Shopping Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

The Ultimate Holiday Gift …

November 2, 2022 By Globetrotting Mommy

Tis the season to be shopping and if you’ve got tweens and teens on your list you probably need some help. Check out the Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Tweens and Teens…

Gifts for the Glam Girls…

Personalized Cosmetic Bag – Perfect for home or away, these personalized watercolor bags will keep her makeup and brushes clean and organized. These are also handy for hair accessories, brushes, hand sanitizers and facemasks.

Hot Iron Holster – Keep hands and countertops safe from burns with this silicone holder for her hair styling tools. It easily re-attaches making it great for trips and sleepovers.

Baby Foot Exfoliation Foot Peel – This year has been extra hard without regular pedicures so pamper her tootsies with this easy home foot peel. The results will definitely make her say “wow.”

Velvet Knot Headbands with Faux Pearls – This trendy and super affordable headband trio will add a touch of glam to any outfit. Choose from pink, beige and black or gray, brown and beige.

Comfy Cosmetic Headband – Girls will love this super cute headband to keep their hair back when they wash their faces or while they relax with a face mask. I especially love the Minnie Mouse style bow.

Gifts for the Globetrotters…

Infinity Scarf with Hidden Pocket – This scarf’s hidden pocket is perfect for hiding cash, keys, cell phones and other small items. Perfect for travel, school or even a walk around the block.

Wild Essentials Infinity Fleece Sleep Mask – This is my absolute favorite sleep mask and I never leave home without it. The deep eye pockets ensure a comfy fit and complete darkness. Available in nine colors so kids can coordinate with their pajamas.

Carry-On Suitcase – Someday we’ll be traveling again so a new carry-on suitcase is sure to please – colorful luggage is easy to spot. If your tween is into American Girl Dolls, throw in a doll-sized luggage set or cute doll travel accessories.

Travel Jewelry Box – She’ll keep her baubles and trinkets safe in this cute travel jewelry box. If she’s always losing her earrings, this is a perfect gift.

Hanging Toiletry Bag – Teens are experts at making a mess in the bathroom so keeping their stuff organized in zippered compartments is sure to help. Kids can hang these from the bathroom mirror or towel rack so they’re not in everyone’s way.

Gifts for kids who love anything colorful…

Tie-Dye Kit – Teens and tweens love to show off their creative sides so a tie-dye kit is perfect for them to create colorful hoodies, masks, socks, and other items.

Magnetic Dry Erase Board – Perfect for fridges or lockers, teens and tweens will love jotting down their ideas on this dry erase board with six colorful markers.

Candy Color iPhone Case – Teens and tweens will never drop their phones again with these colorful phone cases featuring adjustable cross body cords. Available in six gorgeous colors or basic black, these are especially great for traveling.

GUND Kai Rainbow Plush Teddy Bear – You’re never too old for a new teddy bear and this super soft rainbow bear from GUND is sure to become a new favorite.

Crayola Inspiration Art Case – With 140 pieces, this easy to carry art kit will be a hit with any creative teen or tween. The set includes crayons, markers, colored pencils and paper.

For the game players…

Exploding Kittens – This quirky card game keeps players on the edge of their seats as they try not to “explode” and lose. Super fun, super easy and perfect for any get together since up to ten players can play.

Unsolved Case Files – Teens (and mature tweens) will love channeling their inner detectives as they try to solve a murder mystery. This is one of those games that might take a few hours or days as everyone works together to sort thru clues and documents. It can be played individually or in groups of any size making it the perfect party game.

Relative Insanity See What I Mean – This funny game uses photo cards and dice to come up with some very interesting scenarios that the “judge” reviews before choosing a winner. Great for four to 12 players.

Camera Roll – For tweens and teens who can’t put down their phones, this is the perfect game. Players race to find the perfect photo or video from their phones to match prompts from the playing cards. For three or more players.

Big Boggle – With 25 letter cubes, this family favorite is bigger and better. Tweens and teens can now come up with even more words and more lengthy responses. For two or more players.

