Spotlight on Florida: Tips for …

January 14, 2020 By admin

Like soooo many New Yorkers, I spent a lot of winter vacations visiting my grandparents in Florida (Yes, I loved Disney). The sunshine state never got old for me and one of my all time favorite memories is visiting Lion Country Safari in West Palm Beach. When I visited with my daughter, (and my mom and great aunt) it was even more fun than I remembered. Read on for my tips for visiting Lion Country Safari.

PS, we visited on National Zebra Day so we dressed for the occasion.

Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari

The drive-through safari comes first and its just like it sounds. In the comfort of your own vehicle, you simply roll up your windows, pop in the audio tour and drive. As you go through the four mile preserve, you’ll see free roaming animals up close and personal including Southern White Rhinos, Zebra, Giraffe, Lions, Llamas, Impala, Kudu, Ostrich, Gemsbok, Water Buffalo, Wildebeest and more.

There are seven sections representing different areas in South America, Africa, and Asia and you can go as fast or slow as you like. Yes, the animals stop right in front of your car just like I remembered and no the monkeys don’t climb on top of your car like they used to. If you don’t want to take your kids on that long flight to South Africa, this may be the next best thing.

Globetrotting Mommy - Spotlight on Florida at Lion Country Safari

Spotlight on Florida Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari

The second section is the walk-through amusement park and its a nice manageable size with lots of benches, shaded areas, cooling stations, rides, attractions and animal encounters. My daughter loved the rides, best suited for younger kids, including the Ferris wheel, carousel, kiddie train and flying elephant. I loved the mini-golf, paddle boats, Safari Queen boat tour (perfect for all ages) and animal shows.

We took our time exploring, fed some of the animals, rode a camel, checked out some shows and had some ice cream. The Safari Splash water sprayground was closed the day we visited or we would have done that too.

If you’re looking for a low-key animal and attraction packed day that will keep your whole family entertained but won’t exhaust everyone, this is it.

If you go:

The park opens daily at 9:30 am 365 days a year. Admission is $39.95 for visitors 10-64, $35.00 for seniors and $30.00 for kids 3-9. Kids two and younger are free. Parking is $8 per vehicle.

Plan to spend about 4-6 hours visiting. Don’t forget your sunscreen and water park essentials but leave your pets and convertibles home.

Bon voyage!

Sailing Around NYC Aboard …

November 7, 2019 By admin

Since New York City is surrounded by water, one of my favorite family activities is sailing around NYC. We’ve cruised around Manhattan on everything from large Circle Line ships to an authentic 1930’s tugboat. For our most recent voyage, we climbed aboard a classic 1950’s yacht and enjoyed a scenic fall foliage cruise with Classic Harbor Line.

Sailing Around NYC Aboard Classic Harbor Line

We lucked out with a sunny fall day and fairly mild temps. I packed scarfs and hats, a picnic brunch and some Halloween treats to fight off any hangry or “I’m cold” moments.

Sailing Around NYC Aboard Classic Harbor Line

Tourists and locals alike will enjoy the Fall Foliage Cruise on Yacht Full Moon from Chelsea Piers. The 2.5 hour trip up the Hudson River is a great option for the whole family as the yacht offers comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, tables to share a picnic lunch, bathroom facilities and a very accommodating staff.

My daughter loved sitting on the upper deck bean bag chairs (yes, blankets are provided) where she could point out all the NYC buildings as we departed Chelsea Piers.

Aside from the colorful foliage, we loved spotting iconic landmarks such as the George Washington Bridge, the Cloisters, the Palisades, the Little Red Light House and the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Captain Pat narrated here and there sharing a bit of history as he pointed out the sights. He even offered to let my daughter try her hand at sailing.

Two friendly staffers were on board to deliver drinks (warm and cold) and blankets. I definitely recommend bringing a picnic and/or snacks if you’re bringing kids. The downstairs seating area is heated making it a great spot to eat.

There are plenty of photo-ops so be sure to bring a camera. With stunning views along the way, you’ll want to capture it all.

So gorgeous, right?

In addition to a variety of fall foliage cruises, Classic Harbor Line has several holiday cruises perfect for the whole family including the Cocoa and Carrols Holiday Cruise and a Holiday Jazz Cruise.

If you’re looking to escape the NYC holiday crowds, sailing around NYC aboard Classic Harbor Line’s holiday offerings would be a great idea.

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Mom’s Night Out with …

October 29, 2019 By admin

Back-to-school season means back to stressful, busy days and exhausted nights. Add in a dozen tours of NYC middle schools with my tween daughter and my head is ready to explode! Lucky for me, Momtrends came to my rescue with a much needed influencer event full of friends, fun and food.

The Momtrends annual Mom’s Night Out was hosted by Parents Magazine at their downtown office near Brookfield Place and One World Trade Center. There were four stations with interactive activities sponsored by Parents Magazine, Parents Latina, Clorox® and Baby Dove.

I started with the Clorox® DIY Snow Globe making station and it did not disappoint. How cute is my NYC themed Snow Globe?

Moms night out, mom, clorox — Making snow globes at Mom’s Night Out with Clorox.

There were plenty of Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes on hand to clean up the glue and snowy glitter that covered my hands. Whether I’m on the road or at home, there are so many times where a mess needs to be quickly cleaned up and I love the convenience of using Clorox ® Disinfecting Wipes. The fact that they kill 99% of germs is a big bonus for me since staying healthy is a big priority for busy moms. In addition to cleaning messes, the wipes are great for killing germs around my apartment, on airplanes and at hotels (doorknobs, handles, remote controls, yuck).

