state - Pitstops for Kids

Deschutes river rafting with Sun Country Tours

July 19, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

During our recent visit to Pronghorn Club, we were fortunate enough to enjoy the Big Eddy rafting trip with Bend, Oregon’s Sun Country Tours. ‘Short but sweet’, the Big Eddy trip is only 1.5 hours long (2.5 door-to-door from Sun Country) but promises more whitewater than most families see on the average float or raft trip (at least it was more than we had seen!).

Deschutes river rafting:

Our trip began with a short bus ride from Sun Country to the Big Eddy drop-in site on the Deschutes River (near majestic Mt. Bachelor), conducted by a friendly bus driver. Once on the water, we met with our guides (one per raft of 4-6 guests), donned lift jackets and were assigned oars (kids must be taller than the handle to be issued one), then started down the 3 mile stretch of river on the tour. Both the beginning and ending feature calm, still water ideal for swimming, and our guide encouraged the kids (and adults) to jump from the raft and float downstream. The kids especially loved being spun around while standing on the bow of the raft, one at a time.

The river offers a few ‘warm up’ class 1 and 2 rapids before the class 3 Big Eddy, before which the guide pulled us over to the river bank to dock and overlook the rapids before tackling them. The kids loved seeing what we were going to raft, and our guide used the opportunity to instruct the adults in the group on where to paddle and when (though I promptly forgot). Once back on-board our raft, the kids were secured in safe spots (Toby was given a special rope to hold) and we were on our way.

The whitewater of the Big Eddy was truly like a wall after wall of water; we were bounced from crest to crest, and the kids shrieked with more delight on each one! I loved the experience, despite continually looking back in the boat to ensure my kids were still in it! Afterward, everyone was laughing with relief at surviving the thrill (including the six-year-olds in our group who hadn’t been too sure about the whole thing). We celebrated with a few more small rapids, during which the kids were allowed to ‘ride the bull’ (I.E. sit on the front of the bow with no hands). We docked after the last of the rapids, and were transferred back to Sun Country.

Distance from the interstate: Five minutes from Hwy 97.

Cost per person: The Big Eddy tour is $46 per person. Other Sun Country tours start at $73.

Dining options: None. The Big Eddy tour is easily fit in between lunch and dinner or breakfast and lunch. Full day tours include lunch.

Directions: Sun Country is located at 531 SW 13th St., Bend, OR. From Hwy 97, take exit 138 toward Downtown/Mt Bachelor, then turn right onto NW Hill St. Continue onto NW Colorado Ave. At the traffic circle, continue straight onto SW Colorado Ave. Turn right onto SW Emkay Dr., then take the 1st left onto SW Donovan Ave. Take the first right onto SW 13th St.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we experienced the Big Eddy tour as guests of Sun Country Tours and Pronghorn Club. While we appreciate their hospitality, this compensation came with no expectation of a positive review.

Three northwest backpacking routes for families

July 17, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Parents with young children: you absolutely can backpack with kids! Our family has found success by choosing backpacking routes that are short on distance but big on rewards, whether that be in the form of a fun lake or river to swim in, dramatic scenery, or both. The following three northwest backpacking routes for families deliver.

Before you read on, check out our tips for backpacking with kids!

Northern California’s Trinity Alps:

Just south of dramatic Mt. Shasta at the top of Northern California, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers some of the best backpacking for families. While word is now getting out, the Trinity Alps used to be very uncrowded, while still offering up vistas on par with the Sierra Nevada.

For families, we recommend the 5.2 mile route from Swift Creek Trailhead to Granite Lake. From the Swift Creek Trailhead of the Trinity Alps, families hike for one mile before crossing Swift Creek at a large bridge and taking the Granite Lake Trail. After that, it’s 4.2 miles of a pretty strenuous uphill hike. Take your time, knowing that you don’t have to hike too far but will be rewarded with one of the most stunning alpine lakes you could ask for.

Make a home base at Granite Lake, and spend an extra day day-hiking up above it (the terrain turns to sub-alpine granite with great views). If you want to make a full loop of it, you can continue to Horseshoe Lake, reconnecting with the original Swift Creek Trail to follow the creek back to the parking lot. We have always been content to simply play at Granite Lake, however.

How to get to the trailhead: Swift Creek Trailhead is at the end of Swift Creek Road, accessed from Highway 3. (From I-5, grab Highway 3 at Yreka.) You’ll pass a national forest ranger station near Fort Jones, where you can grab your backcountry permit.

