Globetrotting Mommy

All things family, fun or just plain fabulous!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE – THE …

By

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, globetrotting mommy
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE – THE BEST BOOKS FOR LITTLE TRAVELERS

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.

Visiting the Empire State …

By

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.

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

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.

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

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?

Travel baby photo shoot ideas. …

By

What comes after babymoon? Planning a baby photo shoot of course. Globetrotting parents will love these travel baby photo shoot ideas. So super cute and you don’t need much more than a vintage suitcase and some simple props.

Globetrotting Mommy - Travel inspired baby photo shoot ideas

Globetrotting Mommy – Travel themed baby photo shoot ideas

(Pinterest)

Globetrotting Mommy - Travel inspired baby photo shoot ideas

Globetrotting Mommy – Travel themed baby photo shoot ideas

(Pinterest)

Globetrotting Mommy - Travel inspired baby photo shoot ideas

Globetrotting Mommy – Travel themed baby photo shoot ideas

(Pinterest)

Globetrotting Mommy - Travel inspired baby photo shoot ideas

Globetrotting Mommy – Travel themed baby photo shoot ideas

(Pinterest)

Globetrotting Mommy - Travel inspired baby photo shoot ideas

Globetrotting Mommy – Travel themed baby photo shoot ideas

(Pinterest)

So adorable. Which is your favorite?

signature

Ten Best Disney Cruise Photos …

By

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

Best Disney Cruise Photos
Must Take 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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay
Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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?

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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.

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay

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?

Must-Take Photos on Disney's Castaway Cay
Don’t miss a photo with the welcome sign on Disney’s Castaway Cay.

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.

signature

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 …

By

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.

Globetrotting Mommy - Spotlight on Florida. Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari
Globetrotting Mommy – Spotlight on Florida. Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari
 

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
Tips for visiting 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.

Globetrotting Mommy - Spotlight on Florida at Lion Country Safari
Globetrotting Mommy - Spotlight on Florida. Tips for Visiting Lion Country Safari
Globetrotting Mommy - Spotlight on Florida at Lion Country Safari

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!

signature

Great Gifts for Travelers

By

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…

Great Gifts for Travelers

TRAVEL MUST-HAVES:

Gifts for Travelers

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:

Gifts for Travel Loving Foodies. Great Gifts for Travelers

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:

Great Gifts for Travelers. 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 Tips for Visiting …

By

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.

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.

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City

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.

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).

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.

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.
    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.
  • 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.
  • 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…

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri
Top 10 Tips for Visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri

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.

Summer Shoes Kids Will Love …

By

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.

"<yoastmark

Summer Shoes Kids Will Love Wearing

"rose

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.

"<yoastmark

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.

"<yoastmark

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.

signature

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!

10 Awesome Things to do in New …

By

If you follow me on Instagram, you saw a peek into our whirlwind NOLA trip. I was pleasantly surprised at how much my daughter enjoyed The Big Easy so today I’m sharing some of the best things to do in New Orleans with kids.

With old-school southern charm, a melting pot of people and cultures, history galore, an amazing food scene and attractions for every traveler, New Orleans is a great pick for a family-friendly getaway.

10 Awesome Things to do in New Orleans With Kids

Mardi Gras World is one of the top things to do in New Orleans with kids.

1) Check Out Mardi Gras World

The next best thing to watching a Mardi Gras parade in person (yes, there are child-friendly versions) is checking out the floats up-close and seeing how they’re made. A visit to Mardi Gras World starts out with an informational video (and King Cake tasting) and ends with an elaborate behind-the-scenes tour where you’ll see artists painting and designing their creations.

There are plenty of photo-ops and costumes to try on so make sure you’ve got a full battery. The complimentary shuttle makes this a super easy option for families visiting New Orleans with kids.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is the perfect option for a rainy or super hot day in New Orleans with kids.

2) Go Under the Sea at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

Aquariums are always an awesome option for family trips and New Orleans’ Audubon Aquarium of the Americas will not disappoint. Kids will love seeing penguins, sea otters, sharks, rays, turtles, birds and more in larger than life exhibits with touch tanks and hands-on displays. Note: The nearby Audubon Zoo is one of the best zoos in America.

Shoppers and foodies will find plenty to love in New Orlean’s French Market.

3) Shop Till You Drop at the French Market

From custom art and jewelry to foodie faves and snacks galore, the French Market has something for visitors of all ages.

This is the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs, watch a cooking demo and have a quick bite before exploring the French Quarter.

4) Make Time for Beignets

NOLA is known for their powered sugar covered French donuts and you can’t visit New Orleans with kids without stopping at one of their two famed eateries: Cafe du Monde (my husband’s pick) and Cafe Beignet (my daughter and I loved these). Pair them with chicory coffee or chocolate milk and you’ll be energized all day. Go early in the morning to avoid long waits or later in the day for an afternoon snack.