I spotted my blogger buddy Suburban Wife, City Life and we caught up (yay for no kids) while checking out the Parents Magazine and Parents Latina DIY Halloween stations.

Always a fun time with my blogger buddies.

These magazines are always filled with clever entertaining ideas, parenting tips, gift guides, recipes and more. The current issue has a lot of Halloween ideas and we got to make some cute and yummy treats like spider donuts and fruit kebabs (to offset all the candy!). Once we gobbled them up, we decorated our drinks with sprinkles and cute accessories. Voila!

Such simple ideas that really inspired us to make them at home.

Momtrends Mom's Night Out — Custom perfume bar was a big hit at Momtrends Mom’s Night Out

We moved on to the next Parents station – Alchemologie’s natural perfume bar. We sampled dozens of scents and learned about layering the fragrances to combine our custom perfumes. Such a fun treat.

Lastly, we hit the Baby Dove station where we decorated bath caddies and filled them with new mom essentials including Baby Dove’s Tip to Toe wash. Baby skin is so delicate yet they have a living protective layer of microflora, known as their microbiome. Baby Dove is uniquely made with prebiotic moisture and 100% skin-natural nutrients to gently nourish a baby’s microbiome making it a must-have for new moms.

It was a great night to connect with old friends and make some new ones. And a reminder of how important these nights our are to our well-being. I look forward to another one of these evenings soon.

Thanks again to Momtrends, Parents Magazine, Parents Latina, Clorox and Baby Dove for organizing a great Mom’s Night Out!

NOTE: This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own.

Boston with Kids: Top 10 …

October 25, 2019 By admin

Boston is my home away from home and I never ever tire of traveling to Beantown. I love that its an easy city to see by foot and that there are so many fun attractions for visitor of all ages.

Boston with Kids: Top 10 Family Friendly Attractions

If you’re planning a trip to to New England, here are my Top 10 Things to do in Boston with Kids.

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Boston Children’s Museum offers hours of fun.

1) Visit the Boston Children’s Museum

Children’s museums are always a big hit and the sprawling Boston Children’s Museum does not disappoint. There are three floors with dozens of interactive exhibits and I am pretty sure my daughter would have been happy to spend the entire day here. From blowing gigantic bubbles, conducting science experiments and creating arts and crafts projects to climbing in an enclosed sculpture, building towers and playing musical instruments, kids of all ages will be happily entertained for hours. I especially love the various cultural programs that teach children about different holidays, customs and and traditions. There are some great family friendly restaurants nearby which is handy because it will probably be dinnertime by the time you leave.

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The New England Aquarium is a great spot for families.

2) Check out the New England Aquarium

Boston’s waterfront aquarium offers some amazing attractions like a towering four-story tank filled with colorful fish, sea turtles and sting rays but for my daughter, the penguins stole the show. Kids will love watching the divers swim around at feeding time (including an interactive Q&A session) and seals doing tricks while more adventurous tots will enjoy interactive petting exhibits in the largest touch tank on the East Coast. If you have time, sign up for one of their famous Whale Watch cruises or take in a 3D movie in the IMAX theater.

The Swan Boats in Boston Common are a must for families.

3) Ride the Boston Swan Boats

Boston Common and Boston Public Garden are a great place to visit with young children who want to run around. You’ll find miles of grassy fields, playgrounds, a merry-go-round, balloon artists, the famed Make Way for Ducklings sculpture (great for photo ops!), the Frog Pond fountain and the iconic Boston Swan Boats. Pedaled by foot, these giant swan boats are a one-of-a-kind scenic ride that the whole family will enjoy. The line moves quickly and the ride is approximately 15 minutes so there is no time for kids to get restless. Families can leave strollers on land, next to the ticket booth. Tickets start at just $2.50 making it a very affordable pitstop.

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Boston’s Faneuil Hall is a must for foodie families.

4) Stop at Faneuil Hall Marketplace

For shoppers, snackers, or history buffs, Faneuil Hall Marketplace (aka Quincy Market) is a must-visit. There are dozens of shops and souvenir stands selling everything from sports memorabilia and home accessories to sunglasses and clothing. For dining, you’ll find sit-down restaurants like historical Durgin-Park, outdoor cafes, juice bars and a gigantic food colonnade featuring everything from sushi and lobster rolls to ice cream and pastries. Kids will enjoy the famed street performances so be sure to wander around till you spot one.

5) Follow the Freedom Trail

For school-aged children, Boston’s Freedom Trail offers a great opportunity to make learning history fun. The 2.5 mile red-lined route, leads you to 16 historically significant Boston sites related to the American Revolution like museums, meetinghouses, churches and burying grounds. Give your kids a map and let them try their hands at navigating or just let them lead the way (follow the red line)! Older children will last for the whole trail but for younger kids, I recommend going from Boston Common to Faneuil Hall.

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Check out Boston by land and sea with a Boston Duck Tour.

6) Take a Boston Duck Tour

This touristy option is on the pricy side (kids 3-11 are $29) but if you haven’t taken your kids on a water/land vehicle, I do recommend it. The interactive (you will be quacking…) sightseeing tour starts on land and drives past 30-something tourist spots but the excitement really begins when the bus turns into a duck and drives into the Charles River! The skyline water views are stunning but for my daughter, the highlight was getting a turn to steer. Kids (and grown ups) get a chance to navigate at sea so be sure to bring your cameras. If you’ve been running around on foot, this is a nice chance to rest and take in the scenery.

Boston with Kids, Family Friendly, Newbury Street, Copley Square

Check out Newbury Street and Copley Square’s shops and restaurants.

