amusement park Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

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!

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!

Summer Fun at Splish Splash …

July 11, 2019 By admin

We love kicking off summer at Splish Splash water park, Long Island and this year’s trip was as memorable as always. Splish Splash is located on Long Island’s East End, about 90-minutes from Manhattan making it a great day trip to escape the city heat. Read on for the scoop before you plan your summer visit.

Summer fun at Splish Splash Water Park, Long Island (and coupon)

What’s New at Splish Splash, Long Island – Riptide Racer and Bombs Away

These two new slide rides start from the same tower with the Bombs Away entrance a flight up from Riptide Racer.

Riptide Racer was my daughter’s favorite ride this trip and since the lines were short, she got to ride it quite a few times. Up to four guests race down the colorful tubes and slides going head-first on cushy blue mats. Watching the racers splash to the end line side-by-side is so fun as you never know who will go fastest.

The colorful Riptide Racer, Splish Splash, Long Island, Water park

The colorful new Riptide Racer at Splish Splash was a big hit with my 8-year old.

Bombs Away is a bit more daring with two dueling 300-foot slides. Guests stand in the clear launch capsule, waiting for the floor to drop. When it does, riders rush through a tidal flow as they fall at 26 feet per second. If you’re looking for a high-thrill, adrenaline rush, this is the ride for you.

Family Fun for Everyone at Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island

From babies to grandparents, everyone will find a favorite attraction at Splish Splash Waterpark making it a great option for a multi-generational visit. I love that most of the grounds are shaded and the attractions geared towards small children have plenty of seating.

Splish Splash Waterpark, Long Island, Lazy River, kids, coupon

The lazy river is a ride the whole family can enjoy. Watch out for the spraying waterfalls….

Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island, Kids, Coupon

The areas for little kids feature cute submarines and pirate ships at Splish Splash Waterpark.

spilsh splash, water park, coupon, long island

The wave pool is fun for guests of all ages. This was the quiet before the storm…

Spish Splash can get very crowded on hot weekends so try to get there at opening or consider buying a H2GO Pass Ride to avoid long waits.

What to Bring to Splish Splash Water Park, Long Island

Even when you travel light you’ll still need those family friendly summer essentials including a comfortable bathing suit or rash guard and a light cover-up or sarong. Water shoes (preferably the stretchy tight types), goggles and sun hats are a must for little kids.

Be sure to stay hydrated at waterparks with Hydaway collapsable water bottles. Splish Splash, long island

Stay hydrated at waterparks with Hydaway collapsable water bottles and don’t forget a waterproof phone case.

You will want a waterproof case for your phone and a small portable safe to keep your car keys and credit cards safe. Last but not least, bring a colorful quick dry towel and water bottles for everyone in the family.

We test drove Hydaway Bottles on our visit and I loved how they easily clipped onto our bags when full and collapsed to a small disc when empty. Lockers are available and there are free cubbies where you can store your towels and shoes throughout the park.

Ready to visit? Check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and save up to $8 per ticket with this Splish Splash coupon code. If you can, make a weekend of it and check out all the family-friendly things to do on Long Island’s East End.

Have you visited Splish Splash Water Park? Tell me your favorite ride in the comments below.

Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. This post contains 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!

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!

Top 10 Tips for Visiting …

June 5, 2019 By admin

Thrilling roller coasters, 1880’s themed crafts, shows and concerts, festivals, family-friendly activities galore and delicious meals and treats await travelers of all ages at Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, Missouri.

I’ve been to a lot of theme parks but I was blown away by the wide range of activities and adventures offered up at this award-winning park. Read on to find my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City

1. Download the Silver Dollar City App which has an interactive map, daily schedules, special event offerings, showtimes and wait times for the more popular rides. If you’re the plan ahead type, you can map out the things you want to do and personalize your schedule. First-time visitors can find specific recommendations in four categories (Families With Young Children, Ozarks History Buffs, Casual Explorers and Thrill-Seekers).

