The Lollipop Road

Archive for the ‘Attractions’ Category

I finally made it to Top Of The Rock on a recent trip to New York City.  Having taken many student groups to The Empire State Building, I was curious as to how it compared and if “The Rock” could deliver.  I was pleasantly surprised.

Courtesy Top Of The Rock

Situated on the 67th through 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Top Of The Rock is a three-level observation deck consisting of nearly 55,000 square feet.  This isn’t a well known tourist attraction (although it is gaining steam) as it was closed for nearly 20 years until re-opening earlier this decade.  During its heyday, as part of John D. Rockefeller’s vision, the observation decks were open to all visitors.  Today, visitors again have the long forgotten priviledge of enjoying the amazing views once again.

Having been to The Empire State Building Observatory several times before, I expected Top Of The Rock to suffer from the same long waits and chaos as its counterpart, especially on a Friday evening during the height of summer.  Well, I was completely wrong.  I arrived shortly after 5PM, had my ticket in hand two-minutes later and was being ushered into an elevator.  Top Of The Rock uses a timed ticket system, which allows you to pre-purchase your tickets and show up at your assigned time (if you miss it, they will honor it on a space available basis later in the day), which does help with traffic flow.

The first stop was the mezzanine exhibits where I waited about 10 minutes to queue up for a photo before being directed to one of three lanes that faced large video monitors showing one of three rotating short films about Rockefeller Center.  The only disappointment was that the timing only allows you to see 2 of the films and revisiting is not an option.

Less than 10-minutes later it was our turn and once again we were directed toward our awaiting rocket to the stars.  As the doors closed, the elevator became dark and a brilliant show of lights began dancing above.  Through the clear glass ceiling, passengers stared in amazement as we were whisked to the 67th floor in under 50 seconds.  No stairs, no snaking lines – this was too easy.

Once on top, we were free to explore all three levels at our leisure.  There is a small gift shop in the midst of a totally enclosed observation area.  Top Of The Rock is open 365 days a year from 8AM until Midnight, regardless of weather, so having an enclosed area is important in the event of inclement weather.  There are also restrooms for your convenience.

Following the signs ’round the corner and up the escalator will take you to the 69th floor observation deck, which is open on top and enclosed by glass around the perimeter.  This is a great (safe) place for a 360º panoramic view of the city.  It is possible to get an unobstructed photo by sticking your camera through the slots between the glass panels, but why do that when you can ascend one level of stairs to the unobstructed views of the 70th floor observation deck.

The top deck is the smallest and most crowded, but I was still able to find a space at the rail quite easily to observe the chaos of the city from this quiet perch.  Winding my way back to the 67th floor into the queue was simple compared to what awaits at The Empire State.  A 40-second drop to the bottom with another light show delivers you into a larger gift shop and plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat, shop and just relax.

So, how did this compare to The Empire State Building?  There really isn’t any comparison.  Other than the main observation deck being 200 feet higher (about 350 feet for the 102nd floor observatory), The Empire State Building doesn’t really warrant the additional wait time and surly security staff.  Top Of The Rock provides unobstructed panormaic views and ample space to accommodate visitors.  You definitely won’t miss the extra 200 feet and the kids will have a better opportunity to actually enjoy the views.

Admission to Top Of The Rock is $21 for adults and $14 for children (6-12).  Children 5 and under are free.

If you enjoyed these photos and would like to see more, visit Photo Friday at Deliciousbaby.

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Of all the trips that I’ve made to New York City, surprisingly, I had never made it to the American Museum of Natural History until now.  Tucked away in a shaded area of Central Park West, this iconic institution that began in 1869 has seen better days.  Although there have been extensive efforts to renovate and revitalize the museum, it seems that the terrace fountains outside hold greater interest for families than the exhibits inside on a hot summer day.

I began my visit by checking out the Arthur Ross Terrace adjacent to the Rose Center for Earth and Space.  There were at least twenty familes gathered around the squirting fountains, taking comfort from the humid New York heat.  Facing me was the giant (and impressive) walls of glass that surround the soaring white sphere making up the 10-year young Center for Earth and Space.  I couldn’t wait to get inside.

