0

07.14.2009 | Visiting Chicago, with Kids

Meet Heather, a mom of two, who is always on the go, & my good friend! An Orange Native, she is just finishing up a one year stint, living in the the windy city. She is always out & about with her kiddos, so I knew she was the perfect person to take on a tour of Chicago with kids.

Chicago is one of the most kid friendly big cities I have been to. I have been lucky enough to call Michigan Avenue or the “Magnificent Mile” home for the last 9 months, and I have loved every moment of it. There are so many fun things to do in Chicago I feel like I could easily write a book….Here are some of my absolute, favorite things to do in Chicago, with kids, in no particular order:

* Millennium Park: I just love this park and the tourist’s fascination with the “bean”…the funny thing is, whenever I take anyone to the bean, the whole way there they make fun of me. But, as soon as we are there, they are just as fascinated with it, as everyone else. It is really fun to take reflection pictures in it. If you are at the park during the summer bring the kids swimsuits or a change of clothes – there is a fun fountain to play in. And every evening they have free concerts at the amphitheatre… it really is fun to sit on the grass have a picnic dinner and listen to some music.
* The Art Institute: This is one of our favorite places. Located just south of Millennium Park, you can look at some amazing pieces of art. To keep my kids entertained we make up stories about the works of art. They have just recently opened the new Modern Wing there, and they have free art projects every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. for the kids. My kids LOVE this. Also, in the basement of the museum there is a Kraft Education Center for the kids where they can touch art, make art, and read tons of books. After you are done here you must stop by Sugar Bliss. This is honestly the one reason I work out every day! My personal favorites are: Red Velvet, Chocolate Peppermint, and really all of them are delicious. My kids’ favorite is the icing shots.
* Children’s Museum: This is my sons favorite place to be, and to tell you the truth I love it too. You can seriously play in here for hours. Located on Navy Pier, makes it convenient for a fun filled day! We spend a lot of time at Navy Pier where there is food, shopping, and lots of entertainment.
* Lincoln Park Zoo: An amazing zoo…it’s free too! I love this zoo. We spend many days walking around looking at all the animals. There is a little farm there as well, where you can get up close to a milking cows, and if you time it right, there is even a demonstration. This zoo is a must.
* Oz Park: After the zoo you should stop by Oz Park, one of the best parks in Chicago. I love those warm summer days playing on the playground. It is an amazing park. After your kids have played you should stop by Minnie’s. We have fallen in love with this little restaurant. Everything you order is “Minnie,” and you must try the original mini freeze.
* There are many other noteworthy museums…such as: The Museum of Science and Industry, the Aquarium, and The Field Museum each one so amazing…we really enjoy all the museums of the city.

Each day in Chicago is a fun adventure…we love walking around the city noticing all the different buildings. Be sure to show your kids the Tribune Tower where they have pieces of other famous buildings – they even have steel from the Twin Towers! & Of coures, the most important part in any city is to enjoy yourself.
_______________________________________________________________

Thanks Heather! I’m ready to pack my bags, grab the kids & head to Chicago. Sounds like a perfect getaway! Sounds like there is so much to do, see & eat – my kind of city!

xoxo, K

by C & K in Beyond Orange County with No Comments
Tags:, , , , , , , , , ,
0

06.18.2009 | San Diego Getaway, with Kids

Meet Tonya a self-described “champagne sipping, chocolate eating, camera carrying, crafty, shopaholic mummy to twin toddlers and a home schooled teenager. I’m also an Aussie, living in California, and a military wife.” In addition to all that, she somehow finds time to write, not just one, but three blogs: A Day in My Life, Currently Crafting and Munchkins & Mayhem. Lucky for us she lives just to the south of us, which makes her the perfect person to help you & I plan the perfect San Diego getaway, whether it’s a weekend full of fun, or just for the day…

Hello to all of the fabulous readers of Just Spotted. My name is Tonya & I’m here to take you on a tour of San Diego. I have a teenager & twin toddlers so getting them out exploring our area is very important to me. We love to discover new places & see all that San Diego has to offer. Here are my top 20 destinations for family friendly activities this summer.”

1. Balboa Park – You will need a few days here. Home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens, a playground for the little ones, the amazing Spreckels Organ Pavilion (which puts on FREE concerts over the summer), a Spanish Village, puppet shows, The Old Globe Theatre, restaurants, the famous San Diego Zoo and so much more.

