We’ve put together 50 of our favorite family fun Christmas countdown activities. These Christmas countdown ideas are perfect for family time this holiday season.
Leah
Is the Universal Orlando Annual Pass Worth It
If you are planning a visit to Universal Orlando you may be wondering is the Universal Orlando annual pass worth it. We are breaking down the pros/cons of having an annual pass at Universal and if it is worth it.
Best Apple Picking in Rochester, NY
Apple picking in Rochester, NY may be one of my all time favorite fall activities. It is a perfect fall activity in Western New York. These are our picks for the best Rochester, NY apple picking destinations.
35 Kids Movie Night Ideas
We love family movie nights in our house. There is something special about all of us on the couch sitting down to see a story come to life on the screen. Today I am sharing 30 of our favorite kids movie night ideas that the entire family will love.
Things to Do in Ithaca New York for a Day Trip
With beautiful scenery and fun family attractions, there are many things to do in Ithaca, New York for a family day trip. We planned a Rochester to Ithaca, NY day trip, and it was a great day exploring a fun part of New York State.
Clingmans Dome Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains
Clingmans Dome trail is a great hike for families visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. It has amazing views and is a unique hiking experience. It may be a little challenging but worth the effort for the incredible views.
Universal Endless Summer Resort Dockside Review
If you are looking for a budget friendly resort at Universal Orlando and a great place to stay, look no further than Universal Endless Summer Resort Dockside! Our family of five spent a week at the Dockside Inn 2 Bedroom suite and we’re sharing the pros and cons to staying at this value resort during your Universal Orlando vacation.
Watkins Glen Gorge Trail: Watkins Glen State Park with Kids
With stunning waterfalls and an incredible uphill climb, the Watkins Glen Gorge trail is a perfect place to explore for families. Below we are sharing what you need to know about visiting Watkins Glen State Park with kids and how to plan an awesome family day out.
Animal Kingdom Wilderness Explorer Tips
Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Wilderness Explorer activity is a fun and free activity at Animal Kingdom. It is one of our favorite ways to enjoy the park, learn a bit more about the animals, and is fun for all ages.
New Disney Wish Cruise Ship: Details about Disney Cruise Line New Ship
Yesterday we learned all about the new Disney Wish cruise ship coming to the Disney Cruise ship fleet in Summer of 2022. We were so impressed by all the announcements!! The Disney Wish is going to be highly sought after. Here is what you can expect from the new Disney Wish cruise ship.
101 Things to Do in and Around Rochester, New York
List of things to do in and around Rochester, NY for families visiting or locals that will keep you busy this weekend.
Disney Art of Animation Review and Family Suite Room Tour
Great themed resort at Walt Disney World? Look no further than Disney’s Art of Animation. Today we are sharing our Disney Art of Animation Resort review to help decide if this resort is a good fit for your Disney vacation.
13 First Time Disney World Tips You Need to Know
Planning your first time at Disney World is exciting but it can feel overwhelming. These are the best and most helpful Disney World tips for first timers planning their Walt Disney World resort vacation.
10 Best Packing Tips for Disney World
Packing for Walt Disney World can be a lot of fun because there are so many ways to personalize your vacation. I’m sharing our best packing tips for Disney World, what you need, and a few fun items that you can purchase before you arrive at the parks.
Best Islands of Adventure Tips for an Awesome Day at the Park
Are you planning a visit to Universal’s Islands of Adventure? These tips for Islands of Adventure will help you plan your visit to the Universal Orlando theme park.
Lake George Family Lodging: The Lodges at Cresthaven
Are you looking for Lake George family lodging that has space for a family and offers on-site amenities? Then you should check out The Lodges at Cresthaven. It is a great family resort in Lake George, NY that is perfect to visit anytime of year.
12 Fun Things to Do in the Finger Lakes in Winter
Are you looking for things to do in the Finger Lakes in winter? This list will help you find winter activities in the Finger Lakes that are great for families.
Travel Moments from 2020 | A Look Back at our Family Adventures
Each year I like to look back on the family adventures we took the year before. Even though 2020 was a tough one, we found ourselves having unexpected adventures and created some really incredible family memories.
