Vacation is spending a weekend in the house where I am not responsible for the chores and have no chance on my endless to-do list. Add water, sun, and a few activities, and you have a recipe for a getaway.

Racine Wisconsin Off-Season

WHERE TO STAY

I prefer to stay close to the waterfront without breaking the bank. I stayed in two AIRbnb just a block or two away from Lake Michigan, which makes a short walk to the beach.

WHERE TO EAT

On the budget while staying at the AIRBNB? Drive to the local Piggly Wiggly and load up on the kitchen staples or prepared dishes. Nobody says that you have to spend money eating out. 

However, if you want to enjoy the food and the view, I recommend REEFPOINT Brew House. The restaurant is located on the shore of Lake Michigan on the Marina and specializes in seafood. If you plan to eat only once this weekend, the Brewhouse could be your one splurge. With plenty of sitting inside, outside, and outside (is that a thing?), this place is fancy yet kids-friendly and fast.  

Want a quick bite? Look for the “I Love Tamales” food truck. Their Thanksgiving Tamale might be why I picked this area for my getaway.

WHAT TO DO

RACINE BEACH – love peace and queit? You will most likely not be bothered on the beach in Racine. Bring a chair to spend fifteen minutes or four hours here. Enjoy the sand between your toes and Lake Michigan waves while watching kids building caves or trying to build a sandcastle. 

RACINE ZOO: Tired of the beach? Take a walk to the Racine Zoo. While it isn’t the Brookfield Zoo or even the Milwaukee Zoo, you will again not fight crowds walking down park paths to the children’s playground or going in and out of the Zoo buildings. There are a few places you can stop at for a snack. 

The Zoo also hosts fun events like Jack-or-Lantern Nights in the Fall. 

Midwest Market @ 2210 – located near the highway, this is an indoor maker’s market that is open Friday through Sunday. You will find various small stores in this place, along with food and drinks. It’s like coming to the market fair but indoors!

LOOKING FOR A BARGAIN? Take a drive to the 7-mile Flea Market. Admission is $2, but you can spend a few hours here browsing bargains and trying out fun food ( corn in a cap or churro Sundays). The Flea market is very multicultural, so get ready for different languages and dialects. There is an indoor and outdoor space, so plan on walking a lot.

Need a getaway from your everyday life? Have your own Racine, Wisconsin, off-season getaway!

The post Racine Wisconsin: Your Off-Season Escape appeared first on Way 2 Goodlife.

GETTING THERE:

A car drive takes about 3 hours

Greyhound Bus – about 3.5 hours

WHERE TO STAY

We stayed at the Van Buren Hotel – only a few minutes away from the Blue Gate and other activities. My first impression? Fresh Lemonade at the reception is a fantastic way to welcome a tired traveler, and yes, I enjoyed that very much. A spacious room with a large window and light-blocking blinds is all I need for a good night’s sleep and a happy morning. A stay at the Van Buren also comes with a hot breakfast. The beverage station is open all day, and did I mention lemonade?

Looking for an Amish experience?

Stay at Miriam’s Bed & Breakfast. You will occupy a room in an Amish house with access to shared spaces. There is no TV, Wi-Fi, or the Internet. 

Farmyard Inn is a 3-bedroom/1 bath home on a working Amish farm. Guided tours are available upon request.

Hollow Ridge Lodging is an Amish-owned cabin in Middlebury, and it comes with a choice of tea or coffee and Katie’s tasty homemade cinnamon rolls served at your leisure! Towels, linens, and campfire wood provided,   

Love modern technology? The area also offers many other options at different price points and situations. 

I must also mention the Farmstead Inn – located across the street from the famous Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market and within walking distance of local theatres, shops, and restaurants.

WHERE TO EAT

Blue Gate Restaurant

Blue Gate Restaurant and a bakery reside in the building, with the entertainment on the second floor. Grab a sandwich and a box of baked goods, or enjoy a sit-down Amish/Mennonite lunch or dinner in the dining room. The Blue Gate company also has three retail stores, a theatre, a hotel, an event center, catering, and a carriage business. A stop at the Blue Gate can easily mean a carriage ride, a dinner, live entertainment, and a bakery stop – an evening of entertainment!

A native of Northern Indiana Amish Country, Mel Riegsecker opened the Blue Gate (formerly Der Strudel Haus) in the ’80s with one dining. Today, the Blue Gate hosts 750 seats.

Dine in an Amish home

My friend and I joined a group from Iowa on their way to the East Coast for a Taste of Shipshewana dinner hosted by Brenda Slabaugh’s family. Located in the barn adjacent to the Amish family house, the barn is well-equipped for any gathering. The charcoal board wall listed menu items for our dinner and two long rows of tables accommodated our sizeable group.

Maria started the dinner by introducing herself and her family – she has five daughters and a son, who is about to go on the Rumspringa. Meanwhile, a big plate makes its way around the table, sharing Broccoli Cauliflower salad, greens beans, noodles, mashed potatoes, roast beef, baked chicken, and a slice of pie. No guest will leave hungry today as the plates with food keep coming back for anyone wanting seconds, thirds, and fourths. The dinner also comes with conversations between guests and questions for the hosts about the Amish lifestyle, which Maria happily answered.

Want to have a unique dining experience like ours? Don’t bother looking for online reservations. Contact LCCVB/VISITOR CENTER, and they will happily give you suggestions, tips, and contact information for the families hosting Amish dinners. You will call to make your reservation.

