Father – Son Road Trip: A review of the Frontier Culture Museum and Natural Bridge Park, VA9/4/2014 by Jay WilliamsonShe left us.
Alone. For the weekend. And not just any weekend, but Labor Day weekend – marking the end of summer and the start of school, possibly the longest of the long weekends. The boys have already done many of the things on Kid Trips’ list of 100 things for Kids to Do in Northern Virginia this summer. I hate traffic, bridges, tolls, tunnels, and any highway ending with a “5.” I need a plan, something epic and worthy of the weekend. A place that will leave them too tired to notice 4 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in a row. I sit down at my computer and open my saved pages to Virginia.org’s list of 11 Award-Winning Virginia Craft Breweries. I think to myself that this may be the most important list I’ll read all month. Reading further I discover the Virginia has four craft beer trails. Devils Backbone Brewing Company and Blue Mountain Brewery both seem like great destinations for a father-son road trip. Unfortunately, while my boys aren’t old enough to drink, they are also too young to drive me home. I need to focus and find something fast, before they wake up. Staring at the map I see my opportunity in the mountains, just off Route 81.
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By Amy SuskiOur family has been visiting Assateague beach for decades, but it was only in the last four years that we discovered the simple pleasures of staying on its neighboring island Chincoteague, Virginia. You may know Chincoteague as the inspiration for Marguerite Henry's classic book Misty of Chincoteague, but it is also one of the best, most affordable places for a family beach vacation on the eastern shore and was rated the #1 Happiest Seaside Town in 2014 by Coastal Living Magazine. To found out why, read on for Top 10 things my family loves about Chincoteague.
By Heather Lataille Imagine a circus that is easy to get to, ample free parking, and everyone has the same ringside view. The Flying Circus Aerodrome and Air Show in Bealton, VA is just such a place. It offers a wonderful day of family fun every Sunday from May through October. It’s a relaxing 90 minute car ride away going west on 66 from the District line (use “5114 Ritchie Road” in the GPS). The show starts at 2:20pm, lasts about 90 minutes, and you won’t want miss any part of it. On our arrival just after the start of the show, we were greeted by a boy offering to guide us to the appropriate ticket window. Tickets cost $15/adult, $7.00 /child aged 5-12, and children 5 & under are free. As we rolled down the window, the car was filled with the smell of pasture. We were quickly distracted by the first plane to take off. We - mom, dad, big brother (4) and little brother (1 ½) - hurried to gather our things for the short walk to the airfield: the stroller; plenty of water; hats; sunglasses; sunscreen; camera; phones; chairs; and snacks. Bring cash for Fifi’s Cafe if you want to re-live the Hawaiian honeymoon with shave ice. We moved quickly to the main event. The spectators lined chairs along the wooden cow fence that divided them from the airfield. The experienced ones had umbrellas to shade them from the summer sun. Others occupied the wooden bleachers provided by the Circus. Several biplanes parked on the field about the size of two football fields. Others had their engines on and propellers spinning. The master of ceremonies fit the part. At times I felt that I was living in the Midwest in the 1950s watching pilots that were my neighbors. This show was authentic, and unlike other circuses I’ve been to, I didn’t feel like I ever needed to cover my children’s eyes or ears. The depth of information made the show feel like a visit to a museum but was as enjoyable as a day at a theme park With each act, there was something new. A parachutist opened the show as we all sang the national anthem. My children loved watching the biplanes compete to see which of them could pop more balloons with their propellers. Acrobatic flying was my favorite part of the show and Scott Francis is definitely as good or better on the stick than the “Blue Angels.” On the day we went, it was also the first day of a hot air balloon festival, which was an added bonus. It was completely awesome to watch the individual balloon teams inflate their balloons and take off. The scene was out of the “Wizard of Oz” and made me feel like a kid again. During the show, the M.C. passed off the mic to one of the captains of the teams and we learned the history of hot air ballooning and how it works. Don’t miss the chance to meet all of the pilots after the show. Ask them questions they have probably heard a million times because you don’t know the answers. It feels so much better than asking Google, and think of the example you are giving your kids. The miniature plane ride (picture a tractor pulling child-sized bi-planes) only costs $1.00 and is great for younger children. Before you leave, make sure to climb on the gigantic mound of turned earth on the south side of the airfield. We didn’t purchase tickets for the individual plane rides ($50-$140) before or after the show, but we definitely will plan to take the kids to do that when they are older. Children 5 and up will love this show. If you want to make this trip even more memorable, check out a few aviation-themed books from the library a couple weeks before you plan to go. Both of these books: “Night Flight: Amelia Earhart Crosses the Atlantic” and “To Fly: The Story of the Wright Brothers” fit the theme. You could also download Little Mammoth Media’s “The Big Air Show” to get a preview of what lies ahead. The Flying Circus in Bealton, Virginia allows you to get closer to the action than many of the larger shows, and is an outing you and your family are not going to forget. About the Author: Heather Lataille is training to be a Montessori Guide for children from birth to 3. She runs Planes Child Care from her home in Falls Church by Claudine Kurp The Getaway It has been a hectic summer with a busy 9-year-old and an active toddler. With my husband’s work schedule and a young child that seems to be allergic to travel, I threw my hands up at the idea of an extended vacation. Still, this was my 10-year wedding anniversary and I wanted to do something special for this milestone occasion.