7) Check out Copley Square and Newbury Street

Walking is the best way to take it all in and Copley Place and Newbury Street are great neighborhoods for families to explore, have a meal and people watch. Upscale Newbury Street is filled with cafes and boutiques (think toys, clothes, music and home goods) while Copley Square features a large mall (hello teenagers!), park and is nearby to the Prudential Center (Skywalk observatory has amazing views) and Boston’s enormous Central Library.

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Kids of all ages will love exploring the Boston Museum of Science.

8) Scope out the Boston Museum of Science

My daughter adores science museums and the Boston Museum of Science was one of the highlights from our summer visit. We visited the Planetarium first to see Big Bird’s Adventure: One World, One Sky which is great for children five and under. From there, we spent a half-day visiting dozens of exhibits where my daughter examined a pig’s heart and sheep eyes, played astronaut, built animal skeletons, solved engineering puzzles, created tunes on a musical staircase and learned about a proportions in gigantic math exhibit. The museum is huge with a nice kids Discovery Center (for kids eight and under) and an impressive cafeteria with water views.

9) Spend an afternoon at Harvard Square

Cambridge is a fun neighborhood to explore with kids. You’ll find cafes, shopping galore, street performances and parks to explore. This is a great spot to take in a movie, walking tour or comedy show depending on the ages of your kids. Don’t forget a visit to the famed university while you’re there.

10) Ride the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority aka The T

Boston’s subway system, knicknamed the T, is a very kid-friendly experience and easy way to get around when little feet tire out. The trains are color coded and you are either traveling in-bound or out-bound so its pretty hard to get lost. There are stops at several tourist friendly locales including Logan International Airport, South Station and North Station as well attractions like the aquarium, Faneuil Hall, Museum of Science and Harvard Square. Children 11 and younger ride free with a parent and the turnstiles are stroller friendly.

What are your favorite kid-friendly places to visit in Boston?

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Back-to-School Favorites for …

August 12, 2019 By admin

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx.com. As always, all opinions are my own.

Back-to-School Favorites for Trendy Tweens

September is almost here and before I head off on one last vacation, I’m wrapping up all our back-to-school shopping. Today I’m sharing some favorite back-to-school favorites for trendy tweens with the help of Babblebox.

Stylish Back-to-School Backpack

Now that my daughter is entering fifth grade, she has very specific likes and dislikes when it comes to a backpack. Luckily, this shimmery pink Mermaid Flip Sequin Backpack from Justice has everything she needs to be comfortable and on-trend. Flipping sequins are super popular with the tween set but the sturdy construction (the top loop can hold 100 pounds!), roomy interior, and padded back straps won me over. The key chain loop is a must so kids can accessorize and the fuzzy pompom charm is super cute.

Start The School Year With a New Book

A new book always inspires my tween to curl up and get reading so I love to start off the school year with some new tales. She enjoyed reading Merci Suarez Changes Gears, a story about a Hispanic sixth-grade girl who deals with friendship drama, family relationships and the changes that come with Middle School. Since my daughter is close with her grandmas, she related Merci’s close-knit multigenerational family and their changing family dynamics. As an added bonus, my daughter picked up some Espanol as the book features Spanish words throughout.

Use the promotion code CANDLEWICK at checkout on www.candlewick.com for 25% off your book order (only valid to US purchases).

Safety First – First Aid Necessities From Me4Kidz

Medibuddy First Aid Kit: The adorable Medibuddy First Aid Kit is great for home and away. With 50 items (latex-free bandages, gauze, ointment, stickers and more) you will always be able to fix cuts, scrapes and blisters. I always travel with a first aid kit and you should too.

Little Buddy Antibacterial Wipes: Because life is messy, wipes should always be within reach. Little Buddy Antibacterial Wipes are perfect for cleaning dirty hands and faces as well as scrapped knees. They kill 99% of germs without stinging which is a win-win and this 32-count package is perfect for traveling.

Cool it buddy – Instant ice packs: Ice packs always seem to help most injuries so I always keep a few handy. Cool it Buddy – Instant ice packs are non-toxic and the convenient 2-pack is great for on-the-go travels as well as the playground.

Use code Babble2019 for 25% off Me4Kidz products now through 12/31/19.

Freezable Lunch Bags & Bento Container from PackIt

Keeping lunch items and snacks cool is a must and these freezable lunch boxes and snack bags from PackIt are game-changers.

Freezable Lunch Bag-Unicorn Sky – The original, bestselling lunch bag is roomier in all the right places. Just keep it folded in the freezer and you’ll always be ready to go.

Freezable Snack Bag-Spaceman – Designed for snacks, medicine and cosmetics, this small, collapsible bag is perfect for school, traveling and road trips. The tiny bag is so handy, you’ll be using it every day.

Mod Lunch Box-Mint – PackIt’s new customizable bento containers feature a modular system so you can keep your foods separate and fresh. Great for on-the-go tweens, the Mod Lunch Box has a leak-resistant lid and dividers and fits perfectly in the PackIt freezable bag.

Comfortable Scissors Make The Cut

My daughter’s school sends a list of classroom supplies but luckily she can choose her own scissors. These Kids Jellies Pointed Scissors from Westcott have squishy gel handles that makes cutting a breeze without getting tired fingers. They are designed for comfort and control (for lefties or righties) and easily cut through paper, photos, ribbon and yarn. Westcott is dedicated to supporting education and inspiring creative activities in the classroom and at home and these comfy scissors will get a lot of use this year.