Ice cream

Ready for a dessert? You are likely a few steps from your next perfect Ice Cream Scoop. Visit The Vanilla Bean for one of the 28-30 ice cream flavors. Stop by the Dips Ice Cream Shoppe for a milkshake. Walk to the Mom’s Ice Cream for a Hand-dipped Velvet ice cream. Give an Old Fashioned Amish Frozen Custard a try at the Amish Frozen Custard & Soft Serve.

WHAT TO DO

Blue Gate Music Hall

See a performance at the Blue Gate Music Hall. Located at the Blue Gate right above the restaurant, the Hall makes a very convenient dining and entertainment option for those not wanting to travel far. We saw Salute to the Stars From Nashville to Memphis, featuring George, Dolly, & Elvis. The show is a lot of fun as fans of these legends will surround you. However, I can guarantee even if you have yet to learn a word from featured songs, you will still have much fun.

Menno-Hof Mennonite-Amish Interpretive Center

How much time do you have to learn about Amish culture? While many people we saw at the Menno-Hof Mennonite-Amish Interpretive Center gift shop were there for a great shopping experience, those few who proceeded further were in for a great historical treat. 

You will find yourself moving from one interactive historical event to another, learning about the history of Christianity, the beginning of Baptism, the history of Amish Culture, and their long way to the Americas. 

I asked questions about Russian Amish migrations to the United States, as I had no idea there were Russian Amish communities. The Guides of the Menno-Hof have the answers to just about any question you might have.

Shipshewana Trading Place/Flea Market

Shop till you drop lover? You will love this part – there are hundreds of shopping options here. Visit Davis Mercantile Shopping Experience and Downtown Shipshewana Shops on Harrison or Morton Street. Davis Mercantile Shopping Building also houses a few places to grab a bite, a giant carousel on the third floor, and a 370-year-old tree “growing” in the mall, giving the building the feel of a tree house. 

Nearby is the Shipshewana Flea Market – it is open every Tuesday & Wednesday from April through September and a few special weekends and holidays. 

This Midwest’s Largest Flea Market houses with nearly 700 vendors. The family-owned market has been operating since 1922, when six pigs, seven cows, and several heads of young cattle were sold at the home of George Curtis during the very first livestock auction. 

While the Flea market is closed over the winter, the Antique Auction is open every Wednesday all year.

Blue Gate Performing Arts Center

The Performing Art Center is a larger concert hall that hosts a variety of big names throughout the year, like the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Bret Michaels, Kenny G, and more. While visiting, we attended Marie Osmond’s concert, a colorful highlight of our trip. Full disclosure: I only knew a little about Marie Osmond – not much beyond her QVC spots and general knowledge of the Donny & Marie Show in the late 70’s. 

Marie Osmond is a fantastic performer. She made the audience laugh and cry while getting incredibly honest and wickedly funny. Each member of her group is a talent individually but a fun, entertaining show.

Marie Osmond’s new album Unexpected is a collection of opera, Broadway, and timeless classics, which added an unexpected depth to our evening. 

T&L Country Canoes

What do you do in Shipshewana on Sunday when most businesses are closed? May I suggest getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. T&L Country Canoes offers leisurely trips down the scenic Fawn River the way the Potawatomi Indians used to do for hundreds of years.

Most of the river has been unchanged for hundreds of years – it twists and turns, but it flows in one direction, which is great for a kayak rider with a poor sense of direction or limited experience. I mostly observed the Fall colors and wildlife while the river gently carried my kayak down the stream. 

It has been the most tranquil experience of the season and a fantastic way to spend Sunday morning.

ABOUT THE AREA:

Shipshewana & LaGrange County are known as a one-of-a-kind destination for visitors to experience the simplicity of Amish culture as well as the delicious foods and quality products they produce. 

WHAT GOODIES DID I BRING HOME?

I make a point of bringing something delicious home from most of my trips. It makes a great answer to “Mom, What did you get us?” and makes the trip memories last a bit longer.

Here is what is in my trunk:

• Blue Gate Amish Peanut Butter
• The Dutch Kernel Turtle and Cheddar Popcorn
• Baked Goodies from Rise’s Roll Bakery
• Rise’n Roll Jams
• Yoder’s Hardware Root Beer

The post Weekend Getaway to Shipshewana: Amish Charm & Girl’s Weekend appeared first on Way 2 Goodlife.

My little 4-year-old got tickets to a Jumping Place, trips to a Chuck E Cheese, and an Indoor Climbing Gym. My older kids were head over heels for indoor flying classes and virtual reality stations. And my husband has already scheduled the welding class I bought for him.

100 Experiences that Make Fantastic Gifts

My family has loved these experience gifts and because of the gifts, we have all had wonderful experiences both together and individually. That is why I wanted to create a bank of ideas for any occasion. And if you are concerned about how to present your experience gift, scroll to the end, I have an idea!

