Travel

Best Places to Visit Near Disneyland

Ah, Disney, the land of magic and where dreams really do come true. If you are visiting Disney and have a few extra days of vacation time, think about visiting these really cool places. The adventure doesn’t have to stop with fairy tale princess and Mickey.

Medieval Times

Knights, horses, jousting, and dinner served that you have to eat with your hands. Medieval Times is an amazing place to take your family.

Before the show starts, you can buy shields, swords, or pretty headdresses for your girls.

There are a few different packages to choose from to maximize your family’s experience.

There are shows year round and they have recently added a new show featuring the princess who is now Queen. So, if you’ve seen the old show before, this is a chance to see a whole new one.

You can buy tickets at the door but it is recommended to buy them in advance just in case the show happens to sell out on the day that you go.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

Put on your hiking shoes! Oak Canyon Nature center has 4 miles of hiking trails where you can see native wildlife.

Also located here is the John J. Collier Interpretive Center which is a museum that has live animal and natural history exhibition.

You can visit a museum and hike all in one place, isn’t that neat?

Best of all, and this will make parents extremely happy, entrance to the nature center is free!

Honda Center

Bored and waiting in your hotel room trying to find something to do with your family? Take a trip to the Honda Center and catch a hockey or basketball game!

If you don’t like hockey or basketball they also have concerts.

There are parking fees and you have to have tickets.

You could also take a guided or self-guided tour.

Dave & Buster’s

Food, fun, and games. Dave & Busters has it all. Send your children off to the arcade while you and your spouse relax during happy hour.

The arcade isn’t just for the kids. They have classic games like skee-ball and Pac-man, so you can let your inner child out too.

This just might be the second happiest place on earth next to Disney.

So, keep the fun going and stop by Dave & Busters.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Get prepared to scream! Knott’s Berry Farm is not a farm where you can pick berries of all kinds, like it’s name might suggest. It’s an amusement park.

They have a water park so it would be the perfect place to cool off during the summer while still having a lot of fun.

They also have shows like comedy, live bands, and musicals.

If you love roller coasters and having a thrill, this is the place take your family.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

If you thought arcade games would bring out your inner child, what about trampolines?

Do you remember trying to do flips and tricks in your parents backyard and feeling immense amounts of joys when you stuck the landing?

Sky Zone has a lot of attractions and programs to choose from; Ultimate Dodgeball, Skyslam, and Skyjoust just to name a few.

There are many different pricing options; it all depends on what you want to do.

A nice little promotion they are offering is the Disneyland discount. It is only valid for up to 4 jumpers but you get 20% off, so that’s nice if you’re trying to save a little bit of cash and you’re looking for places to visit after going to Disneyland.

So, if you’re looking to go back to the era of knights, kings and jousting or to have a picnic at the Nature Center, there’s always something fun to do other than just going to Disneyland.

Get out, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Free Places to Visit in Springfield, IL

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Free Places to Visit in Springfield, IL

Are you traveling to or through Illinois? Is the only city you’ve ever been to Chicago because it’s really the only city ever talked about? How about traveling just a little further to get to Springfield and have some free fun for you and the family?

Illinois State Capitol Building

If you’re in Springfield, you might as well visit the State Capitol Building. The dome is breathtaking and is definitely a must-see.

An interesting fact about the building is it is the 6th building to serve as the capitol building.

The website offers a ton of information on the present building and some history on the capitol buildings preceding the current one.

Free tours are giving all day except during normal lunch hours (12pm-1pm). You can also go on self-guided tours.

Old State Capitol

If you visit the New Capitol Building, you must visit the old one, for the sake of comparison. Abraham Lincoln used the old one until the city outgrew the building. From there the new capitol building was eventually erected in Springfield.

See where Abe Lincoln tried cases and spent a lot of his time.

A piece of history that has been preserved for future generations.

There are tours throughout the day with the last one starting 45 minutes before closing.

Washington Park

The Washington Park is over 1000 years old.

You can play tennis in the center of the park or take your kids to the playground.

The Washington Park Botanical Gardens and Rees Memorial Carillon are also located here. You have 150 acres to explore of the park and it is free to enter.

Have a day of relaxation at the Washington Park, you deserve it.