Maglite® Solitaire LED and Mini Maglite® Pro LED – A Must for Every Backpack

Maglite® Solitare LED – Tweens love personalizing their backpacks with key chains, etc. and the adorable Solitaire® LED Flashlight by Maglite® is the must-have keychain flashlight for every girl’s bag (see backpack photo above). This tiny flashlight packs a punch with a beam throw of 50 yards. Plus, it will run nonstop for almost two hours on just one AAA battery (included). Best of all, it comes in an assortment of colors so tweens can pick their fave.

Mini Maglite® Pro LED Flashlight – The perfect compact flashlight for tweens and adults, this iconic flashlight has a powerful beam that can travel almost two football fields. Featuring spot to flood focusing, this flashlight is a perfect companion at home, on camping trips and at sporting events.

Discount Offer: Use code MAGBB15 (15% off online orders – Some restrictions apply. Outlet, seasonal shop and discounted items excluded. Cannot be combined with another offer or discounted item. U. S. Shipping addresses only. Promotion available for a limited time through September 15, 2019.)

Lunch Notes from MyWish4U

Tweens might be too old for mushy lunchbox notes but they will love finding these witty MyWish4U Notes in their lunchboxes. Each note contains witty jokes, fun riddles, wacky facts and other messages sure to get kids smiling. Each pack of tear-off lunch notes features 101 colorful, single-sided notes with blank backs for personalized messages or doodles. Affordable at just $4.99, the MyWish4U Notes are available in three versions at Target stores nationwide:

Facts & Funnies 2 – Featuring popular facts and funnies.

Riddles & Giggles 2 – Includes clever and funny riddles and jokes.

Wacky Facts & Laughs – Showcases wild and fascinating (and educational) facts to learn about our world.

Available nationwide now through September at all Target stores in the back-to-school section. Since you probably have a dozen Target runs planned before school starts, remember to throw some of these in your cart.

Hope you enjoyed reading about these must-have Back-to-School favorites for trendy tweens. Good luck to everyone on their first-day of school.

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Top 10 Cool Things to do in …

July 31, 2019 By admin

Taking a trip to Wildwood, New Jersey is like going back to a care-free time way before frappuccinos and Splena were invented. I couldn’t get enough of the the old-school architecture and was thrilled to find an absence of chain stores and avocado toast at every turn. When I heard the Star Spangled Banner play on the boardwalk as it opened and noticed everyone standing at attention, I knew I wasn’t in NYC anymore. If you’re looking to escape from hectic city schedules and have a fun summer getaway, Wildwood is the perfect place to unplug.

Top 10 Cool Things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey

It turns out, the New Jersey shore is way more family friendly than I ever thought. My family and I spent Father’s Day weekend checking out the fun-filled Morey’s Piers and its neighboring beach town and today I’m sharing my picks for the Top 10 Cool Things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey!

Top 10 Cool Things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey

Miles of gorgeous beaches await travelers in Wildwood, New Jersey

1) ENJOY MILES OF FREE BEACHES

The Jersey Shore town of Wildwood features miles of wide sandy beaches that are perfect for kids of all ages. Just steps from the boardwalk, the beach is perfect for an afternoon break or an all day adventure. Families with a lot of stuff will love the beach taxis that will magically transport your items down to the beach (and back!).

The iconic Wildwood beach balls are a great photo op.

2) SNAP A PIC WITH THE WILDWOOD BEACH BALLS

I’d seen these pics in my Facebook feed for years but seeing these gigantic beach balls in person will really make you say “wow” out loud. If you’re looking for a colorful family photo or selfie, be sure to strike a pose. The best times are early in the morning or before sunset.

Be sure to enjoy boardwalk treats like Johnson’s caramel popcorn.

3) TASTE TONS OF BOARDWALK TREATS

Boardwalk food and summer time go hand in hand so don’t miss the many tasty treats available in Wildwood, New Jersey. From funnel cakes and ice cream to fried Oreos and potato spirals, there is something for everyone. Our favorites were frozen treats from Polish Water Ice and Kohr Bros, Curley’s lemonade and the most amazing caramel popcorn from Johnson’s Popcorn.

StarLux Mini Golf has three family-friendly courses.

4) ENJOY A GAME OF MINI GOLF WITH A VIEW

Mini-golf is a great summer activity the whole family can enjoy and the StarLux Mini Golf in Wildwood, New Jersey has three fun courses (beach, boardwalk and ocean) with cute decor, fun memorabilia, tricky water features, and awesome ocean views. If you’ve got a multi-generational family group, this is a fantastic activity.

Renting a surrey is a family friendly way to explore Wildwood, New Jersey

5) TAKE A MORNING RIDE ALONG THE BOARDWALK

The two-mile boardwalk is just perfect for a family bike (or scooter) ride so be sure to plan one early morning for a ride. Bikes are allowed on the boardwalk until opening time and there are tons of rental shops around town. We rented a surrey and had so much fun riding it from our hotel to the end of the pier and back. If you’ve got small kids, this is a great option.

The rides and attractions on Morey’s Piers will thrill everyone in the family

6) RIDES, RIDES AND MORE RIDES AT MOREY’S PIERS

With three huge piers filled with everything from tot rides to upside-down thrill rides, adventure junkies of all ages will want to spend some serious time here. If you like your adventures wet, be sure to pack a swimsuit for the two awesome water parks. More details coming in my next post…

The Pan American hotel has direct access to the beach as well as a gorgeous swimming pool.

7) KICK BACK IN VINTAGE 1950s – 1960s STYLED HOTELS

You’ll need a few days here so be sure to book a stay in one of Wildwood’s vintage (yet thoroughly modern – hello free wifi) hotels. We stayed at the Pan American Hotel which was one of the areas first hotels and I loved all the vintage photos, letters and architect drawings as well as the aircraft inspired decor and furnishings. Our room had a fully stocked kitchenette, dining area, living area with a pull-out-bed and balcony overlooking the pool so we had plenty of room to spread out. We loved the hotel’s hearty breakfast options and friendly waitstaff who remembered us each morning.