2. Seaport Village – is one of my favorite places in San Diego. You will find FREE daily entertainment including bands, singers, magicians, palm readers and various other buskers and sideshows. Enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants or take a picnic to enjoy in the grassy area overlooking the bay. From flying kites, to horse and carriage rides and the carousel, there is so much to see and do. Take a stroll along the boardwalk that runs alongside the San Diego Bay and enjoy the view of the boats, the Coronado Bridge and the little duck pond.
3. San Diego Zoo – The newly launched Elephant Odyssey at the San Diego Zoo, makes this a must-see destination. The zoo after dark is truly an experience, when you are surrounded by the noises of the night. You will also find summer camps for the little ones and family safari sleepovers over the summer period.
4. Wild Animal Park – There is just so much to do at the Wild Animal Park it is almost impossible to see it all in a day. With summer evenings in the park holding special events, Dino Mountain back on display over the summer and the regular park activities such as safari’s, tours, sleepovers and exploring the numerous exhibits the kids are sure to sleep well in the evenings.
5. Sea World – Summer nights have begun with the special night-time shows and fireworks. You can start your day off with Breakfast with Elmo, enjoy the various shows, rides and exhibits throughout the day including the Sesame Street Bay of Play and then stay on throughout the evening to dine with Shamu and experience the night-time shows and fireworks. They currently have a special on tickets – adults at kids prices and a 2nd visit FREE.
6. La Jolla Cove – With restaurants, shopping, galleries, the Museum of Contemporary Art, viewing seals at the Children’s Pool, the Sunday farmer’s market, playing on the beach and snorkeling or kayaking around the Cove, La Jolla is a fabulous destination for all ages.
7. Legoland – There are over 50 rides, shows and attractions at Legoland and it is great day out for all ages. You’ll find Bob the Builder in 4D, a mini golf course, water parks, lego stations, X-Box gamespace, Volvo driving school, mini-land, a factory tour and lego galore. Don’t forget to bring your swim gear, you will need it. Oh and be sure to try the apple fries, they are delicious.
8. Sea Life Aquarium – This aquarium is a combination of lego and real-life sea creatures. It is directly next door to Legoland and if you go on the same day, you won’t have to pay for another day of parking, however, you may want to leave this for another day to truly experience it, after-all the kids are going to be exhausted after a full day at Legoland. There are discovery zones, touch stations and a brand new Sharks Revealed interactive exhibit as well as aquariums and plenty for the little ones to do.
9. Old Town – Step back in time to the birthplace of California. Between Presidio Park, Heritage Park, Old town San Diego Historic Park, The Old Town Theatre, Saturday markets, over 100 stores, 24 full service restaurants, galleries and hotels, you’ll be sure to experience the history of San Diego. A few of the things to see are the first one room schoolhouse, the reportedly haunted Whaley House, an 1850 Catholic Cemetery and living history demonstrations.
10. Coronado Concerts in the Park – From May 24th until September 13th Coronado offer FREE concerts in the park every Sunday evening. This is one of our favorite weekend activities. Pack up a picnic and head down to Spreckels Park for an evening of music and fun for the children with a large, newly renovated playground. I advise getting there at 5:30pm to get a great spot on the lawn. Coronado is a great place to stay with beautiful beaches and the legendary Hotel Del .
11. Mission Bay, Mission Beach & Belmont Park – With boardwalks alongside the sand, relaxing on the beach, surfing, Crystal Pier, Fiesta Island, the Belmont Park theme park, restaurants, and playgrounds and this is a great summer destination. We recently spent an entire day walking from Pacific Beach along the boardwalk and around to Fanuel Park stopping at Belmont Park, beachside cafe’s, to play in the sand and enjoy an ice-cream. It was one of the best days we’ve had as a family. There are vacation rentals right on Crystal Pier, Hotels along the boardwalks where guests will take chairs out onto the sand to watch the sun go down and locations for bonfires, fly kites and to water ski.
12. Maritime Museum – A collection of historic ships are open daily for public tours. There are various packages available including family sleepovers on board, cruises out on the bay, sunset sails, and Movies Before The Mast Film Festival about the Star of India.
13. Viejas - Viejas is so much more than just a Casino and Outlet Mall. It also offers Concerts in the Park from April – October and a splash zone for the kids. The Power of Nightfare will be showing Thursday – Sunday until 7th September. This is a Native American folklore show featuring magic, special effects, water fountains, lasers and pyrotechnics. Also Thursday nights in June, July and August feature a FREE movie in the park.
14. Downtown San Diego – is a hub of great things to see and do. There is the infamous Petco Park, the Gaslamp district, Little Italy, Horton Plaza for shopping, great restaurants and The New Children’s Museum.
15. Chula Vista Nature Center – If you want to learn more about the birds, animals, plants and sea life native to San Diego, then this is the perfect place. The nature center is located on Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge right on San Diego Bay. At the Nature Center you can explore an aquarium, outdoor nature park and take either a guided tour or stroll at your own pace around the nature trails.
16. Santee Lakes – This is a beautiful area if you are wanting to just relax with your family. There is camping, fishing, a spray pad for the little ones, boating, movies by the lake over the summer, paddle boats, playgrounds, walking paths, bird watching and picnic areas.
17. Birch Aquarium – Experience the wonders of the ocean with hands-on exhibits, feedings, the aquarium nursery, family programs and tidepool displays. There are over 60 habitats. You can also do off-site activities such as grunion runs, snorkel with sharks, moonlight pier walks and many other things. Check out their Calendar for a full list of activities.
18. Quail Botanical Gardens – Only 20 minutes north of San Diego, the Quail Botanical Gardens is over 35 acres of gardens, rainforest and exhibits. They offer several different events over the summer including insect and fairy festivals, and strings in the garden.
19. Kit Carson Park – Located in Escondido it offers hiking trails, playgrounds, a sports complex, picnic areas, ponds and a 5-acre arboretum including the amazing Queen Califia’s Magical Circle Sculpture Garden. It is also only a few miles away from the Wild Animal Park and North County Fair mall.
20. Mission Trails Regional Park – There are nearly 5,800 acres of natural and developed areas that encompass Mission Trails Regional Park. You will find 40 miles of trails, Lake Murray, camping, a state-of-the-art visitor center including a 94 seat theatre (with 4 shows running daily), picnic facilities, guided nature walks and this summer will be the first time they offer week-long educational programs for children aged 6-10.
BONUS: I know I said I’d only add my top 20 destinations, but I almost forgot that the San Diego County Fair will be operating from June 12th until July 5th. The fairgrounds are located in Del Mar, home to beautiful beaches, fabulous restaurants and boutique shopping.
So, if you are looking for a fun destination to take the kids this summer, come down south. San Diego has so much to offer whether you are here for the day or an extended vacation, you won’t be disappointed. You can find out more about visiting San Diego especially about the parks, beaches and hotels from the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau.

