The Lollipop Road

Posts Tagged ‘family activity’

On one of our visits to Nassau earlier this year we ventured out to the Pirates of Nassau Museum in downtown Nassau. An easy three block walk from the cruise terminal, the museum is conveniently located near the British Colonial Hilton at the corner of King and George Streets. The walk and museum are stroller friendly so long as you can make a few fancy maneuvers and have a partner for some heavy lifting on and off curbs and up and down a few stairs (there is a lift in the main part of the museum).

At a hefty $12 admission fee for adults and a more reasonable $6 for kids 4-17, this museum is a bit overpriced for what you get. As you enter, the mood is set by the dark, spooky atmosphere and a life sized pirate ship that acts as the first backdrop for the self-guided tour through the history of pirating in the Bahamas. Again, the museum is very dark, so a little light won’t hurt if you have young kids or want to read the placards without straining.

Winding through the museum will take less than 30 minutes. Each “room” showcases a piece of pirate life, life onboard a pirate ship and pirating history in and around Nassau. The highlight of the tour is a pitch dark curtained room with a pirate show (highlighted by lightning and the obligatory moaning) that might scare younger kids – although our four year old thought it was cool. The self-guided tour ends in a small room exhibiting a few artifacts from the era.

For kids under the age of 6, the best part of the entire museum just might be the courtyard. With a stockade, larger than life pirate and cannons to climb on, the kids spent as much time here as they did in the entire museum. There are tables where you rest and have a small snack and restrooms are conveniently located nearby. Making your way to the small gift you’ll find a disappointing and pricey selection of “piratefinalia”.

For a family with young kids (under the age of 6) or teens, this museum isn’t going to be the highlight of your trip to Nasaau. For those in between, it is a good (albeit pricey) way to spend a hot or rainy afternoon. Set your expectations low and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9AM-6PM and Sunday 9AM-Noon. Be sure to check their website for holiday closures before heading out.

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It sounds so quaint, so New England and everything about it is so simple; it will take you in and make you feel like you’ve been a part of the community for years. Old Home Days began in 1899 when the then Governor of New Hampshire came up with an idea to invigorate the state and its economy. While thousands of wealth seekers were trudging westward in search of their feast or folly, the small New England towns were in much need of infrastructure. With a surge in manufacturing activities and a decline in farming, New Hampshire sought to lure former residents back to their state or at the very least, entice them to help build the infrastructure that was sorely needed as the state grew. Perhaps new found riches would be used to purchase a summer home, build roads, a school or library. This was a national undertaking, which would be unique and unprecedented. Invitations were sent out to former residents around the country, inviting them back to New Hampshire for Old Home Days each year.

Today, the tradition carries on in much the same way that it did over 100 years ago. Small towns solicit their former residents to return to New Hampshire each year to participate in a celebration of traditional values and family friendly activities and entertainment. Surprisingly, former residents still flock back for several days each year to share their talent, dedication and love of their birthplace with the families and residents who currently reside in the towns where these (now) world travelers grew up. Of course, these festivities attract plenty of tourists and visitors alike – maybe they too will be lured in by the homey atmosphere of these quaint New Hampshire villages.

In Hancock, New Hampshire, the tradition started 20 years earlier in 1879. What began as a family picnic soon blossomed into a reunion of town folk, past and present. Almost 10 years before New Hampshire would officially adopt the tradition, Hancock had its own annual picnic that drew hundreds of residents. Drawing over 10,000 attendees in 1929, even former first lady Grace Coolidge returned to enjoy the festivities. Although she did not reside in Hancock, her family had ties to the town and her fond childhood memories drew her back.

In 2010, the celebration began on a Friday evening with an ice cream social in the church vestry, a magic show for kids on the common, followed by the 18th annual Hancock Has Talent show. This year, the old meetinghouse was packed as one of Hancock’s finest musical talents (now living in New York), Abbie Gardner of bluegrass band Red Molly performed a selection from her album and a surprise selection (yet to be named) from an upcoming album (she is also an award winning songwriter). So far, Old Home Days had lived up to its promise.

Saturday was an activity packed day. A kids fun run kicked off the family activities, followed by a small, but interesting parade down Main Street. There was face painting, crafts, and even a kids market where local children had the opportunity to share their talent by crafting items that they then could sell. A rock climbing wall on the common, pony rides on Norway Hill, synchronized swimming in the pond and a pie eating contest and tug-o-war on the beach kept kids entertained and laughing all afternoon long. Adults could enjoy an exhibit by local artists, historical photo exhibits, a huge book sale at the local library and shopping at the craft market.