Strike a pose for an old school photo on the Wildwood Boardwalk

8) UNLEASH YOUR INNER GANGSTER OR FLAPPER GIRL

My daughter was obsessed with the Old Time Photo shop and as much as I tried to dissuade her with my concerns over lice and germs, she did not budge. My husband agreed to be in the photo with her and I was happy to oversee their costumes choices. There were hundreds of costumes and props to choose from but they finally went with gangster and flapper girl. If you’re into this kinda thing, this is definitely a good spot to do it.

The Sightseer tram is a great way to travel the Wildwood Boardwalk.

9) REST YOUR FEET AND TRAVEL BY TRAM

Exploring the boardwalk and piers involves a lot of walking (as much as a day at Disney!) so definitely bring a stroller for small kids and jump on and off the tram to conserve energy. The iconic Sightseer tram car runs along the long Wildwood Boardwalk.

The many shops along the Wildwood Boardwalk have something for everyone

10) SHOP TILL YOU DROP

If you’re looking for a souvenir to bring home, there are dozens of shops selling clothing, mugs and magnets, sweets (chocolate covered everything and fudge galore), swimwear and more fidget spinners than I’ve ever seen in one spot!

Have you ever visited Wildwood, New Jersey? Tell me your favorite memory in the comments below.

Thank you to Morey’s Piers for providing our hotel accommodations and some meals and activities. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 10 Tips for Visiting …

June 20, 2019 By admin

A summer trip to Wildwood, New Jersey is a great retreat for families who love their beach trips with a side of adventure. If you’re headed to the Jersey Shore, you will definitely want to check out Morey’s Piers, three fun-filled piers offering amusement park rides and coasters, water park fun, boardwalk games, culinary treats and so much more. Read on for my tips for visiting Morey’s Piers.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, New Jersey

Dress cool and comfortable for a day at Morey’s Piers.

1) What to Wear

A day at Morey’s Piers means a beachy outfit and super comfortable shoes like strappy sandals or Birkenstocks. Pack swimsuits, rash guards and waterproof phone pouches if you’re planning to get wet and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. I highly suggest a small cross body bag that you can wear on the non-water rides and water shoes and rashguards for the kids.

The VIP Behind The Scenes Tour is a great way to learn about Morey’s Piers History.

2) Book a Morey’s Piers VIP Tour

For kids 12+ and adults, the Morey’s Piers VIP Tour is a unique opportunity to learn all about the inner workings of the three Morey’s Piers. The 90-minute tour is led by a Morey family member and explains all the magical details that go into keeping Morey’s Piers safe, clean and friendly. I loved seeing the back-of-house storage and maintenance areas, watching how the workers maintain 300+ feet of roller coaster tracks and learning about the magnetic roller coaster brakes. I also loved learning a little trivia like they go through 400,000 pounds of potatoes each summer! The tour ends with a bucket of Curley’s famous french fries and other fun souvenirs.

3) Have a Plan

If you’re traveling with a large group, pick a meeting spot and have younger kids wear waterproof ID bands in case they get lost. There are three piers (Mariner’s Pier, Surfside Pier, and Adventure Pier) with attractions for all ages so you might want to spend an hour or two at each pier before scheduling the entire day.

We loved all the family friendly rides at Morey’s Piers

4) Don’t Miss the Family Friendly Rides

Yes, there is the Giant Wheel and multiple carousels (with an upstairs and spinning teacup seats!) but don’t miss the many other family friendly rides. The giant Seagull cycles that give you a great aerial view of the piers and the ocean as you pedal along. The Flying Galleon monorail is a fun pirate themed ride we all enjoyed and don’t miss the kid friendly roller coasters, tilt-a-whirl and bumper cars and my daughter’s personal favorite, the Kite Flyer. There are plenty of toddler-friendly rides so everyone can get in on the action. Note: It can get quite windy on the rides so bring a jacket if you go at night.

Tasty snacks are everywhere on Morey’s Piers.

5) Take a Snack Break

Walking tacos, funnel cakes, french fries, crepes, pizza, popcorn and ice cream are just some of the delicious food items available at Morey’s Piers. We loved taking an afternoon snack break and trying new treats like Curley’s fries and sweet lemonade. And yes, there are some healthy options too like colorful smoothie bowls.

If you love thrill rides, don’t miss FLY! – The Great Nor’Easter

6) Try a Thrill Ride or Two

My daughter was just short of the 52″ height minimum for FLY! The Great Nor’Easter ride but my husband and I both tried it out and it was definitely one of the fastest and most scenic rides we’ve even ridden. My personal favorite was The Great White since I prefer not going upside down. And you can probably guess we were all too chicken to try the really crazy adventurous Springshot and Skyscraper rides but loved watching…

You can enjoy tasty sit-down meals at several Morey’s Piers restaurants

7) Enjoy Great Dining

Just because you’re on a boardwalk doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice meal. After a full day of running around, we loved our leisurely dinner of healthy salads, generous kids meal options and salmon perfectly cooked on a plank at Joe’s Fish Co. Other great spots for a sit-down meal are Stubborn Brothers where we enjoyed tasty appetizers and frosty cocktails (and mocktails) on the beachfront patio, Jumbo’s for oversized crab cakes and sandwiches and Taco Joint for south-of-the border faves.