EXPERIENCE GIFTS FOR FAMILY

• Snow Tubing
• Circus Tickets
• Waterpark
• Themed Park
• Flying Cessna or Helicopter
• Skydiving
• Helicopter Tour
• Hot Air Balloon Ride
• Tandem Hang Gliding
• Ziplining
• Kayaking or Paddling (consider an architectural or Sunset tour)
• Rafting
• Food Tours – Pizza Tours and Doughnut crawls are the best!
• Glamping
• Indoor flying lesson

EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE FANTASTIC GIFTS FOR KIDS

• Comicon type conferences
• Anime type conference
• Virtual Reality Studio
• Trapeze classes
• Instrument classes (guitar and drum lessons make amazing gifts)
• STEM camp
• Sailing Camp
• Comedy Show
• Indoor playground
• Horse riding lessons
• Pop Singer Ticket
• Theater Performance
• Opera
• Ballet
• Rock climbing

• Cooking classes
• Sewing classes
• Obstacle Course classes
• Scuba Diving Certification
• Underwater Robotics Activities
• Video editing classes
• Coding Classes and Workshops
• Drone Camp
• Children’s Museum tickets and memberships
• Spray and Water Park
• Mini-Golfing
• Laser Tag

EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE FANTASTIC GIFTS FOR TEACHERS

• A personal note or handmade card
• Movie tickets or movie gift cards
• App Store Gift Cards
• Audible Membership
• Spa Vouchers
• Offer to come out and Volunteer
• Coffee Subscription – if you know that the teacher loves coffee
• Escape Room
• Art Lessons
• Cultural Walking Tours

EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE FANTASTIC GIFTS FOR GRANDPARENTS

• Day or Dinner Cruise
• Brunch Cruise or Architectural Cruise
• Prohibition Cocktail Tour
• Cultural Walking Tours
• Golf Package
• Blue Apron Delivery Package
• Cleaning Service
• Laundry Service
• Food Delivery Service
• Dance Lesson
• Salt Cave
• Membership to a Museum or Botanical Garden
• Wine and Painting Class

EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE FANTASTIC GIFTS FOR PARENTS

• Golf Package
• Bike and Eat Tours
• Drive an Indy car, NASCAR, Ferrari & more
• Downtown Segway Tour
• Glamping or Tiny House Stay
• Wine Subscription
• Cleaning Service
• Laundry Service
• Food Delivery Service
• Comedy or Improve
• Yoga Passes
• Professional Massage
• Bath House or Steam Room
• Sensory Deprivation Tank
• Wine and Painting Class
• Salt Cave

EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE FANTASTIC GIFTS FOR PEOPLE YOU DON’T KNOW WELL

• Audiobook Subscription
• Movie Tickets
• Museum Tickets
• Art Gallery Pass
• Ticket to a Minor League Team Games

BUT WHAT DO I PUT IN A BOX?

You can get creative with the presentation. You can put a voucher in the tiniest box and wrap it in fifty other things to get a huge box.

You can print an image of the location, glue it to cardboard, glue the voucher to the backside, wrap it in tissue paper, and put it in a gift box. I did that and it looked super fancy.

You can also get something that will represent your experience – a Nutcracker ornament for a trip to the ballet, a Toy dinosaur for a History museum, 3D glasses for a VR trip, and so on.

As a bonus, it will make an amazing souvenir!

The post 100 Experiences that Make Fantastic Gifts appeared first on Way 2 Goodlife.

SANDUSKY GETAWAY – GETTING THERE

Drive, ride, or fly – you have options. If flying, you will need a rental car. The Cleveland Airport is 45 miles away, and Detroit is 62 miles. The drive from Chicago NW suburbs is 5.5 hours, and a train ride is about six hours.

We booked a roomette on the Amtrak train 48 Lake Shore Unimited on this trip, going from Chicago, IL, to New York, NY. We started our journey at the Metropolitan Lounge in the Union Station, with snacks, beverages, and many sitting options. The roomette had bunk beds, various lights, a storage area, and a convertible sink.  

SANDUSKY GETAWAY LODGING

While in season, most places around Cedar Point (the area attraction) are pricey. Want to stay by Cedar Point Park? You will pay $350 to $800 a night. While expensive, staying in Cedar Fair properties come with some perks. You will get early access to the Parks, discounts on tickets, free drinks at the Park, access to the Lake Erie beach, and free parking. 

Staying in the Port Clinton / Sandusky for a getaway would cost around $200-300 a night, and it would depend on the location. 

We stayed in the two-bedroom VRBO house in the Port Clinton area, a walk away from the beach and restaurants. We also splurged on the night at the Hotel Breakers in Cedar Point.

ACTIVITIES

Here are the area activities we absolutely love, but we suggest you pick a few for each day, depending on your travel schedule. 

White Star Quarry

901 South Main Street, Gibsonburg, OH
Plan to spend: 1-3 hours

White Star Quarry was a dolomite aggregate quarry that stopped its operations in the 1970s. Today it has a sandy beach a swimming, snorkeling, and diving areas. It is also a fantastic budget-friendly way to spend a few hours by the water – admission is only $5

Cedar Point Shores

1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH
Plan to spend: 4-6 hours

Cedar Point Shores is a water park located next to the Cedar Point amusement park with various water activities the whole family would love. Cedar Point Shores Waterpark features 18 acres of splish-splashin’ family fun! On a sunny summer day, it is crowded, so plan accordingly.

Portage River Paddling Company

3134 W Harbor Rd, Port Clinton, OH
Plan to spend: 2-4 hours

Take a four or nine-mile river trip paddling downstream to the Oak Harbor livery. Consider a shorter trip for beginners or parents with young children. However, the extended trip will give you more scenic views and time on the river. You also can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard in Portage or Port Clinton to explore the area on your own.