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Hopefully this Holiday Gift Guide for Tweens and Teens sparked some ideas.

Note: This post contains some affiliate links.

10 Awesome Kids Books – …

March 12, 2021 By Globetrotting Mommy

New York City is one of the best places to explore with kids and reading is a great way to get kids excited about upcoming trips. If you’ve got NYC on your family travel bucket list, check out these 10 Awesome Kids Books – New York City.

10 Awesome Kids Books – New York City

1) 123 New York: A Cool Counting Book by Puck. Perfect for babies and toddlers, this little board book is a great introduction to NYC landmarks. The book is all numbers and pictures so it “reads” in any language you’d like. Uno Statue of Liberty… Dos baseballs…Tres Brooklyn Bridges…they’ll be counting up to ten in no time.

2) This is New York by Miroslav Sasek (ages three and up). I have loved this book for years. The classic storybook shows many details of city life with cartoon characters and colorful illustrations. It may seem a bit dated but it still captures the spirit of New York.

3) Larry Gets Lost in New York City (ages three – seven). Lovable puppy Larry is always getting lost. Follow Larry’s escapades around Manhattan while he visits the city’s many landmarks and attractions.

4) A Walk in New York by Salvatore Rubbino (ages four – eight). Another favorite, this gorgeous book features a father and son’s New York City explorations. Bits of trivia mix with the drawings so kids learn all sorts of interesting NYC facts like the names of the marble lions outside the New York Public Library…aka Patience and Fortitude.

5) Little Kid, Big City (ages five+). Written by a popular NYC blogger, this book is full of first-hand tips for visiting a slew of Big Apple sights and attractions. Kids “choose” their own adventure as they read by deciding “where to go” and flipping through the gorgeously illustrated pages. The fold-out map is super handy for little navigators.

6) My Subway Ride by Paul DuBois Jacobs (ages four – eight). This colorful book depicts the sounds and sights of the NYC subway system. Girls and boys will both enjoy this one.

7) Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet (ages five – ten). If your family loves New York City’s famed Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, this book is sure to become an immediate favorite. The story tells the true story of how the famous floats came to creation with gorgeous graphics and a bit of STEM education along the way.

8) You Can’t Take a Balloon into the Metropolitan Museum by Jacqueline Press Weitzman (ages five-eight). This wordless picture book follows a yellow balloon as it floats all around Manhattan. Kids will recognize famous landmarks as well as paintings and sculptures as they use their imaginations to “read.”

9) Eloise: The Ultimate Edition by Kay Thompson (ages five-ten). For girls who love, love, love Eloise, this treasury will be a big hit. This is a great choice for young travelers since it features Eloise in Moscow and Eloise in Paris as well as Eloise at Christmastime and the original Eloise story and scrapbook.

10) The New York Times: 36 Hours USA & Canada by Barbara Ireland (Kids eight and up). Bigger kids can plan family adventures with this coffee table book filled with travel itineraries and suggestions for trips to New York City (and beyond).

Books make great birthday, baby shower and holiday gifts and these are all sure to please globetrotting kids and parents alike. Planning a New York-themed baby nursery? Just stock a bookshelf with these and you’re halfway there.

(Note: This post contains affiliate links)

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE – THE …

November 19, 2020 By admin

If you’ve got a tiny travel lover on your gift list, here are some of the best books for little travelers this holiday season. Books are always a great gift idea especially for kids who have a million toys…

Holiday Gift Guide – The Best Books for Little Travelers

The Travel Book: A journey through every country in the world – This kids version of Lonely Planet’s The Travel Book is filled with facts and quirky insights on more than 200 countries. Perfect for little explorers ages 8 and up.

A Smart Girl’s Guide: Travel: Everything you need to know about adventuring near and far – This is a great beginner’s guide to travel for elementary and middle school girls. Filled with fun quizzes, smart safety tips and cool trivia, this book will get girls ready for adventures near and far.