Entering through the newest part of the museum, I immediately noticed the baron landscape, perhaps what one would call simplicity in design.  I presented my media pass to a less than friendly staffer who offered little help, not even a map.  I didn’t really have the chance to ask questions either because she immediately returned to her conversation with fellow employees as if I were a bug trying to infiltrate her net.  The experience was going downhill rather fast.

I made my way around the scant exhibits, up and down floors before making a path to the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth.  In stark contrast to the main museums dated appearance, this exhibit is clean and modern with various geological specimens that make for some cool photos.  The kids seemed to be congregating in this area, staring in amazement at the impressive colors surrounding them.  This would be the highlight of the museum.

Wandering back down the corridor, I browsed the Hall of Mammals, Ocean Life and Biodiversity.  With the exception of the latter, these were dated exhibits with little to attract and hold a childs attention.  The Hall of Biodiversity, opened in 1998 offers some cool specimens, but limited in the age range it will attract.

The Hall of Meteorites and Hall of Minerals on the second floor hold a bit more interest.  The remaining exhibit floors consist of more of the same dated, stuffed, plastic, uninspiring exhibits that make kids yawn.  Not to be missed, however, is the largest freestanding dinosaur in the world, located in the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall on the second floor.

Felling a bit bored and dusty, I made my way to the planentarium for a Journey to the Stars.  I was crowded into a waiting area with 100 other people and not nearly enough seats.  We stared at the monitors showing educational introductions as more people crowded into the waiting area.  Finally the doors opened to reveal a large round projection room with comfortable seats that when dark would make for a great napping place.

This promising production would have been engaging but for the narrator, Whoopi Goldberg.  Her monotone narration was just enough to lull me to sleep and dozens of kids and teens into boredom.  I’m not joking – as we left, the buzz amongst the kids and families was just how boring this program actually was.  Seems like such a waste for the most advanced star projector in the world.

If the admission to this museum were free, perhaps there would be little to complain about, but at $16 for adults and $9 for children (2-12), I expected more as did many of the families visiting that afternoon.  I suppose in the end it really was no surprise that I hadn’t been here before.  If you’ve done everything in New York and want to occupy a rainy afternoon, I suppose this might be a good place to do it.  Focus on the exhibits I recommend above and forget the rest.  Oh, they also have an IMAX, so you really can’t miss with that.  On hot summer days, stick with playing in the terrace fountains and use the money saved on admission to treat the kids to ice cream.

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Located in a nondescript shopping center just off A1A in Cocoa Beach, The Dinosaur Store is a fascinating place to browse for kids of all ages.  Having ducked in for a bit during a recent downpour, I have to admit that I’m the one that didn’t want to leave.

First things first, if you have a toddler in tow, it might be a good idea to keep them on a short leash.  We used our umbrella stroller, but that still allowed for some reaching, so bobbing and weaving was necessary in some areas.  The more expensive items are in cases (thank goodness), so at least any damage done will be limited.

When you first enter, it is hard to miss the giant dinosaur skeletons hanging over you, waiting to pounce.  As you start to look around, you find that there is a good mixture of authentic fossils as well as well made replicas.  What really surprised me was the affordability of many of the authentic pieces (some under $20).  Of course, there are also lots of dino related toys, games, books and souvenirs for the kids to enjoy.

Normally we wouldn’t feature a retail store as a family attraction, but The Dinosaur Store acts as a museum of sorts too.  As a matter of fact, there is a larger variety of fossils here than in many smaller museums.  Okay, so browsing the fossils and starring in awe at the giant dinosaur skeletons might get old after a while, so they also offer a cool place for kids called the Adventure Zone (open 11AM-5PM M-Sa, 12PM-5PM Su).

Featuring a movie cave (showing dino realted films), reptile run (gators and other reptiles), several educational exhibits and a few traditional games such as basketball and skeeball, there is just enough to distract the kids for about 30 minutes.  For an additional fee they can also mine for minerals and ride the wild Nile River ride.  Admission is $4.72 for adults, $7.55 for kids (3-17) and free for those under 3.  It is definitely a good way to pass the time on a rainy day.

So, next time you find yourself looking for a rainy day activity along the Space Coast, check out The Dinosaur Store where (for free) you can learn about all of the fossils and artifacts dug out of our distant past.

