National parks of Canada: Jasper National Park, Alberta

Parks Canada calls Jasper National Park the 'gentle giant of the Canadian Rockies', but it seems pretty mighty to us. A gateway for outdoor adventure in all seasons, Jasper is known for backcountry backpacking and skiing, but also plays host to a number of family friendly destinations of the less extreme variety. Here's what to do in Jasper National Park with kids: Start at visitor's … [Read more...]

Lake Geneva with kids: What to do in in Lake Geneva Wisconsin

My introduction to Lake Geneva Wisconsin was with the US Postal Service. Why? Because many of the elegant vacation homes hugging the lakeshore were once only accessible by boat, and some still request mail service by mailboat. Visitors can tag along, joining a Mailboat Tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Lines (for about $27 for adults and $15 for kids) for a perfect overview of the lake and its unique … [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...]

Skiing with kids: Diamond Peak ski resort

If you've skied in Lake Tahoe with kids, I'm betting it was not at Diamond Peak ski resort. Why? Because this Lake Tahoe local favorite is just enough off the beaten path that not enough visitors discover it. It's very accessible, located, in fact, right in Incline Village on the northern Nevada side of the lake, and lower-than-average ticket prices beckon. Diamond Peak has seven lifts in … [Read more...]

Best Ski Towns: Luxury Vail ski vacation

It's impossible to have a 'best ski towns' series and not include Vail, Colorado. There's a reason Vail has been absent from our list thus far...it's already on everyone else's list. That said, Vail deserves a place on ours as well, because with perhaps the exception of Deer Valley Utah, Vail and its neighbor and Vail Resorts partner, Beaver Creek, offer up the most luxurious ski vacation … [Read more...]

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...]

Five haunted hotels worth visiting this Halloween…if you dare

My kids tend to be frightened by kid-friendly haunted houses, let alone a haunted hotel, but if yours are made of heartier stock, a stay at one of the following haunted hotels might be just what you need for a memorable Halloween vacation. The Grove Park Inn, Asheville, NC: Rumor has it that the ghost known as the Pink Lady has been haunting the hallways of the historic Grove Park Inn for more … [Read more...]

5 fun yet creepy places to spend Halloween

If you’re a wimp about the supernatural like me and my family, you’ll be content to spend Halloween safely at home, carving a few jack-o-lanterns and calling it a night. If however, you and your kids are made of heartier stock, read on to find five of the most fun, yet creepy places to spend Halloween this year. 1. Gettysburg, PA: Don't get me wrong...we love Gettysburg, but it can feel … [Read more...]

Oregon Farm stay with kids: Willow Witt Ranch

A farm stay with kids is an amazing way to experience a destination! Not only are farm stays often affordable, they allow families the opportunity to meet locals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and have plenty of space to play and roam. Many farm stays are located within easy driving distance of wonderful family travel destinations. This summer, we've had the opportunity to experience two … [Read more...]