor is where the complimentary breakfast is served, which offers a nice variety of breakfast items, from hot dishes (real eggs, yay!) and waffles to yogurt, fresh fruit (which was exceptional), hard-boiled eggs, and hot, freshly prepared oatmeal.

Also on the 2nd floor is the small but serviceable fitness room and the far-beyond expectations outdoor pool and lounge area. The pool is not exceptionally sized, but is ringed by various upscale outdoor furnishings, including fun rocking seats, couches, and loungers. While it’s only on the 2nd floor, you still get some nice Miami skyline views. As you can tell by the description of the 2nd floor, this is really the gathering area and ‘living room’ space of the hotel.

Rooms at the Hampton feature nice touches like wood (style) floors (no carpets), tons of outlets and charging stations, excellent lighting, and comfortable beds. It doesn’t hurt that everything is new, of course. My bathroom featured a shower only (no tub), so ask when you book about any tub availability if you need one. Each room has a mini fridge ready for your snack items or leftovers, and another cabinet that’s designed to hold non-perishable food items. There’s a microwave available to use in the 2nd floor breakfast area (accessible all day).

WiFi is free for Hilton Hhonors members (which is also free, so definitely sign up), and while parking is valet-only, it’s only $25 a day, which is a deal in downtown Miami. My room was very quiet at night, which was a very nice change from South Beach hotel rooms.

Pros and cons of the midtown location:

The location of the Hampton Inn & Suites is both a pro and a con. It’s quiet at night, as noted above, and while it’s possible to walk to desirable destinations like the Shops at Midtown or even Wynwood, it’s not a pleasant walk. There’s a lot of construction going on in this part of Miami, and while I walked to Wynwood in 25 minutes, I had to hop on and off sidewalks and it wasn’t scenic. Instead, you’ll want to plan on renting a car (and parking it) if you stay here, or relying on Uber or Lyft.

There are a few chain restaurants in the immediate vicinity within walking distance, and one fun bar with a great outdoor patio just two buildings down, called Lagniappe. Other than snack food items in the lobby marketplace, there’s really nothing else directly near the hotel.

I found the trade-off of location worth the savings, since I knew I’d be getting around Miami by car anyway, but for anyone hoping to walk most places, situate yourself in Brickell or Wynwood and plan to do most of your eating in those neighborhoods. Miami is not a pedestrian-friendly town, though it has improved in this regard.

Room rates at the time of my visit were around $129 off season, and I enjoyed not having to pay a hefty resort fee as I have on South Beach. Find the Hampton at 3450 Biscayne Boulevard, about ten minutes from the airport.

If you are staying on South Beach instead of midtown or downtown, check out our review of the Kimpton Surfcomber.

Disclosure: I experienced the Hampton Inn & Suites as a guest of the hotel, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain my own.

Kimpton Surfcomber review: Where to stay on South Beach with kids

April 1, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

South Beach Miami may not be the most kid-friendly destination, but as Miami’s a major cruise port, families will find themselves navigating Miami Beach with kids in tow. When we realized our red-eye flight from San Francisco to Miami would land us in the city at 6 am, a full 10 hours before standard hotel check in, I knew exactly where I wanted to stay: at a Kimpton property. I knew a Kimpton would provide the level of customer service I needed when I arrived at dawn with tired kids: ample on-site relaxation we could take advantage of before check-in, as well as a friendly staff who would do all they could to get us in our room early.

Kimpton Surfcomber was perfect. Located in the heart of South Beach, directly on the sand, Surfcomber has three sections of outdoor entertainment: 1. their pool area, which has a beautiful art deco pool and plenty of lounge chairs, with a dedicated pool staff, 2. their ‘backyard’, which is a palm-tree shaded, grassy and sandy area behind the pool with outdoor sofas, Adirondack chairs, ping-pong, and the High Tide Bar, and 3. the beach, with yet another dedicated staff on premises to set your family up with lounge chairs, towels, sunscreen, shade, and water. In addition to these three main areas, Surfcomber has the following perks:

evening complimentary wine hour for parents
morning coffee and tea service in the lobby, and afternoon ‘Arnold Palmer’ service (tea and lemonade mix)
complimentary cruiser bike use (adult sizes)
two on-site dining options: High Tide and The Social Club
exercise room (and beach boardwalk adjacent for running, biking, or walking)
bell service and easy access to South Beach locations
on-site spa services and cabanas
as always, free WiFi and honor bar credit for Kimpton Karma members

We spent our long day pre-check-in at the beach, where we were able to use the beach butler service even though we didn’t have a room number yet, and took the bikes for a spin to check out the local scene (with teens, the adult sized bikes worked well). We ate a late breakfast at The Social Club, and took a swim in the pool, all while desk services held our luggage.

