Travel Tips Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC …

January 6, 2022 By admin

I’m always getting asked about my top picks for a family-friendly NYC vacation so today I’m sharing some of my favorite New York City outings for kids. If you’ve got a family trip to NYC in the calendar, be sure to check out these 5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids…

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids

In no particular order, these attractions are great for kids of all ages and parents (and grandparents) will enjoy them too.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty, Battery Park

This outing will take a half-day but it will be well worth your time. The ferry ride gives you some amazing NYC views and photo ops and the expansive Liberty Park grounds are perfect for little ones to run around. Older kids will love going up to the crown level while the pedestal level is great for younger kids. Buy tickets in advance and check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty before you go.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park.

The Seaglass Carousel, at the Battery Conservancy

New York City’s newest carousel is a showstopper sure to thrill kids and grown ups alike. Unlike traditional horses, this ride features an array of gorgeous translucent fish that are up to 14 feet tall. Guests will feel like they are swimming as they glide and swirl around while the fish change colors and magical music comes from every direction. At $5 a ride, this is a must for the whole gang.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise.

Circle Line Cruise, Pier 83

Since Manhattan is an island, one of my favorite ways to take it all in is by sea. With a choice of family-friendly tours and longer sightseeing trips, this is one of my family’s favorite things to do on a sunny day. You can’t go wrong with the 1.5 hour Landmark Cruise which takes guests along Manhattan’s west side to the Statue of Liberty and back.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. One World Trade Center.

One World Trade Center.

With 360 degree views of New York City, the One World Observatory at One World Trade Center is a must see for tourists and locals alike. From the history lesson in the elevator ride to the on site concierge desk, kids will be sure to learn some interesting tidbits about NYC along the way. Be sure to check out the nearby sights like the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Brookfield Place, the Oculus and the new Eataly before or after your visit.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Highline, NYC.

The High Line, Chelsea.

Located above Manhattan’s west side, The High Line is free and fabulous. Kids will love exploring all the fun views and kid friendly spots (look for the seesaw bench and secret tunnels) while parents will love the laid back (and car free) ambiance. Check out the events calendar before you go and leave time to explore nearby Chelsea Market and art galleries. There are several staircase entrances and exits and a few elevator entrances so map out your arrival spots carefully if you’ve got a heavy stroller.

Have you visited any of these spots? Tell me below in the comments.

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Statue of Liberty Tips – …

April 19, 2021 By Globetrotting Mommy

The Statue of Liberty is one of the world’s most popular monuments and a must for family visits to New York City. Read on for my Statue of Liberty tips including what you need to know before you go.

(Note: Due to Covid restrictions, the pedestal and crown are currently closed. Statue of Liberty Museum and theater are open with limited capacity. Ellis Island Museum is open, but theaters remain closed. All visitors must wear face coverings and keep socially distanced.)

Top 5, Tips, Statue of Liberty tips, Travel, New York City, Tourist Monuments — Statue of Liberty Tips – What to know before you go

Top 5 Statue of Liberty Tips

Everyone rushes to The Statue of Liberty in the summer but fall and spring are also ideal seasons to visit. Be sure to charge your cellphone and bring binoculars for kids.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty. The ferry offers amazing views of The Statue of Liberty. — Statue of Liberty tips. The ferry offers amazing views of Manhattan too.

TICKETS AND PRICING

1- To avoid long lines, buy tickets in advance! Book tickets online at Statue City Cruises, the official operator of ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on behalf of the National Park Service. Prices for the ferry and museum/grounds are $12 for children 4-12, $23.50 for adults and $18 for seniors. Additional charges apply for crown and or pedestal access (NOTE: These options are currently closed due to Covid). Children under 4 are free and you will definitely want to bring a stroller.

Summer and fall are the busiest times to visit so reserve a week or two in advance for pedestal access and four-six months in advance for crown access. Print tickets at home and go straight to the Battery Park security line behind Clinton Castle. Weekdays draw fewer crowds and unless you visit in summer, be prepared for a breezy ferry ride.

WHERE TO GO? CROWN VERSES PEDESTAL AND GROUNDS

2 – Before you book tickets, assess your family’s stamina and patience levels and decide on your viewing plan. To visit the crown, kids need to be at least 48 inches tall and able to climb 377 steps. Keep in mind that the security and ferry lines can be fairly long and it might take an hour or so to arrive on Liberty Island. Be sure to board the ferry at least two hours before your ticket time.

On our first trip, we got pedestal tickets and the views were amazing (I did have to lift my daughter to see over the ledge). With these tickets, you can also walk around the entire star-shaped multi-level base which wasn’t crowded and offered plenty of room to run around and take in the amazing views.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty. Pedestal tickets offer amazing NYC views. — Statue of Liberty tips. Pedestal tickets offer amazing NYC views.

On our second visit with friends, we went up to the crown.