Lincoln Memorial Garden

As you have probably already guessed, President Abraham Lincoln was really popular in Illinois; it is his birthplace after all. It only makes sense that there are a lot of things named after him.

Free admission and free parking are available at this location.

100 acres to explore included 6 miles of trails through prairies, woodlands and wetlands, so wear proper foot gear.

There is a pond, footbridges, and eight stone council rings that have amazing views of the lake.

If you like good views, hiking trails, and looking at nature, stop by on your trip.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Have you ever wanted to visit the actual home that famous people and/or presidents lived in?

You will be able to enter and look around the home that Abraham Lincoln and his family resided in for nearly 18 years.

Admission is free but there are tickets that are sold on a first come, first serve basis.

Governor’s Mansion

A historic landmark and living museum, preserved through the last 150 years so history curious people can see and imagine what things were like in the past.

Self-guided tours are not permitted. The tours are led by professionally trained staff and volunteers.

The building is a beautiful piece of architecture that you just have to see in person.

Public tours are limited to 15 people per group. Visitors over 16 must have some kind of government issued identification.

Groups that have under 15 people can walk up without a ticket during tour hours.

Whether you’re looking to visit historical buildings or sites or walk through parks, these are just a few of the many different places that you can visit while you are in Springfield, Illinois.

Free Places to Visit in Springfield, MO

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Free Places to Visit in Springfield, MO

Next stop, Springfield, Missouri, where family, friends, and countless unforgettable moments are celebrated. If you are looking to visit at any time in the near future and you are trying to save a little bit of cash, here are some places that you can go to for free (or for really cheap):

Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center

We will start our adventure at the Route 66 Visitor Center.

If you’re new to the area, it is the best place to stop by first. They will provide maps, guides, directions, and a lot of other information to ensure that you can see and experience all of the fun things Springfield has to offer.

Location: 815 E. St. Louis St., Suite 100, Springfield, MO

Springfield Botanical Gardens

Next on our list of places to visit in the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. With 113 acres to explore, you will have to come back on your next trip; there is so much to see and do here.

With dozens of gardens with many different flowers, walking trails, and Dr. Bill K. Roston’s Butterfly House, you will never get bored.

The park also connects to many walking trails.

Wear your best outdoor shoes and gear because you’ll want to stay awhile.

Location: 2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is located at the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park.

It is only open from April through October, which means it is the perfect weather to take a stroll. Shorts, t-shirt, and good walking shoes, what better way to take a stroll through a Japanese garden?

Here you can view a koi lake, a Japanese tea house, and the traditional landscaping over 7.5 acres. If you’ve ever wanted to go to Japan but can’t find the funds, this is the place to go get that tranquil Japanese feeling.

It’s also the Park’s oldest attraction.

It is a beautiful place and would be a good place to take children so they can witness some of the beauty that is Japanese culture.

Askinosie Chocolate

Ah, chocolate. A decadent candy, bringing smiles to millions of people every day.

While they offer a tour of their factory, it is not free but tickets cost no more than $5 for adults and $4 for children.

It would be a great place to take your family. You get to see how they make their chocolate, sample some delicious treats along the way, and get a 10% discount in their store afterwards (only valid for the day of the tour).

It’s almost like going on a real-life Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory tour, only without all of the odd side effects.

Location: 514 E. Commercial Springfield, MO

Archery Hall of Fame

How many sports can you name that have a Hall of Fame? How many famous people can you name that have a spot on the wall in the Hall of Fame of their respective sports?

The Archery Hall of Fame came to life in the early 1970’s when a group of archers threw out the idea years before.

It’s a preservation of history and history has an amazing story to tell. Archery is one of those lesser talked about sports but one that should still have it’s story told.

Archery is a kind of elegant sport, quiet and smooth.

Stop by and walk through decades of archers and read about how they shaped the sport.

Location: 1935 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO -Upper Floor of the Bass Pro Outdoor World

Battle of Springfield Tour

Take a walk through history with the Battle of Springfield Tour.

The Battle of Springfield was a battle fought during the civil war in 1863.

The tour is self-guided and free.

Wouldn’t it be interesting to see history that happened 200 years ago up close and personal?

Located in downtown Springfield.

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

One last place where you can enjoy the great outdoors. They offer tours, bird watching, and over 3 miles of trails to hike.