Lake Erie Beaches

Plan to spend: Time Varies

Lake Erie Beaches are lazy fun. We love Cedar Point beaches and make a point to spend at least an hour there before the drive back to Chicago. The beach club there will also keep us more active with some activities. Port Clinton Beaches along W State Route 163 are free and very welcoming.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH
Plan to spend: 4-10 hours

Cedar Point Amusement Park. A flagship activity of the area, it is busy and crowded this time of the year, but if you have never been to Cedar Point in summer, go for the water rides you can’t experience in other seasons – Snake River Falls, Thunder Canyon, and Snake River Expedition. If you stay in one of the Cedar Point properties, you also have an early admission to the Park to get to one of these rides ahead of the crowd:

• Millennium Force
• GateKeeper
• Wild Mouse
• Atomic Scrambler
• Matterhorn
• Calypso
• Dodgem
• Kiddy Kingdom

OTHER ACTIVITIES TO CONSIDER:

Marblehead Lighthouse

African Safari Wildlife Park

Ghostly Manor Thrill Center

Fast Eddie’s Sports Park

See more information about these activities at Rocking Weekend in Port Clinton.

Looking for other activities for your Sandusky getaway? Check out THINGS TO DO IN SANDUSKY, OHIO

The post Midwest Summer in Sandusky, Ohio: A Fantastic 48 Hours Getaway appeared first on Way 2 Goodlife.

We will talk about the benefits of baby swimming classes soon, but if your kids are older, there are still plenty of reasons to look into swimming lessons. It’s never too late! There are significant benefits to learning to swim at any age, plus, as surprising as it may seem, it’s an excellent year-round activity. 

Why You Should Sign Your Child Up for Baby Swimming Classes 

My kids love swimming! It is by far their favorite activity, no question. Can you blame them? With summer camp starting soon, they can’t wait to show off the skills they learned in their swimming classes. You might be surprised to learn that their younger brother also loves to swim! That’s right. We signed him up for swimming classes for babies at the Mundelein Goldfish Swim School when he was five months old, and he has enjoyed every swim class since.

Why Should Kids Learn to Swim?

Not only is swimming fun to do and a great summertime social activity, but it is also a lifesaving one. According to Safekids.org, nearly 800 children in the United States drown each year, half of those under 5. Contrary to what many people believe, drowning is silent and quick. That is why children and parents alike must learn how to swim and also learn how to keep themselves and their loved ones safe around water. 

Swimming classes for babies and children are great for teaching these lessons. When your child goes on to learn how to swim, it is more than just the backstroke or butterfly. Actual water safety lessons can help them build confidence (in water and out) and keep them safe. Swimming is a lifelong skill that can help your child save their life someday. 

I have done a ton of research into the benefits of swimming and swimming lessons for kids, but what I wanted to hear was a real-life experience, and I was lucky enough to get that at my children’s swim school. Recently we were given a chance to chat with one of the swim school teachers and ask her some questions about the swimming classes and their benefits:

Do All Babies Love Water?

Not all babies. Not at first. It depends on the child, as some love being in the water while others are not quite as comfortable. However, it changes as time goes on.

Do Babies Even Need Swim Classes? They Can’t Even Walk!

They can’t walk, but learning near water is an excellent safety skill. I believe that it’s also crucial to learn to swim early for a variety of reasons and not have a fear of the water. 

Watching Baby Swimming Class, Who is the Real Student – a Baby or the Parent?

Believe it or not, both! Children learn to be safe around the water parents learn how to take care of their little ones in the water.

How Young is Too Young?

Babies can enroll in a swim class as early as three months. If they can keep their head up, they are ready to go.

What Do Babies Learn In Swimming Classes First?

I want children to learn how to be safe in the water. That’s why we use a lot of hand-arm manipulation. We manipulate their arms and their legs. We also sing songs so they know being in the water is good.

Little ones also learn to climb in and out of the pool. My goal is to ensure they do it the safest way possible.

What is the Coolest Baby Move You Can Learn in Swimming Class?

I like to see the parents do the bubble bounce when they hold their thumb or the ring and bounce them all the way down. I love to see the parents go all the way down and come back all tired. It’s funny.

If you have a young child at home, it’s time to teach them how to swim, and you will have lots of fun together this summer!

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Welcome to St Cloud, Minnesota!

St Cloud, Minnesota LODGING

With the variety of lodging options, you have lots of choices. We stayed at the Best Western Plus Kelly Inn. Overlooking the banks of the Mississippi River, this St Cloud hotel is a great option with a great downtown location and covered garage parking.

We also stayed at the Holiday Inn Express and loved the location – close to the interstate and the airport. It also is closely located in many attractions and restaurants.

Both hotels provided great service, but the real surprise in both cases was the spacious rooms.

St Cloud, Minnesota ATTRACTIONS 

Munsinger & Clemens Gardens

1515 Riverside Dr. SE, St Cloud, Minnesota

Munsinger & Clemens Gardens – Located along the Mississippi River across from St. Cloud State University, Munsinger and Clemens Gardens is perfect to spend a morning walking down winding paths and brick pathways enjoying lovely gardens. 

You probably wouldn’t expect to find fountains and peacocks in Minnesota, but you will be wrong.

Munsinger Gardens began life in 1890 as a sawmill. However, in 1930, Joseph Munsinger converted it into a park. In 2017, Munsinger and Clemens Gardens housed about 75,000 plants. Munsinger is still a great park with a lot of shade and benches surrounded by flower beds and shrubs right next to the river.