When I secured a sitter for an overnight trip, I started looking into local options for a quick getaway. I considered Annapolis, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and the beautiful Virginia countryside. Through some friends, I discovered a gorgeous destination, Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, VA. After doing some research on the resort, I was a little surprised that this jewel wasn’t more widely known. With my due diligence complete on hotel options, I booked a room and planned for a dreamy, albeit quick, visit to Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, Virginia. by Micaela Williamson This past spring, my children and I went to Busch Gardens Williamsburg to check out the new London Rocks show and spend the day going on some of our favorite rides. My 4 1/2 year old was so excited, but when it was time to get measured, he received the dreaded striped bracelet. Yes, he was 41 inches...just one inch under the 42 inches requirement to go on a lot of the "big kid" rides. I was alone with my kids so there was no way to "divide and conquer" with my spouse. Luckily, Busch Gardens Williamsburg has some great ride options for the whole family to enjoy together. There's no need for older siblings to be bored! Here are our top five favorite ones: Elephant RunLocated in Festa Italia, this ride is actually pretty fast and fun. Note, it changes names to "Reindeer Run" during Christmas Town. Everyone will be laughing out loud! Rider Requirements: Must be 38" to ride alone; Walking to 38" must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Hand-held infants are not permitted to ride. Le ScootThis classic log flume ride is thrilling with a couple of big drops but still safe and fun for younger children seeking a little more adventure. Insider tip: the front of the boat gets wetter than the back! This ride is only open in during the spring and summer seasons. Rider requirements: Walking to 46" can ride with a supervising adult. Grover's Alpine ExpressWhen we were there, we saw teenagers riding this! Even though it's located in the Sesame Street area, this is a great beginner roller coaster that still picks up enough speed for older children to enjoy. My kids wanted to go on it multiple times in a row! Rider requirements: Children 38" and taller may ride with a supervising companion ages 14 and older, and children 41" and taller may ride alone. Der WirbelwindSoar above the park and reach some serious height! Der Wirbelwind boasts special double swings where a parent and smaller child can sit together. The smaller child is secure with an extra harness, similar to a child's car seat. If you are not afraid of heights, this is a great one to try. Rider requirements: Children 40"-48" must be accompanied by a supervising companion and ride in the double swing; 48" or taller can ride alone. Le Catapult Looking like you may crash into the wall is part of the fun! Riders are jolted around on this take on an amusement park classic. Definitely expect a lot of giggles! Rider requirements: Children walking to 46" must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Those 48" or taller can ride alone. There are many more rides, attractions, and shows at Busch Gardens Williamsburg for those not tall enough for or those not interested in the thrill rides. This list is just a sampling of rides older and younger kids may enjoy experiencing together. For more information, please visit the official Busch Gardens Williamsburg website. Disclosure: I am an official blogger and ambassador with Busch Gardens Williamsburg. My family receives free admission and special perks for sharing our experiences. All opinions are my own. by Micaela Williamson We were honored to be featured as a great family resource by Laura Evans on Fox 5 Washington DC. Watch the clip. Our favorite part was when she mentioned our book is a great gift for baby showers, grandparents, and new families.