Hungry? Fresh cut french fries and onion rings, a traditional chicken BBQ, free kettle corn and watermelon and deep fried Snickers were just a few of the offerings. Of course, a bake sale also offered tasty treats that you could take home. Spreading out on the common for a picnic, you could listen to the upbeat tempo of the American Legion Band or the soothing bluegrass melodies of Hot Mustard.

Sunday brought several new activities to round out the weekend. Old Home Days had delivered on its promise. Traditional family fun, neighbors meeting neighbors and residents past and present coming together to unite in celebrating the traditions of New Hampshire. Every summer throughout New Hampshire, everyone can enjoy Old Home Days. You don’t need to be a resident to join in the festivities, but you too may be lured in forever. Check with each town for specific dates each year.

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Kids love going to the bakery. I remember when I was a kid; I used to sneak behind the counter and help myself to a cupcake. Of course, I’d be mortified if one of my kids did that…ahh how our perspective changes. While visiting grandparents recently, we had the chance to go to a bakery – or farm – or both – oh, they’re the same place. Wright’s Farm & Bakery in North Smithfield, Rhode Island offers a unique experience – a working dairy farm combined with a yummy bakery. We’re so there!

The farm maintains a herd of approximately 150 cows that produce lots of milk that is sold in their store every day. And if you go to the farm between the hours of 3 and 5 PM any day of the week, you can see them being milked.

As we made our way down a short trail to the big red barn, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. The trail is filled with wooden signs that tell you about lesser known and sometimes strange cow facts. There is also a group of picnic tables nearby where you could sit and have lunch, a snack or perhaps, a pastry? Once at the milking barn (aka the big red barn), there is a little viewing area set up for onlookers. It is quite small and can only accommodate a couple of kids or 2 adults comfortably, but it does get you up close and let’s say…utterly personal. The farm hand doing the milking that day didn’t interact with us while we were there, which was slightly disappointing, but I suppose they may have been able to answer questions if asked, but I didn’t.

After a few minutes of watching the cows at the milking machines, the kids grew restless, so we headed over to the other barn where most of the cows were penned. There were goats and chickens on the way, but I think my oldest son had cake on his mind because he didn’t seem too interested. When we arrived at the other barn, we were startled by a cow who came “galloping” around the corner of the pen! In fact, I think she may have been more frightened than we were because she almost lost her footing before finally catching herself and racing away. I had never seen a cow running up close before, so that was pretty exciting, although I did feel badly for both the cow and my youngest son, who was crying hysterically. “Not to worry”, I thought; I know how to quickly “fix” this situation.

A short walk later and we had arrived at the bakery. Ahhh, every child’s delight (and adults too)! People who haven’t been here in awhile will notice that it has been remodeled. With beautiful hardwood floors and lots of wood shelving, you take a small step back in time once you step inside. The kids, of course, ran directly to the glass enclosed pastry counters, filled with lots of yummy looking treats. While I was looking around at all of the breads, honey and specialty products, I suddenly had a vision of my 22 month-old peering at me through the other side of the bakery case. Thank goodness it was just a fleeting illusion.

After collecting our goodies, we said goodbye to the cows and thought about what tasty treats would await next time we visited. All in all, it was a fun trip for everyone. The kids enjoyed seeing the cows and who doesn’t enjoy going to the bakery? This is not a teaching farm, so don’t expect too much in terms of learning all about milking, but it is fun to be reminded about where your milk and dairy products come from once in awhile.

Wright’s Dairy Farm and Bakery is located in North Smithfield. The bakery is open M-Sat 8-7PM and Sunday 8-4PM. The cows are milked at 3PM daily.

If you’ve enjoyed these photos, please visit Photo Friday at Deliciousbaby for more.

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It was with trepidation that I first ordered Disney’s Family Fun magazine. After all, the last thing my family needed was another magazine on the ins and outs of how to have the perfect family. But a friend’s son was having a school fundraiser (you know the ones I’m talking about) and we needed to order something, so off to the computer I went to check reviews of potential picks. “This time was going to be different”, I said. This time I was actually going to get a magazine that was helpful and informative rather than the usual coffee table clutter.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Family Fun really catered to the notion that families should play together. No parental advice “experts” need apply. The idea is that families who make crafts together, cook meals together and simply enjoy spending their time together will have more fun. “How refreshing”, I thought.

So, I placed my order for a 1-year subscription of Family Fun and anxiously awaited my first issue. When it finally arrived in the mail, I took a quick look at the cover and was instantly intrigued by what I saw. With a remaining amount of skepticism, I opened it and read the table of contents. Hmmm, an article entitled “Low Cost Summer Camp Adventures at Home” – that looks promising. But then again, “How to Make a Dancing Balloon” and “Taking an RV Vacation With Your Family” soon had me delving straight into the pages. In what seemed to be just a few minutes time, I heard “mommy!” “mommy!”. I guess I was taking too much time reading because the kids were standing at my feet, waiting to go outside and play. Reading would have to wait until the kids went to bed!

