This spring, we took a trip to Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena, Illinois and found ways to accommodate those shifts and provide lots of opportunities for family fun, too. Here are 7 truths about traveling with teens and tweens that I learned (or relearned) there.
Location, location, location
With academic pressure at an all-time high, including prepping for standardized tests and AP exams, and a very busy school schedule, we didn’t have time to go far, but we all still very much needed a break from our quotidian routines.
My great-grandmother always said a change was as good as a rest. My whole family needed a break and a change of scene, and we got it in Galena. The historic town is on the Mississippi River, just under three hours away for Chicago. It was a perfect distance. We felt like we had traveled and had fun discovering new places, but we always didn’t spend all our time on the road.
It was also a great reminder that not all vacations have to involve travel to far-off, exotic places. There’s fun to be had pretty much anywhere. In teen parlance, there are great Instagram pics to be snapped wherever you go.
Teens need space (and so do parents)
We typically share a hotel room when we travel and while that’s feasible, the older my teen gets, the trickier it becomes. She needs space. We as parents need space. Hearing her talk in her sleep was cute when she was little, but now it feels like a weird invasion of her privacy at 3 a.m.
A little breathing room goes a long way.
At Eagle Ridge we stayed in a two bedroom villa, and we all adored the set up. Not only were there two bedrooms, each bedroom was on a separate floor. Even better, there was a bathroom next to each. Not only was it more enjoyable, it was more efficient for getting ready in the morning.
Follow your teen’s lead
On our way to Galena, we saw a billboard for a shop named Poopsies. I admit that I judged by the name. I was dubious and thought that it wouldn’t be a great place for my husband. But my teen was determined we’d go. Turns out, she was absolutely right. All three of us loved it and found fun things that made us laugh and some great conversation starters.
Food is the way to your teen’s heart
A hungry teen isn’t pretty. Keeping adolescents well-fed is a key to happy family travels with teens. Stopping for pizza will almost always be met with a smile, and the pie we got from Paisanos Delizioso did not disappoint. Even better. we had some leftovers. We took full advantage of the villa’s refrigerator and microwave, which made for a great late night snack.
Also, teach kids to travel with their taste buds – try some local fare and take advantage of unique spots. Main Street in Galena has several, including Great American Popcorn Company and Root Beer Revelry, which was a unique little shop on Main Street with fun flights of root beer the whole family could enjoy.
You don’t always have to fight the phone
I’m a big believer in disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with each other. Teens, however, have mixed feelings. Sometimes they are relieved when they disconnect (tell them they can blame you if necessary). Other times, not so much.
On this weekend getaway, I decided not to make too much of a fuss ahead of time and just see how it played it out. Turned out that my teen was pretty judicious in her use of her phone, and was mostly interested in using the camera to capture the natural beauty of the area.
Her interest in taking some unique photos also led us to stop at a few places, like the old train station, that we may have bypassed.
It also raised her interest in Thunderbay Falls, a waterfall on the Eagle Ridge property that was especially lovely (and really loud, per its name).
Short can be sweet when vacationing with a teen
Ideally, we’d all have tons of time to take vacation and scheduling it would be breeze. In reality, however, our lives are busy. Not only are our schedules very full, our teens are often booked solid. You don’t have to have a solid week or more to enjoy a get away. A long weekend, or even a regular weekend, can be a great opportunity to recharge and reconnect with your kids.
Look for deals
Raising adolescents is expensive, so take advantage of deals whenever you can, like right now.
If you want to check out Eagle Ridge yourself, they are offering a special deal for Between Us Readers. You can get a $129 rate per Standard Inn room per night (plus tax and resort fee), Sunday through Thursday only, now through July 31st, 2019. Get the details and book here.
I was not compensated to write about Eagle Ridge – all opinions are my own or those of my family – but we did enjoy a hosted weekend there and are excited to return soon (and using that discount code)!
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As my teen draws nearer to high school graduation, there’s still so much to do before she launches into the world. While there are skills to be learned, of course, I keep coming back to all the travel I want to do before she leaves the nest. There are also so many places to see and destinations to check out together! I’m hopeful that we’ll be lifelong travel companions, but I’m a realist enough to know that our days of family trips are not infinite.