2. Arrive early to make the most of your day. Parking is FREE and there are shuttles to transport you and your family directly to the entrance. The turnstiles open an hour before park opening so guests can grab a quick breakfast treat at Eva & Delilah’s Bakery or dine at Molly’s Mill and enjoy the Main Street activities.

Read on to find my Top 10 Tips for visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.

3. Bring the whole family! Silver Dollar City makes a great option for a multi-generational family visit with a range of family-friendly shows, rides everyone in the family can enjoy, and a slew of attractions (petting zoos, cooking classes, cave tours and more) for visitors of all ages. Be sure to check the website as there are festivals and special events throughout the year.

Read on to find my Top 10 Tips for visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri. Read on to find my Top 10 Tips for visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.

4. Make a plan and divide and conquer. If you’ve got children with different ride or activity preferences, you might want to separate into groups for some of the day. There are more than 40 rides and attractions, as well as 40 shows a day so there is a LOT to enjoy. For younger kids, The Grand Exposition area is a must-visit. Thrill seekers will LOVE Time Traveler, Thunderation, and WildFire. Family favorites include the Frisco Silver Dollar Steam Train, McHaffie’s Homestead and Marvel Cave.

5. Explore the timeless appeal of crafts and a dedication to preserving 1880s Ozarks culture. There are 100 craftsmen on park demonstrating glass blowing, blacksmithing, pottery, candy making, candle making, and many other disciplines. The shops are beautiful with one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs so be sure to check them out. Visiting the artisans and watching them in action was one of my favorite things during my visit.

6. Get ready to chow down! You’ll find the typical theme park fare like ice cream, funnel cakes and burgers but what sets Silver Dollar City apart is the quality of their food offerings. From sit down dining to quick meals and snacks, the culinary options are made fresh with healthy options available. I especially loved the bakery items, skillet meals, and Festival of Wonder specialty items like Bang Bang Shrimp Loaded Waffle Cones. I was also impressed with their allergy free food offerings.

7. Take advantage of the affordable lockers. When your kids outgrow their strollers, you suddenly find yourselves carrying around a lot of stuff. Lighten your load and keep your extra items safely stored for just $5 a day. Best of all, you can move your items from lockers around the park at no extra charge.

8. Relax with a cooking class at Silver Dollar City’s Culinary & Craft School. No kitchen experience necessary for these fun and engaging lessons taught in a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. Sit back and learn how to make a range of dishes and specialty menu items and then enjoy your goodies. This was such a nice way to spend an hour after running around on the rides and everything we made was delicious. Kids are welcome making this a great choice for grandparents, parents and children.

9. Visit Marvel Cave. Last but not least, my absolute favorite part of visiting Siver Dollar City was going down (and down…) on a tour of Marvel Cave with Ranger Bill. I’ve never done anything like this and it was so much fun for adults and kids alike. This famed wet limestone cave has formations that are still alive and growing. Kids are allowed but the hour tour is quite strenuous so I wouldn’t recommend it for kids under 5ish. Visitors climb down many stairs (some twisty and narrow) and passages to get 500 feet below the surface and then travel back up on a cable car. Along the way, the guide explains the cave’s history and answers questions. Tours are free and a 90-minute lantern tour is offered for $14. A don’t-miss experience!

10. My final tips for visiting Silver Dollar City…don’t forget to wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes and bring along phone chargers, sunglasses, hats and any other must-haves.

Want to learn more about Branson’s family-friendly attractions? Check out Family Fun Awaits in Branson, Missouri.

Pin this before you go…

Thank you to Explore Branson for hosting my trip and providing a super fun day at Silver Dollar City. As always, all opinions are my own.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting …

April 18, 2019 By admin

Furry Sesame Street characters, musical shows, water park rides and amusement park fun await junior travelers at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA. My daughter first visited Sesame Place when she was three and enjoyed it even more as an adventurous six-year old.