Travel with Kids Packing List: 10 Family Vacation Packing Tips for Stress Free Trip
Are you planning a family vacation and feeling a little overwhelmed with the packing process? I have been there as a mom traveling with a family of five! Today I am sharing my best family vacation packing tips and specific tips for putting together your own travel with kids packing list.
Orlando with Kids: 6 Day Orlando Itinerary
Are you visiting Orlando with kids? This 6 day Orlando itinerary will help you plan an awesome Orlando, Florida vacation.
Family Day Trips: Tips for Planning a Day Trip
Planning family day trips can be a great way to create family memories and reconnect. These tips for planning a day trip will help you shake up your routine and feel like you are on vacation, even for a day.
Family Weekend at Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
We spent an amazing weekend in Watkins Glen at the Harbor Hotel. It was a perfect getaway to enjoy the gorgeous area of the New York Finger Lakes.
21 USA Bucket List Destinations for Families
The United States is so vast and different making it a perfect place to explore as a family. From beaches to mountains, and deserts to green forests, the United States has a destination perfect for everyone. This is our USA bucket list to inspire family travel and create amazing family time memories.
Anakeesta Review: Should You Visit Anakeesta on Your Gatlinburg Vacation
Are you planning a vacation to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? You may want to include Anakeesta as part of your vacation! This Anakeesta review will share our visit to Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and tell you what to expect on your visit.
Tips for Visiting Chimney Bluffs State Park with Kids
Chimney Bluffs State Park is a unique and beautiful state park in New York. It sits along Lake Ontario and has been on our list of places to visit in Rochester for a few years now. Recently we spent the morning exploring the trails and taking in the views of Chimney Bluffs State Park.
101 Themed Summer Camp Ideas at Home (Camp Mom)
Every year I create themed summer camp ideas at home that we use to add structure and family time to our summer calendar. I put together this list of over 100 theme ideas to help you plan your at home summer camp this year.
Is Building a Droid at Disney World Worth It
When visiting Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disney World you may want to check out the Droid building experience, but it is worth it? Today we are going to share our experience and if building a Droid at Disney World worth it.
Rochester Scavenger Hunt: 9 Locations to Discover in Rochester, New York
Looking for fun activities with kids in Rochester this week? We have been out driving around the last few days and came up with this fun Rochester scavenger hunt that you can do from your car with kids.
Creative Writing for Kids: 40 Fun Writing Prompts from Disney Movies
Are you home with your kids and looking for a fun way to learn at home? These ideas for creative writing for kids, themed to Disney movies, are an engaging way to make writing fun by adding a little Disney magic!
Epcot with Kids: Tips for Planning a Day at Epcot for Families
Is Epcot for Kids? We think so! At first glance Epcot might not look like the best choice for kids, but with a little planning you can enjoy the food and culture as a family. Read on for how to plan your day at Epcot with kids.
7 Things to Do at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY
A highlight of our weekend in Cooperstown, NY was learning more about the history of baseball in America. Here are seven things to do at the Baseball Hall of Fame for families.
6 Things to See at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson, AZ
We loved visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert museum and there was so much for families to explore at this Tucson, AZ attraction.
5 Things to Do at Old Tucson in Arizona with Kids
We visited Old Tucson in Arizona and were pleasantly surprised. It was a fun way to spend the morning and learn about Western film history in America.
Unique Roadside Attraction in California: Cabazon Dinosaurs
Cabazon Dinosaurs is the perfect roadside attraction. It has lots of photo-ops and nostalgia. We added it as a stop during our Southwest road trip and it was a unique addition to our trip.
Our Best Travel Moments of 2019 + What is Coming in 2020
Every year I like to look back at our year. I love looking at what we have done and remember the moments that shaped the year. As we start 2020 and I am sharing our best travel moments of 2019 and what is coming up for us in the new year.
Fear Factor Live at Universal Studios in Orlando Florida
Fear Factor Live at Universal Studios allows park guests to step into the popular show and face their fears. Daring stunts, encounters with critters, and facing your fears makes this Universal Studios attraction a fun show to watch or participate…if you are brave!
Over 150 Disney+ Movies and Shows Your Family Should Watch in 2020
Disney+ has become our go-to for family movie nights and tv shows to watch together. It offers a huge variety of options for families with kids of all ages. Today I am sharing our list of Disney+ movies and shows your family will love.