Here’s a list of places that are on our U.S. teen travel bucket list. They all offer a hefty dose of nature and it’s possible to have some adventurous outings, or take it easy, too.
Seattle
We’ve tried to experience many different areas of the country with my teen, but we’ve never made it to the Pacific Northwest. We’re looking to change that this summer. My teen is a big fan of Starbucks, so she’ll certainly appreciate the headquarters and the coffee culture vibe there. Pike Place Market is on my list, the Space Needle offers an amazing view, and the Museum of Pop Culture seems like a place we’ll all enjoy.
While Seattle is plenty in and of itself, the city is also a popular port. It’s the perfect place for reaching the next location on the list.
Alaska
We have a goal of making it to all 50 states, and I’m hoping we can make it to the Last Frontier by taking an Alaska cruise from Seattle. A cruise is a good way to see a few different parts of the state. Cruise ships also offer the opportunity to do your own thing or spend time together, or hit that perfect balance for you.
Marveling at glaciers and watching for whales together isn’t something you’ll soon forget, and if exploring rugged wilderness would get your teens blood pumping, there are lots of fun excursion options, from a kayak tour to rock climbing to hanging out with sled dogs.
Grand Canyon
Teens can lose their perspective, and I find that Mother Nature is particularly good at restoring it for them. She has a wonderful way of showing them (and all of us, really) that we are not the center of the universe while also reminding us that we are a small part of a beautiful world. The breathtaking views at the Grand Canyon impart those lessons in a truly stunning way.
There are opportunities to be adventurous, but you can also just take in the beauty if that’s more your speed.
The UP (Upper Peninsula) of Michigan
The Mackinac Bridge to get to the UP of Michigan is a man-made marvel, but the natural marvels steal the show. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is stunning and a friend who is a dad of teens also recommends Tahquamenon Falls State Park. I think there’s something amazing about going somewhere off the beaten path, a destination that involves a bit of a journey to get there and isn’t right off a major interstate highway.
Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills
While teens may not be overly excited, this is one of those trips that they’ll remember. They can appreciate why those four presidents were the ones memorialized in this significant way. The Crazy Horse Memorial merits a visit, too, and the Black Hills are otherworldly.
Colorado
When I asked on the Between Us Parents Facebook page what locations should be on this list, Colorado was mentioned several times. And I couldn’t agree more. My teen and I took a trip to Vail last summer and it was amazing. (I even wrote about why Vail is the perfect summer destination for families with teens.) I also love that Colorado offers a lot of options. One mom suggested Telluride, another said Glenwood Hot Springs, and a few years ago we had a great trip to Colorado Springs where we did everything from the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center to Garden of the Gods to Pikes Peak to the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Hawaii
Hawaii is a dream for many, and it’s a really great place for families. It made me more adventurous than I ever thought I’d be – from zip lining to jumping off a waterfall – but it was also really relaxing, too. Read about things to do with teens and tweens on Oahu here. Next island on our list is Maui!
Muir Woods
It’s possible that this is on my bucket list, because I really want to see the redwood forest. While I’m selfish, I really think it would be a great sight for my teen to see. Thus, I was gratified to see a fellow parent suggest the redwoods. Muir Woods National Monument is near San Francisco, which is also a great place to visit with teens and tweens.
New York City
“He loved it” is how one mom described her teen’s trip to the Big Apple. My teen felt the same. There’s so much to do there that it can be overwhelming, but fear not, help is here. Check out the top 25 activities for teens visiting New York City here.
Yosemite
Sometimes adolescents need their space and with nearly 1,200 square miles, Yosemite National Park gives them just that. And some pretty great shots that will be great for their Instagram accounts as well as their memory banks. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Microbrews that welcome families and serve delicious food
Family-friendly breweries exist, and there are several of them in Hamilton County, including the bright and airy Field Brewing in Westfield. They’ve struck a lovely balance of being welcoming to both adults and kids. The breweries often have space where kids can hop around while you talk about hops with the brewmasters. And while the beer may be great, don’t underestimate the food, either. Also, pork tenderloin is a *thing* in Hamilton County and you should try it. Pretty sure you’ll thank me.
Games galore
Almost every restaurant has a game on the table or a shelf full of them in a corner. You’re welcome to help yourself. My husband and I played Battleship while enjoying the tastiest pork tenderloin sliders at Sun King Spirits, which is a food hall and distillery.