_____________________________________________________________________

Thanks Tonya! I for one, can’t wait to explore San Diego this summer. It will definitely make the perfect “stay-cation”. To get to know Tonya better visit her at any of her three blogs: A Day in My Life, Currently Crafting and Munchkins & Mayhem.

xoxo, K

by C & K in Beyond Orange County with No Comments
Tags:, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0

07.17.2008 | Leaving on a jet plane?

I love to travel. If you know me, that statement wouldn’t surprise you at all. It doesn’t matter where I am going, just as long as it involves me packing a bag, I start getting giddy. Luckily, I married someone who likes to travel just as much I do, although I have had to talk him into a trip or two, (Italy comes to mind. But, once there, he LOVED it.) &, fortunately, we have been able to do our fair share of globe-trotting. However, after the birth of first, we were a bit worried that our little bundle of joy would slow us down. Three years later, plus the addition of another bouncing baby boy, we now have several trips under our belts. & while I’m not claiming to be an travel-expert, I have learned a thing or too along the way. So here are some of my favorite tips & tricks, listed in no particular order.

When flying, check out SeatGuru prior to purchasing tickets. There you can view the layout of the plane, & using their color-coded system identify “superior” and “substandard seats.”

Personally, when flying, I usually prefer the bulkhead. More often that not, it means more leg room & I can put the “little ones” down on the ground to play, without fear that they’ll try to climb under the seat in front of us.

If your flight happens to serve a meal (which is rare these days), request children’s meals for the kids.

When checking in for a flight, always ask if it’s full. Often times, if it’s not full, they can make sure you’re seating next to an empty seat. (Trust me, if you’re traveling with a lap child, this can make a huge difference.)

Generally, when the call for “pre-boarding” comes, I just ignore it. Unless you have alot of stuff that you need to carry one, I prefer to stay in the boarding area for as long as possible. If you’ve got little ones, this is a great opportunity for them to run around & get all the wiggles out.