Passport To Your National Parks – America’s national parks are amazing spots for generations of families to visit and this passport has a page for each park to be stamped during a visit. For more details on famous parks, check out the beautifully illustrated National Parks of the USA.

The Penny Passport Souvenir Book – If your kids like collecting pressed pennies on their travels, this is a must-have. The sturdy book fits more than 36 elongated cents and eight pressed quarters or nickels.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World – The latest edition of these gorgeous bedtime books features stories of Immigrant Women who have helped shape the world. A great gift to celebrate diversity and encourage all girls to reach for their dreams.

This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from around the World – This is a great way to show elementary school kids what life looks like around the world. The book’s illustrations show seven kids from different countries going about their day including their meals, homes, outfits, etc.

New York: Panorama Pops – This small travel book features awesome illustrations of some of New York City’s most popular attractions. The city literally unfolds page after page. The series also includes Paris, Venice, Berlin, London, etc.

The Flag Book – In The Flag Book, Lonely Planet Kids introduces children to the flags of every country in the world, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe. Such a fun way to learn what the design, colors, and images represent, as well as interesting facts about each nation.

The 50 States: Explore the U.S.A. with 50 fact-filled maps! This fun book highlights every state including their famous residents, cities, unique facts, historical moments and more.

You can shop this list on Amazon or support your local bookstores. Check out my favorite kid-friendly New York City books for more holiday gift ideas and my 2020 gift guide for tweens and teens.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Great Gifts for Travelers

December 16, 2019 By admin

If you’re looking for gift ideas for the globetrotter in your life, you’ll love this post. My holiday gift guide is full of great gifts for travelers to enjoy at home and away…

TRAVEL MUST-HAVES:

Digital Luggage Scale – My number one travel accessory is this easy-to-use luggage scale. Stop guessing if your bag is under 50 pounds and say goodbye to extra baggage charges.

Packing Cubes – I am a huge fan of packing cubes, especially for families since each person can choose their color. Just group items or outfits in cubes and packing will be a breeze.

Hanging Toiletry Bag – I keep my toiletry bag packed so I can just grab and go. Zippered compartments are perfect for travel accessories and the hanging design keeps bathroom clutter to a minimum.

Travel Jewelry Organizer – Keep your jewels safe and never lose an earring again with these colorful jewelry boxes. The small size and compartments make this a great option for quick trips. And remember, never ever check your jewels in luggage!

Reusable Shopping Bags – These are so useful for shopping at home and away. They also double as road-trip snack bags, beach totes and laundry bags. Choose from solids, prints and metallic options – an easy gift for travelers.

Travel Adaptor – A must for every globetrotter. Keep your favorite electronics charged wherever you go. Pick a different color for everyone in your family.

Travel Sized Laundry Bag – For the traveler who has everything, this world map laundry bag is a fun gift. I love that it folds into a tiny travel pouch with a carabineer.

TRAVEL INSPIRED GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS:

Gifts for Travelers - Travel Inspired Gifts

Show Tickets and Personalized Shirt – For the Broadway fan on your list, a pair of tickets to an upcoming show and a personalized shirt to wear make a great gift. I used my Cricut Explore Air™ 2 machine to personalize a “So Fetch” shirt for a Mean Girls lover in sparkly pink.

Scratch Your Travels USA Map – Travelers will love highlighting their US adventures as they scratch off each state they visit. Add a frame and you’ve got a great family gift.

Travel Scarf – A travel scarf is always a good idea and this infinity version with a secret hidden zipper pocket is a great gift for travelers all ages. Choose from solids and patterns.

50 States, 5,000 Ideas – This comprehensive National Geographic book is full of sightseeing ideas in every state. A great gift option for families.

FOR TRAVEL LOVING FOODIES:

Bokksu – For the adventurous eater on your list, a Bokksu box filled with Japanese snacks and teas is sure to please. A great option for travel-loving families who like to try new foods. Choose from monthly subscriptions in two different sizes.