5) Play at the Louisiana Children’s Museum

Located in the heart of the warehouse district, the interactive Louisiana Children’s Museum is a must if you’re traveling with the elementary and younger set. The museum features several hands-on exhibits, reading nooks and art areas. Don’t miss the imaginative play spaces like the bubble area, eye doctor space, grocery store and play cafe.

6) Ride the Streetcar

New Orleans is a very easy city to navigate by foot but make sure to save a trip or two for the city’s historic Streetcars. The St. Charles streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world, goes past gorgeous live oak trees and dozens of antebellum mansions, historic monuments, Loyola and Tulane universities, and shops. Rides are just $1.25 per trip or $3 for unlimited rides all day making this a great way to get around New Orleans with kids.

7) Listen to Some Jazz

The Big Easy is known for their Jazz scene and little music lovers will enjoy taking in live music. Local musicans play on street corners, restaurants and bars. I recommend taking in a Jazz brunch or going to a concert at Preservation Hall, an all ages, non-smoking venue with shows starting at 5pm. Book reservations in advance.

8) Go Back in Time at The World War II Museum

For history loving families (best for kids 6+), The National World War II Museum is a must see. Give yourselves a full day here and plan to arrive in the early morning if possible. Younger kids will enjoy seeing the massive planes and visual displays (old fashioned kitchens and living rooms), while older kids will appreciate the interactive exhibits, historic artifacts and short films about America’s contribution to the Allied victory in World War II. This museum is huge (AND expanding) and busy so get tickets to any special activities or events.

9) Explore the French Quarter

New Orlean’s French Quarter is famous for good reason. One look at the gorgeous architecture (colorful facades, rustic shutters and cast-iron balconies), horse-drawn carriages and performer filled squares and you’ll be lost in time. There are shops, art galleries, cafes, and street musicians at every turn. Yes, Bourbon Street has a lot of bars, but wander around Royal Street and the surrounding streets and be sure and check out the local artists and street performers in Jackson Square.

10) Play All Day at City Park

An awesome family-friendly destination is City Park, one of the oldest urban parks in the United States and a great spot in New Orleans with kids. It features a small amusement park, storybook-themed playground, lake with paddle boat rentals, mini golf, botanical garden, cafes and more. If you want to take in some nature and tire your littles out, this is the place to go.

Planning to visit New Orleans with kids? Be sure to check out my picks for the most family-friendly New Orleans restaurants before you go.

10 Great Gifts For Kids Who …

By

Its time for gift shopping and today I’m sharing my holiday gift guide for kids. Read on to see some great gifts for kids who love traveling…I’ll be back with a tween holiday gift guide so stay tuned…

10 great gifts for kids who love traveling.

10 great gifts for kids who love traveling.

10 Great Gifts for Kids Who Love Traveling

LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Word Book – This sturdy toy teaches kids words and songs in kid-friendly categories including animals, colors, foods and more in English and Spanish.

Jenga National Parks Edition – Jenga is a great on-the-go game and this version features 100 educational fun facts about the National Parks which makes it a great option for family vacations.

Funky Chicken Card Game – If you’re a fan of the popular Happy Salmon game, you’ll love the Funky Chicken moves.  I love the easy to pack travel pouch and the fact that it keeps the whole family moving.

Ancient Wonders – Then & Now – Junior travelers will love this interactive Lonely Planet book showcasing history’s famous man-made marvels including Stonehenge, The Colosseum, Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu and much more. I also love their How Airports Work  book which takes kids behind the scenes of airports and more.

Rock and Roll It – Rainbow Piano – Music lovers of all ages will love playing with this portable piano.  I love that it uses batteries (or USB) so you can play it anytime, anywhere and bring it along on family trips.

50 Cities of the U.S.A – Kids and parents will love this gorgeous picture book filled with interesting facts and cool details about each city’s famous people, events, cuisine and landmarks.

eeBo Pretend Play, World Traveler Set – This easy to bring along set includes play documents like tickets, world map, passport, postcards, ID and bank cards so kids can plan their own adventures at home and away.

Spot It! On The Road – Road trips are a lot more when kids are busy looking for objects along the way like cars, road signs, train tracks and others.

Highlights Puzzlemania – Travel Puzzles – Give kids a break from electronics and let them enjoy puzzles, word games, mazes and the popular hidden pictures puzzles in this travel-themed activity book.

Quadcopter Drone – Last but not least, a kid-friendly Drone is sure to get everyone excited for the next vacation. Be sure to check the rules of using it in the destination before you go.

Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Check out my 2020 Tween and Teen Holiday Gift Guide for more ideas.

signature

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Recent Posts

Meta

Recent Comments