On the Granite Lake Trail

Southern Oregon’s Sky Lakes Wilderness:

The Sky Lakes are beloved to our family. They’re right in our backyard, so we’ve logged a lot of hours on trails here. The great thing about Sky Lakes is the flexibility; there are multiple options for making larger or shorter loops between its many small alpine lakes. The elevation is lower than many backpacking routes, so the nights will remain warmer (but you’ll also experience more mosquitoes, so aim to visit in August or September).

The Sky Lakes are generally split between Lower Sky Lakes Basin and Upper Sky Lakes Basin. You can see it all in a 12 to 14 miles loop, but we recommend staying on the Upper Sky Lakes Basin end to see Trapper Lake and Lake Margurette. You can camp at either, and experience the other in a day hike, should you wish. Start at Cold Springs Trailhead, and when the trail splits, follow the upper toward Natasha and Margurette lakes. The entire hike is only about 3.2 miles, and isn’t too steep. If you’re ambitious, you can also access the Pacific Crest Trail above Trapper, and walk along it for a while.

How to get to the trailhead: Cold Springs Trailhead is located off Highway 140. From Medford (and I-5), take Highway 62 to Highway 140. At mile marker 41, you’ll take gravel road FR 3651 at the Cold Spring Trailhead sign, and follow it 10 miles to the parking lot.

Setting up camp

Central Oregon’s Jefferson Park:

Very few wilderness areas are as breathtakingly beautiful as Jefferson Park. And yes, it is indeed a veritable ‘park’ of alpine creeks, lakes, trickling waterfalls, and towering peaks. You have to earn it though: the route in from either side takes some time for families. We recommend the slightly shorter route from Whitewater Trailhead (the other option is Breitenbush Trailhead further north).

You’ll go about four miles before reaching Whitewater Creek, with stunning views of Mt. Jefferson all the while. After the creek, you’ll join the PCT temporarily as you enter the park. Once in, you’ll see many trail options leading a short distance to multiple small lakes. We suggest Russell Lake or Scout Lake. Take fishing poles, and the fish seem to really bite here. You can rejoin the PCT for a long day hike should you wish, or can simply set up camp and enjoy the lake. No matter which lake you pick in the park, the round-trip mileage will be about the same: 11 miles or so.

How to get to the trailhead: Take exit 253 off I-5 in Salem. Drive 60 miles east on North Santiam Highway 22. Between mileposts 60 and 61 (10 miles beyond Detroit), turn left on Whitewater Road 2243. This gravel road forks in about 100 yards, keep right. Follow this road 7.5 miles where it dead-ends at a large parking area.

Jefferson peak

I think it’s time for us to discover some shorter backpacking routes in Washington state next! While we have experience in this region, it’s for longer hikes for more experienced backpackers. If you know of great routes for families in Washington, please leave them in the comments. And always remember to call the local ranger station before your trip for weather and trail closure information, as well as any detailed driving directions you may need.

A Boston 4th of July: Tips for Celebrating on the Esplanade

June 28, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

All people want to spend the Fourth of July in special fashion. If you’ve never been to Boston, heading there in the beginning of July is as good a time as any. Below, you’ll find tips regarding how to spend it right during the Esplanade celebration.

Weather:

New England weather is fickle, and natives know weather patterns change on a dime. In July, temperatures can range from the 60s and get up into the 90s, not to mention thunderstorms may inspire a downpour in the blink of an eye. To be certain you’re spending the celebration in hospitable conditions, check the weathercast at WBZ Accuweather, or, use your smartphone to check the CBS Boston Weather App.

Clothing:

There’s no dress code to enjoy the festivities, but if you’re concerned about your level of comfort, you’ll want to bring a light jacket or sweater; it can get mighty chilly during the evening hours. During the day, you’ll want to bring along sunscreen if you burn easily or a hat to keep the sun off of your face. As mentioned, weather conditions change quickly; it is a good idea to bring along an umbrella or rain coat just in case.

Shoes:

Regardless of how you get to the center of festivities, walking will be on the itinerary. Therefore, ensure you wear a good pair of comfortable shoes. This is especially a concern if you’re driving to the event; you’re more likely to win the Boston Marathon than find a great parking spot during the celebration. Event organizers encourage goers to take public transportation to be more green and to alleviate traffic coming into the city. Alternatively, if you’re coming out of town, peruse the web to find hotels in Boston residing by the festivities.

Public Transportation:

The closest trains (on the Boston side) are Charles-MGH (on the red line) and Arlington Street (green line). The trains are open late on the Fourth and expected to offer free rides home after 10 pm.

Handicap Parking:

All are encouraged to attend the festivities, and handicapped parking is offered at the Charles Circle LAZ Parking Lot (adjacent to the Massachusetts Eye & Ear Hospital). Of course, the police will be vigilant to ensure that no one without handicap plates take advantage of limited parking spots. The lot will close once full or after 6 pm (whichever comes first).

