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13 Best Natural History Museums in the U.S. for Kids

Maud — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 00:23:46 +0000

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13 Best Natural History Museums in the U.S. for Kids

July 18, 2023

Cultural Trip, USA / Canada, Winter

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Taking kids to the best natural history museums has so many benefits! They can explore all sorts of cool topics, like science, history, and biology, by checking out real artifacts and specimens. Plus, they can talk about what they see, which solidifies their understanding of what they’re learning in school. Going to your local museum is a great bonding experience as a family, and it helps them appreciate the world and its history even more. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Looking for a way to teach your kids about the world around them in a fun way? You’ll love this selection of the best natural history museums in the US, recommended by GoWhee parents and guaranteed to be a good time for kids of all ages.

Tips on how to visit the best natural history museum in the US without kids being bored ?

If your kids show interest in things like dinosaurs and geology. Then make sure to target museums with special exhibits matching their interest at the moment. This is called “child-led” education.
A museum that is designed for kids will always ones making education fun and playful. To keep younger visitors interested throughout, find a museum with some interactive exhibits like a planetarium, maybe a specimens’ discovery lab, or nature and science hands-on permanent exhibits.
One hit list for all natural history museums is a dinosaur hall. Some of the best museums offer real-size dinosaurs with is always guaranteed to impress.
Download the GoWhee App to get a glimpse of the best natural history museums in the U.S., their permanent exhibits, and amenities geared toward kids, and read reviews on all kid-friendly places, directly from parents.

Best Natural History Museums in the US – East Coast

1. Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, PA

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one of the best in the United States, featuring exhibits from the past and present alike. From the botanical wonders of the world to the rich and complex history of Native Americans, there’s a little something for everyone here. If you’d like to visit, you can book a ticket here.

Key Information: Child admission costs $12, while adult admission costs $20.

Good To Know: If you book the museum tickets online for a times lot after 3 PM, you can get them half-off!

2. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C

The Smithsonian National Museum in D.C is one of the most renowned natural history museums because it has it all, from the classic dinosaur exhibit to real, 2000-year-old Egyptian mummies. While you’re there, you can also pay a visit to the national mall, so it’s the perfect tourist hub and a great learning opportunity for your kiddos! Best of all, admission is completely free and no reservations or tickets are necessary, so you can even visit on a whim!

Key Information: The museum is open every day from 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.

Good To Know: There’s enough shopping and dining to plan an entire day around this Smithsonian institution.

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3. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA

The Academy of Natural Sciences is focused on the natural history of animals, with plenty of dinosaur exhibits and The Big Dig, a fully simulated excavation. Needless to say, it’s perfect for the budding archaeologists in your family, so we strongly recommend it.

Key Information: Child tickets are $23 and adult tickets are $27, but museum members get in for free.

Good To Know: The Big Dig is only open on weekends, and tickets tend to go fast.

4.American Museum of Natural History in New York, NY

As the world’s largest natural history museum, and located in the heart of New York City, the American Museum of Natural History is home to various unique exhibits and specimens that’ll keep your kids engaged. Some of our favorites are the iconic human origin halls, where artifacts from ancient human history can be found, and the Hayden Sphere, a one-of-a-kind planetarium experience.

Key Information: Museum Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and cost $16 for children and $28 for adults.

Good To Know: The human origin halls represent a variety of cultures, helping your kid to get a more complete, nuanced understanding of human history.

5. Harvard Museum of Natural History in Cambridge, MA

Harvard Museum boasts a rich history in and of itself and has natural history exhibits and displays to show for it. Adults will love to look at the beautiful and rare glass flowers, while kids will love looking at the diverse fossil and mineral displays. Be sure to stop by if you’re in the area!

Key Information: Children can get tickets for $10, and adults can for $15.

Good To Know: A ticket also gets you admission to the Harvard Museum and the nearby Peabody Museum!