I asked for an early check-in if possible, and was notified around 2 pm that my room was ready. We spent the late afternoon relaxing in the room, then took a second swim at the beach before hitting South Beach for dinner. Note: the only downside to Surfcomber’s location: South Beach is an expensive place to eat…we were hard pressed to find any truly affordable options. Breakfast at the Social Club was absolutely delicious, but well over $50 for three of us, and adult beverages at High Tide were $14 each. We did find a breakfast counter option at the Walgreens one block away (odd, I know!) but expect to pay at least $15-20 per person for dinner and lunch in the South Beach area, at a bare minimum.

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The beach along this section of South Beach is calm and still in the mornings, with more waves and current in the late afternoons, and there’s plenty of sand to play in as well. We tended to roam between the pool and the beach. Our room was tastefully decorated and unique, as Kimptons tend to be, but also small, which Kimptons also tend to be. I loved the generous size of the property, however, and how relaxed, artistic, and spacious everything felt outdoors. The overall vibe is very chill and cool, without being snooty. We didn’t see many young kids here, but the adult party scene was elsewhere too, which I appreciated. It got a little loud at times on a Saturday night, but nothing we couldn’t deal with.

Room rates:

We paid around $250 for our standard room with two queen beds, and with all the on-site amenities, I felt I got a good value. The Loews and Ritz Carlton practically next door ask twice as much or more, and I don’t see much addition to the amenities (I could see their pools and beaches alongside ours). And you can’t beat the style of a Kimpton!

Directions:

The Surfcomber is located at 1717 Collins Avenue, South Beach. We paid a $35 flat rate for a taxi from MIA. We were in walking distance of restaurants and beaches and 15 minutes from the cruise port.

Downtown dining in Palm Springs with kids

March 14, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Palm Springs may be a more appealing destination to adults than kids—after all, it’s known for golf, spas, wellness retreats, and shopping—but we found the downtown area to be surprisingly kid-friendly. We saw many other parents with kids in tow, and our own kids really enjoyed the city. Whether you spend your Palm Springs day at the tramway, Joshua Tree National Park, or the local water park, plan to spend some of your evenings downtown. Tip: consider booking a stay at a Palm Springs vacation rental for your own kitchen when not dining out. Below are our four favorite Palm Springs with kids dining options in Palm Springs:

Lulu California Bistro:

Take kids to LuLu California Bistro (located at 200 S. Palm Canyon Dr.) for the quintessential California dining experience. This bistro has trendy decor and California cuisine, plus outdoor patio seating so you can watch the comings and goings along bustling Palm Canyon Drive. Don’t let the swanky interior (and fairly steep prices) fool you: the wait staff here welcomes kids. You can get the standard burger or wrap, or get adventurous with fun cocktails for the adults, chopped and wedge salads, and seafood.

Kaiser Grille:

Directly across the street from Lulu, Kaiser Grille (located at 205 S. Palm Canyon Dr.) offers up what my kids voted as their favorite meal during our Spring Break trip through the California desert. Decidedly upscale like Lulu, Kaiser Grille also offers outdoor seating, and while our service was a bit behind the curve the night of our visit, the food more than made up for it. Adventurous eaters will love the truffle oil mac and cheese and fettucine dishes, and meat-lovers will enjoy the steak sandwich. The ambiance is just as fun as at Lulu, as is the people-watching along the street. Best of all, the kids’ menu is very reasonably priced.