Raging Waters and Ocean Oasis Water Parks are fun for the whole family

8) Splash Away at Raging Waters and Ocean Oasis Water Parks

These two water parks open before the rest of the piers so pick the sunniest day of your trip and map out some water park fun for the whole family. Both parks feature kiddie play areas with water canons, nets, ropes and water sprays. The entire family will enjoy the awesome lazy rivers and adventure seekers will love Shotgun Falls which features a six-foot drop and the WipeOut racer slides. I loved how clean and orderly everything was kept as well as the large seating areas, locker areas, and large bathrooms. Bring your own lightweight towels and goggles as well as a waterproof phone pouch and portable safe.

My daughter enjoyed a kids yoga and art class on Adventure Pier.

9) Get A Taste of The Arts on Adventure Pier

Stop by the artBOX Store on Adventure Pier and check out the funky original artwork including sculptures and prints, clothing, memorabilia, home goods and more. Don’t miss the galleries which are located inside old freight containers and climb up the steps for an awesome view. Check the events schedule for music and crafts offerings.

10) Chat With The Staff

Many of the employees running the rides are foreign exchange students from around the world. We had the best time chatting with these enthusiastic students and watching them smile and clap as we were on the rides.

Have you been to Morey’s Piers? What are your tips for visiting Morey’s Piers? Tell me your favorite ride in the comments below. Ready to plan your trip? Check out these Top 10 Cool Things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey.

Thank you to Morey’s Piers for providing our hotel accommodations and some meals and activities. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Family Fun Awaits in Branson, …

May 21, 2019 By admin

You may not have Branson, Missouri on your family travel radar but read on to find out why you should. I visited several family-friendly attractions in the Show-Me state and I was blown away by all the fun adventures. If your family likes theme parks, outdoor adventures, delicious food, live entertainment and museums, Branson, Missouri is a must-visit.

Top 10 Family Friendly Things to do in Branson, MO

Ride the Branson Ferris Wheel

Get your bearings with a ride on the Branson Ferris Wheel, which was relocated from Chicago’s Navy Pier. This 15-story Ferris wheel is centrally located in the entertainment district near several other attractions and restaurants.

Search for Big Foot

Branson’s Bigfoot Fun Park, is the only entertainment center in the world that pays tribute to Bigfoot. For an Ozarks experience, their Bigfoot Discovery Expedition Tours, offer rugged (and not so rugged) options in custom 4×4 vehicles. Animal lovers will love the Scottish Highland Farm Tour where you feed the cutest Scottish Highland cattle.

Explore the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

Not your typical butterfly garden, the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure has butterflies and so much more. You’ll find thousands of tropical butterflies, a mirror maze, Great Banyan Tree Adventure, educational videos as well as a Living Rainforest Science Center (lizards, turtles and geckos, oh my). All tickets are good for a 3-day visit and include a complimentary nectar flower to feed the butterflies. Check the events schedule for butterfly release times (you may get chosen!) and wear bright colors for the best photos.

Relive History at the Titanic Museum

Who isn’t fascinated by the Titanic? Branson’s interactive Titanic Museum Attraction captivates adults and kids alike with its lifelike displays, photos and knowledgeable tour guides. Everyone receives a passenger card upon entering and at the end, guests see if they survived or not. Kids will love the interactive area where they can test how it feels to stand on sinking ship decks and see how long they can keep their fingers in freezing water. A special exhibit this year includes the largest collection of Titanic life jackets.

Take in a Show or Two or Three

From country music and Elvis impersonators to acrobats and comedians, the live performances in Branson will wow guests of all ages. We combined a live show with dinner and a Table Rock Lake cruise aboard Showboat Branson Belle and it was great. For families with younger kids, I recommend looking into their Princess & Pirate and Santa’s Pancakes & PJS cruises.

Spend a Day at Silver Dollar City

Silver Dollar City is pretty much the best theme park I never knew about. This award-winning 1880s themed amusement park has plenty of rides, old school attractions, festivals, yummy treats, shows galore plus a family-friendly cave tour that will make your day. I love that there are plenty of things to do for the whole family so nobody will feel left out. For more information, read my tips for visiting Silver Dollar City.

Be a Daredevil

Big thrills await daredevil adults and kids in Branson! From go-carts, ropes course and bumper spin cars (and much more) at Fun Mountain at Big Cedar Lodge to the Gravity Bomb and Super Sling rides at Bigfoot Fun Park, there are just some of the many options. For taller thrill seekers (over 52 inches), don’t miss the Skyscraper and if you’ve ever dreamed of sky diving, check out Fritz’s Adventure where the nations first Aerodium, a vertical outdoor wind tunnel is opening this summer.

Savor the Flavors of Branson

Branson Landing features several shops, restaurants and activities in a pedestrian-friendly waterfront setting (don’t miss the fountain light show). Landshark Bar & Grill (of Margaritaville fame) is a great option for casual fare and while Black Oak Grill offers locale fare (the trout was amazing!) and handcrafted cocktails in a cozy lodge setting. For the ultimate family fun dinner, head to Andy B’s Bowl Social where you can enjoy upscale snacks, classic burgers, salads and sandwiches, pizzas and stick-to-your-rib meals as well as specialty cocktails (and mocktails) and beer and wine. The main attraction here is bowling but families can also enjoy escape rooms, karaoke and several table games.

For icy treats, visit Andy’s Frozen Custard Stand where you can customize “concretes” or try their candy-laden signature creations.