Best Natural History Museums In The US – Midwest and South

6. Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, IL

The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago was founded after the World’s Columbian Exposition to preserve the 1893 festival’s diverse cultural atmosphere. Some of the most popular attractions include Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex, the world’s largest dinosaur specimen known, and a number of exhibits to display and tell the story of Native American culture.

Key Information: Museum Tickets come in different tiers that provide a richer experience, with the cheapest being $29 and the most expensive being $42, but children can receive a discount.

Good To Know: For a truly unique experience, you and your kiddos can stay at the natural history museum overnight!

7. University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks, AK

This museum gives visitors a glance at Alaska’s rich natural history, especially its fossils and aquatic life. There’s a wide range of science-based and nature activities available such as interactive games, animated movies, and even recordings of actual archeological digs. No matter how your kids learn best, they’ll have a blast here!

Key Information: Children under 4 get in for free, kids from 5-12 get in for $9, and anyone 13 or over gets in for $16.

Good To Know: Tickets to any of the museum’s movies have to be purchased separately and cost $5 each.

8. Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minnesota

This museum features everything from science and math to history and social studies, so your family will never run out of things to do. Your kids will be able to learn about fascinating topics such as the solar system and experimental design, while adults will enjoy insightful exhibits on the culture and the arts. Be sure to book tickets in advance!

Key Information: General admission is $20 for kids and $30 for adults.

Good To Know: Tickets to the Omnitheater are sold separately at a flat rate of $10.

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9. Houston Museum of Natural Science in Houston, TX

This museum is perfect for families who are interested in the quirks and curiosities of humanity. Some of the most popular parts to visit are the ancient Egyptian hall, the rock and mineral display great for geology fans, and of course, the iconic curio collection. The natural science museum recommends you go through each exhibit slowly so you and your family can fully appreciate it.

Key Information: Tickets are $16 for kids and $25 for adults.

Good To Know: Masks are only required in certain areas of the museum, but are strongly recommended throughout.

10. Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, MT

Last but not least, the Museum of the Rockies focuses on the landscape of the surrounding area, its fossil record, its inhabitants, and its natural phenomena. With fun and interactive exhibits available, it’ll keep you and your kids entertained throughout your visit while also providing a unique perspective on the world around you. Needless to say, it’s a great way to spend the day next time you’re in the area.

Key Information: Children 5 and under are allowed in for free in this natural history museum. Tickets for kids from 5-17 are $12, and adult tickets are $18.

Good To Know: The Explore Yellowstone exhibit is specifically designed for small children, so pay it a visit!

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Best Natural History Museums In The US – West Coast

11. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, CA

Located in Los Angeles County, this museum brings an even blend of archaeology, paleontology, and modern nature to you and your family. Visit a fossil lab to learn about the dawn of time or take a walk through one of the outdoor gardens to appreciate nature in today’s era. Either way, it’ll be a blast!

Key Information: Museum Admission is $7 for children and $15 for adults.

Good To Know: Tickets to the Dinosaur Encounters show can be purchased separately for $6 each.

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12. Denver Museum of Nature & Science in Denver, CO

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a top family destination and for good reason. It appeals to just about every interest you and your family could have, from the ancient dinosaurs to modern health science. Tickets are in high demand, so book yours ASAP!

Key Information: Museum of Nature & Science tickets cost $18 for children and $23 for adults.

Good To Know: Tickets must be purchased in advance for this museum, and a times lot for your visit must be reserved.

13. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum in Los Angeles, CA

Located in the heart of LA, the La Brea Tar Pits are a fresh and exciting take on the standard natural history museum. There’s a heavy focus on paleontology, especially ice-age research, with the opportunity to view a live excavation site and paleontology lab. It’s the perfect place for any young dinosaur fossils enthusiasts in your family!

Key Information: Museum Admission is $12 for children and $15 for adults.

Good To Know: Tickets to films and live shows are sold separately for $6 each.