Las Casuelas Terraza:

Ready for something more reasonably priced? Las Casuelas Terraza is also located on the main strip of downtown Palm Springs (222 S. Palm Canyon Dr.), and has just as lovely outdoor seating. However, plates at this standard Mexican restaurant are in the single digits, and yes, there’s definitely a kids’ menu. Margaritas are half the cost of a cocktail or glass of wine at Lulu or Kaiser, and the chips and salsa just keep on coming. This is definitely our pick if you’re looking for Palm Canyon Drive ambiance without the price tag.

Sherman’s Deli and Bakery:

For breakfast or a deli dinner, Sherman’s is a local favorite (and always busy) just off the main strip on 401 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way. The deli is kosher, but yes, you can still get bacon in your breakfast omelette. Sit outdoors in the morning or evening, or come just for dessert.

Where do you like to eat in Palm Springs? Leave your recommendations in the comments!

The above post was written in partnership with VacationRoost.

Palm Springs with kids: Renaissance Hotel Palm Springs

March 11, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Ready to head to Palm Springs with kids? The Renaissance Hotel Palm Springs is a great pick for a reasonably priced, stylish hotel pick right near the downtown Palm Springs action. What the Renaissance lacks in extra amenities offered elsewhere in the Palm Springs area, such as a kids’ club, tennis courts, or on-site golf, it makes up for in location. Only two blocks from downtown Palm Springs, the Renaissance is in easy walking distance of dining and shopping, plus only a few miles from kid-friendly attractions such as the tramway and Wet ’n Wild.

We loved using the Renaissance’s ‘Navigator’ (onsite concierge desk and newsletter) to find local-favorite kid-friendly dining in Palm Springs, but their spacious lobby, lounge, and outdoor patio seating was just as inviting. Our kids loved sitting by the outdoor fire pits in the evenings after a swim.

Pools:

The Renaissance’s large outdoor pool is heated and open until 10 pm; our kids enjoyed nighttime swims. There’s also a large hot tub and kiddie pool, plus plenty of poolside seating and lounge chairs. An exercise facility is also on-site.

Room amenities:

Our standard room with pool view and balcony offered all the amenities you’d expect: coffee service, mini fridge, hair dryer, and the like, and beds were very comfortable. Wifi is an extra charge in room, though free in the lobby. I was actually able to connect to lobby wifi from my room, so that may be worth a try. The lobby is a very pleasing area in which to sit and get some work done if needed, however.

Dining onsite:

The Renaissance offers Rocks, a spacious lounge, and Date, a restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Poolside service is also on offer all day long, as is room service. Rooms feature mini fridges, making it easy to eat light meals in rooms, too.

Rates:

Standard room rates can be found as low as $150, and self parking is $12 per day (as low as I’ve found in the area). Suites are also available.

Directions:

The Renaissance Hotel is located at 888 Tahquitz Canyon Way, off I-10.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we stayed at Renaissance Hotel as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. Without compensated stays, hotel reviews would not be possible on Pit Stops for Kids.

Grown Up Getaway: Miami beyond the beaches

February 11, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Maybe you’ve ‘done’ South Beach. Or maybe, you remember the Miami of the ‘80s and ‘90s, when South Beach defined the city. Whether beachside clubbing and hot days on the sand are not for you, or whether you’re ready for something different, check out Miami beyond the beaches for your next Grown-Up Getaway. Here’s your ready-made itinerary for your Grown Up Getaway Miami:

Start in the artsy Wynwood neighborhood:

Wynwood perhaps defines the ‘new’ Miami better than any other single neighborhood. An eclectic mix of art galleries, trendy bars and restaurants, and boutiques, Wynwood may have become gentrified from the time of its artistic roots, but it’s still a great representation of the mixing pot that is Miami.

Start with a stroll through the neighborhood to appreciate the street art…don’t worry, you can’t miss it. Wynwood Walls sits at the epicenter of the street art movement, with commissioned murals across several blocks. Enter at 2520 NW 2nd Avenue, where you’ll see arched gates into the artwork. (It’s free to enter.) Between murals, a few galleries are open within Wynwood Walls, as well as a juice bar and a few other small cafes.

After seeing the ‘official’ art of Wynwood, walk through the next few blocks, wandering at will and popping into additional galleries and boutiques and checking out more unofficial murals, some as impressive as the commissioned work.