The Hotel Hershey: Review of the Luxury Resort at Hersheypark
The Hotel Hershey is a 4-star hotel located at Hersheypark. It has on-site dining plus perks for guests visiting the Hersheypark amusement park.
Family Activities in Tucson with Kids that Everyone Will Enjoy
Tucson, Arizona is a great place for a family vacation and there are so many fun family activities. From the family friendly attractions, the hiking and outdoor activities, to the amazing food there are so many family activities in Tucson with kids.
NBA Experience at Disney Springs Tips and Review for Your Family Visit
The NBA Experience at Disney Springs is an interactive indoor basketball themed playground that allows fans of all ages to test their skills. We visited the NBA Experience during our August Orlando vacation and it was a great break from the summer afternoon heat and a chance to have some family fun competition.
Sadly, the NBA Experience has permanently closed at Disney Springs. It’s replacement has not been announced.
Is Universal Express Pass Worth It?
Skipping the lines at a busy theme park sounds great, but is the Universal Express pass worth it? We are sharing the pros and cons to Universal’s Express pass to help you decide if it is worth the money.
Disney Moderate Resorts Overview for Your Disney World Vacation
The Disney Moderate Resorts at Walt Disney World offer on-site perks to their guests as well as middle of the road budget friendly option. They offer accommodations for families of 5 and have a few more on-site amenities than the Disney Value Resorts. Today I am sharing what you can expect from your stay at the Disney Moderate Resorts.
Hersheypark Resorts: 3 Sweet Family Friendly Hersheypark Accommodations
The Hersheypark resorts are historical, fun, and a great place to stay for families visiting Hershey, Pa. Each one has it’s own unique style and provides great accomodations at Hersheypark.
New at Hersheypark: Reese’s Cupfusion, Sweet Treats, and More
During my media weekend at Hershey’s Sweet Welcome we received an inside look into what is new at Hersheypark. The highlights are the new Hersheypark attraction: Reese’s Cupfusion as well as a few more ways to make your visit to Hersheypark that much sweeter.
Disneyland and California Adventure in One Day
Visiting Disneyland and California Adventure in one day can be done with a bit of planning and prioritizing your must see attractions.
7 Things to See at Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach
Are you visiting Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach during your vacation to Myrtle Beach? These are the best things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach you don’t want to miss.
Motel 6 Review: A Budget Friendly Spring Break Choice for Families
Spring break in New York is a mix of unpredictable weather and often snow. Despite the weather, we wanted a budget friendly spring break getaway to enjoy some undistracted family time. We planned an overnight in Buffalo to visit a few of the family friendly attractions and check out the renovated rooms at the Motel 6. Read on for our Motel 6 review and tips to plan your budget friendly Spring Break getaway.
45+ Characters to Meet at Universal Orlando Resort
Do you love meeting characters at the theme parks? Today we are sharing a list of characters to meet at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.
West Inn and Suites Carlsbad: Family Hotel Near LEGOLAND California
West Inn and Suites Carlsbad is an amazing family (and pet) friendly hotel near LEGOLAND California. It has friendly staff, spacious rooms, and a great location for your Carlsbad vacation.
Things to Do in Louisville with Kids for a Fun Day
Had I known there were so many fun things to do in Louisville with kids, I would have planned a few extra days to spend visiting the city. We only had one day to experience as much of Louisville as possible and it left us wanting to come back for more.
8 Awesome Stops for a Family Fun Tennessee Road Trip
A family road trip is one of my favorite ways to travel. I love planning stops along our route and having time to listen to music and talk to each other. I couldn’t wait to plan our Tennessee road trip from Rochester to Pigeon Forge, and was excited for the family attractions along the way.
Jedi Training at Hollywood Studios: What You Need to Know
Disney’s Jedi Training at Hollywood Studios is a fun interactive Star Wars experience. On our last visit to Walt Disney World the kids trained to be a Jedi! Here are our best Jedi training academy tips. Jedi Training is currently closed at Walt Disney World. No announcement has been made on expected opening.
Our Orlando Getaway Family Weekend
As a huge theme park family we have always wanted to visit during the holidays. In December we finally had our chance to do a quick Orlando getaway. It may have been a bit too fast but we ended up having a great family Orlando weekend getaway that was perfect for our family.