Hope this list of the best natural history museums in the US inspired you, if so, be sure to share it with your friends and family by choosing one of the options below!

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19 Best Family Hotels in San Diego California

Maud — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 13:33:09 +0000

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19 Best Family Hotels in San Diego Your Kids (and You) Will Love

December 7, 2022

Beach Vacation, City Escape, Fall, Luxury Vacations, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada, Winter

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Sunny San Diego, California, is an amazing kid-friendly vacation destination with lots to do and see. With world-class attractions and amazing shops and restaurants, it’s easy to see why families love this gorgeous city. And even better, finding family hotels in San Diego is easy! There are lots of family-friendly resorts with everything you need. Here are some of GoWhee’s favorite San Diego hotels.

For more inspiration on things to do in San Diego with kids, download the GoWhee app.

1. Hotel Del Coronado

The Hotel Del Coronado is one of the best family hotels in San Diego. Located right across from downtown San Diego in beautiful San Diego Bay, you don’t have to leave this resort to have an amazing time. You can enjoy the beach, borrow the resort’s bikes, roast s’mores at your own private fire pit, and so much more.

Key Information: Rooms start at $516 – 8 different restaurants – In-room childcare available

Good To Know: The Ocean Explorers kids’ club is not to be missed– they have a classroom with live animals that your kids will just love.

2. La Jolla Shores Hotel

At the La Jolla Shores Hotel, the beach is right out your hotel room door. You can enjoy beautiful weather year-round and spend a wonderful vacation with your family as you relax and soak up the sun.

Key Information: Rooms start at $399 – Shores restaurant has an extensive kids’ menu – Fitness center is the only not-kid-friendly amenity

Good To Know: If your kids want to run around on a playground, there’s a great park called Kellogg Park within walking distance—- it’s just across the street.

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3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar

The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a beautiful spot with gorgeously appointed guest rooms and views of a nature preserve. Children are invited to use all of the amenities with their parents, like the golf course and tennis courts, and there’s lots to do just for them.

Key Information: Rooms start at $835 – Kids 5 and under eat for free at the main restaurant Amaya – Free use of cribs and rollaway beds

Good To Know: The resort offers an in-room glamping experience for kids, which includes snacks, their own private tent in your room, movies, and more.

4. San Diego Mission Bay Resort

The San Diego Mission Bay Resort is the perfect place to stay if your family wants to be by the sea. The pool is right on the waterfront, just steps away from the hotel’s private beach, and there’s an extra-shallow wading pool for the youngest kids.

Key Information: Rooms start at $289 – adjacent to Fiesta Island outdoor recreation area – Huge list of family activities

Good To Know: Opting in for the breakfast package adds a $40 food credit that can be used for in-room dining or at the resort’s restaurants.

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6. Omni San Diego

The Omni San Diego is located in the lovely Gaslamp Quarter and is just steps away from shopping, dining, and all kinds of fun entertainment. The hotel itself is the perfect place to set up a home base on your San Diego vacation, with comfortable rooms and amenities that will please the whole family.

Key Information: Rooms start at $169 – Childcare available – Outdoor heated swimming pool

Good To Know: The Omni Junior Chefs program is designed to offer your kids a delicious, nutritious menu, especially for them.

7. Bahia Resort Hotel

The Bahia Resort Hotel has all kinds of amazing activities for kids. They can participate in face painting, lei-making,hula lessons, and even lightsaber training! The whole family can enjoy live music and relaxing by the junior Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Key Information: Room rates start at $206 – Newly built playground for kids – Free use of cribs and rollaway beds

Good To Know: For a special night out with the family, book a sunset cruise on the resort’s paddle wheeler, the Bahia Belle!

8. Paradise Point Resort & Spa

At the Paradise Point Resort & Spa, active families can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities together. With five swimming pools and a huge fitness center, this resort is sure to offer something for everyone.