Disclosure

We were visiting New Hampshire last week as we gear up for our move later this summer.  During the visit I had a conversation with one of our readers who was looking for more articles on New Hampshire activities – that in turn got me thinking about my childhood trips to New Hampshire and a few of the fun attractions that helped shape my love for the Granite State.  Here are three fun family summer attractions that you can visit in an easy day trip from anywhere in New England.

Castle in the Clouds – Nestled high above Lake Winnipesaukee, this 16-room turn of the century mansion offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.  With over 45 miles of trails traversing the 5500-acre property (the Brook Path trail is a short waterfall hike suitable for the entire family), you’re sure to find the perfect spot for a family picnic.

Yankee Magazine has also named the Carriage House Cafe the best in New England, so if you opt-out of the family picnic, you can enjoy a diverse bistro-style menu (including a special kid’s menu) while admiring the spectacular view.  Castle in the Clouds opens daily (10AM-4:30PM) beginning June 14th (currently open weekends only).  A Grounds Pass is $5 (age 7 and up).  Add another $10 for a Castle Tour (ages 15 and up).  Kids 6 and under are free).

Clark’s Trading Post is an institution.  Opened in 1928, they have been entertaining families for generations (at least four in our case).  Conveniently located in Lincoln, NH in the heart of the White Mountains, Clark’s offers a variety of activities for all members of your family (most are best suited for kids 3 and up). 

Of course, the main attraction for more than 50 years has been the Bear Show.  This is a one-of-a-kind production that you won’t want to miss.  For the train lovers in the family, there is also the White Mountain Central Railroad’s short 30-minute adventure into Wolfman Country!  The Wolfman is a legend in these parts – make sure that all kids stay safely inside the train.

 You can also browse the many museums, visit Merlin’s House or check out the new Wolfie’s Segway Park and Safari.  Admission is $18 for most (age 6 and up), $7 for ages 3-5 and free for kids under 3.  The Bear Shows have started again this year, but be sure to check their calendar before heading out to avoid disappointment.

Looking for a casual outing?  Try Weir’s Beach.  Located on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, this popular weekend destination can get a bit crowded in the height of summer and during fall foliage, but will busy the kids for an entire day.  So, where do I start – it isn’t just a beach destination, but also offers lots of activities, including cruises, train rides, an arcade, waterslides, mini-golf, go-carts, baloon rides and lots of  interesting shops.  Be sure to check out the special events schedule (avoid motercycle week unless you really love motercycles).

The only downside is that costs can add up quickly.  Although the beach is free, you’ll have to pay for parking (lot and metered street parking available) and most other activities.  Be sure to get there early as spaces fill quickly and tickets sell out quickly during peak times.

Be sure to check back with us in the near future for more extensive reviews of each of these attractions.  Summer 2010 here we come!

Disclosure

If you are a regular reader, you know that our older son loves anything related to trains.  So, as a special Valentine’s gift, we journeyed out to Northlandz located in Flemington, NJ.  Proclaimed as the largest model railway in the world, there are over 8 miles of track covering 52,000 square feet; this certainly is the largest model railway we’ve ever seen.  Take a look at the stats and see for yourself!

We went on a cold winter day during the week, so it was pretty quiet, but they have hosted 2,100 visitors in a single day (I wouldn’t want to be there on that day).  The lobby offers a quaint little club car diner with some basic kid-friendly fare and a small gift shop that sells lots of little items for train loving enthusiasts.  The only restrooms are located in the lobby, so be sure that everyone makes a pit stop before embarking on the nearly one-mile adventure.

Winding up ramps, around corners, over bridges and under tunnels, the visitor walkway takes you through a variety of scenes with over 100 trains whooshing along the tracks.  There are even conveniently placed markers that tell you how much farther you have to go so that you can gauge your time.  The average visitor will take about 1 1/2 hours to complete the self-guided tour.

The control room is a kid’s fantasy; unfortunately visitors are not allowed.  In addition to trains, there are other exhibits that might be of interest, like train memorabilia, a doll collection and a performance hall with several ornate organs, including one with 2,000 pipes.  Luckily, this place is stroller friendly!

Admission is $13.75 for adults and $9.75 for children (2-12).  Kids under 2 are free.  Northlandz is open from 10:30AM until 4:00PM (5:30PM on weekends) and closed on Tuesday.  Last admission is one hour before closing.

The kids loved it so much, they want to go back again!  It truly is an amazing place.

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