That evening I began devouring every article until I had finished reading the entire magazine. I actually found it quick to read due to all the project idea pages. This magazine looked and read differently from all of the other family and children’s magazines that I’ve read in the past and I felt like I had hit a home run in choosing it!

Family Fun has 5 feature articles in each issue, covering topics such as Holiday crafts, fun neighborhoods, homemade gifts, kitchen science projects and more. Inside, there are 11 additional departments such as “Creative Solutions”, “My Great Idea”, “Everyday Fun”, “Let’s Cook”, “Our Favorite Things” and my husband’s favorite – “Family Getaways”. Each and every article is focused on quality family time. For example, in a recent “Everyday Fun” article, some of the craft project ideas were making butterflies from plastic egg cartons, turning bottle caps into bejeweled magnets, making a Jacob’s Ladder toy and fashioning an Easter Egg display stand. If you go to their website at www.familyfun.go.com you will find an amazing array of additional articles, stories and ideas, as well as how-to-videos and parent’s groups.

While this magazine is filled with lots of great things, I feel it is just as important to mention what it is not filled with. You will not find articles on how to stop your child from whining while at the supermarket, why you should get the latest vaccine or how mom’s should not feel guilty because they can’t do it all. Rather than focusing on what we aren’t doing right, Family Fun celebrates family togetherness and how to make the best out of the limited time that we do have together. Family Fun is published 10 times per year at a current yearly subscription price of $10.00. It’s a feel good magazine at a feel good price. Now that’s fun!

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Well, the summer is almost over and we’ve been searching for a few last minute things to do with the kids, so this deal day, we’re focusing on a few remaining free and discount activities that you can do as a family before school begins again.

1. Once again, the National Park Service is providing free entry into our National Parks this coming weekend, August 14-15.  If you haven’t planned your weekend yet, you might want to check out our selection of articles on National Parks.
2. SeaWorld Orlando currently has an ongoing promotion with Pepsi that will give you a free admission with each full-priced admission purchased.  This offer is good for up to 6 tickets!  Tickets must be purchased by August 31, 2010 and are valid through December 21, 2010.
3. Are you a Bank of America customer?  You can gain free admission to select museums and attractions around the country on September 4th and 5th, just by showing your ID and any Bank of America card or statement.
4. Ever wanted to go to a free movie screening?  GOFOBO gives out tickets to movie screenings every day.  You will frequently need an RSVP code, but you might get lucky and find one at FatWallet.  You can also check out the Free Movie Screening Blog.  Here is an upcoming example: Hubble 3D – August 14, 2010 – 11:00 AM, Celebration! Cinema-North, Grand Rapids, MI.  Good Luck!

Enjoy what is left of the summer!

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Fee Free Days at our National Parks is upon us once again.  Next weekend, August 14-15, the National Parks Service is waiving entrance fees at over 100 National Parks.  This is a great opportunity to explore a bit of wilderness before the kids head back to school later this month.

To get you started, we’ve come up with our three favorite parks to visit this August.

1. Glacier National Park – With all roads open for only a few short months each year, this is an opportune time to visit Glacier National Park in the late summer months.  What makes it even better is that this year, they are celebrating their centennial – it has been 100 years since they became our 10th National Park in 1910.  If you only have a day, drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road (or take a tour), take a ranger led hike (or one of your own) and visit the Many Glacier hotel for a quick lunch or to enjoy a one-hour cruise on Lake McDonald (only $14.95/$7.95).  Amy over at Pit Stops For Kids recently visited with her family on her 22-day Road Trip – check out what she has to say about Glacier National Park and the Many Glacier Hotel.
2. Lava Beds National Monument – Thinking about the record high temperatures that have hit much of the nation the last few weeks, I’m thinking that the kids might like to explore somewhere cool and cool.  One of the more remote parks in California, Lava Beds National Monument offers over two-dozen lava tube caves that can be explored on your own.  These vary in difficulty, but there are plenty that are family friendly (we did it with a one year-old).  As a bonus, the temperature inside is always a cool 52-55ºF.
   Exploring outdoors yields lots of cool stuff too, like Native American pictographs (Symbol Bridge/Big Painted Cave/Petroglyph Point), a deep wide crater to peer into or how about climbing a spatter cone.  In this mountain region, even outdoor peak summer temperatures hover in a comfortable range (75-80ºF).  Check out these tips on caving before you head out.
3. Valley Forge National Historical Park – For our East Coast friends we recommend Valley Forge.  Known as the winter encampment for General Washington and his troops, Valley Forge has lots to offer in the way of both nature and history.  Start at the visitor center with a 30-minute film chronicling the trials, tribulations and sheer exhaustion of those men who fought to win our independence.
   Take a 40-minute ranger led tour (free), hop on the 90-minute trolley tour (fee) or wander around on foot or motorized carriage (your car) on a self guided tour of the park.  Kids always love the interpreters at Washington’s Headquarters and Muhlenberg’s Brigade.  Thankfully, you’ll always be able to find some shade to escape the sun on a warm summer day.  Bring a picnic lunch and be sure to stop at the playground where your younger kids can burn off some energy.  Note that this park is free at all times.