Road Trip Packing List for Families | Family Road Trip Essentials
This road trip packing list for families is all you need to have a great vacation on the road. From road trip essentials to items that just make the trip more fun, this packing list will help you have a great time and be prepared.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone in Gallup, New Mexico
Gallup, New Mexico surprised me with its landscape and its people. I went into my visit never experiencing New Mexico and I came out with a better understanding of this often overlooked part of our country as well as a part of myself.
ICE at Gaylord National (Updated 2022)
ICE at Gaylord National resort is a family fun holiday event that is back for the 2022 season.
Halloween Inspired Things to Do in Rochester, New York for Families
The air is getting crisper, pumpkins are popping up on everyone’s porch and it can only mean one thing-fall is here in Rochester, New York. Fall is an amazing time of year to live in the Northeast because there are so many family things to do in Rochester. We take full advantage of each fall weekend to explore, and recently enjoyed a Halloween inspired family day out!
Things to do in Cooperstown NY for a Family Weekend Getaway
We visited Cooperstown NY in early fall and learned there are so many things to do in Cooperstown NY for families. Today we are sharing how we spent a family weekend in Cooperstown NY.
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Review at Universal CityWalk
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen at Universal Orlando Resort is a unique steam-punk themed restaurant at Universal CityWalk. Today we are sharing our Toothsome Chocolate Emporium review to help you decide if it should be part of your Universal vacation.
5 Reasons Your Family Will Love KIDZ BOP
A few weeks ago I announced that I would be a KIDZ BOP brand ambassador and I am so excited! My family has been listening to KIDZ BOP since my oldest was little. I like listening to music I know is safe for my kids and we can enjoy as a family. Today I wanted to share 5 reasons to love KIDZ BOP with your family.
Learning to Be Brave at Sky High Adventure Park
Be brave. You hear this all the time and it can mean different things in different situations. I decided it was time to be brave and face my fear of heights. I was not jumping off bridges or doing anything extreme but I was stepping out of my comfort zone by doing the Sky High Adventure Park at the Holiday Valley Resort.
‘Ohana Breakfast and Dinner Update at Disney World
‘Ohana Character Breakfast at Walt Disney World is a family style character dining experience located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. It has a Hawaiian theme and focuses around the Lilo & Stich movie. This ‘Ohana breakfast has great food and character interactions that the entire family will love.
Girls’ Trip Weekend Getaway from Rochester: Inn at Holiday Valley
Planning a girls’ trip weekend is a fun way to reconnect with your family and create lasting memories. We found a great location in the Inn at Holiday Valley. The Inn at Holiday Valley offers relaxation, swimming, and adventure that will make everyone happy on your next weekend getaway from Rochester.
Disney World VIP Tour Review
What is it really like on a Disney World VIP Tour? Is the luxury service at Disney World worth the expense? Today we are sharing our review of a VIP tour at Disney World.
10 Best Places to Take Pictures at Universal Orlando Resort
A family vacation wouldn’t be complete without some amazing pictures. I love taking pictures on our vacations and Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure have some great places to capture your family vacation moments. I’ve rounded up the best places to take pictures at Universal Orlando that you need to check out on your next visit to the parks.
Legoland Florida Review & Tips for Planning a Visit
Is a trip to LEGOLAND Florida worth it? Today I am sharing my LEGOLAND Florida review and tips for planning an awesome visit to the LEGO theme park in Florida.
15 Magical Moments from the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration 2018
We recently returned from the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration 2018 and what a celebration it was. This year the celebration was held 3 days at Walt Disney World and 3 days aboard the Disney Cruise Line Disney Dream Ship. It was incredible and as I go through my pictures and videos I am so excited to share some of my favorite memories, some new and exciting Disney news, and what I learned about myself on this incredible journey.
Pancakes & Family Time at Kettle Ridge Farm
Earlier this year I shared that I want to be more intentional with our family time. What better way to enjoy family then visiting Kettle Ridge Farm. Kettle Ridge Farm is all about family. From the people behind the tasting counter to the people that help you tap your maple tree, they are all about working together and being a family. I love this about Kettle Ridge Farm and I couldn’t wait to bring my family back for our pancake breakfast and our tree tapping.