STATUE OF LIBERTY TIPS – WHAT TO BRING

3 – This day trip will take at least a few hours so bring snacks and pack lunch if you’re planning an afternoon visit. Food and beverages are allowed on the ferry and on Liberty Island but you will need to store these items in a locker ($2 for two hours so bring dollar bills) if you go inside the statue. Cameras, phones and water bottles are permitted inside. Food and drinks are available for purchase on the ferry, Liberty Island and Ellis Island but choices are limited/fast food and pricy.

GRAB A FREE AUDIO TOUR

4 – When the ferry arrives on Liberty Island, go directly to the audio tour booth and pick up a free audio tour for everyone in your group. Tours are available in multiple languages and there is a children’s version narrated by a bird that even young children will enjoy. You can go at your own pace and still listen to the tours which is nice. This was my daughter’s first audio tour and I was amazed to see her pointing out the information she was hearing and talking about what the bird was telling her.

DON’T MISS THE MUSEUM AND JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

5 – For families with kids of all ages, be sure to check out the new Statue of Liberty Museum which opened in 2019. The new space features sweeping views, a theater experience, the original torch, historical mementos and more. For kids ages 7-12, print out a Junior Ranger Activity Booklet. Return a completed copy to the Liberty Island information center to receive a Junior Ranger Badge.

If you still have energy, continue on to Ellis Island and explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Each return ferry stops here before heading back to Battery Park.

Have you visited The Statue of Liberty? What was your favorite memory?

Visit City Experiences for other world-class water and land-based experiences across the US including iconic NYC sightseeing cruises and attractions including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory and more.

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Visiting the Empire State …

October 27, 2020 By admin

Today I’m sharing tips for visiting the Empire State Building during Covid. One of NYC’s classic attractions has reopened and if you’ve always wanted to avoid the crowds, now is a great time to visit. If you live nearby, come in for the day and check it out. If you’re not local, please check the New York State Covid 19 Travel Advisory before you plan any travel to NY.

Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building During Covid, New York City, Empire State Building, Covid, Coronavirus, Covid 19, — Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building During Covid

Tip 1 – BOOK TICKETS IN ADVANCE

Right now, admissions are by appointment only so purchase tickets online in advance of your trip. Try to plan your visit around opening hours if you can to avoid afternoon crowds. After you choose your ticket selection (most popular options are 86th Floor Observatory, 102nd and 86th Floor Observatories or Premium Experience Behind the Scenes Tour) you can select the date and time slot. Tickets are non-refundable so be sure to double-check the dates and times.

Tip 2 – DON’T FORGET MASKS

Masks are mandatory throughout the building and on the observation decks. You can take them off quickly for photos as long as you can follow social distancing guidelines.

Tip 3 – ARRIVE EARLY

Arrive 10 minutes before your reservation and be prepared to wait in line for temperature checks and security lines. Social distancing is made easy with signage and staff directing guests into the elevators one family at a time.

Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building During Covid

Tip 4 – TAKE TIME TO EXPLORE ON THE WAY UP

Don’t miss the exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors. You can take a self-guided audio tour (yes, guest Wi-Fi is free) or explore the photo-ops and historical exhibits throughout the building at your leisure. Don’t miss King Kong’s giant hands, the gigantic video montage and amazing elevator video.

Tip 5 – GET YOUR BEARINGS AND TAKE IN THE VIEWS

Before you head to the open-air observation deck, check out the maps and exhibits pointing out New York City’s iconic landmarks (Statue of Liberty, One World Trade, Central Park, etc.) in every direction. Once on the observation decks you will enjoy stunning 360-degree views of New York, Brooklyn, Queens and beyond. Make sure your camera battery is full or bring along a battery pack as you will want to take a lot of photos once you reach the top.

You haven’t seen New York until you have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime view. Have you ever visited the Empire State Building?

Top 10 Must-Have Items for …

June 9, 2020 By admin

Welcome back from the 2020 Corona virus hiatus! Now that summer travel is becoming more of a reality, I think we are all looking forward to some close to home family trips. While you dip your toes back into summer travel, be sure to check out these must-have items for summer travel.

1 – Waterproof Footwear – Summer footwear is important since slippery pavement and hot sand are never fun. For water parks, pools, lakes and beaches you’ll want to pack comfy, waterproof footwear for the whole family. For water parks, swim socks and rubber-soled beach shoes are great because kids can wear them all day. For rocky beaches and lakes, be sure to get a waterproof shoe with anti-slip sole, or Crocs. For strolling around town, Salt Water Sandals, Birkenstocks and Tevas will provide more support than flip flops.

2 – Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag – Water and cell phones are never a good combination so invest in a waterproof phone case, wearable pouch or dry bag. If you want really great underwater shots and movies, bring a GoPro.

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel: Master Lock SafeSpace portable safe is perfect to store small valuables.

3 – Portable Safe – I’m a paranoid New Yorker who hates leaving anything valuable out of sight so I travel with a Master Lock SafeSpace® Portable Personal Safe. With this portable safe, I can safely lock up my keys and money, secure it to a lounge chair or table, throw a towel on top and jump in the pool.