Leave at Home:

Though convenient, backpacks are not allowed in addition to shopping bags. Additionally, coolers (on wheels), fireworks, grills, propane tanks (BBQ equipment), and firearms are to be left behind since none of those items are permitted inside the festivity grounds. Sorry, Boston loves animals but they are not allowed inside! Of course, you can attempt to ‘sneak’ something in, but it’s not a good idea; security checkpoints are in effect, and items not allowed inside will be confiscated.

Vantage Points:

There are multiple areas to enjoy the events taking place. The Oval is considered the ‘best seat in the house,’ with the right side optimal for watching the fireworks exhibition. However, lines to get in this area start early and the space fills quickly. Don’t assume you can send one friend to reserve space for more people; such tactics are not allowed! The Island Lagoon is also a good area, but will be considered a secure area too; you’ll need a bracelet to get back inside once you get in. Speakers are aligned along the Charles River; you won’t be able to see what’s going on, yet you’ll be able to hear the music and festivities from there. It’s not ideal to see the fireworks due to a number of trees from there, though you may be able to maneuver yourself around the crowd and get a good position.

Some attempt to see the sights from the Mass. Ave Bridge but it’s off limits to the public, and depending on police and civil officials, the Longfellow Bridge may also be closed to the public. Memorial Drive will have speaker towers and food vendors. Alternatively, if you know someone with a boat, you can park in the Charles River for a truly exceptional view of the celebrations.

Jane Sandoval is a travel consultant. She loves to write about her experiences online. Her articles can be found on many travel and vacation sites.

Summer in the Berkshires: Bousquet Mountain Adventure Park review

June 26, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Bousquet Ski Area’s Adventure Park is a vertical playground of high rope courses, zip lines, nets, and ladders, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Berkshires. With three levels of course ‘elements’ to master, everyone will be challenged here, and everyone can get a taste of what ropes courses are all about.

Bousquet Mountain Adventure Park review:

We met first with our instructor, who fitted us in harnesses and gloves and explained to us how our clips and ropes worked. It seemed complicated at first (and we’d done this before!), but once we’d had time to go through the steps with her and review what we’d learned on the practice cables and zip line (very low to the ground), we felt very confident about maneuvering through the course. I loved that due to Bousquet’s cable and clip safety system, it’s virtually impossible to be completely unclipped from the cable at any given time. I felt completely at ease allowing Nate (12) and Calvin (9) loose on the course, always with instructors nearby.

Of course, I wasn’t about to miss out on the opportunity to play on a high ropes course, so I joined in, too. The first level is relatively low to the ground, and a great place to get the hang of things. Participants go in one direction through the elements, which eliminates traffic jams (a non-issue since there were only a few other people on the course at the time) and ensures you experience everything. Once you’ve completed Level 1, you’ll want to try Level 2 (straight above you), though of course, if you opt out, you can experience Level 1 again. Level 2 was certainly more challenging to me, and by Level 3, I was ready to leave it to the kids (i.e. monkeys).

One of the best parts of Adventure Park are the zip lines that connect elements. We’d experienced zip lines and high ropes courses before, but not together! Attached to each of our harnesses were zip line apparatuses (apparati?) which we used to zip ourselves from area to area on short zip lines. (Note: on the higher elements, some ‘commando’ work is required for lighter, shorter people; you’ll zip part way, then need to pull yourself the rest of the way, which takes some upper body strength!)

We couldn’t help but compare Bousquet’s Adventure Park to Big Sky, Montana’s high ropes course, and though the scenery was certainly more stunning at Big Sky, the kids preferred Bousquet’s multi-level course. I found Big Sky’s course to be more dramatic (it’s higher, for one, and accessible only by rope ladder), and had a hard time directly comparing them.

The Adventure Park is awesome, but what makes Bousquet great for traveling families are the multitude of other activities to do on-site in summer! Toby (age 6) and our nephew Homer (age 2) were too young to explore the Adventure Park (where participants must be 70 pounds and at least 48 inches tall), but with mountain day passes, had free rein of the water slides, activity pool, and miniature golf course. Day passes also include three activity tickets to be used for the bungee trampoline, bounce house, climbing wall, go-kart track, or Frisbee golf course. Everything is located in one place (including the Adventure Park), which makes it easy for families to pick and choose how they spend their day based on interest and age, while still staying together.