Key Information: Rooms start at $256 – 14 miles of bike and walking paths – Restaurants offer kid menus

Good To Know: If you’re planning on spending any time at SeaWorld, this resort is right across the street.

9. LEGOLAND Resort Hotel

Creative kiddos will LOVE staying at the Legoland resort hotel You can build, play, and enjoy extra access to the Legoland theme park. The Legoland hotels (one is castle themed, and the other is more broadly Lego-themed) offer nightly entertainment for the kids, treasure hunts in the rooms, and of course, free Legos!

Key Information: Rooms start at $425 – Legoland tickets are not included in the room rate unless you buy a package deal – Breakfast is included

Good To Know: The Legoland Resort Hotel has several room themes, including Pirates, Lego Friends, Ninjago, Adventure, and Kingdom. Get your kids involved in vacation planning by asking them what their favorite theme is!

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10. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club offers adventurous, creative, and fun activities for kids of all ages. Kids can learn how to play tennis from the pros, and your family can enjoy a cookout together on the beach as the waves crash on the shore.

Key Information: Rooms start at $279 – Free parking – Free use of highchairs, cribs, and rollaway beds

Good To Know: La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is just steps away from numerous surf shops, so it’s easy to pick up some surfing lessons when you stay here.

11. Kings Inn San Diego

The super cute, retro Kings Inn San Diego will make you feel like you’re traveling in the stylish glory days of Route 66! With a classic design and all-modern amenities, you’ll have a great time staying here and enjoying their famous Waffle Spot breakfast.

Key Information: Room rates start at $111 – Promo codes are frequently available – Free use of cribs and roll-away beds

Good To Know: The hotel pool offers free floaties for the kids to play with.

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12. Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Kona Kai is the spot for families who want to stay on the water. They offer wave runners, funcats, paddleboards, kayaks, and more. You can even rent a duffy boat, which comes with a table that’s perfect for lunch on the bay!

Key Information: Rooms start at $309 – Private beach – Nightly bonfires

Good To Know: This resort is pet friendly, so bring Fluffy along for beach fun!

13. Loews Coronado Bay

Whenever you stay at a LoewsHotel, you can rest assured that your kids will have a great time. At LoewsCoronado Bay, your kids can play on the beach, get fishing lessons, and learn a new water sport. Parents can play along with them, too!

Key Information: Rooms start at $279 – Free shuttle service to Silver Strand State Beach and downtown Coronado Village – 3 heated swimming pools

Good To Know: On Friday and Saturday nights, the hotel hosts “dive-in” movies at one of its swimming pools.

14. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort

The Park Hyatt Aviara Resort is situated on 200 acres of lush landscape and is home to one of the best hiking trails in the San Diego area. The resort is steps away from the Pacific Ocean beaches and overlooks the Batiquitos Lagoon, making it the perfect place to enjoy a beach vacation.

Key Information: Rooms start at $578 – Babysitting available – Beach toys and chairs available to borrow

Good To Know: If you like surfing or want to learn how to surf, the resort has a dedicated surf concierge.

15. Old Town Inn

Staying at the charming Old Town Inn lets your family relax in a tropical garden while being just steps away from the action and attractions of San Diego. It’s the perfect place for families with babies and toddlers– there are lots of quiet, smooth strolling paths and places to nap.

Key Information: Rooms start at $116 – Pet-friendly – Free breakfast

Good To Know: If your family wants to stay in and play a board game, you can borrow one for free from the hotel’s game library.

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16. Rancho Bernardo Inn

The Rancho Bernardo Inn is perfect for foodie families–many of the ingredients used in their restaurants come from the Chef’s Garden onsite. It’s a great place for families who want to stay somewhere unique and sustainable.

Key Information: Rooms start at $ – Free use of cribs and rollaway beds – Close to major attractions like Legoland and the San Diego Zoo

Good To Know: The inn’s grounds are beautiful, and guests are welcome to play lawn games on them.