Sesame Place is a great choice for toddlers and big kids as it can be done in one day or spread over a few days. If you’re looking for a quick amusement park getaway before school starts or this fall, here are my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Sesame Place, PA.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Sesame Place, PA

TOP 10 TIPS FOR VISITING SESAME PLACE, PENNSYLVANIA

1 – Go Early

This is my usual advice when visiting any amusement park. The temperatures are milder, the lines are shorter and the parking spots are closer so definitely try to get there as early to opening as you can. You’ll also be able to claim lounge chairs in busy areas which fill up quickly.

Meeting the Sesame Street Characters is a must at Sesame Place.

2 – Meet the Characters

The Sesame Street characters can be found throughout the property (with minimal wait times) and in the 1-2-3 Smile With Me! area. The photographers are great at getting little kids to smile and some will also take photos with your camera which is nice. My favorite character backdrop is the hopscotch area in Sesame Neighborhood where you’ll find Bert and Ernie.

Get ready to get wet at The Count’s Splash Castle

3 – Start dry and get wet

The park features a mix of traditional amusement park rides and water park attractions. Unless its a super hot day, I recommend starting with the dry rides (on the right hand side) and finishing with the water park. There is one “big” rollercoaster (Vapor Trail) near the entrance and the rest of the dry rides are pretty tame – except for the Honker Dinger Derby which my daughter made me ride twice…For the water rides, most are very little-kid friendly with a few more adventurous water slides near back of the park. Aside from water rides, there are some great areas to splash around – The Count’s Splash Castle has lots of waterslides and a gigantic bucket that spills over (as The Count counts backwards), Ernie’s Waterworks is an interactive water area great for younger kids and the Teeny Tiny Tidal Wave Pool is fun for all ages.

Top tips for visiting Sesame Place. Don’t miss Sesame Place’s Neighborhood Street Party Parade

4 – Stake your spot for the parade

The Neighborhood Street Party Parade is a must see so be sure to get there early to claim your spot. Kids will really love seeing their favorite Sesame Street characters singing and dancing while they watch all the colorful floats go by. The best viewing spot is in the middle of the route and you can lay down towels for kids to sit on in advance. There is usually an afternoon and early evening show but check the daily schedule or website for exact times.

Water shoes like Crocs are a must-have for visiting Sesame Place in the summer.

5 – Wear or bring water shoes

The pavement in some areas of the water park area is very hot and bumpy. Be sure to protect little feet with slip on water shoes or swim socks kids can wear on the rides. Crocs, Keens, flip flops and any other water proof shoes are good options and you can leave them in cubbies at the ride entrance/exit areas.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Sesame Place – The green tube line is much shorter than the blue tube line.

6 – Go team green on Big Bird’s Rambling River

There are two entrances to Big Bird’s Rambling River – a lazy river ride perfect for families – one with blue tubes and other with green tubes. The green tube entrance is a bit hidden away so the lines are much, much shorter over there. Life jackets and kid sized tubes are available.

7 – Do bring a stroller for young kids

If your kids still nap, you’ll definitely want to bring a reclining stroller with a sun shade. An umbrella stroller also comes in handy for older kids since you can use it to cart around the towels, water bottles, sunscreen and change of clothes as you travel around the park.

Be sure to take in a show at Sesame Place.

8 – Take in a Show

There are three Sesame Street shows and they are all entertaining for young travelers. Only one (Elmo The Musical Live!) is air conditioned so be sure to see that one when you need a break from the heat. For kids who like to interact with the characters, try to find seating as close to the stage as possible. And for the Let’s Play Together show in Abby’s Paradise Theater, try to sit around the sectioned off areas around the stage or in the first few rows.

This Master Lock SafeSpace portable mini safe is a great way to store your valuables at Sesame Place.

9 – Store your valuables

There are lockers are in several areas so that is definitely an option. A more affordable solution is to bring your own Portable Personal Safe or just store your items in the stroller while you are in the water park and hope for the best.

10 – Designate a meeting spot

If you’re splitting up (which you will likely do if you kids range in age) agree on a time and place to meet. Be sure your kids can identify the uniformed staff members and if they are too small to know an emergency phone number by heart, have them wear this info on a personalized safety bracelet.