Note: We were told that kids under five feet tall could only experience Level 1 of the Adventure Park, but after completing this level, our instructors allowed Calvin (just shy of five feet) to continue on up. It was explained to me that the height requirement is in place not due to safety, but due to cable placement; some cables on the higher elements are spaced in such a way that the reach from the child’s harness to the cable might be uncomfortable. Also, kids’ lower weight ensures they will need to complete some upper zip lines ‘commando’ style. We didn’t find the former to be a problem, and Calvin enjoyed the latter! I always recommend following an operation’s guidelines and deferring to their instructors’ judgment.

Ticket costs: Adventure Park passes are $35 per adult (over 5 feet tall) and $29 for juniors (under 5 feet tall). Day Mountain Pass tickets (which include the above listed, minus the Adventure Park) are $28. Activities can be purchased ‘a la carte’ as well, but the day pass is by far the best deal! In fact, we’ve reviewed many zip line and ropes course locations, and I can say without doubt that Bousquet’s offers the best value on a high ropes course I’ve ever seen!

A spectator pass can be purchased for those not experiencing the activities for $7.50. (I always appreciate when an operation offers this!) And be sure to check Bousquet’s ‘deals’ page before planning your trip: they offer $10 Mondays on their Mountain Passes and $20 Tuesdays for the Adventure Park!

Hours: Bousquet’s summer hours are 10 am to 5 pm, daily.

Reservations: 413-442-8316. We didn’t need reservations arriving when the park opened at 10 am on a week day, but to be safe, call ahead!

Website: http://www.bousquets.com/

Directions: Bousquet is located at 101 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsfield, MA. From Boston, take Exit 2 off the Massachusetts Turnpike to Routes 20 & 7 North. Follow signs for Bousquet and Pittsfield Airport (left at light onto Dan Fox Drive for 1 mile).

As I disclose whenever applicable, we experienced the summer activities, including the Adventure Park, as guests of Bousquet Ski Area. While we appreciate their hospitality, it in no way guaranteed a positive review.

Aerial adventure in St. Louis: Go Ape-St. Louis

June 9, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Driving through beautiful Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park in St. Louis, you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled across an Ewok village. Actually, it’s Go Ape-St. Louis, an aerial obstacle course with ziplines.

The Go Ape experience

Our treetop adventure began with check-in at the red barn, where the attendant holds keys, wallets, and phones behind the counter for safe keeping. Before we headed out, a guide took us through safety training. Participants are responsible for securing themselves to the lines at every point during the adventure. That sounded intimidating to me, but the training was straightforward and thorough.

We started with a ground-level mockup of the safety systems used throughout the course, including the instructional signage posted at every crossing. Once the guide had checked our comprehension, we walked to the first station. It is low to the ground; for those who are unsure if they’re going to be able to handle the experience, this serves as a test site. If, after going through this first station, you don’t want to proceed, Go Ape offers a refund.

None of us quit, though. We went through one at a time so the guide could ensure we knew what we were doing. Then we were released to explore the course at our own pace.

Think of Go Ape as an aerial obstacle course. Each site begins with a rope ladder and ends with a zipline, but in between, we navigated bridges, swinging platforms, hanging rings, and more. (You do get a rest between—there are platforms between every component). As our guide said, what makes this fun is having to earn the zipline rides.

Obstacles are rated from easy to extreme, and any time there’s an “extreme,” there’s also an easier option. We took all the “extreme” paths, and I found it more physically demanding than I had anticipated. But I never felt in danger or even particularly aware of the height, because at all times, I was tethered to a safety line. I knew if I lost my balance, I’d only fall a foot or two at most. In fact, most of the time you can choose to take the easy way out and glide from one tree to the next, using the safety harness. But where’s the fun in that?

The single exception to the “short fall” is Go Ape’s central attraction: the Tarzan swing, which is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: a long arc across open space that ends in a net you have to climb to achieve the platform on the far side. There are actually two, and the first is a warmup for the second. That second is a doozy, but if you chicken out at the last moment, there’s a bypass. (I’m proud to say I made the jump. Although my 12-year-old showed me up by doing it twice.)

Video of the Tarzan swing:

Note age limits: Although some Go Ape locations have a course for younger kids, St. Louis does not—yet, at least. Here, it is open to ages 10 and up. One adult (18+) must be in the treetops for every two children ages 10-15. 16-17 year olds don’t need a chaperone on site, but they will need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

Ground Level at Go Ape:

If your family is like mine, your spouse and most of your kids wouldn’t touch an aerial obstacle course with a ten-foot pole. Never fear. Adjacent to the red barn is a spray park and a really nice playground. And if the family wants walk along at ground level and watch their more adventurous counterparts, they can do that, too. You’ll also find employees roaming the course to offer support and suggestions to those in the treetops.