Clemens Garden

Clemens Garden consists of six different gardens:

Virginia Clemens Rose Garden is all about different types of roses. It also includes a test garden.

Rest Area Garden is known for its Renaissance Fountain with Cranes. Here you will find sun-loving flowers. The colors and design change every year.

Like symmetry? You will love the Formal Garden! It features geometrical paths and a uniform design of flowers. The design and color scheme changes yearly, but it always keeps a formal look. In the center of the Formal Garden, you will find the Windsor Court Fountain, a low structure with bathing swans.

White Garden was inspired by the famous white garden at Sissinghurst Castle in Kent, England, with white flowers and green foliage.

A Perennial Garden looks different as seasons change, but it is full of native plants and grasses, so it is especially attractive to bees and butterflies.

At the east end of the Gardens, go up the stairs and see the Arbor. It is 104 feet long and has a central dome that is 24 feet high. Under the dome is the Three Graces Fountain.

Quarry Park & Nature Preserve

1802 Co Rd 137, Waite Park, Minnesota

The quarry park is like a giant granite playground with much space for exploration. Two quarries are open for swimmers, and one has a sandy beach. Here you will find playgrounds, great landscapes, and fishing ponds. You will find the sandy beach at Quarry #11, and it is perfect for younger kids, with some great ledges for small jumps.

Quarry #2 is for the older kids, with no beach but high ledges for diving and beautiful views.

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is a 684-acre park site of 20 former granite mining quarries. It is a busy place during the summer months. In addition to swimming, there is plenty of plant life for nature lovers, which includes everything from oaks and aspens to yellow lady slippers, Indian paintbrush, and prickly pear cactus. There are quarries for fishing, scuba diving, and rock climbing.

Love hiking? Most of the trails are covered with gravel to make for easy walking and even stroller access with larger rubber tires. We spotted plenty of scenic spots while exploring the park trails.

Heritage Park Skate Plaza

265 33rd Ave S, St Cloud, Minnesota

My older son loved the skatepark. Heritage Park Skate Plaza is approximately 20,000 square feet and can generally be categorized as having a large multi-depth bowl, and a large plaza. The bowl has 4, 5, and 6 feet depths with a partial 7-foot extension to create the deepest pocket. The plaza provides different and varied terrain and skate lines. Fun return walls, a stair set, various ledges, rails, and manual pads are all laid out creatively.

Blacklight Adventures

240 33rd Ave S, St Cloud, Minnesota

Blacklight Adventures is a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if the weather is not up to your liking. And you won’t believe all the fun is packed under one roof. There is Laser Tag and several escape rooms. My family loved the immersive games in the virtual reality rooms, while I might’ve spent too much money playing at the arcade.

Clear Waters Outfitting

100 Pine St Suite B, Clearwater, Minnesota

How about spending an afternoon kayaking down the Mississippi River? We visited Clear Waters Outfitting to get our kayak adventure started. They did everything – got us and kayaks along with pedals and safety vests to the starting point of the river and pointed us in the right direction. The rest was a breath of fresh air (literally) – a few hours on the water in good company under the open sky.

FOOD

NELSON BROS. RESTAURANT

950 MN-24, Clearwater, Minnesota

NELSON BROS. RESTAURANT is located at Clearwater Travel Plaza, and while it might sound like an average truck stop, it sure is so much more. The restaurant is a great family place with a variety of food options.

Don’t want a sit-down dinner? Visit the food court and shop for gourmet sandwiches, several coffee varieties, or ice cream. Sandwiches come in various bread flavors, such as jalapeno cheddar, garlic black olive, and spinach parmesan. Add a side salad and hot soup, and polish it with a sundae or a shake.

I should also mention huge donuts and sweet rolls! It is impossible to buy just one, but they are huge!

Anton’s Restaurant

2001 Frontage Rd N, Waite Park, Minnesota

Built in the 1920’s by a gentleman named Cy Brick, Bricky’s started as a speakeasy during prohibition. For many decades after the repeal of prohibition, Bricky’s became a haven for young people to meet and socialize.

The original dining room was added in the late 1940s. It sports log walls, a picture window facing the river, and a covered wagon frame hanging from the ceiling.

You will find a variety of foods – from sandwiches to seafood and steak as well as dessert options. Think Seafood-Stuffed Mushrooms, Stuffed Shrimp with giant popovers, and Whipped Caramel Chocolate Pie for dessert.

A trip to Anton’s is a treat for my travel budget but it is a unique dining experience!

Downtown

Downtown St Cloud, Minnesota, is a great town with wide sidewalks. Take your time, and stroll through the streets admiring public art.

The Greater St. Cloud Area is home to some majestic works of art ranging from architecture, statues, and monuments, to murals and memorials that can all be found outdoors. Grab a cup of tea and hit the streets, exploring some of these areas’ hidden treasures.

Check out ST. CLOUD AREA PUBLIC ARTWORK collection for a map of Murals, Sculptures, and Memorials.

Looking for other attractions in Minnesota?