Read my Top 10 Must Have Items for a Water Park Trip for more helpful tips.

Have you visited Sesame Place? What was your favorite memory?

This post is not sponsored but does contains some affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Family Friendly Things to do …

July 5, 2018 By admin

Remember all the family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA – Part One? Today, I’m continuing my trip review with the scoop on Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown and Busch Gardens which are all great options for a multi-generational getaway. In addition to Colonial Williamsburg, you will likely want to spend full days in Jamestown/Yorktown and Busch Gardens.

Family Friendly Things to do in Williamsburg, VA

Explore Jamestown Settlement

Jamestown Settlement takes visitors back in time to America’s first permanent English colony and I was really surprised how much we all enjoyed our time here. The indoor gallery is extensive and features a comprehensive introduction movie but the real fun is the outside living history areas that featured hands-on demonstrations and recreations of Native American villages.

My daughter loved seeing what life was like for the colonists and Native Americans in those days as she went in and out of tents, dressed up in costumes and helped make tools and weapons.

The fully costumed staff did a great job educating all of us about daily life and were happy to answer any and all questions.

Our favorite part was exploring the three replica ships that brought the English colonists to the area back in 1607.

Learning about the journey and seeing the various accommodations was so interesting to all of us.

Note: free motorized scooters are available if anyone in your party has mobility issues. Tip: Arrive early and plan to spend at least three hours here. Bring a picnic lunch or grab a quick meal in the cafeteria which offers a nice variety of healthy items, kiddie favorites and made-to-order sandwiches and a large seating area.

Visit Historic Jamestowne

We made a quick stop to Historic Jamestowne where Pocahontas and John Smith once lived in the first permanent English settlement in America.

We had a really interesting tour by a Jamestown Rediscovery archeologist who showed us around the James Fort excavation site.

It was especially cool to see the archaeologists excavating in the church and several volunteers were on hand to answer questions and share photos.

Tip: Historic Jamestowne is jointly administered by the National Park Service and Jamestown Rediscovery and kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge here after completing activities in the booklet (sold in the gift shop).

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

This indoor/outdoor museum does a great job explaining our nation’s founding starting from the colonial period. The living history museum features a wide range of uniforms, weapons and period artifacts.

There are a few movie options, the best of which is “The Siege of Yorktown.” My daughter enjoyed the interactive exhibits and movies but the outdoor attractions were her favorite.

There is an army encampment, working farm (seasonal) and period houses full of artifacts and games to explore.

We visited these three attractions all in one day and it was a lot. If we had a bit more time, we would have visited added in the Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the American Revolutionary War.

Spend a Day at Busch Gardens

Voted the world’s most beautiful theme park, Busch Gardens is a great day trip for families. I really loved the design elements which showcased European icons like Parisian streets, Oktoberfest celebrations and London’s double-decker buses.

If you’ve got small children, the Sesame Street shows and play area are a great option while older kids will enjoy the many thrill rides and play areas. The park is a very manageable size and it is easy enough to navigate around in a circle but be sure to plan your route with meals in mind as some areas have very limited options and seating areas.

The service was particularly slow so definitely have a plan before your group gets hangry. Tip: The park opens in advance of the rides opening so arrive as early as possible to avoid crowds and long parking shuttle waits.

Be sure to read family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA – Part One for details on Colonial Williamsburg.

Have you been? Tell me your favorite family-friendly things to do in Williamsburg, VA in the comments below.

We received tickets to Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown for review purposes. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Toy Story Land is Coming to …

March 26, 2018 By admin

Toy Story Land, a brand new 11-acre land based on the Pixar favorite, is coming to Disney World this June and this is huge news for kids and adults! I’ve been busy getting the scoop on this project and today I’m sharing everything you need to know about Disney’s latest Hollywood Studios addition.