Nothing beats picking this sweet summer favorite right off the tree, and we've got a list of local farms with pick-your-own options for families that is well, just peachy! Some of these farms offer events, hayrides, children's activities and more. We recommend visiting their websites for information. Baugher's Orchard 1015 Baugher Road (GPS Address) Westminster, MD 21158 Take a wagon ride out to the orchard to pick your own peaches, and be sure to stop by the farm store for unique country gifts, goodies, and homemade ice cream. Kids can visit the petting zoo to meet and feed animals such as alpacas, llamas, chickens, pigs, peacocks, lambs, goats and more. Plus, there is no need to pack a picnic. Visitors and locals alike will enjoy the full service restaurant boasting great country breakfasts, lunches, and dinners served daily. Great Country Farms 18780 Foggy Bottom Road Bluemont, VA 20135 Pick peaches and enjoy all the fun families love and expect from Great Country Farms such as the hayrides, cow train, barnyard animals, giant slides, jumping pillow and more. Be sure to check out the Dog Day's Peach Festival in August where Fido is invited to join in the fun. Admission to the farm includes a free tasting at the adjacent Bluemont Vineyards, which is a win-win for parents. Hartland Orchard 3064 Hartland Lane Markham, VA 22643 An old, family working farm near the scenic Skyline Drive. Pick your own peaches and take a day trip to other local attractions. Hollin Farms 1436 Snowden Road Delaplane, VA 20144 A beautiful, rustic, family-owned farm with peaches available in July and August. Mackintosh Fruit Farm 1608 Russell Rd Berryville, VA 22611 A great farm with lots of pick-your-own produce and peaches, including a fun Peach Festival in the beginning of August. There is a large country store and some mega playgrounds for the kids. Stribling Orchard 1587 Poverty Hollow Lane Markham, VA 22643 Situated among breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic farm has delicious pick-your-own fruit, historic buildings, farm animals, and lots of picnic areas. Westmoreland Berry Farm & Market 1235 Berry Farm Lane Oak Grove, VA 22443 Besides the great crops and a country store stocked with yummy fare and local gifts, families will love the overhead goat walk, children's play zone and weekend hayrides. Bring a picnic or try their famous pulled pork BBQ sandwich! Always check the venue's website and social media pages for the latest pick-your-own information. Do you have a great place to add? Please tell us...we'd love to know! Email us the farm's name, address, website and details in the format of the entries above, and we will add it to the list On the northern tip of Loudoun County, VA, near Harpers Ferry, WV sits a breathtaking place for families to engage in exciting adventures. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a mini-vacation, Harpers Ferry Adventure Center offers tons of family-fun for a variety of levels and ages such as: Adventure Park: a three-level high challenge course with over 50 cable and rope bridges and ziplines, a low level for kids 5-12 who are at least 36" tall, and middle and upper levels for those 10 and older who are at least 48” tall. White Water Rafting: (must be at least 5 yrs old & 50 lbs.) An awesome half day trip offered for beginners on a beautiful 7 mile stretch of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. Enjoy Class I-III rapids, get active, and view some wildlife. All trips include: the raft, a guide, PFD (Personal Flotation Device), helmet, paddle, beverage during the trip, and shuttle to and from the river. Water Tubing: Choose from Flat Water Tubing (must be at least 5 years old & 50 lbs,) White Water Tubing (ages 12 plus) or do a combo of both. Water tubing is one of Harpers Ferry Adventure Center's signature activities and the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day! Kayaking: Kayak on the white water on an inflatable kayak dubbed a "Duckie" (must be 10 years and older) or paddle at your own pace on the flat water (ages 12 and up.) Canoeing: Paddle on the Potomac River alongside the historic C&O Canal towpath, Half and full day trips are offered, participants must be at least 5 yrs old and 50 lbs. Zip Line Tours: Play in the treetops and experience the best zip lining in WV! Tours include 7 ziplines and a skybridge. Must be 6 years old and 60 lbs to participate. Special rates offered for kids. Off Road Segway Tours: Teens and adults will love testing their balance and coordination in this fun tour complete with an obstacle course and mountain trip. Plus, Segways are less damaging to natural terrain than hiking boats, so the beautiful ride is also eco friendly! Camping: Extend your adventure by staying at one of the premium riverside camp sites Cabin Rentals: Prefer not to stay in a tent, try staying in a scenic mountainside cabin. Other family friendly activities offered include horseback riding, the giant jumping pillow, hiking, rock-climbing and fishing. We love that Harpers Ferry Adventure Center is just an hour from DC, rates are affordable, and the facilities are award-winning and top-notch. Plus, they are located just 1/4 mile from the river which cuts transportation time down to a minimum. Harpers Ferry Adventure Center 37291 Jefferson Pike Purcellville, VA 20132 540-668-9007 http://harpersferryadventurecenter.com Pictures are courtesy of Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, All rights reserved.
Harpers Ferry Adventure Center is a sponsor of our website. All opinions are our own. We frequently get emails from fans on a budget asking what are the best FREE things to do with kids in the Northern Virginia area this summer. We channeled our inner David Letterman and created this exclusive top ten list. Enjoy!
by Micaela and Jay WilliamsonSkyland Resort Skyline Drive Luray, VA 22835 http://www.goshenandoah.com/ I want a show. Can I have the iPad, please? I want to see another video clip. You’re unlikely to hear this at the Skyland Resort at mile 42.5 in Shenandoah National Park. Okay, so wireless service is delightfully spotty, but we recently stayed in one of their newly renovated rooms featuring large screen TVs, new bedding, and updated bathrooms and are happy to report our kids were too tired from adventuring to even try to wear us down with their badgering. Skyland Resort started out as a summer retreat in 1888 and continues to offer visitors respite from the heat, congestion, and noise. The resort is situated within Shenandoah National Park on Skyline Drive and offers amazing views toward the West. The Resort opens in March and has a variety of accommodations ranging from small, rustic cabins to more traditional rooms. We stayed in a traditional room and enjoyed our mountain views and quick walk to the Pollock Dining Room. Skyland has three dining options, the Pollack Dining Room, the Mountain Taproom, and a Grab and Go option. The menus are available on-line but the biggest highlights are the incredible view from the Pollack Dining Room and the mountain-sized “Mile High Blackberry Ice Cream Pie.” Finishing it may have been the hardest climb of the day! During the summer there is also live entertainment in the Taproom, usually starting at 9:00 PM.
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