You can learn about the wildlife and plants of Springfield.

Conservation Centers are the best places to get educated about the wildlife and plants of the are you are in.

Location: 4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield, MO

So, whether you’re just passing through Springfield or planning a vacation, these are just some of the places that you could enjoy.

Free Places to Visit in Louisville

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Free Places to Visit in Louisville

When you think of Kentucky, the first words that come to mind may be the Kentucky Derby that is held in Louisville. But if you aren’t much of a horse racing fan, what else is there to do in Louisville? There’s actually a lot of things to do, from visiting museums of all kinds to walking through scenic parks. Below is a short list of things you can do and to make it all much more appealing, everything is free!

Speed Art Museum

This museum is only free on Sundays. There are 4 different options to choose from in the self-guided activities:

Gallery Guides are full of games and suggestions.

See Stop Sketch provides you will all of the drawing materials you need to sketch.

Family Bags are geared towards children ages 2-10.

Slow Down at the Speed is an audio programs that gives you one-on-one time with a piece of artwork.

This museum offers something for everyone!

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a public park so do you know what that means? Free admission! While there is one parking lot that requires you to pay (The Blue Wharf), all the others are free.

Are you planning to visit during the summer? If so, hop on over to the Adventure Playground/Waterplay Area. Your children will have fun jumping through water cannons and running through the spray misters.

The Children’s Play Area has three areas close together for different age groups.

There are, of course, other things to do here but they will cost a fee like taking a ride on the Scream Machine or taking a kayak tour.

Big 4 Bridge Waterfront Park

The Big 4 Pedestrian Bridge connects Waterfront Park to Jefferson, Indiana from over the Ohio River.

Admission is, you guessed it, free! The bridge is about 2 miles round trip from one end to the other.

A local author put together 2 activities about the bridge and the Ohio River.

It is a major tourist attraction and it doesn’t cost a dime to visit.

Another good think about the bridge is that it is open 24/7.

Whether you’re looking to have a romantic stroll or have your kids run back and forth from one state to the other, this scenic bridge should be one of your stops while visiting Waterfront Park and Louisville.

If being in 2 states at once which an amazing view doesn’t entice you to this location, what will?

21c Museum Hotel

Free and open to the public every day, 365 days a year is the 21c Museum and hotel. While you do have to pay to stay at the hotel, of course, the museum admission itself won’t cost you anything.

We’ve all heard of Michelangelo’s David, right? Right outside is a larger than life replica.

This museum features contemporary art. Guided tours are offered on Wednesday and Friday at 5pm.

Galleries are open every day and the exhibits rotate so there will always be something new and fresh to view and learn about.

More than 9,000 square feet of exhibition space so that’s a lot of art to look at.

Louisville Nature Center

Flowers, trees, butterflies, nature, and free admission. The Louisville Nature Center (LNC) has it all.

Hike through the Beargrass Creek State Nature Preserve.

Take pictures at the wildflower garden and pond.

Walk through gardens that attract beautiful butterflies.

The LNC is a great place for relaxation. They also have wildlife and Beargrass Creek exhibits.

If you want to cool off during the summer at Waterfront Park, view butterflies, birds, and flowers, or visit a contemporary museum, Louisville is waiting for you.

Free Places to Visit in St Louis

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Free Places to Visit in St. Louis

Saint Louis, Missouri. The Gateway City. One of the only cities to have a wealth of free activities; from museums to zoos. A great place to plan a family trip and save a lot of money. Below you will find just a few of many different places that offer free admission in the beautiful city that is St. Louis

The Muny

The Muny is an outdoor musical theatre. If you are a fan of going to musicals like Footloose, Cinderella, or Matilda, this is the perfect place to bring your family to get some musical enjoyment. The last nine rows of the theater offer free seating but it is on a first come, first serve basis so arrive early so you can get the best free seats in the house

Missouri History Museum

What’s a family trip without learning a little bit of history about the place you are visiting? They have many exhibits available throughout the year and also some special ones for a limited time. Curb your curiosity with free admission to the museum.

Delmar Loop

The Delmar Loop is one of the most unique places to visit! You’ll love the chill vibe, and there’s plenty for the whole family to do. I love Fitz’s for the rootbeer (you can even watch and see them making it), and there’s no shortage of local restaurants to eat at. Lots of art to view and tons of photo opps make Delmar Loop a must-see.