Toy Story Land is coming to Disney World

I first heard about Toy Story Land at a New York City press event in February where I learned about the coming attractions (new rides, oversized colorful toys and innovative food, oh my!), met the Toy Story characters and took a virtual reality ride on the new Slinky Dog rollercoaster. So much fun!

Last month, I attended the Disney Social Media Moms Conference (#DisneySMMC*) in Orlando where I got a chance to meet Walt Disney Imagineering Art Director for Toy Story Land, Ryan Wineinger and learned all about the planning and details. According to Ryan, Toy Story Land will feature Andy’s toys spread throughout the park and visitors will be able to interact with the toys and yes, this means plenty of fun photo-ops! I also got a sneak peek of Mickey and Minnie’s new Toy Story Land outfits. Aren’t they cute?

Check out Mickey and Minnie in their new Toy Story Land outfits.

Toy Story Land Rides

Soon to be a family favorite, the Sinky Dog Rollercoaster is perfect for smaller kids (minimum height 38 inches) and adults alike. The colorful Slinky dog car zips around the track, offering great views of Toy Story Land.

Guests will whoosh along on a family-friendly roller coaster, Slinky Dog Dash (pictured under development), take a spin aboard Alien Swirling Saucers and score high on the midway at Toy Story Mania! (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Alien Swirling Saucers

The Alien Swirling Saucers are modeled after the famed toy that Andy won at Pizza Planet. Guests ride rocket ships as fun alien toys ride space saucers while the claw looms above.

Updated Toy Story Midway Mania

Toy Story Midway Mania is one of my daughter’s favorite rides so she’s excited that it will be prominently featured in Toy Story Land. This is a very popular ride so I’m glad to report they are increasing capacity with a new third track. There is also going to be a new entrance, based on the Toy Story Mania game box.

Dining at Toy Story Land

Toy Story Land will feature Woody’s Lunch Box where guests can grab quick meals and snacks including Mini Babybel (the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World) and old-fashioned soda floats.

Woody’s Lunch Box will be a new quick-service window serving tasty meals and old-fashioned soda floats within Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios when it opens in summer 2018. (Disney) (PRNewsfoto/Walt Disney World)

Have you visited Disney World? Check out my 11 Best Things to Do in Disney World before you go.

To keep up with my inside scoop from #DisneySMMC be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

*Disclosure: I learned about Toy Story Land at Disney Social Media Moms #DisneySMMC. While I did pay a fee, I received discounts and complimentary experiences/items. All opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 10 Family Friendly …

October 17, 2017 By admin

School may just have started but I’m already gathering ideas for summer vacations. At the recent Momtrends Night Out, I had the chance to meet with the Visit Williamsburg team and today I’m sharing my picks for the Top 10 Family Friendly Activities in Williamsburg, Virginia.

With my third-grade history buff daughter who loved our Charleston getaway and my College of William & Mary graduate husband who loves anything Virginia, it is just a matter of time before we get down there to check these out firsthand!

I was truly amazed at the variety of adventures that are available but I purposefully picked a mix of excitement, culinary treats, cultural activities and some R&R to keep all three of us happily entertained.

Top 10 Family Friendly Activities in Williamsburg, Virginia

1) Colonial Williamsburg

No surprise that well-known Colonial Williamsburg tops my list of family-friendly attractions. Choose from more than 20 guided tours (included in the admission price) or explore the historic sights at your own pace. Go back in time with reenactments, savor tavern fare (don’t miss the “gambols” at Josiah Chowning’s Tavern), check out the shops of Merchants Square, try your hands at candle making, golf, go undercover as a spy, savor sweet treats at the Raleigh Tavern Bakery and so much more. Insider tip: Don’t miss the life-size maze in the gardens behind the Governor’s Palace.

Top 10 Family Friendly Activities in Williamsburg, Virginia

Da Vinci’s Cradle at Busch Gardens

2) Busch Gardens

Our family loves amusement parks so a day at Busch Gardens is a must. From daring roller coasters and thrill rides to animal shows, seasonal events and Broadway-style shows, there really is something for everyone in the family. Year after year, this is voted one of the most beautiful theme parks and the grounds are divided by countries similar to Epcot.