The rope ladders at the start of each site are enclosed within a locked fence; you have to have a code to enter. Inside, Go Ape provides water and paper cups as well as educational signage about conservation, endangered species and information about the trees and undergrowth surrounding you.

Making a day of it:

A treetop adventure lasts 2-3 hours. But because Go Ape partners with state and local parks, there’s always more to do in the immediate vicinity. In St. Louis’ Creve Coeur Memorial Park, you can supplement your treetop adventure with fishing, kayaking, canoeing, dirt biking, or disc golf.

Preparing for your treetop adventure:

Wear jeans and sneakers, and bring gloves. You can go without, but your skin will be happier if you have them. If you forget, Go Ape sells gloves on site.

Hours/Admission:

Hours vary, but Go Ape is generally open March through November. Your best bet is to book online ahead of time. Walk-ins are accepted, but having a reservation guarantees a spot when you arrive. Check out their FAQ page to get more details.

Location:

Go Ape is located at 13219 Streetcar Dr., Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Parking is free on site.

My son and I enjoyed our treetop adventure as guests of Go Ape, but our enthusiasm for the experience is all ours.

Where to stay in St. Louis: Drury Inn-Forest Park

June 5, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

St. Louis, Missouri is known around the Midwest as a great family destination because of the many free attractions it offers. You’ll need a few days to do justice to all the city has to offer. Wondering where to stay in St. Louis? While you’re in town, make the Drury Inn-Forest Park your home away from home. With its its proximity to a number of major attractions, the Drury-Forest Park offers much more than a comfortable place to sleep.

Room amenities at Drury Inn-Forest Park:

Our family was given spacious and exceptionally comfortable adjoining rooms, one of which was designed for guests in wheelchairs. Both bathrooms had handlebars in the bathtubs, but the accessible room had three. Each bed had four pillows of varying firmness to choose from. The rooms feature St. Louis images rather than generic artwork, and all the table lamps include extra outlets for charging electronic devices. We also had a safe, a microwave and a refrigerator in the rooms.

The Drury’s contribution to environmental stewardship involves permanent refillable shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel dispensers in the showers, which replace the single-night-sized bottles you find many places.

The hotel offers a 24-hour business center off the lobby, conference rooms, and free (open) wifi. There’s also a laundry room in the basement, and a climate-controlled garage beneath the hotel.

During our stay, we had a chance to visit with a family that has spent quite a bit of time in St. Louis for medical appointments and procedures. They told us the Drury-Forest Park is far and away their favorite place to stay.

What to do on site:

On site, you’ll find a 24-hour fitness center with new, quiet machines. The indoor-outdoor pool opens at 9 a.m. It ranges from 3 to 5 feet, with a rubber divider separating the indoor from the outdoor sections. The deepest part is here at the center; it gets shallow again outside. The indoor portion includes a spacious deck, a hot tub, and a pool lift.

Off-site, the Drury-Forest Park is just over a mile away from Forest Park, site of the 1904 World’s Fair, whose zoo, science center, and museums have free admission. In the winter, there’s also ice skating in the park. The hotel is also a mile from “the Hill,” the historic neighborhood known for its authentic Italian restaurants and grocery stores. The Missouri Botanical Gardens, one of the top three public gardens in the world, is also nearby, and the downtown attractions are only six miles by interstate.

Read a review of the Missouri Botanical Gardens and FREE zoo!

Dining:

Free hotel breakfasts are becoming more common, but the Drury’s was among the more extensive we’ve experienced, adding flour tortillas and biscuits and gravy to the standard offerings. The Drury also offers “5:30 Kickback” in the afternoons, with a rotating menu that includes soup and salad along with more substantial fare. And don’t forget the popcorn and free soft drinks available until 10 p.m.

If you’re in the mood for sit-down food, try Bartolino’s restaurant, housed inside the hotel. Bartolino’s offers appetizers, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and pastas at under $15.

Rates:

Rooms start as low as $129 in the off season and around $179 at peak times, but rates vary depending on the Cardinals schedule and other major events or festivals.

Location:

The Drury Inn-Forest Park is located at 2111 Sulphur Avenue, in St. Louis, Missouri, close to Forest Park as well as St. Louis’ famous “Hill” area and the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

Our family stayed at the Drury Inn-Forest Park as guests of Explore St. Louis in return for an honest review.

St. Louis with kids: Missouri Botanical Garden

May 31, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

The Missouri Botanical Garden, established in 1859, is regarded as one of the top public gardens in the world. This 79-acre paradise, located only five miles from downtown St. Louis, exists thanks to local 19th-century businessman Henry Shaw, who admired the great public gardens of Europe and wanted to offer his hometown a similar resource.