Packing is always my downfall. Now matter how well I plan, I always seem to bring way too much. Try to pack as light as possible. (I know, easier said than done.) The Universal Packing List is handy little tool. Answer some questions about your trip & enter some details regarding the kind of list you’d like & presto! A customized list is generated just for you! Another dandy helper is the Pack This! pad… “an exhaustive checklist of everything you could ever need.” For those of you with kids old enough to participate in the packing process, I love THIS idea of a visual packing list.

When traveling locally (within the states), I generally pack just enough diapers/ formula/ baby food/ etc. to last a day. Then pick up what I need when I get to my destination. Sure, I end up having to stop at the grocery store, but it definitely helps lessen the load.

However, I have learned from experience, to take any & all necessities (diapers, formula, food, etc,) with me when traveling abroad. (Amazingly enough, not all diapers are created equal. & finding a grocery store at Lake Como can prove more difficult than you ever imagined.) Recently though, I’ve stumbled across the website Babies Travel Lite… they will deliver diapers, formulas, food & more to travel destinations worldwide. Sounds awesome!

Before you book your hotel, be sure to check out TripAdvisor to get the real low-down on your hotel. Read reviews from real people. I have actually changed my mind about staying at certain hotels based on reviews.

When booking hotels, be sure to ask for a crib or an extra cot, to accommodate the little ones. Or, if you want to bring your own, the phil & teds traveller is a great option.

As you probably already know, once your little one turns 2, you have to buy them their own seat. But if your kiddos are anything like mine, sitting still isn’t their greatest talent. The first option is to bring their car seat on board the plane. This idea is good, especially if you’ll be driving in a car later & will evnetually need it. Or, the other option is to rent a car seat, & bring along the CARES Airplane Harness for the flight. Personally, I prefer to use CARES. Often times I’m traveling alone & hauling the car seat along just isn’t an option. The CARES Airplane Harness fits in my travel bag, can be installed in a jiffy, & keeps my little guy in place. Awesome!

Keeping the kids busy, is one of the most important & difficult tasks of traveling. I like to pack each of my boys their own little backpack full of (quiet) toys & books. Some of our favorite items include: mini Magna Doodle, Touch & Feel Books, Eye Spy bags, mini Aqua Doodles (for really little guys that can’t quite grasp the pen, use a baby wipe!), GALLOP! a scanimation picture book, Coloring Books & Crayons, & Chalk Mats. Older kids might also enjoy: Travel Bingo, Card Games, Car & other Travel Games, Road Trip Trivia, Travel Game Board, or any of THESE printable travel activities.

Besides the kid’s backpacks, I take my own carry on. I prefer Harvey’s Carry On. (Considering my great love for all things Harvey’s, are you at all surprised?) It’s the perfect dumping ground for all my stuff: a change of clothes for the little babe (they get dirty sooo quickly) & a spare shirt for me (usually I get dirty too. Plus, if you just happen to get stranded somewhere over night, & they’ve already loaded your luggage, it’s nice to have a fresh shirt to wear.) A few diapers, formula, etc. (if necessary), & no matter what age your kids are… lots of baby wipes. My iPod is always loaded with the kiddo’s favorite music & movies, & I have some kid-sized earphones on hand. Make sure, to bring extra pacifiers, or any other comfort item you kids might love, & any necessary medications, including children’s Tylenol. (Once again, you don’t want to be stranded overnight or delayed without your necessary meds.) Don’t forget lots of yummy treats to keep the kids from getting hungry & always bring a sippy cup. My kids love fruit snacks, granola bars, string cheese, pop tarts, etc. &, I always have a few little extra surprises on hand that I can pull out, in case of emergency.

Although I usually take a stroller of some sort, I always use a baby carrier to hold my littlest one. My latest favorite is the Puj Baby Go Sling. It keeps my little guy close, while keeping both of my hands free. Whatever you choose, a baby carrier can make your life so much simpler. Last year we visited Turkey, Greece & Paris. My oldest sat in the stroller & I “wore” the baby… way better than having to haul a double stroller around.

Hmmm… that’s about it. I know, it’s crazy long, but hopefully it’ll be a bit helpful. The most important thing to remember when traveling is to be FLEXIBLE. No matter how much you plan, you can’t prepare for everything. Planes will be delayed & cancelled. You might get lost, or travel time might take longer than you anticipated. So, when the unexpected happens, just roll with it. Remember, when it comes down to it, it’s not the destination but the journey that is important.

Now go see the world, but don’t forget to send me a postcard!

xoxo, K

p.s. Any travel tips or tricks you’d like to share?

image via flickr.

Related Posts with Thumbnails
by C & K in Beyond Orange County with No Comments
Tags:, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,