AWESOME CHILDREN’S MUSEUM IN MINNESOTA

BEST APPLE PIE IN MIDWEST

UNIQUE FAMILY MIDWEST MILITARY MEMORIALS AND MUSEUMS

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Dinosaur World Kentucky

Roam among life-sized dinosaurs, such as a Stegosaurus and T-rex, at Dinosaur World in Cave City. The famous dinosaurs are part of the outdoor dinosaur museum setting featuring 150 dinosaurs. It’s in a natural environment, with trees and plants camouflaging the giant models. Here children of all ages (because what adults don’t like dinosaurs?) enjoy checking out the accurate replicas of the creatures. Dinosaur World includes a prehistoric museum with actual fossils and cast copies.

Children can also play in the Fossil Dig, where they may find “fossils” of their own. The Kentucky attraction is one of three Dinosaur World locations, with parks in Plant City, Florida, and Glen Rose, Texas. Each park encourages people to bring food and drinks because of the lack of concession stands.

The Dinosaur Place

The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village in Oakdale, Connecticut, displays more than 50 giant dinosaurs located over 60 acres. It also features unique creatures like the Ankylosaurus, Brontosaurus, and the Tyrannosaurus rex. Walking through the nature center, you’ll feel like you’re among the prehistoric animals. The park includes a dinosaur-themed maze, two caves featuring dinosaurs, and a splash pad.

Dinosaur Park

Overlooking Rapid City, the South Dakota attraction features seven unique dinosaurs built during the Great Depression. This stop is still one for families visiting the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore. Dinosaur Park is based on dinosaurs discovered in the state, including the Apatosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus. Children are encouraged to climb the sculptures in this dinosaur museum. With free admission, the park offers views up to 100 miles away.

Dinosaur Land

Early dinosaurs built at Dinosaur Land in the 1960s don’t accurately portray prehistoric animals. But, as the White Post, Virginia, the attraction has aged, newer dinosaurs resemble what paleontologists believe they looked like. Some 50 life-sized statues appear as they may have in a natural setting. Others are seen fighting and eating prey. Among the dinosaurs in the park are the Tyrannosaurus rex, Velociraptor, Triceratops, and Spinosaurus.

Field Station Dinosaurs

They once roamed the Kansas plains more than 90 million years ago. About 0 animatronic dinosaurs here – ranging from a Parasaurolophus and Edmontosaurus to Velociraptors. They welcome visitors to Field Station Dinosaurs in Derby, near Wichita. Each animal makes sounds paleontologists believe accurately portray the dinosaurs. Attractions include tents and watering holes as backdrops, representing what may happen if explorers came upon the relics today.

One of two Field Stations, the Kansas location includes several interactive exhibits for children. It is also a challenge dome with three levels of rope obstacle courses. A miniature golf course is located next door. The o original is located in Leonia, NJ.

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

While dinosaur parks are fun places to play among the animals while learning their history. However, if your child wants to see actual fossils? The Ricky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center in Woodland Park, Colorado, offers over 10,000 square feet of fossil exhibits. It includes a Triceratops skull among the Tyrannosaurus rex and other dinosaurs. You’ l even find a Pterosaur flying overhead. Check out displays on marine animals and more.

While children will have a blast playing among the life-sized dinosaurs, parents can use the experience as a learning opportunity. So, it’s a win-win for everyone. Of course, it’s also a chance for adults to become kids again. Have some fun playing among the giant creatures!

RIVERBOAT CRUISES IN THE UNITED STATES

BALLOON FESTIVALS IN THE UNITED STATES

VISIT THESE UNIQUE FAMILY MIDWEST MILITARY MEMORIALS AND MUSEUMS

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That’s why I put together this camping packing list to help make sure we don’t forget anything! Be sure to review this list while packing for your next camping trip and double-check it before you leave! 

THE ULTIMATE CAMPING LIST FOR FAMILIES

Let’s get ready to go camping!  This ultimate camping list is a great place to begin looking for those must-have items to make your camping adventure fun and easy for the entire family!  And don’t hesitate to grab everything on the list – find the things that fit your family’s needs the best!

Kitchen Related Camping Items

Okay, unless you have an RV, you likely won’t have an actual kitchen at your campsite, but you will still be eating! And you need to come prepared with everything you need to enjoy mealtimes at the campsite. 

• Paper bowls and plates
• Plastic cups
• Trash bags
• Ziploc bags
• Plastic table cloth
• Tin (Aluminum) foil
• Napkins
• Matches or Lighters
• Paper towels
• Paper Lunch bags
• Dish soap (be sure to get the biodegradable kind)
• Dish Towels and rags
• Sponges
• Dish Towels and rags
• Sponges
• Tupperware or airtight and watertight storage container
• Cooking oil
• Non-stick spray
• Salt and pepper

• Seasonings
• Nylons
• Cutting board
• Camping Cookware
• Oven Mitts
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Matches or fire starters
• Sharpie
• Tablecloth clips
• Cooking utensils
• Can opener
• Tongs
• Lighter
• Wash Tubs or a folding camping sink
• Camp stove
• Water bottles
• Garbage bags
• Water purifier
• Cooler

Personal Care & Health Items

Just because you may be camping out in nature, that doesn’t mean that you should be prepared to keep up with your hygiene. Besides, you never know when you may need some of these items in an emergency situation. 

• Hairbrush
• Shampoo
• Baby wipes
• Antibacterial wipes
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Washcloth
• Tissues
• Scissors
• Pain Medicine
• Sunscreen
• Bug Repellent
• First Aid Kit
• Medication
• Hand Sanitizer
• Lotion
• Bar Soap
• Deodorant
• Lip Balm
• Towel
• Ear Plugs

Camping and Comfort Necessities

Camping is an absolute blast, and I love it. That doesn’t mean that it is always comfortable, though. Be sure and bring the following items to not only make sure you are prepared to camp but also to help you stay comfortable while you are roughing it. 