Grab a pre-dinner drink at Alter, which has an inviting outdoor bar just adjacent to the small dining room. Make a reservation to eat here to taste celebrated chef Brad Kilgore’s inventive pre-fixed menu (he also creates his magic at Brava, home of one of Miami’s hardest-to-get reservations).

If you’re looking for a more casual meal, head instead to Rust, a hole-in-the-wall on 2nd Ave in the most gentrified of ways. Located down an open-air marketplace hallway in the heart of Wynwood, Rust is owned by a Uruguayan transplant who has made Miami his home. Featuring a globally inspired menu that includes everything from chivitos (Uruguayan sandwiches) and Spanish tortillas to ceviche, Rust is a place to linger on the patio with a sangria and tapas to share.

Spend your next day in Museum Park:

Ten years ago, Miami’s downtown became a ghost town after work hours. With the addition of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County located within easy walking distance to Museum Park (featuring the stellar Perez Art Museum Miami and brand new Frost Museum of Science), that all changed. Now a hub for performing and visual arts lovers, this region of Miami is vibrant day and night.

During the day, linger during the morning at the Perez (PAMM), where two floors of permanent and featured art exhibits are on display. Make sure to leave time to stroll outside, where Adirondack chairs and hanging hammock chairs invite you to sit a while to enjoy the ocean breezes and views of the bay. Grab a coffee at the museum cafe, or better yet, head over the the Arsht Center to enjoy lunch at the cafe at Books and Books. A Miami institution, Books and Books is located in their original Sears storefront, and features a farm-to-table style menu upstairs from the bookseller.

Check out the Frost Museum of Science (yes, even if you’ve left the kids at home). This brand new museum is actually divided into four buildings: the Frost Planetarium, Aquarium, and North and West Wings, where you can learn about the core science behind living systems, the solar system and known universe, the physics of flight, light and lasers, the biology of the human body and mind, and much more. If nothing else, see a show at the planetarium (or come back at night to see it set to contemporary music such as Pink Floyd or U2.

In the evening, see a performance at the Arsht Center. This massive and beautiful center features visual art embedded in the design and architecture, and offers space for both large-scale musical theater performances, ballet and symphony, and intimate plays and dance performances. I was lucky enough to see The Death of Harry Houdini in the small black box theater, and was blown away.

Note: if you take Uber to the theater, they’ve made it easier for you to identify where you’ll meet your driver with pre-set stations…otherwise, the sprawling center spread over several city blocks proves problematic.

Do some shopping:

For the most impressive shopping malls, you’ll want to go to Brickell City Center (or farther out, Coconut Grove). The City Center is a LEAD certified building with an amazing (and beautiful) eco-design feature: the climate ribbon spans over the top of the open air mall, collecting rain water for reuse and simultaneously managing climate control. (It truly feels cooler in the mall than just outside.)

You’ll find no shortage of shopping opportunities in City Center (Saks is the flagship), but perhaps the bigger attraction are the bars and restaurants, as well as the luxury movie theater. We recommend a movie followed by drinks on the rooftop bar, Sugar.

Where to stay and how to get around:

Miami, unfortunately, isn’t a pedestrian friendly city, nor does it boast great public transportation, but it IS improving. If you stay in the Brickell area, you can easily transit between City Center and Museum Park by MetroMover, the free metro line that’s located downtown. Otherwise, you’ll need a car, which is why I recommend a Midtown hotel. You’ll be within about 10 minutes’ drive from Wynwood, Brickell, and Museum Park, all without getting on a freeway (and thus avoiding traffic).

The Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Midtown is a brand new hotel located in Midtown that’s quite frankly the nicest Hampton I’ve ever stayed in. See our review here. Valet parking is reasonable (or better yet, use Uber in Miami) and the stay includes an upscale complimentary breakfast and nice outdoor pool with lounging areas. You get a lot for your money here, and you won’t be in your room much, anyway. There’s another location in Brickell, which would be a good choice if that’s the neighborhood you decide to focus on, but you’ll save money staying in Midtown. Finding travel deals is now simple and can be done in a jiffy especially when you want to cut down your budget.’