Custom Etched Map Glassware – For the coffee or hot cocoa drinker, wine aficionado and spirits lover on your list, I love Well Told Designs glassware etched with a favorite city, college town, airport, island, marathon route and more. Choose from pints, rocks, wine, mugs, mason jars, champagne flutes, etc. and you’ve got a great gift for everyone on your list.

Sitka Salmon Shares – For seafood lovers, gift a box of seasonal wild-caught seafood – straight from Southeast Alaska and the North Pacific! Sitka Salmon Shares, a community-supported fishery, supports sustainable fisheries and delivers the freshest catches from boat to doorstep. Use code SITKA25 to receive $25 off any 2020 Premium Sitka Seafood Share.

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Passport – Every holiday season Trader Joe’s brings out their cult favorites and their Chocolate Passport is a great option for every traveler on your list. Perfect for stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, etc.

BEST FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR TRAVELING:

Tenzi – I’m a huge fan of easy-to-pack family games and Tenzi is one of my favorites. This multi-dice game is easy to learn and fast to play. There are several variations which help keep boredom at bay. Add in the 77 Ways to Play The Add-on Card Set and you’re guaranteed hours of good fun.

Playing Cards – An oldie but goodie, playing cards are easy to bring along on any trip making them great gifts for travelers. From Go Fish and War to Canasta and Rummy, everyone on the trip will find something to play. Other options include Solitare and building card houses.

Match-O-Rama – From the makers of Telestrations, Match-O-Rama is a great game choice for multi-generational family trips. The better you know the players, the easier you can predict how others will answer. Or maybe not? Easy to learn, fast to play and sure to keep the whole family entertained.

Kodak Premium Puzzles – Puzzles are a great activity to bring along on a vacation. Choose from easy to hard (depending on the ages and patience levels) and the whole family can enjoy. Kodak has a lot of travel-themed options (Boston, Italy, Greece, US National Parks and more) perfect for travel-loving families.

Need more gifts for travelers and everyone else on your list? Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Gift Guide and Great Gifts for Teens and Tweens from 2019 .

I received some of these items for review purposes but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Great Gifts for Tweens and …

December 12, 2019 By admin

Do you have a tween or teen on your holiday gift list? I feel your pain. These not-little but not-yet adults can be tricky but lucky for you, I’m sharing my list of great gifts for tweens and teens.

Gifts for Tween and Teen Girls

Frida Kahlo Puzzle – She’s an artist, activist, and feminist icon – no wonder so many young women are Frida Kahlo fans. eeBo always has fantastic gifts and this colorful puzzle is sure to please.

Hydro Flask – If your VSCO girl doesn’t already have one, this popular water bottle will be a sure winner. The bigger, the better and don’t forget the cute stickers!

Scrunchies – Now that they’re back, scrunchies are a must for all tween and teen girls. Grab this 60-piece set and you’ll have one to match every outfit.

Gifts For Teens and Tweens Who Have Everything

Dollar Bill Animals in Origami – This book features instructions (start with easy!) for turning any dollar bill into animals like giraffe, shark, unicorn, etc. Throw in a couple of Hamiltons and you’re done. Perfect for road trips and plane rides too.

Spontuneous – The Song Game – We played this over Thanksgiving break with a mix of tweens, teens, parents and grandparents and it was a HUGE hit. We were laughing so hard as we tried to guess each other’s songs and move to the finish line. Great for family gatherings, sleepovers and game night.

Cinema Light Box – A fun light box is always a good idea. Tweens and teens can express themselves with 160 letters and symbols like emojis and holiday icons.

Faux Fur Throws – Teens and tweens will love cozying up for movie night with these super-soft throws. The neutral colors will blend perfectly with any den or bedroom.

Gifts for Travel Loving Teens and Tweens

Wireless Airpods – Airpods are a must-have for teens and tweens who love listening to music on chatting on the go. The learning curve is quick and the battery life is long, enough said.

Inflatable Snow Tube – For tweens and teens who live where it snows, these fun snow tubes are perfect. Choose from burger, donut, peppermint, taco, snowcone or pizza. Perfect for bringing along on a ski vacation…

Disney Mini Backpack – For Disney lovers, Loungefly has the cutest selection of mini backpacks around. My tween has been eyeing this Minnie Mouse Ears version, a classic for sure.