• Camp Table
• Extra blankets
• Sunshade
• Clothes
• Hat
• Bathing Suit
• Rain Jacket
• Light Gloves
• Jacket
• Lantern
• Flashlights

• Extra batteries
• Day pack
• Sleeping gear
• Tent (poles, stakes, and guylines)
• Tarp
• Pillows
• Pocket knife
• Camp chairs
• Fishing poles
• Playing cards
• Travel games

CAMPING TIPS FOR BUSY FAMILIES

Going camping with the family is one of those amazing memory-making traditions we recommend everyone experience.  Children learn more about being self-sufficient, and you will all be able to bond more away from the glitz and glamor of the city and social media.  However we have always made a rule against electronics when camping, but every family unit will make those decisions differently.

Need camping food ideas? Check out these posts that are dedicated to just that!

• 25 Camping Breakfast Ideas
• 25 Campfire Cooking Recipes
• 20 Foil Packet Meal Ideas for Your Camping Trip
• 15 One Pot Meals for Camping
• 20 Make Ahead Meals for Camping 

These are all great recipe lists to check out when planning food for your upcoming camping trip.  

Are you planning to car camp? We even have some Car Camping Tricks and Tips if you plan to skip the tent. Also, check out our Camping Hacks for Families and our list of Camping Activities and Printables to make your next camping trip one for the record books!

ENJOY CAMPING WITH YOUR FAMILY

Getting ready to go camping is easy when you use our camping list to ensure you don’t forget any necessities.  Rest assured; these items will ensure your next camping trip with your kids will go amazingly.  Nobody wants to be out in the woods camping and find out they don’t have what they need. That’s why this great camping list will come in handy!

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Arrival time: Saturday, 5 pm

Departure time: Sunday 4 pm

Lodging

As you can imagine, the options are plenty. My solution – an AirBnb on the horse range. I will categorize this place into my category of unique and maybe a bit weird lodging options. Stepping Stones Range is located in Milton, KY – an excellent horseback riding experience destination. However, a mobile home is nested to the edge of the property and available for rent. $99 here gets you a clean three-bedroom house with a nice backyard for the night. There is also an outdoor tent and a fire pit, and the owner also left us smores supplies, which the kids appreciated.

I love that the owners left some bottled water in the fridge, as this place is remote.

Cons: You have to take stepping stones to get to the house, so it is not wheelchair accessible or might be hard if you are not steady on your feet. If you get there after the range is closed, you must unchain the gate to pass through and lock it behind your car.

SATURDAY DINNER

Proud Mary BBQ. While you might not see many people around in this area, you will see many of them at the Proud Mary BBQ on a Saturday night. Nested on the bank of the Kentucky River, it is a fun place to visit. It is massive, with a huge outdoor deck, a giant sandpit for the kids, a fire pit, and a live music stage.

While we couldn’t easily park (because of the packed parking lot), we were seated in minutes. We got our appetizers in about 25 minutes and food in about 40 minutes. Several signs state that if the deck is full, the food will take at least an hour to prepare, so if you are hungry, consider starting with an appetizer. The restaurant specializes in BBQ and seafood; you can create a combo combining dishes and sharing them. A nice touch – a citronella plant on each outdoor table!

Sunday breakfast: If you can plan ahead, consider packing cereal and eggs and having breakfast where you sleep. Sunday breakfast options are limited by whatever is in the area and open on Sunday. The closest breakfast spot to the Stepping Stone Range was an Arby’s five miles away.

MORNING AND EARLY AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES:

Trail Rides at the Stepping Stone Range

Trail Rides at the Stepping Stone Range – goes every hour on the hour – $30, and the trip lasts about an hour

Fort Boonesborough

Fort Boonesborough is open until 5 pm with $5 to $8 cover. It has been reconstructed as a working fort complete with cabins, blockhouses, and furnishings. Resident artisans perform craft demonstrations and give modern-day visitors a true sense of what life was like for pioneers in Kentucky.

Three Trees Kayak and Canoe

Three Trees Kayak and Canoe – $25 for two hours

Boones Creek Outdoors offers Ziplinging, an obstacle course, and guided hikes. You can opt-in for a half-course ziplining (1.5 h) or a full course (2.5 h). My family did the INTRO TO ‘CHIEF’ ZIPLINE CANOPY TOUR. Our kids also did the DANIEL BOONE’S CHALLENGE – an obstacle course type of playground you can do over and over for about an hour. This is a good place for the parents to chill in the outdoor seating area and observe from afar. The guided hike and zipline start at 10 am, but the obstacle course can start at different times throughout the day. 

SUNDAY LUNCH

Try a Waterfront Grill and Gathering. Our BNB host and the obstacle course guide recommended this restaurant to us. It opens at 1 pm on Sunday and is close to the Three Trees Kayak and Canoe. You will view the mighty Kentucky River from the large outdoor patio or the indoor table. Think classics like burgers, chicken, pork, or catfish sandwiches, all grilled on our trademark “Salt Block.” We loved the atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly accommodating. 

