The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia is one of the best hands‑on science museums in the country — a place where you can easily spend an entire day exploring interactive exhibits, watching live science demonstrations, and enjoying a show in the planetarium. During our visit, my teenage son spent a long time in Wondrous Space, diving…
I’ve been trying to visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum for years. Every time I’m in Los Angeles, I tell myself, “This is the trip I finally make it happen.” But LA is a lot bigger than you think. Simi Valley sits about 1.5 hours from Disneyland — in good traffic — so…
When my wife and two of our teenage sons visited Stockholm in April, one of the highlights of our trip was exploring the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet). It’s one of Europe’s largest palaces still used for official royal duties, and stepping inside felt like walking through centuries of Swedish history. If you’re planning a trip…
Planning a Disneyland vacation is exciting — but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. Between choosing the right hotel, figuring out ticket options, comparing prices, and trying to time your visit just right, there’s a lot to juggle. Over the years, I’ve booked Disneyland trips in several different ways: directly through Disney, directly…
I haven’t yet had the chance to take one of Marcus’s new Jeep tours in Leavenworth — but I have adventured with him before. Years ago, I joined one of his excursions along the reverse road to Hana, and it remains one of the most memorable, scenic, and downright fun experiences I’ve ever had in…
Philadelphia is packed with iconic museums, hands‑on science exhibits, historic neighborhoods, and family‑friendly attractions. If you’re planning your first trip to the city — especially with kids or teens — the Philadelphia CityPASS is one of the easiest ways to save money in Philadelphia while checking off several must‑see spots. It works the same way…
If you’ve ever pulled a nickel out of your pocket, you’ve already seen Monticello — the iconic domed building on the back of the coin is the same one you’ll stand in front of when you visit Thomas Jefferson’s home in Charlottesville, Virginia. I had the chance to explore Monticello while serving as a parent…
The Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Waterbury is one of Vermont’s most iconic stops — a colorful, quirky, flavor‑filled experience that blends history, behind‑the‑scenes fun, and plenty of sweet samples. Whether you’re road‑tripping through New England or planning a family getaway, this tour delivers the perfect mix of storytelling, nostalgia, and ice‑cream‑powered joy. In…
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History sits right on Independence Mall, making it an easy and meaningful stop for anyone exploring Philadelphia’s historic district. The museum shares the stories, struggles, achievements, and everyday lives of Jewish Americans from the colonial era to today. Its permanent exhibition spans four floors, each one arranged chronologically…
The American Heritage Museum is filled with more than 80 tanks, armored vehicles, and major artifacts. In fact, several of them are the only ones publicly viewable in North America. The museum is a must‑visit for history buffs, families, and anyone who wants to step inside the stories of America’s conflicts. My visit to the…
