When we travel, we like to mix things up! A little history and culture mixed with fun and adventure. On our trip to historic Lexington, Virginia we certainly found both! Of the many adventures in the area, our absolute favorite was a trip to the Virginia Safari Park. Virginia Safari … [Read more...]
5 reasons to vacation in Columbia
For years, I have recommended state capitals like Columbia* for family vacation. Because of their role in the state, they've got museums to highlight state history and local arts. Beyond that, most state capitals are home to convention centers, which means they have lots of hotel rooms, parks, … [Read more...]
5 time-tested pro tips to save money at Disney World
Planning a Disney vacation is so exciting! With more than 20 visits to WDW under our belts, we've found ways to save money at Disney World without sacrificing any of the fun. These practical tips to save at Disney are super easy to do, too! 5 tips to save money at Disney World 1. Don't buy a … [Read more...]
Small zoos, Big fun
I hesitate to use the word zoo in this post, actually. Maybe I should say petting farms, though that makes me think of preschoolers, so zoo it is. Small zoos are nothing like the major zoos across the country. At large zoos -- like my personal favorite, the Columbus Zoo -- elaborate exhibits … [Read more...]
5 ways to save like Scrooge McDuck on your Disney vacation
1. Don’t be afraid to start small. In 2013, Forbes Magazine estimated Scrooge McDuck’s wealth to be around $65.4 billion – up from a modest $28.8 billion in 2007. But even Scrooge, with his vast fortune, had to start small. Scrooge started with a single dime and within a year had saved $1,000,000. … [Read more...]
Cedar Point: Your guide to family fun
When it comes to amusement parks, Universal and Disney are two of the most popular, but they aren’t the only amusement parks. Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, Ohio, is the second-oldest amusement park in the US, and was voted “Best Amusement Park in the World” by Amusement Today for 16 years in a … [Read more...]
The Little Zoo that Could
On our spring break vacation to Alabama's Gulf Shore, we spent a morning at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, affectionately called the Little Zoo that Could (more on that later). We enjoyed a complimentary visit for purposes of this review, though all opinions are mine. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo opened … [Read more...]
Spring Shines at Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival
We took our first trip to Walt Disney World in the spring of 2000, during the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. At the time, my boys were 5 and 2. That trip, especially our day at Epcot, was perfect, just what you'd expect from the TV commercials. We loved the vibrant gardens, … [Read more...]
Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC
I was provided free admission to Riverbanks Zoo for purposes of this review. All opinions are my own. For more information see my disclosures page. Tucked along the banks of the Lower Saluda River near Columbia, South Carolina, Riverbanks Zoo offers guests two distinct parks spread across 170 … [Read more...]
Ardastra Gardens in Nassau: A tropical treat
Special thanks to Ardastra Gardens for providing free admission to my family for purposes of this review. All opinions are my own. See my disclosure page for more details on this policy. Step through the gate at Ardastra Gardens in Nassau, The Bahamas, and enjoy bright tropical flowers, up close … [Read more...]