Williamsburg’s Tasting Trail features wines, micro-brewed beer and distilled spirits

3) Williamsburg Tasting Trail

Did you know that Williamsburg Winery is one of the top wineries in the country? Plan a low-key day exploring the area’s tasting trail and sample the areas famed wines, micro-brewed beer and distilled spirits and enjoy family-friendly special events. Don’t miss the newest addition, Billsburg Brewery which features artisan craft beers and Jamestown River views. I sampled a few varieties including Strawberry and honey-based drinks at the Momtrend’s Event and they were delicious.

4) Historic Jamestowne

Learn about Jamestown’s 92-year run as the capital of Virginia through archeology tours and museums and step back in time as you follow in the footsteps of Capt. John Smith and Pocahontas. Enjoy lunch overlooking the James River and be sure to stop at the Glasshouse of 1608 for glassmaking demonstrations.

Colossal Curl at Water Country USA

5) Water Country USA

We’re fans of Splish Splash and Kalahari so I know Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest water park, will be one of the highlights of our trip. With more than 40 water rides and attractions (including this mom’s favorite, the lazy river) and KIDsiderate play areas, this is a great spot to spend a day.

6) The College of William & Mary

Because my husband (and both his siblings) went to school here, we will definitely spend some time checking out the college’s famed Colonial campus located at the edge of Colonial Williamsburg’s historic district. You won’t want to miss the President’s House, Sir Christopher Wren Building and Muscarelle Museum of Art. Grab a sandwich (my husband recommends the combo with house dressing) from the nearby Cheese Shop of Williamsburg and enjoy a low key picnic as you watch the students run from class to class. Fun fact: The Wren Building anchors one end of the main street in Colonial Williamsburg and it is exactly a mile to the Colonial Capital at the other end of the historic district.

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

7) Historic Yorktown

The NEW American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is a must see which allows visitors to experience the impact of the Revolution through an introductory film and expansive gallery exhibits plus kids can fire a real cannon! Be sure to visit the three ships at Jamestown Settlement, Yorktown Battlefield and savor the area’s riverfront charm. Tip: If you go, skip the highways and drive the scenic Colonial Parkway.

Scoops Kid Spa at Great Wolf Lodge

8) Family Spa Time

All that amusement park time needs to be balanced out with some relaxation so I recommend checking out the area’s spas. From a pampering couples massage at Colonial Williamsburg Spa or The Spa at Kingsmill to the Scoops Kid Spa at Great Wolf Lodge, the options are varied.

Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure

9) Outdoor Adventures

From biking in Colonial Williamsburg to hiking and kayaking at York River State Park, golf galore and treetop zip adventures at Go Ape Freedom Park, outdoor enthusiasts will have plenty of options to choose.

10) Family Bonding Time

Make sure to add in some time to kick back and enjoy some family time. My personal picks for this include a sunset cruise with Jamestown Discovery Boat Tours, an in-theater dining experience at Movie Tavern, exploring the waterfront at Riverwalk and checking out the area’s woodlands and wetlands.

Have you visited Greater Williamsburg? Tell me your favorite Family Friendly Activities in Williamsburg, Virginia below in the comments.

Thanks to Meredith Corp. and Visit Williamsburg for sponsoring this post. I was compensated for attending this event and writing this post but all opinions are my own.If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

The Best Rides at Splish …

June 19, 2017 By admin

We’ve started a family tradition of kicking off summer with a visit to Splish Splash Waterpark and this year was no different. After a crazy cold spring, we finally had the chance to visit last weekend and today I’m sharing the scoop on the Best Rides at Splish Splash for every age. Splish Splash is located in Riverhead, Long Island, about 90-minutes from Manhattan making it a great day trip to escape the city heat.

Best Rides at Splish Splash, Long Island.

From babies to grandparents, everyone will find a favorite attraction at Splish Splash Waterpark. Splish Splash is a great option for a multi-generational visit since the rides are fairly close to each other, there is plenty of shade and seats plus attractions even a grandma who wants to keep her hair dry can enjoy. Read on for the best rides at Splish Splash for everyone in your family.