The gardens are exquisite, with pools, ponds, and fountains to please the eye. You can easily spend a full day there, although the visitors’ guide provides a helpful list of what to see if you’re short on time. The tram tour, available April through October, lets you see the whole garden in half an hour without wearing out the little ones. The spherical Climatron houses tropical plants, and next door, the Brookings Exploration Center offers hands-on learning about plants, trees and the environments in which they grow.

If you have time for a more in-depth visit, you can wander the beautiful grounds, which are set up to showcase gardening styles from around the world. A few don’t-miss-this spots include:
Feeding Koi fish in the spectacular and often-photographed Japanese garden
Walking through Tower Grove House, Henry Shaw’s Victorian home, housed in the park (April-December)
The observation tower and maze beside the house (My kids played tag in it—which might not be wise or even possible if the crowds are big, but it was quiet in that part of the garden when we visited.)

Children’s Garden:

But without a doubt, the highlight of the Missouri Botanical Garden for families is the Children’s Garden. Open April through October (and requiring a separate admission of $5 for kids 3-12; little ones and adults are free), this extensive play area is one part garden, one part children’s museum, and one part playground. But your local park never had a playground like this! Each area represents a piece of Missouri history or geography: steamboat, tree house, cave, fort, Native American camp, and general store stocked with toy food, to name a few. There’s even a splash pad in the summer. (See this map to get a sense of the scope.)

Staff offers daily programming from 10:30-2, giving kids an interactive look at tree identification, wetland biodiversity, and more. Your kids will not want to leave this area. Even my preteen boy wasn’t ready to go.

Note: The Children’s Garden is large and when there are a lot of kids around, as there were the day we visited, it can be easy to lose track of your children. Set up a meeting spot and make sure your kids have your mobile number with them in case they need to ask an adult for help finding you.

Getting the most out of your visit:

Keep an eye on the weather. There are things to do indoors, but you will probably spend most of your time outside. On certain days, the garden offers interpretive and educational programming, and in the summertime there are concerts in the amphitheater. Large-scale exhibitions are also hosted in the summer—in 2017 the Climatron will be home to a collection of large glass art—and other festivals are scattered throughout the year. The garden can be crowded during some of these events, so plan accordingly.

Picnicking is NOT allowed on the grounds, but re-entry is permitted. Keep a cooler in the car or take time to enjoy one of the authentic Italian restaurants on The Hill, just a few blocks away. Easier still, eat on-site, at the Sassafrass Cafe, which offers mostly locally-sourced soups, salads, sandwiches and kids’ fare for $10 and under.

For a lasting keepsake of your visit, check out the large Garden Gate Shop, which sells plants, home furnishings, books and tools both for growing plants and for cooking up the fruits of your labor.

Accessibility:

By and large, the garden is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, including much of the Children’s Garden. Walkways are wide and smooth. Parents with nursing or easily overstimulated children might want to take advantage of the “calming corner” inside the Brookings Exploration Center. For kids with sensory issues, check out the “Pre-Visit Guide” prepared by the garden.

Location, Parking, Hours/Admission:

Missouri Botanical Gardens is open 9-5 daily and is open in the early mornings and Wednesday evenings for walking. Admission is $12 for ages 13 and over; kids are free, and residents of St. Louis County get half-priced admission every day and free admission on Saturdays.

The Children’s Garden ($5 ages 3-12) and the tram ($4 ages 3-adult) require separate tickets, and during some special events, garden admission may be higher, so again—check the garden calendar.

The garden is located at 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63110. Parking is free on site, and there is quite a bit of it, but on busy days cars are parked for several blocks up the surrounding streets. Using public transportation will earn you a $1 discount on admission.

Our family visited the Missouri Botanical Garden as guests of Explore St. Louis, in exchange for an honest review.

Photo credit

St. Louis with kids: Visiting the free St. Louis Zoo

May 17, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Voted the #1 free attraction in the United States in 2016, the St. Louis Zoo is a “must-see” for anyone visiting the area. With no admission costs, well-kept grounds, beautiful sculptures and water fixtures, and the large collection of animals, this is a great place for cost-conscious families to visit. Did we mention it’s free?

What you get for your free admission:

The zoo is housed in historic Forest Park, the site of the 1904 World’s Fair, and in fact you can still walk through the 1904 Flight Cage, which was built for the fair and is now home to many bird species.

