Over the past several years, national parks have grown quite popular for vacationers. Of course, the Grand Canyon, the Smoky Mountains and Yosemite have long been popular — and for good reason. But, the growing popularity of national parks across the country has created some challenging issues. On our honeymoon (29 years ago), we visited […]
Complete Outer Banks Vacation Planner: Sun, sand, and sea (and more to explore!)
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular vacation destination for families who want to enjoy sun, sand and sea. A successful vacation takes just a bit planning, though. This guide walks you through everything you need to plan a wonderful Outer Banks vacation. We’ll cover: Outer Banks accommodations, OBX attractions in each region […]
14 kid friendly hikes in the US for active families to explore
When looking for active family vacations, kid friendly hikes are a great option. Whether planning full-on hiking vacations or adding day hikes on kid friendly hiking trails, family hiking trips are a great way to get outdoors and be active. Even better, most family hiking trails are free or low cost, making hiking with kids […]
Conquering fears: Take two!
A couple months ago, we went to a high ropes course close to home. Rob and Ellie attacked it with gusto. I looked at the first obstacle and froze. Totally. Chickened. Out! That kind of thing used to stop me in my tracks. Fear would keep me from trying new things. But, I’m a new […]
High flying fun on the Xtreme Park ropes course
This post contains affiliate links for which I may earn a small commision. Every time I try a new adventure course, whether it’s a zip line or a ropes course, it seems that each one gets more challenging. That’s certainly the case with the ropes course at Xtreme Park Adventures, an adventure park near Durham, […]
Hiking 101: Hiking for beginners on a budget
Day hiking for beginners — it might seem a bit intimidating. Visit an outdoor supply store, and it can be downright overwhelming: What are the best hiking clothes? Which are the best hiking boots for beginners? With all that gear, what is essential hiking gear for beginners? The truth is hiking for beginners is really […]
Our indoor skydiving experience with Paraclete Skydiving
My husband has always wanted to learn to skydive, but I am slightly (majorly) opposed to him throwing himself out of an airplane. You know, if people were meant to fly, we’d have wings. Right? But, I also love my husband’s sense of adventure. He’s rather more inspired by the ultimate adventure travel quotes of Ray […]
Looking for adventure: Vacation ideas for families
With adventure vacations continuing to grow in popularity, it’s no surprise that families are looking for adventure travel ideas, too. And, the tourism industry has taken notice. Wherever you travel, adventure vacation ideas for families are sure to be available. You don’t have to look too hard to add excitement, maybe some hiking, biking or […]
8 tips for hiking Lake Tahoe
Y’all, last weekend was such a treat! My husband sent me to the Lake Tahoe area in California to visit my oldest friend in the world (as in we’ve been buddies since first grade)! We grew up together, singing in our kids’ choir at church, reading Little House on the Prairie books over and over […]
10 reasons to vacation at Gulf State Park (+ a bonus!)
Between the popular vacation towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama, sits the region’s shining jewel, Gulf State Park. This 6,200+ acre park is home to three fresh water lakes, a golf course, campground, cabins, a fishing pier and 2 1/2 miles of incredible beach. It’s a dog friendly park, and pets are […]