School is out, summer has arrived, and now the kids are home enjoying their freedom – for about fifteen minutes. Around this time of the year, “I’m bored!” is a common gripe heard by parents everywhere. One of the best ways to combat the summertime doldrums is traveling to see new and interesting places with your family. Everyone needs a vacation from time to time. Here are some destination ideas and travel tips to make your excursion as fun, educational and carefree as possible!

Where to Go?

With the price of gas increasing at an outrageous rate, extended road trips (or even airline flights) might prove to be expensive and difficult. Why not investigate something remarkable to do close to your area? Take a bike ride to a local park for a picnic, visit a nearby zoo/museum, or sign up for a “how it’s made” factory tour (which is both fascinating and instructive – many factories offer this opportunity). Not sure what there is to do around your home? Visit www.localattractions.com for more ideas.

Go outside! If you plan on splurging, take a vacation to one of our country’s picturesque national parks. Kids love camping, hiking, trail riding, and canoeing through the beautiful landscapes. It’s a terrific way to get in touch with nature. Make sure to pack sunscreen!
It could also be fun to explore “the big city”. Exploring urban areas can be fascinating for kids and parents alike – take a ride on the subway, visit an aquarium, or try new family restaurants. Consider the sights and sounds of New York, Chicago, Boston, Washington D.C., or San Francisco!

Travel Tips

This might be a no-brainer, but always remember to call ahead to your destination – even if you don’t need reservations! There may be information about parking fees or operating hours that you will want to be aware of.

Is a long car ride involved? Keeping everyone busy and content can be tricky. Pass the time with sing-a-longs, counting or guessing games, you can even let older kids help with directions by giving them a map. Or, take travel kits with snacks, crayons, and books. Visit www.momsminivan.com for other suggestions.

Give kids their own (inexpensive) disposable cameras and allow them to become photographers! It keeps them occupied and interested in their surroundings. When these pictures are developed, they will have great souvenirs.

Remember to be flexible and have a great time!

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2008 at 10:09 am and is filed under Newsletter, tips, activities. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.