I was delighted to discover Books & Brews. It’s a bookstore that had live music on a Saturday night and beer named after famous books, including a Clifford Irish-style Red Ale and Cream and Punishment. That would be enough to delight me, but they also had a ton of games and we had a great game of Trivial Pursuit, which as a former Jeopardy! contestant made me crazy happy.
History
As a history buff, there were several options for traveling back in time. Hop aboard the Nickel Plate Express to experience what rail travel was like in 1956. They have a variety of different rides, including an adorable Reindeer Ride Express at the holidays. My husband and I had a great daytime date on the Ales & Rails Express that included tastings of beer and popcorn. All the seats are on the top level, so everyone has a cool view of Hamilton County.
The Conner Prairie, a Smithsonian Institute affiliate, is a very interesting place to explore Indiana history. It explores a few different periods in history and hosts some great special events. In the warmer months, there’s also a hot air balloon experience. I’m so going back for that.
Location
At three hours from Chicago, it’s the perfect road trip distance. Enough to crank up some tunes and feel like you’re going somewhere, but not so far that you spend all your time in the car, either. The same would be true from a variety of locations.
We liked that it felt like its own destination, but it’s also close to Indianapolis if you need to catch a Colts or Pacers game or if the college basketball lover in you has a hankering to see Hinkle Fieldhouse on the Butler University campus.
Awesome art scene
The Carmel Arts and Design district is full of public art, from fun murals to sculptures.
You can enjoy walking around on your own on any given day, but Second Saturday Gallery Walks and art festivals are fun ways to see more in the galleries and shops.
If performing arts are more your thing, the Palladium, a state-of-the-art 1,600-seat concert hall in Carmel, has a beautiful exterior that hosts stunning performances inside. It’s part of the Center for the Performing Arts and if you’re in the area, you’d be wise to check out their calendar. There are at least a dozen performances I wish I could return and attend.
Baked Goods
Once you’ve tasted a slice from the award-winning Lisa’s Pie Shop, you’ll understand why baked goods alone made the list. If you don’t need a whole pie, check out the pie-in-a-jar. Be sure to have cash on hand, they don’t take credit cards.
If you’re gluten and/or dairy free, head to No Label at the Table in Carmel. Not only are their items delicious, it’s staffed by individuals on the autism spectrum.
Tina’s Traditional Tea Room has amazing scones. Tina makes them using a recipe from her native Britain and they so much better than the American version in my opinion. High tea there is full of taste treats.
Monon Trail
After all those fun treats, a bike ride, walk, or run may be in order. The Monon Trail is pretty famous and even if you only travel just a portion of its 18 miles, it’s easy to see why.
Seasonal events
I love a community that knows how to celebrate holidays well, so it’s no surprise I was happy in Hamilton County, Indiana. We got to check out Carmel Christkindlmarkt on its opening night and it was a fun, festive event with food, music, ice skating, vendors selling homemade goods.
Fabulously Friendly Folks & Midwestern Charm
People there are so nice. Really, really nice. All of them. There’s a lot of Midwestern kindness and Midwestern charm to be found in the towns of Hamilton County, Indiana.
Namesake
It was named for Alexander Hamilton, and frequent readers know I love him and the musical about him. I have to think that he’d appreciate a weekend in Hamilton County as much as I did.
Disclosure: We received no compensation for this post. VisitHamilton County.com hosted us on a press trip and all opinions are our own.
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What is Celebration, Florida?
Celebration is a planned community contained within the City of Kissimmee. It was originally built by Disney. While the House of Mouse no longer controls the area, the Disney charm and thoughtful planning are evident. There are lakes, residential homes, bike paths, and a picturesque area called Town Center with shops and restaurants and the Bohemian Hotel Celebration (more on that below).
Proximity to Attractions
Celebration is located near all the attractions of Central Florida. It’s about 15 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort give or take, depending on where in the resort you are headed, and only 10 minutes to Disney Springs. It’s around 20 minutes from Universal Studios Florida.
I was a little unsure as to how the traveling back and forth to the theme parks would work, as we have always stayed on property at Disney, but it was ridiculously easy.