17. The Westin San Diego Bayview

The Westin San Diego Bayview is located in the heart of San Diego. Kids will love splashing in the rooftop pool, while parents love the view and convenience; this hotel is super close to everything!

Key Information: Rooms start at $236 – Free use of cribs – Pet friendly (with no additional pet fee!)

Good To Know: The Westin is less than a mile away from San Diego’s Little Italy, home to some of the best dining in town.

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18. Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine

Beautiful La Jolla is close enough to the bigger city of San Diego to be convenient but has a more relaxed, beachfront feel. The Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine is close to the San Diego Zoo, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and more.

Key Information: Room rates start at $294 – Breakfast is not included in the basic room rate – Laundry services are available

Good To Know: Kids and adults can enjoy a private (or family) tennis lesson on the Regency’s courts.

19. Pacific Terrace Hotel

Located on the north end of San Diego’s Pacific Beach Boardwalk, the Pacific Terrace is a fun, funky hotel with tropical decor and a family-friendly atmosphere. The heated outdoor pool has an ocean view, and the nonalcoholic drinks are all free. Kids will especially enjoy the free afternoon cookies!

Key Information: Rooms start at $535 – Guest laundry – Kids under 15 stay free

Good To Know: If you want to spend all day lounging by the pool, you can get your lunch or dinner delivered to your chairs!

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Family road trips you should take before your kids grow up

Maud — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 19:18:19 +0000

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Family road trips you should take before your kids grow up

Family road trips offer so many opportunities to bond, discover and take time to appreciate our surroundings and the slow pace of life. You can choose to spend the whole trip in an RV, rent a car for a short-haul or decide to dive into the whole Route 66 experience.

Pack your kids’ favorite snacks, download your favorite travel app to find places for kids along the way, the Gowhee App, and hit the road. Here is inspirations for family road trips you should take before your kids grow up!

From Atlanta to Knoxville TN

Why this road trip?

Starting in the fun city of Atlanta, this city is rich with cultural places to visit with kids, such as places to honor Martin Luther King Jr life.

You can also visit fun and interactive museums like the Coca-Cola museum downtown. Their kids will learn the history of the brand while taste testing different Coke flavors.

There are lots of great stops for outdoor lovers along this route. The great smoky mountain national park offers many kid-friendly hikes and natural attractions. Which makes this family road trip an excellent choice for a budget-friendly vacation.

For instance, local parents recommend taking a kid-friendly tour of the Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, TN. Make sure to bring a jacket as it can get chilly in those caves.

Cades Cove in Tennessee is another beautiful Smoky Mountain favorite where you can drive the loop and see wildlife like black bears and elk!

Helen, Georgia

This german inspire town has a lot to offer and makes for a perfect 2-3 day stop.

Let the kids stretch their legs and take them to play mini-golf at Bavarian Mountain Miniature Golf. The views of Helen are spectacular! There is great service with snacks available, and also an arcade inside.

Get a bite to eat at The Troll Tavern for some great American and German-style food. The kids’ menu is full of amazing options. The atmosphere and service are great as well.

Take a break from the heat and head over the river for an afternoon of fun river-tubing. The cool river tubing company has all you need. Don’t forget to get out of the tube and enjoy some splashing while you are at it!

>>>MUST-READ: Epic Family Road Trip New York City to Montreal<<<

Pigeon Forge + Gatlinburg, TN

Skybridge Gatlinburg will wow the kids. The floor of the bridge is glass, which can be a bit scary for those of us afraid of heights! But the kids will love it!

The Rocky Top Mountain coaster would also be a thrilling stop. This is a good length mountain coaster that will provide lots of fun as well as beautiful views of the mountains.

Don’t forget to visit the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN. Of course, the adults will be intrigued, but the kids will learn a lot too with the hands-on experiences they can participate in. There is even a family-friendly audio guide.

>>> Discover more places for kids in Tennessee

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo in Dahlonega, GA, where you can meet a baby Zedonk {(half zebra half donkey)
Parrot Mountain and Garden where kids can feed and interact with more than 70 parrots.