We’re Going to the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration(+ What’s In It For You!)
I started blogging to share and inspire families to connect more with their families through travel and everyday life adventures. What I never expected was that I would be inspired as well. This year I have the incredible opportunity to make a personal dream come true by attending the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. Not only is this an amazing adventure for my family, but it is an inside look at Walt Disney World and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Adopt-A-Maple at Kettle Ridge Farm: A New Family Holiday Tradition
Thanksgiving has come and gone and the frenzy of the holidays has kicked into high gear. I love the holidays. I love the lights and the decorating and creating memories with my family that connects us. From the family traditions, to the family get-together the holidays are an amazing time to focus on what is really important. This year we are starting a new family holiday tradition with the Adopt-A-Maple at Kettle Ridge Farm program.
7 Reasons Traveling with Your Kids is Worth It
Traveling with your kids can be amazing. Your kids will appreciate art and history. Your family will smile and laugh and create memories that will last forever. There will be no fights between siblings, no fights between my husband and I. We will all be happy the entire week. Have I sold you on taking a family vacation?
One-On-One Time with My Son at the Seneca Park Zoo
On my recent visit to the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, NY I was able to spend some one-on-one time with my son. Seneca Park Zoo is a great place for a few hours of quality time. I cherish the moments that I get to spend with my kids, especially as they get older. Time is going so fast and the one-on-one play dates are a great way to connect.
Experiencing the Maid of the Mist
When you see Niagara Falls for the first time it is breathtaking but nothing is as amazing as seeing it up close while aboard the Maid of the Mist. The Maid of the Mist is located in New York State along the USA/Canadian border. It is about a 20 minute drive from Buffalo, New York. The Maid of the Mist is a family favorite that should be on everyone’s family travel bucket list.
LEGOLAND Florida Hotel Review: 10 Amazing Reasons to Stay & Play
We were so excited to stay at the LEGOLAND Florida Hotel on our last two visits to Florida. It is about a 45 minute drive from Orlando but we always make the drive because we love the park and the hotel. The minute you pull into the resort you can’t help but be excited. With its bright color exterior and dragon at the entrance the LEGOLAND Florida Resort Hotel is perfect for families.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa: A Family Place to Relax and Recharge
The Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa in Orlando, Florida is a family friendly destination that has something for everyone. With its close proximity to world class theme parks and day trips to the coast there is so much to do. It is so important to have a place where the entire family can recharge and relax. My family was so happy to find this at the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa.
Family Favorite Apps for Traveling
When we are traveling we like to use our devices to keep the kids busy during long drives or flights. We have Kindle Fires but most of these apps are available across different devices. I’m excited to have my daughter guest post with me to share with you our family favorite apps to play when travelling.
52 Quality Family Time Ideas to Start this Weekend
With all of today’s distractions, it is so important to prioritize quality family time. Today we are sharing our favorite and fun family time ideas to help you reconnect as a family this weekend.
Fun & Easy Vacation Countdown Ideas for Kids
Planning a family vacation is part of the fun of going on the vacation! These DIY vacation countdown ideas for kids will have everyone in the family excited for the trip and is a fun way to get excited before you start your adventure.
10 Best Toronto Attractions with Kids
Toronto is a great place to visit for families. It is a huge city with so many fun things to do. There is something for everyone! These are the best Toronto attractions to visit with kids.
5 Tips to Afford a Beach House Vacation
The thought of spending an entire week on the beach makes me so happy. I love having a house to make our own for the week and the comfort of home while on vacation. For most people it seems like an out of reach dream but I am here to tell you with some planning and tricks I can show you how to afford a beach house vacation even if you are on a tight budget.
The Waffle Factory | Rochester, New York
Rochester has the Strong Museum of Play, Dinosaur BBQ and garbage plates. Now we have The Waffle Factory. Located outside of Rochester, NY in Webster, The Waffle Factory offers all types of waffle creations imaginable. It was a HUGE hit with my family!!
Fall Fun at Powers Farm Market
Fall is the best time of the year to get out there and explore the festivals and farms in your neighborhood. I love creating fall family traditions and fall traditions for us means visiting farms and fall festivals in and around Rochester, New York. New York is the best place to be for fall because it is gorgeous this time of year!