The park is largely accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, and is divided into areas. The Red Rocks, home of the big cats as well as the zebras and giraffes, is a perennial favorite. On Historic Hill you’ll find primates, some of the indoor exhibits, and the 1904 Flight Cage. The Wild’s headliners are the polar bear, the penguin house, and the gorillas—the gorilla habitat is particularly impressive. Here, too, is the coming-soon Grizzly Ridge. Discovery Corner is the home of the children’s zoo (more on that below). At the Lakeside Crossing you’ll find Sea Lion Sound, where glassed-in tunnels allow you to see these animals play underwater. The River’s Edge offers visitors a mostly shady and beautifully landscaped walk through large habitats for cheetahs, elephants, and more. (Don’t miss Hippo Landing—another chance to see an animal underwater!)

Extra perks:

Although the majority of the park is free, the zoo does offer some extras for a fee:

The Children’s Zoo ($4) has an indoor education center where kids can interact with guinea pigs as well as see some animals not on display in the main zoo. Goat brushing is always a fun activity for kids, too, and there’s a fabulous play area, including a plexiglass tunnel slide through the otter habitat, and an outdoor theater where more educational programming is offered. If there are programs going on, you can easily spend a couple of hours in this area alone.
What kid doesn’t like a zoo train ($7.95 for a full day)? The St. Louis Zoo is fairly hilly in places—pushing a stroller up the Historic Hill to get to the Red Rocks area, for instance, can be quite a workout, so the train is a good investment, especially with young children.
The Conservation Carousel ($3) is operated for free during the first hour of zoo operation every day.
Stingray petting pool ($4).
The Sea Lion show ($4) is a perennial favorite.
The 4D theater ($5) runs short programs continuously.

Food/Shopping at the St. Louis Zoo:

At the many kiosks and concession stands, families will find all the favorites, from popcorn to funnel cake and ice cream. We ate lunch at the Lakeside Cafe, which offers outdoor seating beside the swans’ home as well as plentiful indoor seating. They have an impressive system of composting and recycling which patrons are invited (but not forced) to make use of in disposing of their trash. Silverware is compostable, and lids and straws are not provided at all. As we were going meatless that day, we ordered a kids’ PB&J meal and two quesadillas, one with cheese only and one with vegetables. The quesadillas were very big and very tasty.
Several of the newer attractions, including the penguin house, the River’s Edge, and the bear exhibit, have dedicated gift shops, and kiosks around the zoo supplement the primary gift shops, so there are plenty of options for bringing home souvenirs.

Hours/Admission:

During the school year, the St. Louis Zoo is open daily 9-5; from Memorial Day to Labor Day, hours are Monday through Thursday 8-5 and Friday through Sunday 8 – 7. Admission is free, but the train, the sea lion show, the carousel and some other activities do require an admission fee. See details here. If you live close enough to visit even 2-3 times over the course of a year, it might be worth purchasing a family membership, since that provides passes for some of the most popular “extras” kids want. If you only plan to visit once, consider an adventure pass. For $12.95 per person, this gives you access to the top “extras.”

Location/Parking:

The St. Louis Zoo is located at the south edge of Forest Park, along I-64 in St. Louis, Missouri. On-site parking costs $15, but if you’re willing to walk, you can often find street parking for free along Forest Park’s roadways. And here’s a fun tidbit: if you have an electric car, the zoo offers two recharging stations in the South parking lot—for free!

The St. Louis zoo is free, but our family enjoyed adventure passes courtesy of Explore St. Louis in exchange for an honest review.

The Magic House: St. Louis Children’s Museum review

May 15, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

In the last few years, our family has visited a number of children’s museums around the country. Generally speaking, you can’t go wrong, but The Magic House: St. Louis Children’s Museum stands out. Boasting 55,000 square feet of play-based learning, The Magic House ranks among the city’s top attractions for families.

St. Louis Children’s Museum review:

What to do:

Here’s the thing about the Magic House: it is huge. It is housed in a Victorian house that has been expanded on both sides, so there are two wings, each two stories plus a basement, plus the original house, which has a third level as well.

Inside, you’ll find all the usual suspects—a children’s village with a tree house, restaurant, grocery store, and hospital; a make-it workshop; a “balls in motion.” But you’ll also find a number of other interesting exhibits:

A sports training room where kids can try on football gear and test their strength and balance like college athletes.
“Recollections,” where a motion detector and a big wall allow you to make rainbow-colored art simply by moving your body (my daughter’s favorite).
Magnetic shavings choreographed to music and a “musical chairs” where simply sitting down and standing up turns on and off different sections of an orchestra.
“Wonder Works,” an extensive STEM area aimed at the younger set.
A three-story slide, climbable “beanstalk.” There’s an outdoor play garden.
The electrostatic generator, where you can make your hair stand on end—a Magic House classic.