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

The Morganton Point Campground is a great place to rest during your RV road trip. It is nestled within the beautiful northeast Georgia mountains. There is pristine water with beach access, a designated swimming area, picnic tables, and plenty of scenic views surrounding the campground. Showers and drinking water are provided as well.

>>> Read about the best camping gear for kids here

For the foodie families:

Grab another sweet treat after lunch or dinner when heading out of town at Sublime Doughnuts. They have so many fun flavors it will be hard to choose!

Family Road Trip photo Checklist:

Laurel Falls in Sevierville, TN is a perfect family photo spot. The waterfall reward at the end of the hike to get there will be worth it!
On the observation deck of the Sunsphere in Knoxville TN.
In front of the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge TN.

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Denver to Las Vegas

Why this family road trip?

This family road trip is the opportunity to check some iconic United States landscapes off your bucket list. The rock formation all around and desert kid-friendly hikes are sure to create memories of a lifetime. Make sure to keep hydrated and catch some amazing family photos.

End it all with a fabulous time in the amazing city of Las Vegas and enjoy all the lights and action thereafter your many days soaking up nature at its finest.

>>> Find places for kids in Las Vegas

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Leadville and its surrounding, CO

Leadville is an underrated town in the heart of Colorado. Near ski mountains, you will find yourself slowing the pace down and enjoying simple pleasures with the kids like a run to the local library.

This little town is the perfect spot to take day trips to many of the great kid-friendly hikes and outdoor adventures the area provides.

There is a little something for every budget. Choose to spend a luxury afternoon in the villages of Vail, with fun winter and summer activities. Or go on the hunt for history and back in the great outdoors with the Sally Barber Mine Hike.

End your day at the Treeline Restaurant in town with incredible food that is local and fresh! They have a super cozy front patio and the views from the rooftop are out of this world!

>>>MUST-READ: Best Car Games For Kids<<<

Moab National Park

Home of the most interesting hikes and learning experiences for families. If Moab was not on your bucket list, it should be, according to many parents in the Gowhee App community.

The kids will love exploring the Sand Dune Arch Trail, where they can play, roll, and slide in all of the sand. The short little hike is perfect for kids. Just be sure to hydrate because it can be really hot depending on the time of year.

There are lots to see and explore at the Cave Spring Trail. You can take the kids on fun hikes and check out the abandoned cowboy camp. Climb the wooden ladders for some amazing views of Canyonlands National Park.

Grand Canyon

You simply cannot miss the opportunity to see the Grand Canyon! The sights need no introduction but you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of amenities to keep you and the kids hydrated and well-fed from inside the park.

Don’t forget to bring binoculars so the kids can view even more of the massive Canyon. Also, wear comfortable shoes because the beautiful hikes will be so worth it.

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

M&M World in Las Vegas. This will be a treat for kids, with custom m&ms making.
Glennwood Hot Spring Pool in Glenwood Springs CO. Spend an afternoon splashing and going down their epic slides!

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

Wonderland RV park is a great stop for family road trips. Here, kids can feed horses and play basketball and lawn games. If traveling with an RV, the campsite has full hookups, laundry facilities, free WiFi, and is pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

>>> Read: Best Nature Accommodations to unplug with kids.

For the foodie families:

Blueberry Hill Family Restaurant in Las Vegas is a great stop for breakfast with the kids. They make truly authentic made-from-scratch buttermilk pancakes and everything they serve is made fresh and in-house. They have a great kids menu and they serve more than just breakfast! Open until 10 pm for dinner, too!

Family photo Checklist:

At Temple of the Sun in Capitol Reef National Park, you and your family will look like you’ve been on a visit to Mars with the funky rocks all around! It’s otherworldly and gorgeous for a photo.
The Hoover Dam in Nevada, this man-made wonder makes for a spectacular backdrop.
High Roller Ferris Wheel in Las Vegas

Los Angeles to San Francisco

Why this road trip?