Gifts for Crafty Tweens and Teens

Make Your Own Glitter Face Masks – This DIY kit from Klutz includes everything kids need to make five face masks. The silicone brush makes it easy to apply the mix so it isn’t as messy as you think.

Tie-Dye Party Kit – Know a crafty kid who loves to throw a party? This tie-dye kit comes with supplies (14 fun colors!) and instructions for up to 36 projects. Perfect for sleepovers or family get-togethers.

Sew Your Own Unicorn Cake Pillow – Crafty girls will love learning how to sew a soft and sparkly unicorn cake pillow using techniques like whip stitching, basting and gathering. Materials are pre-cut for ease and there are tons of decorative options (think faux fur, metallic gold lamé, and iridescent pom-poms).

Check out my 2020 Gift Guide for Tweens and Teens for more ideas. Need gift ideas for the travelers on your list? Check out my Great Gifts for Travelers.

Happy shopping!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I was provided with some items for review purposes but all opinions are my own.

Top 10 New York City Holiday …

December 4, 2019 By admin

New York City is fun any time of year but a visit during the holiday season is something every family should experience. New York City holiday activities for families will surely wow visitors of all ages. From glittering holiday windows, iconic holiday shows and ice skaing galore, there is something for everyone. Pack your comfy shoes and come explore…

Top 10 New York City holiday activities for families

1. Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is one of New York City’s classic holiday scenes. Stop by for photos in front of the famed Christmas tree and take in the larger than life bronze Prometheus sculpture and hoards of ice skaters. If you want to see the city from above, Top of the Rock offers great views of the city’s skyline.

10 best New York City holiday activities for families

2. Department store holiday displays

Visiting department store holiday windows is a must for the holidays. My favorite store displays can be found at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York, Tiffany & Co., and Macy’s. The Saks evening light show is a must (every 30 minutes) and Frozen fans will especially love the 2019 Frozen themed windows. Macy’s Santaland boasts an elaborate indoor winter wonderland with Santa photo ops.

10 best New York City holiday activities for families

3. Ice skating in the city

One of the most iconic New York City holiday activities is ice skating. The most popular (and priciest) choice is The Rink at Rockefeller Center. Try to go off-peak to avoid the crowds. Trump Wollman Rink in Central Park offers stunning city views. The Bank of America Winter Village Bryant Park rink is free (just pay for skate rentals) and has awesome snack and shopping options.

4. Rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Don’t miss the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, The Rockettes Celebration. This annual stage show has been a holiday fixture since 1933 for good reason. The spectacular has kept up with the times and now features a 3-D portion, techno-tricks, amazing costumes and backdrops. The famed dancers, however, really steal the show.

5. Shop till you drop

Tourists strolling down New York City streets toting shopping bags can be seen on ever block during the holidays. If you’ve got a family of shoppers, you’ll want to get in on the fun. Kid favorites include the Lego Store, FAO Schwarz, Nintendo, CAMP, American Girl Place and Build-A-Bear. Parents will want to check out NYC’s famed department stores and jewelry boutiques. There are also several festive pop up holiday markets in Bryant Park, Union Square, Columbus Circle and Grand Central.

10 best New York City holiday activities for families

6. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

Head to Brooklyn for the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show, a one-of-a-kind experience where families can watch model trains zip past more than 150 miniature New York landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Rockefeller Center. Make advance reservations for this hot holiday pick.

10 best New York City holiday activities for families

7. Special New York City Holiday Activities for Kids

December in New York City offers a wide range of special holiday events for kids. Choose from options like gingerbread house decorating at Eloise at The Plaza, GingerBread Lane at the New York Hall of Science, Nutcracker ballet performances and holiday puppet making at Central Park’s Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre following Yeti, Set, Snow.