An Uber to a character breakfast at The Beach Club and back took around 15 minutes. (Depending on where you’re staying at Disney, you could be on property and it could take the same amount of time.) Getting to Universal was very simple and straightforward, too, and didn’t feel long at all.
Having a little bit of a transition away from the park was actually lovely. It felt nice to be headed somewhere a little different at the end of the day. I think tweens and teens would enjoy the different feel.
As kids get older, they are often up for trying out other adventures in Central Florida, whether that’s a Spirit of the Swamp airboat ride, a trip to the Paddling Center at Shingle Creek, catching a pro sports game in Orlando or even heading to Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral which just one an hour away.
That’s all easily accessible from Celebration, but you don’t even have to leave Celebration if you don’t want to. The Celebration Bike Rental tour was great, or you can head out on your own to explore the 10 miles of trails that go through wetlands and oak savannahs and neighborhoods. (Parents, don’t worry, the trails are crazy flat.)
Freedom to Roam
Celebration is a contained community and very pedestrian friendly. In the Town Center, everything is fairly contained and close by. When out, you see a mix of visitors and Celebration residents, and everyone is very genial.
It’s entirely reasonable to send teens out on their own, whether to walk around the lake to take some great pictures for Instagram or to grab your family beverages at Starbucks (don’t miss the fun Instagram-friendly wall there) or the Sweet Escape bakery just a block away.
And if you’re out to dinner and want to enjoy a drink, teens could head to Kilwins for ice cream or check out the macaron store (my teen’s favorite) or just wander around town.
Where to Stay
The Bohemian Hotel Celebration is located on Lake Rianhard and the red and white striped awnings and coordinating patio furniture offer a warm welcome upon arrival.
Once inside, the artwork that Bohemian hotels are known for is a treat for the eyes. When you enter, you walk into a dining area, and the check-in is handled at a desk in the corner. It gives the feel more of walking into a lovely dinner party.
The hotel was quiet and, after a day at sometimes chaotic theme parks, it is a welcome respite. It felt somehow grown-up, in the best of ways, and in a way that older kids can appreciate. The room was comfortable and bright.
I very much enjoyed sitting on the balcony overlooking the lake. There is a pool and while it’s small, chance are it will do the trick for teens who are more into chilling than cannonball contests.
Where to Eat
Definitely plan to dine at the Columbia Restaurant. The Columbia is the oldest restaurant in Florida (that original one in in Tampa’s Ybor City). The founding family still owns it. Eating there is an opportunity to get a true taste of Florida – literally. The Columbia is famous for its 1905 salad, named forth year the restaurant was founded. It is also known for its Cuban sandwich and crab croquettes. The menu is extensive and your whole family will find something to enjoy.
Celebration feels like more relaxed, more grown-up vacation home base. That’s just what families with tweens and teens are ready for when visiting Central Florida.
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All this is to say that I’ve become pretty experienced at Christkindlmarkets and attending is one of my favorite holiday events. I wanted to share my tips for making the most of Christkindlmarkets in the Midwest.
Do some research ahead of time
Each Christkindlmarkt is unique. Carmel has ice skating, Naperville’s is located in historic Naper Settlement, Chicago’s is located in Daley Plaza and has more vendors. Not all are run by the same company and there are differences, so spending just a little time to see what they offer can be pay big dividends.
Arrive early
Christkindlmarkt is fabulous, and it attracts crowds. They’re typically manageable, but if you can get there on the early side and beat some of the lines, you’ll be in a position to really enjoy the atmosphere far more.
Food and drink first
Those crowds are easier to handle when you’re not hangry. I’m a fan of prioritizing food and drink first. I can soak up atmosphere while I wander with my boot of gluhwine and not spend most of my time there in line.
The line for raclette in Carmel this weekend was crazy long. For the uninitiated, raclette is Swiss-German awesomeness that involves scraping the top layer of a warm cheese wheel into some hollowed out bread. It’s delicious and warm and easy to eat while walking, making it the perfect Christkindlmarkt food. Thus, it’s no surprise that everyone wants some. If you know you’ll want some of the melty cheese awesomeness, hop in line right away. The same goes for the gluhwine.
Alternative approach: Dine elsewhere and go for dessert and drinks
Even if there is seating, if you’re going on a busy day, perhaps consider an alternative approach. Plan to eat a meal at a restaurant within walking distance, and then take a trip to the Christkindlmarkt where you get drinks and dessert. Apple strudel, anyone? Drinks don’t have to be alcohol, either. You can get hot cider or amazing hot chocolate.