For a unique dining option, visit The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks for a farm-to-fork experience. Students work in culinary staff positions and prepare innovative meals under the direction of Chef Robert Stricklin as part of their class load. Much of the produce is farm fresh and our meal here was one of the highlights of my trip. I love that kids are welcomed with mini chef hats and special menus. There is a homemade ice cream shop in the lobby so be sure to stop by before you head home. You’re welcome!

For fine dining with amazing water views, Chateau Grill at Chateau on the Lake is a great choice. The elegant space offers award-winning dining and top service. If you’re in the mood for surf and turf, look no further.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Minutes away from Branson’s attraction district, a slew of outdoor activities await. Families will enjoy hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, bass and trout fishing, hunting, trap and skeet shooting, spelunking, rock climbing and other recreational activities in the Ozarks. If time allows, plan to visit public parks, resorts, campgrounds, forests or one of Branson’s three crystal clear lakes. Water lovers can go water skiing, boating, bass fishing, kayaking and trout fishing.

Go Back in Time at Dicks 5 & 10

If you love picking up one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you’ll love Dick’s 5 & 10, Branson’s famed landmark. For the last 50 years, family owned and operated Dick’s has been selling a little bit of everything, seven days a week. The shop features more than 75,000 different items, including old-time candies and toys, unique Branson souvenirs, quirky gifts, collectibles, craft items, clothing, housewares and so much more. Be sure to notice the decorative collections including White River Arrowheads, WWII Prints and a baseball “Wall of Fame.”

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Thank you to Explore Branson for hosting my trip and providing accommodations at Chateau on the Lake. As always, all opinions are my own.

Pip’s Island – A …

March 27, 2019 By admin

New York City has no shortage of opportunities for young theatergoers with Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musical performances, circus acts, puppet theater and more. The Big Apple’s newest show for kids, Pip’s Island, gives kids the chance to take in a show by being part of the cast in a whirlwind interactive performance in Times Square.

Pip’s Island – A Perfect Escape for Young Theater Goers

We checked out the immersive performance in previews and it was just as fun as I remembered their 2016 pop-up show. The new space is permanent so little New Yorkers and tourists will have plenty of time to check out this fun interactive show.

All dressed up and ready to head out to Pip’s Island.

As kids arrive, they are outfitted with “costumes” consisting of explorer vests and legendarium wristbands. The immersive performance starts right away as the park ranger teaches some important dance moves and explains how they are collecting badges or “sparks” to save the island and defeat Joules Volter (aka – the bad guy).

Young explorers (and their assistant explorer adults) are then scooted off on adventure after adventure for the next hour. I don’t want to give too much away but as the cast is introduced as various characters in their unique settings (the sets are outrageous in a good way), the storyline progresses room by room with plenty of special effects and fun. Along the way, kids are participating in various team activities and problem-solving together to save the island. There may have been some bubbles, dancing and conga lines along the way or maybe that was just my imagination. Cameras are not allowed which ensures all attendees are giving the show their full attention.

The recommended age range is 4-10 and there are some dark scenes which may scare younger kids. The staff is wonderful at interacting with the kids and the parents are always within sight while the children participate in group activities.

Get your tickets at PipsIsland.com and get 10% off with code Pip10.

Times Square has a slew of family-friendly attractions and if you want to combine a show with a nearby attraction, Gulliver’s Gate is a great choice.

Family Ski Weekend at Mount …

February 5, 2019 By admin

I’m not usually a fan of winter but that changed recently after our family ski weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont. I had no idea if my daughter would love skiing or not but we loaded up the car with cold weather gear and drove four hours to find out.

Taking a peek at Ski Vermont’s map, Mount Snow, is Vermont’s closest big mountain resort making it a great weekend getaway for New Yorkers.

GRAND SUMMIT RESORT HOTEL

Thanks to Momtrends, our accommodations at the Grand Summit Resort Hotel, ski rentals and Mount Snow ski lessons were all pre-arranged so when we arrived on a late Friday night, we were all set to ski the next day. Note: The front desk, bell staff and valet were on hand to assist late arrivals on Friday which was nice considering we arrived around 11pm.

Staying at the Grand Summit Resort Hotel makes things so easy since we could walk everywhere we needed to be. We had a big one-bedroom suite with more closets than I’ve ever seen, a large balcony overlooking the slopes and a full kitchen and dining area which we used every morning for breakfast. If you’ve gotten kids dressed and undressed for snow, you know what a perk this is…

Coffee, tea and hot chocolate mix are provided in the fully-equipped kitchens.

Guests can check skis and snowboards in the lobby for easy access which makes traveling with multiple kids a breeze.

Aside from its awesome location and ski services, the hotel offers multiple dining options, a full-service spa and an array of complimentary family activities like games and movies with popcorn. If you’ve got adventurous kids, pack bathing suits for the outdoor pool and hot tub.

MOUNT SNOW’S SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL AND GROUP LESSONS

Saturday morning, we headed out to The Discovery Center where you check in, get your rental equipment and gear up before meeting the instructors. Kids check-in is on the first floor and adult check-in is on the main floor making the process very smooth for families.

The Discovery Center staff was so helpful with sizing all our equipment (skis, boots and helmets, oh my!) and making sure we were comfortable. With our snow boots in the cubbies (there are locker rentals there too), we headed out to our classes. FYI – their ski and snowboard rentals feature the latest technology making turns and learning easier.

Mount Snow’s Ski & Snowboarding school offers a variety of lesson options beginning at just three-years-old. My nine-year-old daughter attended the Mountain Riders full-day ski camp (for kids 7-14), where kids are grouped by age and level. The 9:30 am to 3:30 pm camp includes snacks and lunch making it extra easy for parents.