The Octopus Pool at Splish Splash is perfect for babies at toddlers.

BEST SPOTS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS

The Kiddie Cove section is where you’ll be spending most of your time if you’ve got tiny kids. The Octopus Pool has the cutest baby swings, sprinkler fountains and super shallow wading pool. Across the way are three kiddie water slides that are pretty slow and end in a shallow pool so they are perfect for toddlers and little kids. There are plenty of lounge chairs and shaded areas so parents can set up camp or rent a nearby cabana.

Best Rides at Splish Splash, Long Island. The Yellow Submarine area is a hit with little kids.

BEST FOR LITTLE KIDS (3-8 and under 54″)

For children, the Pirate’s Cove shipwreck area and Yellow Submarine area feature small climbing and sliding structures in shallow pools. The Monsoon Lagoon is a larger play area that features a faster waterslide, canons and climbing ropes area. Little kids will also love the Kahuna Bay Wave Pool and the Lazy River. For rides, Dinosaur Falls and Mammoth River are the tamest raft rides and Bootleggers Run is a great family roller coaster ride for kids 42″ and up.

Best Splish Splash Rides for big kids

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR BIG KIDS (8-12)

Big kids have their pick of rides at Splish Splash since most rides have a 42″or 48″ height requirement to ride solo. Bootleggers Run is a favorite for this age as well as Hollywood Stunt Rider and Dragon’s Den tube rides, and the Giant Twister and Max Trax body slides. For kids who love dark rides, the Abyss tube slide and Barrier Reef body slide are great options.

Best Splish Splash Rides for teens and adults: Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR TEENS AND ADULTS

Cliff Diver sends riders down an 8-story slide making it a great choice for adventure seekers. If dark and twisty rides are your thing, Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror will be a favorite. One of my favorite rides to watch is Shotgun Falls where riders plunge into a 10-foot pool so I would recommend this one only for strong swimmers.

Mammoth River is a great choice for the whole family.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

The Battle of Mutiny Bay is a slow interactive water ride where you can shoot water from the ship or from water cannons on land. Other picks are the lazy river, Kahuna Bay Wavepool (the whistle means the waves are coming), Soak City pool area and Mammoth River (you will get wet on this one). In addition to rides, families can enjoy a Tropical Parrot Show from June 17 – September 4 at 12:30, 1:30, 3:30 and 5:30.

Ready to visit? Check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and save $5 per ticket with this Splish Splash coupon code.

Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. 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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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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What’s New at Splish Splash, Long Island – Riptide Racer and Bombs Away

Family Fun for Everyone at Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island

What to Bring to Splish Splash Water Park, Long Island

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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 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City

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TOP 10 TIPS FOR VISITING SESAME PLACE, PENNSYLVANIA

1 – Go Early

2 – Meet the Characters

3 – Start dry and get wet

4 – Stake your spot for the parade

5 – Wear or bring water shoes

6 – Go team green on Big Bird’s Rambling River

7 – Do bring a stroller for young kids

8 – Take in a Show

9 – Store your valuables

10 – Designate a meeting spot

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Explore Jamestown Settlement

Visit Historic Jamestowne

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

Spend a Day at Busch Gardens

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Toy Story Land Rides

Alien Swirling Saucers

Updated Toy Story Midway Mania

Dining at Toy Story Land

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Top 10 Family Friendly Activities in Williamsburg, Virginia

1) Colonial Williamsburg

2) Busch Gardens

3) Williamsburg Tasting Trail

4) Historic Jamestowne

5) Water Country USA

6) The College of William & Mary

7) Historic Yorktown

8) Family Spa Time

9) Outdoor Adventures

10) Family Bonding Time

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BEST SPOTS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS

BEST FOR LITTLE KIDS (3-8 and under 54″)

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR BIG KIDS (8-12)

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR TEENS AND ADULTS

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

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