Contemporary Art Museum

Love art? Stop by the Contemporary Art Museum to get a taste of the art Saint Louis has to offer. They offer many different types of tours; audio, spotlight, first-friday, and stroller tours, perfect for families that have infants and toddlers, so there is a tour for everyone.

Saint Louis Zoo

Does your local zoo cost you $20 per person to enter? Do your kids ask you to go to the zoo almost every week but they don’t want to go to the local one? The Saint Louis Zoo may be the perfect place to take them. How does free admission sound? Make your children and your wallet scream with joy. You’ll both enjoy the over 16,000 animals the zoo takes care of!

Saint Louis Science Center

Are your kids going through a science phase? The one where they’re asking about space and dinosaurs and planets and everything science related? Does free admission to a science center sound pleasing enough to take a trip to Saint Louis? If so, St. Louis Science Center will be great for your curious child.

There’s everything to gain and nothing to lose. Save yourself getting the Google run-around and visit the Science Center on your next family trip.

Grand Center Arts District

Home to over 60 art and cultural organizations, 16 theaters, 10 music venues, etc., is the Grand Center Arts District. They offer a walking tour of about 2 hours that will take you over 2 miles of art and cultural landmarks. No matter how many times you visit, there will always be something new to see, do and enjoy.

Saint Louis Art Museum

Art is one way we can see into the past. What you interpret from it is up to you, which makes art fun. What you see may not be what someone else sees. You could even take your child here to see what they interpret from the picture.

Admission is free every day. They also offer a free one-hour tour every day.

If you love learning about different cultures, viewing art, watching amazing musicals, seeing animals and saving money, St. Louis is calling.

10 Travel Activities For Kids

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10 Travel Activities For Kids

Do you find yourself dreading even thinking about traveling with kids? Long or short road trips with kids aren’t always fun fests. But they are doable, and yes can even be enjoyable! Here are some fun activities to keep the kids busy and not saying, “Are we there yet?” a million times!

Dry erase markers and a glove. Where would we be in this world if it was not for dry erase markers? One of the best inventions and here is another great use for them! Let the kids draw on the windows with dry erase markers. (Be sure they know not to write anywhere except the windows)! And you don’t have to worry about the “I lost my eraser”, the gloves are perfect because they will always have it on their hand.

Pipe cleaners. What creations can be made with pipe cleaners? The possibilities are endless, especially the imagination of children. You can find a jumbo bag on Amazon for cheap!

Dollar store toys. This is a great incentive for good behavior. Go to the local dollar store and purchase some dollar items to wrap in gift wrap. Activity books, cars, action figures, stickers, dry erase board, mini dolls and card games are just a few ideas. For each hour (maybe half hour in same cases) let him/her choose a prize to unwrap.

Make a busy board. This is more for younger kids. At a younger age, children are so curious about how things work. This busy board will keep the child entertained while they are learning the skills to make buttons and snaps work.

Car colors. Who can find all the different colors of cars first? Great activity for all to play. Print a few sheets out and laminate each one so they are reusable. Mark off a car color as you see them with a dry erase marker.

I Spy. Super fun printable! I Spy Bingo! You can also laminate this printable also and use bingo markers to dab your spots!

Mad Libs. Time to get creative! We love Mad Libs! See how interesting and unique you can make your story! There is even a Mad Libs On Road edition!

Glow Sticks. If you’re on the road at night, break out the glow sticks. You can get a pack of 25 of them on Amazon for less than $.60 each. These lights won’t distract the driver, and the kids will still have fun.

License Plate Game. You cannot have a road trip without playing the License Plate Game! Laminate these and you have a fun game for the way to and from!

Keep A Journal. Start it as soon as you leave your house. Write down each stop you make, the towns/cities you go through. Jot down how long in between towns. If you stop to check out landmarks, take a brochure and keep in your journal. Don’t stop once you’ve reached your destination; write in your journal all the way back home.

One more important thing to take on road trips…. SNACKS! “Hangry” kids are no fun! With these 10 fun activities, kids should stay entertained and not have to bicker with one another (fingers crossed)! Safe travels!