Mount Snow has classes for every skill category and small group classes ensure kids get plenty of attention. This was my daughter’s very first experience with skiing so she started in the red group. We watched from afar as they learned how to put on the skis and shuffled around like ducks, once they mastered those skills, they headed inside for a hot cocoa break. My daughter gave me thumbs up and I headed off to find my class while my husband remained on photographer duty.

I have skied a bit, many years ago, so I was eager to try it again and hopeful to not break anything. My two-hour group lesson was full of fellow New Yorkers, Bostonions and a few study-abroad students. We introduced ourselves and it was amazing how quickly the teacher knew our names. After some basic drills, we were all up on skis and ready to tackle turns on a small hill.

After two-hours, I was proud of my ski prowess and ready for a delicious Vermont grilled cheese sandwich!

One of the most impressive things about Mount Snow is their massive snowmaking abilities. It had rained a few days prior to our visit but the snow coverage was perfect during our stay. I later learned that Mount Snow has the largest snowmaking operation on the east coast, following a $54 million upgrade to their snowmaking system.

My daughter ended up enjoying her day at ski-school and I was happy they were able to get her up and skiing, and even on the chair lift! I was really impressed with the staff and everything they did to keep the kids happy and engaged. I loved hearing the sense of accomplishment as she told us about her day and all she had learned.

The Saturday afternoon crowds were in full force so we headed back to our room for some warm showers and snacks before our blogger group dinner.

On Sunday, we headed out for a bit more skiing before the snow storm arrived. It was so fun to see my daughter’s new skills first-hand watching her go up and down the bunny slopes.

My husband packed up the car and checked out before meeting us for a waffle break. If you’ve traveled to Belgium for a warm Liège waffle, you’ll be thrilled to hear that Mount Snow’s Waffle Cabin version is THAT good.

TUBING AT MOUNT SNOW

Tubing is one of those winter activities the whole family will enjoy and Mount Snow makes it extra enjoyable with a “magic carpet.” Gone are the days of walking back up the hill with your tubes. This magical covered transport is a flat escalator that gets you back uphill in seconds. Amazing!

The “magic carpet” ride uphill makes tubing a breeze at Mount Snow.

BIG SAVINGS FOR SKI FAMILIES

Ready to plan your ski trip? Mount Snow features a variety of deals throughout ski season.

For new skiers, the Peak Discovery Program is just $139 and includes three days of lessons, rentals and lift tickets for seven mountains across the Northeast, including Mount Snow, Hunter Mountain, Attitash, Wildcat and more.

Be sure to check out the Momtrends ski guide for more information on family ski getaways.

FAMILY BONDING ON THE SLOPES

Between the top-notch ski conditions, encouraging teachers and convenience of staying at Grand Summit, I highly recommend a ski weekend at Mount Snow, Vermont for a family vacation. It was great opportunity to enjoy the fresh outdoors, unplug and have some quality family time.

Check out my Must Have Travel Items for Family Vacations before you plan your next getaway…

Note: Thanks to Momtrends and Mount Snow for hosting our awesome ski weekend at Mount Snow. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari

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1) Visit the Boston Children’s Museum

2) Check out the New England Aquarium

3) Ride the Boston Swan Boats

4) Stop at Faneuil Hall Marketplace

5) Follow the Freedom Trail

6) Take a Boston Duck Tour

7) Check out Copley Square and Newbury Street

8) Scope out the Boston Museum of Science

9) Spend an afternoon at Harvard Square

10) Ride the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority aka The T

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Stylish Back-to-School Backpack

Start The School Year With a New Book

Safety First – First Aid Necessities From Me4Kidz

Freezable Lunch Bags & Bento Container from PackIt

Comfortable Scissors Make The Cut

Maglite® Solitaire LED and Mini Maglite® Pro LED – A Must for Every Backpack

Lunch Notes from MyWish4U

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Top 10 Cool Things to do in Wildwood, New Jersey

1) ENJOY MILES OF FREE BEACHES

2) SNAP A PIC WITH THE WILDWOOD BEACH BALLS

3) TASTE TONS OF BOARDWALK TREATS

4) ENJOY A GAME OF MINI GOLF WITH A VIEW

5) TAKE A MORNING RIDE ALONG THE BOARDWALK

6) RIDES, RIDES AND MORE RIDES AT MOREY’S PIERS

7) KICK BACK IN VINTAGE 1950s – 1960s STYLED HOTELS

8) UNLEASH YOUR INNER GANGSTER OR FLAPPER GIRL

9) REST YOUR FEET AND TRAVEL BY TRAM

10) SHOP TILL YOU DROP

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Top 10 Tips for Visiting Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, New Jersey

1) What to Wear

2) Book a Morey’s Piers VIP Tour

3) Have a Plan

4) Don’t Miss the Family Friendly Rides

5) Take a Snack Break

6) Try a Thrill Ride or Two

7) Enjoy Great Dining

8) Splash Away at Raging Waters and Ocean Oasis Water Parks

9) Get A Taste of The Arts on Adventure Pier

10) Chat With The Staff

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Top 10 Family Friendly Things to do in Branson, MO

Ride the Branson Ferris Wheel

Search for Big Foot

Explore the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure

Relive History at the Titanic Museum

Take in a Show or Two or Three

Spend a Day at Silver Dollar City

Be a Daredevil

Savor the Flavors of Branson

Explore the Great Outdoors

Go Back in Time at Dicks 5 & 10

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GRAND SUMMIT RESORT HOTEL

MOUNT SNOW’S SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL AND GROUP LESSONS

TUBING AT MOUNT SNOW

BIG SAVINGS FOR SKI FAMILIES

FAMILY BONDING ON THE SLOPES

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