8. Live Theater

Every trip to New York City should include attending a live performance. There are some really fun holiday shows this year including 42FT at The New Victory Theater (think circus and actobats) and The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays (six famed illusionists in one non-stop show) which will wow the whole family. Broadway favorites like Aladdin, Wicked and The Lion King or off-Broadway picks like the Gazillion Bubble Show are other good options.

9. Tea time

Take an afternoon break for tea or hot (or frozen) chocolate at one of the city’s famous sweet shops or a meal at iconic holiday restaurants. Some favorites include Alice’s Tea Cup, the Russian Tea Room, The Palm Court at The Plaza, Serendipity 3, Max Brenner, and Rolf’s German Restaurant.

10 best New York City holiday activities for families

10. A holiday ride

A fun family friendly (kids 6+) sightseeing option is The Ride which offers a comfortable tour of NYC hotspots with great views and interactive entertainment along the way (think part tour, part show, total entertainment). Look for discount codes on their website and book in advance as popular times will fill up.

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Five Cool Things to Check Out …

September 19, 2019 By admin

NYC’s new American Girl Place, one of our favorite New York City hotspots has a glitzy new home in Rockefeller Center. The 40,000-square-foot flagship store is stunning and the location is perfectly central for locals and tourists. If you’ve got an American Girl doll fan at home, read on to learn about Five Cool Things to Check Out at NYC’s new American Girl Place.

Five Cool Things to Check Out at NYC’s New American Girl Place

1) The American Girl Salon, Only At American Girl New York

One of the major enhancements at the new American Girl Place is the gorgeous American Girl Salon. Dolls have always been able to enjoy salon pampering but now girls can get in on the spa and salon action too. Girls can choose hairstyles to match their dolls (or not) and they can now enjoy mini mani’s and ear piercing alongside their dolls. And yes, the ear piercing is major news! Girl hairstyles start at $25 while doll styles begin at $10. It was so fun to watch my daughter and her doll Lea have their hair done in matching styles with coordinating ribbons. If you’re looking for a special girl’s day out treat, a stop here will definitely impress everyone. You’ll want to review the salon options and make reservations in advance, especially over holidays and weekends.

2) The New American Girl Cafe

Always a classic choice for a special dining treat, the new American Girl Cafe features modern decor, an updated a-la-carte menu and they have done away with the set seating times so you won’t find yourself waiting in a long line. You and your dolls can enjoy brunch, afternoon tea, lunch or dinner with old menu favorites (pink lemonade, pigs-in-blankets, cinnamon buns, chocolate mousse flowerpots) as well as new offerings. Dolls can enjoy meals (in their own seats – so bring them along or borrow one at check-in) and girls are given souvenir dining accessories to use and take home. We enjoyed our lunch and my daughter loved getting to share the experience all glammed up along with her doll. Yes, they have private rooms for birthday parties so keep that in mind when birthday season arrives.

3) Explore American Girl Books and Movies

The new American Girl store features a comfortable section where kids can watch the company’s award-winning movies and videos. There is also a cozy nook where kids can browse the brand’s hundreds of best-selling fiction and advice books. I love that these areas are for kids (and parents) to relax as shopping in NYC can be very hectic. My daughter is in third grade and the American Girl books have really been essential in teaching her how to navigate friendships and her growing body.

4) Create Your Own Design Studio

My favorite new addition is the Create Your Own Design Studio where girls can custom design their own doll via an online experience that takes personalization and customization to a whole new level. There are more than one million possible design combinations from hairstyles, eye colors, skin shades and accessories galore so girls can truly create the doll of their dreams. Girls can also design one-of-a-kind doll and girl-sized clothing at the design studio, which can be printed in-store. If your daughter likes to add her personal touches to everything, she will love these new options.

5) Check out the American Girl Doll of the Year!

We’re huge fans of these annual additions (like Gabriela, Grace and Lea) and I love that the 2018 American Girl Doll, Luciana Vega encourages girls to explore science as she aspires to explore Mars someday. The New York City store features a special section dedicated to the annual doll as well as specialty items (like cafe drinks and salon services) toys and clothes. Best of all, the BeForever characters and newer dolls are featured in special showcases where girls can get a glimpse into their worlds and play in interactive areas. Younger girls will especially love exploring the WellieWishers and Bitty Baby areas.