California is known to be a family road trip favorite and especially great for RV and van life.

It is no surprise since there are tons of hiking opportunities and plenty of RV camping sites to relax in. The kids will enjoy time in nature, learn about trees, soak up some sun and build sandcastles on some of the most beautiful California beaches.

Sequoia & Yosemite National Parks

Visit one of the nation’s oldest national parks, The Sequoia National park, and see the famous giant redwood trees. There are many different kid-friendly hikes you can go on. You can even tour the park on horseback if you wish!

Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls. But you can also find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and many more beautiful sights to see.

Beach small towns and Monterey

When driving on route 1 you will pass some breathtaking ocean views, sunset, and beautiful beaches. Don’t forget to spend time strolling around small towns along the way and spend days at the beach to play in the sand and relax. One recommended stop is Avila Beach about halfway through the trip.

Monterey is a great place to stop and enjoy some amazing seafood. Kids can experience once of lifetime things like whale watching, taking a glass-bottom boat tour, or meeting the giant pacific octopus at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Monterey is also filled with unique places for kids like themed playgrounds.
One especially recommended by local parents on Gowhee App is the Dennis The Menace playground. With a suspended bridge, maze climbing walls, and more, kids may not want to leave!

>>> Find great kid-friendly beaches and playgrounds in California here

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

Bravo Farms in Traver, CA is a great stop right off the highway. They serve food here that is amazing with great service. There is a giant treehouse for the kids to explore. The outside patio is like a kid’s wonderland with a whole western town crafted with little slides hidden in the buildings.
Paddle Board Newport Beach near L.A, is one of the best places to bring your kids to experience kayaking or paddleboarding. Since the experience is on the bayside, there are no waves so it’s a ton of fun for kids.

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

The Thousand Trails San Benito campground is an amazing stop for families. About 1.25 hours from Monterey, it offers a pool, hot tub, a clubhouse for kids, and mini-golf. It is a great option if you are traveling with an RV, but they also provide cabins (including wheel-chair accessible options) for rent.

For the foodie families:

Quesadilla Gorilla in Visalia, CA is a great place to stop with the kids for a delicious meal. Here you can get gourmet quesadillas with fresh, homemade salsas full of quality ingredients and amazing family recipes. The menu is simple, fresh, delicious, and affordable.

Family photo Checklist:

Take an amazing family photo at Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point at the base of the waterfall. Walk the paved trail until you reach the waterfall.
Take a picture in the flower fields or with a whimsical Santa’s workshop.
Here is a great spot to fit the whole family in the picture with the golden gate bridge in the background. Find the stairs of the Marshall’s beach ( Park at the Langdon court parking and walk towards the battery) and snap a shot at sunset.

Boston to Bar Harbor Maine

Why this road trip?

New England is known for its beautiful state parks and cultural beginnings in the United States. You will find many opportunities to learn from museums that come equipped with lots of kids’ activities and exhibits.

Foodie families will also love the plethora of seafood-inspired restaurants with delicious lobster rolls and tons of small historical towns, that make up the landscape of New England.

Don’t forget to take time to go on the hunt for lighthouses while visiting Maine!

Portsmouth, NH

A little port town with a mix of old England vibe and Tikki fun. We recommend spending at least a day there (although you may just stay for more). Stroll the cobblestones streets, sample all the fish tacos your heart desire, and feel like you started your family vacation the right way.

Don’t miss Fort McClary to see a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean, boats, and trails right next to the really cool fort. There is tons of educational material inside. Just be prepared that strollers will not be possible to use as the climb inside the fort has tight, narrow stairs. However, you can stroll outside and enjoy the beautiful views.

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Portland, Maine

At the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, your kids can get their wiggles out in the indoor and outdoor play areas. There is also an aquarium, water play area, workshops, dress-up theater, and more.

