Get a taste of old Florida on the St. Johns River

Immerse yourself in Florida scenic drives and historic state parks while sleeping on a houseboat. Not far from the brightly colored lights of theme parks, adrenaline rides, and mega-resorts lies a different kind of attraction.  The St. Johns River & it’s nearby scenic byways offer something different than most Florida visitors have come to expect. When northerners used to travel Highway 17 south through the Sunshine State, this area lured visitors by its cool, spring waters and alligator wrestlers.  Sadly, …

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Have to go: Holland, Michigan Tulip Time

Admittedly, I have a thing for tulips. First, they offer a bright burst of color after a long, gray winter. Secondly, tulips and travel go together, and there’s always a new festival to fill my calendar. The Holland, Michigan tulips are fun for all ages – and I should know because we took a multi-generational trip to Holland, Michigan Tulip Time. Where and when to visit Holland, Michigan Holland’s Tulip Time takes place the first full week of May. The …

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What to consider before booking an Airbnb

How families can use Airbnb – plus tips for renters Booking an Airbnb has become our favorite way to travel. We?ve stayed in 10 Airbnbs in the past few years and they can offer so many amenities that hotels can not.  However, there are some things you should know before booking an Airbnb. Searching for your Airbnb rental When searching for the best Airbnb rental for families, I recommend using two filters.  #1 – After entering the number in your …

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First-timers guide to Sanibel Island

Sanibel & Captiva Travel Guide We just returned from a week at Sanibel Island and it was the perfect destination for a family beach vacation!  However, before visiting Sanibel Island, I couldn?t find much information telling me what to expect during our first stay on the island. Being budget travelers, I wanted to know where the best grocery stores were, how much the bridge tolls cost, and more. Without further ado, here is your guide to a first-time trip to …

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Free things to do in Amish Country, Ohio with kids

Amish Country, Ohio offers many great attractions, but not all of them are easy on the wallet! As a mom of 3, I frequently take my children to the place I grew up, Holmes County, and play tourist. However, I visit without the tourist budget! Sometimes traveling on a budget requires some creativity, and here is my advice for things to do in Amish Country with kids that are FREE. Take a scenic drive on the Amish Country Byway Looking …

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Reliable Richmond – This small, Indiana city packs a big punch for families

Things to do in Richmond, Indiana with kids I’ve traveled to Richmond, Indiana twice in the past year and both times I’ve been impressed with the number of things there are to do in the small city. Richmond has plenty of museums and parks, a thriving mural scene, and delicious dining options. Maybe my favorite thing about Richmond is how friendly the locals are – full of Midwestern hospitality and willing to help visitors. Located approximately 75 miles east of …

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A whistle-stop tour of the USA’s best train car and depot lodging

Whether you have a thing for trains, or just want to wow the family, train car hotels and renovated depots are a fun way to spice up your vacation plans! With the popularity of Airbnb, more and more restored trains and cabooses are hitting the tourism market. Here’s a rundown of some of the best train cars and depot hotels – perfect for the train enthusiast or the kid who just likes Thomas the Train. The Chattanooga Choo-Choo – Chattanooga, …

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History revealed at the Levi & Catharine Coffin House

Indiana’s Grand Central Station of the Underground Railroad Levi and Catharine Coffin were devout Quakers who believed slavery was antithetical to their faith. ?As a young boy of 7, Levi witnessed slaves being separated from their families and was terrified of the thought of his own father being separated from him. ?Levi Coffin grew, married Catharine Coffin, and moved to Indiana from North Carolina in 1926. It was after building their home in the little town of Fountain City, Indiana …

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