If you DO bring the kids:

Check the Arsht Center website for options of kid-friendly shows…there are many! The Frost Museum of Science is a home run, and the Perez Art Museum offers kid programming every first Thursday, as well as special programs for the family. All the dining options listed above, with perhaps the exception of Alter, are appropriate for kids of any age.

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Grown-Up Getaway: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street

January 10, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

If your usual Las Vegas stomping grounds include only the Strip, or if, like me, you think ‘been there, done that’ when it comes to a Las Vegas getaway, a stay (or even just a day) in historic downtown Las Vegas may be just what you need to see this city from a different perspective.

Downtown Las Vegas is located toward the ‘top’ of the Strip, above the Stratosphere, and retains some of the original roots that made Vegas such a glittering, fun-loving city in the 1950s and 60s. We recommend spending time here only during an adults-only Las Vegas getaway, as its authenticity includes more than a dash of grittiness.

What to do during the day:

You’ll want to center your downtown Las Vegas day on and around Fremont Street. Head to the Downtown Container Park, located at 707 Fremont, and check out this artsy and interesting outdoor shopping and dining area created out of shipping containers and box cars. You’ll see a huge praying mantis at the entrance (an art piece, perhaps?) and layers of fun boutiques, coffee houses, and bistros in the area surrounding shaded seating. Expect good music, a clean, friendly atmosphere, and even a big playground for kids.

Next, go to the Mob Museum, located at 300 Stewart, just a few blocks from the Container Park. Built as a nod to Vegas’ mobster past, the Mob Museum includes true stories of organized crime, including crimes in Vegas history. It’s put together in an interactive, immersive way, with several levels of exhibits and displays.

Where to eat:

In the daytime, head to the Commissary, located at the bottom of the Downtown Grand, for great breakfast burritos, espresso, and sandwiches. Do yourself a favor and skip the hotel buffets at old-school casinos like the Golden Nugget or the Fremont. In the evening, try Itsy Bitsy, located at 150 Las Vegas Blvd. This ramen house offers up steaming bowls of ramen noodles and rice dishes, served alongside amazing sake. Try the cucumber sake for a refreshing, light drink.

For an after-dinner cocktail or two, avoid the ‘street’ drinks in plastic cups found along Fremont in favor of the Griffin bar, which surprises with a cozy English pub interior (with a pretty bare bones exterior). As an alternative, the Downtown Grand’s Art Bar, located on the ground floor, has great drink specials and a bright, tasteful, and airy atmosphere.

What to do at night:

You won’t find world-class shows or impressive hotel interiors downtown, but you will find a slice of Vegas culture unlike even that you see on the Strip. The Fremont Street Experience includes the massive, bright, neon-canopied pedestrian-only street where zip-liners fly overhead, bands play live, and casinos beckon on every corner. In the street, the people watching is fantastic; expect to see everything from half-naked people to open drunkenness to beggars and street performers (both talented and untalented). As noted above, this is not an atmosphere for children, but can certainly be a fun culture shock for an adult getaway.

Zip-lining above the crowd will set you back $20 per person for the lower, slower line and $40 for the high line. Plan to buy tickets at the start of the Fremont Street (where the covered area starts) well before you want to zip…the wait time tends to be about an hour. You don’t have to wait in line; rather, you’re issued a time to return.

Live music is generally fun and loud, and on the hour, the entire neon ceiling of the Fremont Street Experience comes alive with images and video to coordinate with music. For a non-gaming, non-partying crowd, one evening (or even one hour) on Fremont will be enough, but I can certainly see the authentic appeal for the wilder set.

Heading to Vegas with the kids? Check out our guide to Las Vegas with kids, our top kid-friendly attractions, and where we think you should stay.

How to see the best of St. Louis in one day

October 26, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Saint Louis is a vibrant and interesting city compact enough to not be overwhelming on a short trip, but comparable to larger cities when it comes to culture and the arts. The City of Saint Louis also has excellent public transportation making visiting attractions easy and inexpensive.