One particularly notable area is the “Star Spangled Center.” Here, you will find a mock-up of the Oval Office, with a replica of the Resolute Desk. Kids can pretend to be the President and learn trivia about presidents present and past by looking inside the drawers or picking up the desk phone and dialing. My 8-year-old loved standing at the podium and reading portions of presidential speeches to a closed-circuit TV.

Getting the most out of your visit:

The above barely scratches the surface, so it probably won’t be a surprise to hear that this place is crowded—all the time. Be prepared for it. The attendant at the admission desk told me most days there’s already a line when the doors open. The quietest time of the week is Friday evening, when the Magic House stays open until 9 p.m. This was when we visited, and it was pleasant and relaxing. The space, however, was clearly designed to accommodate many more people than were there that night.

In my opinion, the Magic House is ideal for kids between 3 and 10. Our 11-year-old enjoyed himself, but he would have been ready to go long before his younger siblings. The museum offers special programming for preschool and elementary kids, and that is the age range that will enjoy it most.

Plan to spend at least 3-5 hours, and allow most of the day if you can. Make sure you have enough adults for the number of kids you’re bringing, and set up a meeting place in case someone gets lost. It’s a quirky building with a lot of nooks and crannies. Although it is fully accessible, it’s technically two additions connected to the main house only on certain levels, so you have to go up and down quite a bit to see everything there is to see.

Take advantage of the “calming corner” in the lower level. This is a space set up for nursing mothers and families with kids who need a break from the stimulation. It’s set up with quiet activities to keep littles busy while Mom nurses.

Admission is good for the whole day, so you can pack a cooler and eat lunch in the garden or in your car and return afterward. (Proof of admission is the sticker you receive upon admission, so don’t let the kids lose them.)

Food/shopping:

Food is available at the Picnic Basket Cafe, offering sandwiches and salads for $6.75 and snacks and drinks for a couple dollars. The museum store offers toys–good ones! The closest thing I saw to the usual commercial fare was a Batman spy kit. Otherwise, expect to find really good, brain-building, mostly non-electronic playthings.

Location/parking:

The Magic House is at 516 S. Kirkwood Road in St. Louis, Missouri. Directions and public transit info are available here. Parking is free on site; when school is not in session, overflow parking can be found at a nearby school and church.

Hours/Admission:

Hours vary seasonally, but the website posts the current week’s schedule. Admission is $11 for everyone over the age of one. The Magic House also offers membership options, starting as low as $25 for one child or $80 for a “value” membership that covers weekdays only.

Our family visited the Magic House as guests of Explore St. Louis, in exchange for an honest review.

Southern Illinois pit stop: Jeremy Rochman Memorial Park

May 10, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Southern Illinois is an area with many beautiful natural parks, forests, and lakes to explore. Just south of Carbondale, Ill., home to Southern Illinois University, you’ll find a park you won’t want to miss if you’re traveling through the area. Online, you’ll find it listed as “Dungeons and Dragons Park,” or by its more official name, Jeremy ‘Boo’ Rochman Memorial Park. My kids, however, call it “Castle Park,” and it is at the top of their to-do list whenever we visit the area.

Southern Illinois pit stop:

Boo Rochman Park is a privately-owned park dedicated to the memory of the owners’ son, who died in a car accident in 1993. Because of his interest in fantasy gaming, they developed the park around that theme. Within its borders are hidden a host of surprises, from the obvious—a huge dragon to climb on, life-sized dueling wizards’ circle, and sea serpent benches—to the fantastic figures peeking from perches hidden in the crook of trees.

The main attraction, of course, is the castle itself—an enormous play structure that doesn’t just look like a medieval fortress; it practically is one. There are hidden passages, trick doors, thrones, towers, dungeons (monsters included)—kids can spend hours there, literally. Even older kids who are too old and “cool” for playgrounds will find this place hard to resist. It is without exception the most imagination-encouraging play area I have ever seen. Parents will want to explore it, too.

Bonus points: the grounds around the castle are mostly shaded by mature trees, and the sculptures tucked into every nook and cranny ensure that you’ll find something new no matter which way you turn. Also, the entire park is fenced in, with only one open entrance by the parking lot.

Come with friends, if you can. Bring a picnic to share under the trees—but whatever you do, make sure to bring water. Southern Illinois is very hot in the summertime.

Jeremy Rochman Memorial Park is open from 9 a.m. to dusk. It is located at 31 Homewood Drive, Carbondale, IL. From Main Street/Highway 13, take Giant City Road (Highway 12) south 3 1/2 miles. The park is on the left at the intersection of Giant City Road and No Name Road (no kidding!). Admission is free, but donations are accepted to keep the park in good shape.