Did we do all these things in 24 hours? We visited the area twice for twenty hours but also had to juggle the drop-offs and graduations. If you have enough energy, you can attend all four activity locations or limit yourself to 2-3. Enjoy more time admiring the great Kentucky outdoors. 

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100+ Things to Take Along When on Going on a Road Trip

FOR THE DRIVER

1. License and registration
2. A copy of your car insurance policy
3. Emergency contact numbers
4. Roadside Emergency Kit
5. Spare tire
6. First Aid Kit
7. Your car’s manual
8. Paper maps
9. Spare change
10. Voice Memo App
11. Bug Spray
12. Flashlight
13. Emergency Phone Charger
14. Jumper Cables
15. Easily accessible garbage bag
16. Portable Battery Boosters to jump start your car
17. Emergency flares or reflectors
18. Extra windshield washer fluid
19. Small Car tool kit

WINTER TRAVEL

20. Extra Cold-Weather Clothes
21. Snow Shovel
22. Ice Scrapper
23. Umbrella
24. Rock salt, sand, or kitty litter
25. Snowbrush
26. An extra pair of gloves
27. Rope or chain
28. Water and non-perishable snacks

TECHNOLOGY

FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND CONNECTION

29. Bluetooth wireless hands-free kit

30. Phone charger

31. Splitters for chargers to make sure all passengers can charge their devices

32. An amazing road playlist

33. Audiobook – consider renting some audiobooks through the library partners. Our library is connected with Hoopla, Cloud Library, and a few others

34. Podcasts – Plan and download those ahead of time

35. Headphones for everyone

36. Electronic Tablets – rent/download a few movies/shows ahead of time from Netflix, YouTube Red, iTunes, Google Play, VUDU, FandangoNOW, and Amazon Prime Video

37. Photo Camera – phone camera works great for almost any trip. However, if you love picturing nature scenes and wildlife – consider bringing a camera with

38. Portable WIFI source. Or upgrade your phone data for the trip and tether/Mobil spot your connection with non-cellular data devices

39. Satellite Radio subscription. Long rural roads don’t always have the best reception, plus you often can’t listen to your favorite radio from state to state. Subscriptions like SIRUS XM solve that problem. Plus, they have six-month trial for new customers (no credit card needed)

BIG AND LITTLE THINGS

TO MAKE THE DRIVE EASIER

40. Blanket

41. Snacks

42. Water Bottles

43. SunShades to protect your parked car on a hot day

44. Travel Towel

45. Travel Mug. Did you know that you can refill your coffee on the road in your cup and pay less?

46. Sunglasses

47. Car Visors will block glare for those that don’t enjoy sun glare.

48. Grocery bags to collect garbage or catch little life hiccups

49. Mints or gum

50. Day Backpack – big enough to fit the essentials when you are out and about

51. Neck pillow

PERSONAL CARE FOR ALL

52. Toothpaste and Toothbrush

53. Baby Wipes for any little messes

54. Lip Balm

55. Eye drops

56. Hairbrush

57. Hair ties

58. Tissues

59. Sunscreen

60. Pain Relieving Medication

61. Hand Sanitizer

62. Toilet Roll

FOR BABY/TODDLER

63. A big box of baby wipes

64. Diapers

65. Extra Baby Blankets

66. Grocery bags for diapers

67. Diaper Rash cream

68. Bibs

69. Formula/Milk Bottles

70. Sippy Cups

71. Multiple clothes change

72. Take on road trip things like Ziplock bags for things you want to wash later and for storing snacks

73. Pacifiers

74. Baby Wash

75. Baby Sunscreen

76. A bottle brush

77. Portable feeding seat

78. Playpen

79. Lightweight stroller

80. Jars of baby food

81. Baby First Aid Kit – Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Teething Remedies, Laxative, Thermometer, Cough Syrup

82. Breast pump and supply

83. Portable cooler and ice packs

84. Toilet seat covers (for potty-trained toddlers) or bring a portable sit

85. Disposable Table placemats – those are great for eating out

FOR KIDS

87. Books – for example National Geographic Kids First Book

88. Activity books: puzzles and brain teasers

89. Travel Journal/Scrapbook

90. Individually packaged, crumb-free snacks or crackers (goldfish crackers)

91. Crayons and drawing pad

92. No-spill water bottle

93. Take on road trip travel-friendly board games like Travel Bingo, Games on the Go, Travel Scavenger game for kids, The Best Ever Back Seat Games, Flipside Game

94. Pipe Cleaners like Wiki stix for Doodlers

95. Portable DVD player

96. Physical games like Rubrics Cube, Digital Energy Kinetic Educational Spring Toy

97. Scratchpad-like Scratch Paper Combo Art Set

FOR TEENS

98. Portable phone charger

99. Books to read like National Geographic Kids Why? Over 1,111 Answers to everything

100. Magazines

101. Travel Journal

102. Coloring Books for Teens

103. Brain Teasers like Crossword Puzzle and Word Game Book for Kids, Perfectly Logical!

104. Physical toys like 3D Maze Game, TrueBalance Coordination Game, Magnetic Chess Set, Flipside Game

105. For procrastinators – Homework. Don’t leave it behind

106. For artists – Travel Art Portfolio

107. For scrapbookers – Memory box or Travel scrapbooks like Our Adventures Book

108. For fidgeters – Spirograph Travel Playset

109. For doodlers – LCD Writing Tablet

110. For crafters – Embroidery Kit – the kind that has everything included

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