The St. Louis Metro has both train and bus stations located throughout the city. In addition to Metro commuter buses and trains, there is a trolley system which runs continuously with stops at all the major attractions. These two trolley lines, Downtown and Forest Park, are connected by Metro stations making it easy to move throughout the city. Day passes called Adventure Pass are available for both the Metro and trolleys so you can build your perfect trip. Visitors who only have one day to explore St. Louis can make the most of it by picking the trolley line that fits their interests best and riding the loop to find their favorite attractions. Trolleys stop every 20 minutes throughout the day and it is easy to hop on and off as you please anywhere along either line.

Downtown Trolley: Public Art, Architecture and Culture

The Downtown Trolley Line connects visitors to great outdoor art, culture and some of the best shops and local businesses in the city. After you make your way to the Gateway Arch, consider enjoying the Citygarden Sculpture Park. It’s full of amazing sculptures in the same vein as the arch, including some unique ones you’ll definitely want to take pictures of. Perhaps the most famous is the Hollow Head, a huge bronze likeness of the Greek god Eros’ head on its side.

Worth stepping off the trolley for:

Gateway Arch
Citygarden Sculpture Park
National Blues Museum
Old Courthouse
Stifel Theatre

Forest Park Trolley: Outdoors and Family Activities Abounds

The Forest Park Trolley is an excellent pick for family activities and those interested in art and history. This aptly named loop runs around the perimeter of one of the largest parks in the country. Similar to Central Park in New York, Forest Park is home to several cultural and outdoor attractions. The majority of them are either totally free to visit or very inexpensive. Most visitors consider many attractions on the Forest Park trolley loop before ultimately being captivated by the city’s free zoo. The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, housing a large variety of animals. While most attractions like their butterfly garden and reptile habitat are totally free to visit, some exhibits do have a fee. No matter which exhibits you take in, the Saint Louis Zoo will keep the kids fascinated for hours and talking about your trip for weeks to come.

Worth stepping off the trolley for:

Saint Louis Zoo
Science Center
The Jewel Box Horticultural Center
Art Hill
World’s Fair Pavilion

No matter what you’re into, St. Louis is a great city to visit when you’re short on time. In one day, you can experience shopping, art and culture comparable to larger and more expensive coastal cities without having to break the bank.

Everything you need to know about visiting Toronto

July 6, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

There is really so much to like about Toronto. Toronto is the capital city of Ontario and it offers a wealth of fun activities. Plus, it is known for its diverse population. Within this guide, you will learn all about visiting Toronto and having a blast.

When To Visit?

To ensure that your trip is enjoyable, you’ll want to visit Toronto at the right time. Thankfully, Toronto is amazing throughout the year. You can visit in fall, late spring or early summer and have a great time. During these periods, you’ll have little to no trouble walking through the city. You should also think about visiting during September. After all, this is when the city hosts the Toronto International Film Festival and others.

Transportation

It is also pertinent to make sure that you’re going to be able to travel from attraction to attraction. Thankfully, Toronto offers plenty of transportation options. Renting a vehicle is a good idea if you’ve got the money and want extra freedom. However, you can also rely on the local transportation. There is an underground subway system. Or, you can take advantage of the buses and streetcars. If you want a little more privacy, you can always rent a taxi or an Uber. Either way, you shouldn’t have any problem traveling through the city.

The Weather

A lot of people are not fond of cold weather. Others hate hot weather. With this in mind, you need to learn a little more about the weather that Toronto experiences. July tends to be the hottest month. The average high is right around 70 degrees. January is the coldest. If you do not want to experience the extremes, you’ll definitely want to stay away during these times. Visit somewhere in the middle and you’ll enjoy your trip even more!

Before You Go

Before you head for Canada, you’re going to need to make sure that you have everything you need. You’ll need to pack the right clothing and you’ll need the required documentation. While it depends on where you’re traveling from, you’ll probably need a visa and an ETA. You can fill out the Canada ETA application online pretty easily. Getting your visa shouldn’t be too difficult either. With that being said, you should not let these speedbumps hold you back!

Finding Lodging

Unless you’re going to be sleeping on the street or with a family member, you’ll need to rent lodging in Toronto. Most of the major chains will have several locations in Toronto. If you want to get away from the crowds, you’ll probably want to avoid the downtown area and Malton. You can find some great motels at good prices on Younge Street. This is a good option for tourists, because you won’t have to walk far to reach the major attractions.