Ready to visit? Check out my Top Tips for Visiting American Girl Place in NYC and pin this for your next NYC trip.

Have you been to NYC’s new American Girl Place? Who is your favorite doll?

Thanks to American Girl for providing us pampering spa services and lunch. 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 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!

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.”

Pin this before you go…

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

Summer Shoes Kids Will Love …

May 8, 2019 By admin

Summer travels call for shoes kids will love wearing. So toss out those old smelly school sneakers and stock up on some cute and comfy summer shoes.

Summer Shoes Kids Will Love Wearing

For girls who love glitter:

My daughter loves dresses and I usually cringe when she pairs them with sneakers but no more! These rose gold Champion Glitter Keds for Kate Spade are the perfect dressy sneaker that works on the playground and at a fancy dinner. Best of all, they come with two sets of laces (regular and satin ribbon) so you can easily dress them up or down.

For girls who love rainbows:

Rainbows are so fun for girls of all ages and these adorable blue metallic platform espadrilles from Target’s Cat & Jack feature an elastic rainbow strap so they will match everything in her closet.

For sporty kids:

We are huge fan of Stride Rite’s made2play Phibian waterproof sneaker sandals and their new lighted version marks my daughter’s fourth pair! The easy-to-clean exterior, comfortable interior and velcro closure make them an easy option for every day. These sneakers are lightweight and can go from sidewalk to sprinkler park.

Kids will love wearing Salt Water Sandals all summer long.

For kids who like classics:

Salt Water Sandals come in so many unisex styles (and colors) its no wonder they’ve got a cult following among kids and moms. For summer sightseeing trips or walks at home, these classic strappy sandals are a great option that can easily go from day to night. The chunky sole options are nice for younger kids and the strap and buckle closure means little fingers can’t easily take these off. These sandals are waterproof and easy to clean making them a great option for beach vacations and amusement park trips.

For trendsetters:

I’m a big fan of Birkenstocks for their ease and comfort so this year I bought my daughter matching metallic silver Gizah sandals. I love how sturdy they are compared to flip-flops. And, most importantly, the slip-on style means my daughter can get out the door quickly.

What shoes do your kids love to wear when traveling? Tell me below in the comments.

Some of these shoes were gifted for review purposes and this post contains some affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Gifts for the Glam Girls…

Gifts for the Globetrotters…

Gifts for kids who love anything colorful…

For the game players…

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10 Awesome Kids Books – New York City

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Holiday Gift Guide – The Best Books for Little Travelers

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TRAVEL MUST-HAVES:

TRAVEL INSPIRED GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS:

FOR TRAVEL LOVING FOODIES:

BEST FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR TRAVELING:

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Gifts for Tween and Teen Girls

Gifts For Teens and Tweens Who Have Everything

Gifts for Travel Loving Teens and Tweens

Gifts for Crafty Tweens and Teens

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Top 10 New York City holiday activities for families

1. Rockefeller Center

2. Department store holiday displays

3. Ice skating in the city

4. Rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular

<img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-5437" src="https://www.globetrottingmommy.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3658.jpeg" alt="10 best New York City holiday activities for families" width="1" height="1" />5. Shop till you drop

6. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

7. Special New York City Holiday Activities for Kids

8. Live Theater

9. Tea time

10. A holiday ride

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Five Cool Things to Check Out at NYC’s New American Girl Place

1) The American Girl Salon, Only At American Girl New York

2) The New American Girl Cafe

3) Explore American Girl Books and Movies

4) Create Your Own Design Studio

5) Check out the American Girl Doll of the Year!

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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 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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Summer Shoes Kids Will Love Wearing

For girls who love glitter:

For girls who love rainbows:

For sporty kids:

For kids who like classics:

For trendsetters:

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5. Shop till you drop