You could spend hours here! The kids will be hungry after all of that learning and play. So, head over to Local 188, right in downtown Portland, for some simple, elegant, and tasty food. Kids are welcome and the staff is great.

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

Do your kids love trains? Then they will love the Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, ME! It is a perfect place for kids to discover their history, press buttons, and pretends to ride in some of the oldest vehicles in the country. You can even ride in a trolley for a 30-minute ride in an old trolley through the woods.
Visit a real submarine! The USS Albacore museum lets you explore, touch, learn about, and experience what life on board was like for these shipmates.

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

The Wolfe of the neck center offers an incredible camping experience. Yurts are available, and during the day you can dive right into a real farm life experience. They have live music, a cafe, a store, and great trails to enjoy with little ones. Laundry is also available on site and the property is LGBTQ+ friendly.

For the foodie families:

While in Portsmouth ME, you need to treat yourself and the kids to Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream. Although this is technically a “to go” place, this shop offers “kid-size” ice cream which allows you to eat and stroll around this typical New England town.

>>> Discover tons of kid-friendly restaurants, breweries, and sweet shops in New England here.

Family photo Checklist:

Night picture with Boston’s high rises landscape from the Fan Pier Park.
Mt Battie Tower and viewpoint: Go on top of the tower and catch a family photo with 360 degrees views of nearby towns and parks.
Phot in the Desert of Maine. Because it will start the best conversations.

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Offer an inclusive app to provide necessary information for families travel safely and comfortably (i.e, family with special needs).
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Allow families to spend less time planning and more time having fun!

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13 Best Natural History Museums in the U.S. for Kids

13 Best Natural History Museums in the U.S. for Kids

Tips on how to visit the best natural history museum in the US without kids being bored ?

13 Best Natural History Museums in the U.S. for Kids

Best Natural History Museums in the US – East Coast

1. Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, PA

2. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C

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3. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA

4.American Museum of Natural History in New York, NY

5. Harvard Museum of Natural History in Cambridge, MA

Best Natural History Museums In The US – Midwest and South

6. Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, IL

7. University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks, AK

8. Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minnesota

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9. Houston Museum of Natural Science in Houston, TX

10. Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, MT

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Best Natural History Museums In The US – West Coast

11. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles, CA

12. Denver Museum of Nature & Science in Denver, CO

13. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum in Los Angeles, CA

Family Travel Secrets

18 traveling pros sharing insiders’ tips, that the travel industry doesn’t want you to know.

19 Best Family Hotels in San Diego California

19 Best Family Hotels in San Diego Your Kids (and You) Will Love

19 Best Family Hotels in San Diego California

1. Hotel Del Coronado

2. La Jolla Shores Hotel

3. Fairmont Grand Del Mar

4. San Diego Mission Bay Resort

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6. Omni San Diego

7. Bahia Resort Hotel

8. Paradise Point Resort & Spa

9. LEGOLAND Resort Hotel

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10. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

11. Kings Inn San Diego

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12. Kona Kai Resort & Spa

13. Loews Coronado Bay

14. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort

15. Old Town Inn

16. Rancho Bernardo Inn

17. The Westin San Diego Bayview

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18. Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine

19. Pacific Terrace Hotel

Family road trips you should take before your kids grow up

Family road trips you should take before your kids grow up

Family Road Trips You Should Take Before Your Kids Grow Up

From Atlanta to Knoxville TN

Why this road trip?

Helen, Georgia

Pigeon Forge + Gatlinburg, TN

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

For the foodie families:

Family Road Trip photo Checklist:

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Denver to Las Vegas

Why this family road trip?

FREE 2022 World Travel Guide for Kids

Leadville and its surrounding, CO

Moab National Park

Grand Canyon

Local Parents Recommendation, “must-stop”:

Cool spot to sleep along the way:

For the foodie families:

Family photo Checklist:

Los Angeles to San Francisco

Why this road trip?

Sequoia & Yosemite National Parks