If you are a family on a budget, be sure to take advantage of Fee Free Days next weekend and be sure to check out the remaining dates throughout the year.  You can find lots more information on our National Parks right here on our website.  And…be sure to check back on Monday when we have a special guest post on spending a weekend in Grand Teton National Park with kids.

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

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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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Folks come from all around to watch them. Some families chase them from town to town. Everyone gasps in amazement, even our youngest who has never really seen them before. Fireworks are a magical wonder that entertain kids and adults alike, putting them into a trance induced by the colorful popping noise makers that light up the nighttime sky.

This year we made it a point to be in New Hampshire in time to join the Independence Day festivities. The towns around the Monadnock Region actually coordinate their schedules in order to allow spectators to enjoy all of the festivities going on in the region. With two young kids, we decided to partake in just one, so we chose the celebration in Hancock (known as the prettiest village in New Hampshire).

Over a thousand people pounce upon the tiny town center beginning at 6PM when the Ice Cream Social begins and the band starts striking a tune. Kids can join in on a reading of the Declaration of Independence – if you can pry them away from the ice cream. We arrived a bit after 8PM, so were able to take advantage of $2 sundaes or what was left over to make sundaes. We followed the herd scurrying to find a place on the lawn that slopes down to Norway Pond.

We were ill prepared, without a blanket for comfort or warmth and we certainly didn’t have any bug spray…oh well…maybe the mosquitoes like ice cream. As we settled in we were surprised to see kids swimming and playing at the beach below. I’m not sure exactly how cold the water was, but I suppose we’ll find out one of these days. There were lots of kids running around, but our kids were focused on their ice cream!

With anticipation in the air, the crowd roared as the first boom lit up the sky. Little did we know that this would be just a 10-minute warning. The kids were dripping with anticipation and excitement. The show began just as the kids were about to burst; the crowd fell silent. Exploding packets of colored light soared above the pond, illuminating the black evening sky. The brilliant colors criss-crossed like a well choreographed dance. All eyes were fixated upward; our youngest didn’t even turn away once. Fireworks are like candy – kids can never get enough.

This was our first 4^th of July in New Hampshire. Small towns, friendly faces and traditional family oriented activities – just one reason why I love New Hampshire so much. So, next time you’re looking for a simple Independence Day celebration, why not head out to one of the many small towns in New Hampshire. You might never leave.

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When searching out budget friendly family travel, free is usually an offer we don’t refuse. We’ve taken advantage of free admission at National Parks, museums, train rides and other kid-friendly attractions – the cheaper the better, right?. However, I recently had the opportunity to visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City during their free public entry (Friday 4-8 PM) where free was an offer that I definitely should have refused. After all, getting kids into a museum is hard enough already – you don’t need to give them more reasons to hate it!.

I arrived around 4:30 PM after a pleasant ride to the Top of the Rock. At first blush, it appeared to be a bit crowded, but it wasn’t until I hit the exhibits that the full reality set in. If you aren’t familiar with MoMA, there are 6 floors connected by rather narrow escalators. On this particular evening, the escalators were packed solid with a constant flow of visitors, like a colony of ants relocating their nest. Breaking into their formation or stepping out of line risked a trampling by the human species.

Against my better judgment, I did break formation at the second floor, but was quickly repelled back into the conga line making its way steadily upward. Fearful of what awaited on the next two floors, I made the safer decision to exit on the upper floors – I prefer the Masterpieces anyhow. Weaving through the maze of ants foraging for food left little room to set out a picnic. It occurred to me at that moment that it was nearly impossible to actually enjoy and appreciate the incredible works of art that hung on the wall while dodging the throngs of visitors snapping photos and staring aimlessly as if the paintings would come to life if they stared just long enough.

Sparsely interspersed were those visitors who were trying to truly appreciate the museum; for them I felt especially sympathetic. It was at that point that I firmly concluded that free isn’t always fun. Heading to the exit like prey escaping from the ant’s nest, I struggled to disguise myself, re-enter the queue and escape without detection. Whew, it felt so good to be out in the oppressively humid streets of Manhattan again.

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