4 – Floats – For kids who haven’t fully mastered the art of swimming, be sure to pack a floatation device. I recommend the Stearns Kids Puddle Jumper Life Jacket Vest (one of the few coast guard approved devices) for toddlers or a backpack type device like the Water Gear Back Float 4-Color Split Back Float for older kids.

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel. Don’t forget to label your water bottles.

5 – Water Bottle – Bring along a labeled water bottle for each family member so everyone stays hydrated and be sure to refill them with ice water throughout the day. My favorite leak-proof bottles include Camelbak, Contigo, and Nalgene.

6 – Skin Protection – Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Kids know the drill but packing some easy to use sunscreen sticks will make the process less painful. Don’t forget to bring sun protection lip balms as well.

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel. 2020 summer travel. Globetrotting Mommy.

Water Parks 101: Bring quick dry towels.

7 – Quick Dry Towels – Some water parks and pools provide towels so be sure to find out before you go. If you need to bring your own, try a lightweight microfiber towel.

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel. Don’t forget the cover-ups.

8 – Sun Protection Clothing – For summer travel, you’ll want to bring rash guards, sun hats or visors and a cover-up for each member of the family. Be sure to label your clothing with waterproof labels like Mabel’s Labels.

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel. Don’t forget the goggles.

9 – Goggles – If your kids have never been to a water park, be sure to bring along some goggles. Some kids are sensitive to the splashing water so goggles help on rides and in the splash parks.

10 – Sunglasses – Last but certainly not least, be sure to bring along UV protection sunglasses for kids and adults.

Pin for later…

Top 10 Must-Have Items for Summer Travel - Summer 2020 Travel. Globetrotting Mommy

Happy travels…

Ten Best Disney Cruise Photos …

February 3, 2020 By admin

A fun-filled whirlwind Walt Disney World trip is always fun but it’s even better combined with a Disney Cruise. Today I’m sharing Ten Best Disney Cruise Photos to take on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas that will leave you wanting more.

Ten Best Disney Cruise Photos on Castaway Cay

I’ve visited Castaway Cay on three separate trips and it never disappoints. There is so much to see and do on this island so be sure to save some time for exploring and don’t miss these awesome Castaway Cay photo-ops.

1) Must Take Disney Cruise Photos – Disney Characters in Beach Wear

Don’t miss the Disney gang tossing around beach balls and hanging out in their swim gear on Castaway Cay. Stop for some fun photo ops as you arrive on Castaway Cay and don’t miss this fun gang at the dance party.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay — The characters are one of my favorite must-take photos on Disney’s Castaway Cay.

2) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Portrait With the Ship

You can take cruise ship photos when you board in Port Canaveral but the photo ops are much prettier from Castaway Cay. Snap away with the blue water and ship in the background for the perfect cruise souvenir.

3) Best Castaway Cay Photos – Capture the Ocean

The crystal clear blue water on Castaway Cay will take your breath away. Be sure to get a few shots of everyone on a float or in the water.

4) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Action Shots at Sea

Don’t forget to take photos of your child’s first time snorkeling or swimming in the Caribbean. Bring your underwater camera for snorkeling and be sure to take photos of the underwater Mickeys.

5) Best Castaway Cay Photos – Land Activities Like Biking

In addition to water sports, Castaway Cay has a lot of land activities like biking, 5K races, and sports. Take some family photos as you explore on land.

6) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Amazing Views From Scenic Lookout Points

Be sure to check out the lookout points along the bike path and at the Heads Up Bar. The views are awesome with the ship in the background.

7) Best Photos to Take on Castaway Cay – Ice Cream Memories

With non-stop ice cream machines flowing on Castaway Cay be sure to take a fun ice cream photo. From the perfect swirl with a beach backdrop to messy ice cream faces, you’ll want to remember these moments.

8) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Fun Backdrops on Castaway Cay

There are lots of fun backdrops featuring characters and oversized nautical scenes on the island. How cute are these for Disney fans?

9) Best Photos to Take on Castaway Cay – Relaxing Moments

All that beach time needs to be balanced with a bit of relaxation so try to capture kids napping, playing in the sand or swinging on the island’s many hammocks.

10) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Farewell Picture

Don’t miss a shot under this Castaway Cay sign before you get back on the ship. What better way to remember your fun-filled day?

Heading off on a Disney Cruise? Check out these 20 Things to Know Before Taking a Disney Cruise and Top 11 Tips for Visiting Castaway Cay.

Have you taken a Disney Cruise? Tell me your favorite memories in the comments below.

As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

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!

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.

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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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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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!

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The Seaglass Carousel, at the Battery Conservancy

Circle Line Cruise, Pier 83

One World Trade Center.

The High Line, Chelsea.

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Ten Best Disney Cruise Photos on Castaway Cay

1) Must Take Disney Cruise Photos – Disney Characters in Beach Wear

2) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Portrait With the Ship

3) Best Castaway Cay Photos – Capture the Ocean

4) Best Disney Cruise Photos – Action Shots at Sea

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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

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8. Live Theater

9. Tea time

10. A holiday ride

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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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5. Shop till you drop