For nearby restaurants, in Naperville I’d vote for Lou Malnati’s and in Carmel check out Books & Brews.
Take advantage of the chance to learn about a different culture
Christkindlmarket Carmel offered guided tours full of interesting info, and they have fun facts posted on pretty much every stall. My inner trivia aficionado was delighted to see that.
Take it a step further and interact with those from Germany. In Chicago, 60% of the booths are staffed by people from German-speaking countries, and I’ve found them to be very friendly and patient when practicing your high school German. They appreciate the effort and are happy to talk to you about where they’re from. That said, be mindful of the time you spend if there’s a long line behind you.
Watch a performance
Before this weekend, my alphorn experience was limited to just seeing a Ricola commercial on television. In Carmel, I got to see my very first alphorn band performance and talk to one of the alphorn players after. He even let me hold his horn.
Make sure your phone is charged because there are so many great photo opportunities
Christkindlmarket offers so many gorgeous sights, whether it’s a pile of ornaments in the Kathe Wolfhart cottage in Chicago, the polar bears and sleigh in Naperville or the pyramid in Carmel. You’ll want to have your phone, or real camera, ready to go.
I loved the angel wings and wreath in Carmel, too.
If you want good pictures, try to get there a bit before sunset while there’s still some light. We went at night and while it was magical, but it’s not the time to get the perfect shot of the family for the holiday card.
Chances are it’ll be chilly out and you’ll be on your feet most of the time, so bundle up. Wear layers and comfy footwear and definitely bring hats and gloves. Be smarter than I was. I forgot my hat, but my friend Katie happened to have one I could borrow. I got lucky. That said, there was one booth in Carmel that had some cute hats and gloves, but better to be prepared.
Set a budget
Christkindlmarket is free to get in. Food and drink are extra, and there’s a whole lot of shopping to be done there. From wooden toys to pyramids to smoking Santas (a traditional German holiday decoration item) to table linens, there are many wonderful items, most of them made by hand, at Christkindlmarket.
It’s more than likely that you’ll want all the things. A few glasses of gluhwine, and you may want even more than all the things. Set a budget and be mindful of your purchases.
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Mother’s Room
There is a small mother’s room in Concourse C. (Turn right after exiting security.) Inside you’ll find a comfy chair for feeding or pumping, a changing area, sink and hand sanitizer. A television shows nature images while soothing spa music plays.
Yoga Room
The Yoga Room is next to the Mother’s Room and has the same television and zen tunes found in the Mother’s Room. There are yoga mats, sanitizer, mirrors on one wall, and a decent amount of room to move. It’s a great option for little yogis. More schools are yoga or meditation into the school day, but even if it’s new to your child or to you, doing some easy stretches like reaching to the ceiling and touching toes as well as taking some deep belly breaths can be a great way for passengers of all ages to find inner peace (or get out some of the wiggles). This lovely sanctuary from the bustle of the airport has been empty all but one time I’ve used it – it’s the best kept secret at Midway.
Changing Areas
Both women’s and men’s restrooms have changing areas.
What to see
Midway does not have a specific children’s area, but the B3 bomber suspended over the entrance to Concourse A gets some “oohs” and “aahs.” Have kids compare it to the planes they see on the tarmac. There’s also a memorial to the Battle of Midway that can be good for older kids interested in history or the military and even those who aren’t may enjoy seeing the photos of World War II era pilots.
In the retail realm, Kids Works is a store with all kinds of toys and items for little ones located not far past security.
Pro tip: if you want to avoid them seeing the candy store that’s right by the start of Concourse B, point out the gates on your right and have smaller kids find the gate number, have older kids guess where each plane is headed.
Where to hang out
Midway Airport is in the middle of a renovation that promises more concession space and options. (The most progress has been made in Concourse A.) The food court area is bright and spacious, with lots of places to charge and seating options.
Kids love the pod-like seats. Many tables have a good view of planes. If you have time to kill, this is a good spot to park for a bit.
Where and what to eat
The good news: many restaurants have kids’ menus. The bad news: those menus are often tiny, with some offering just one option and many giving only two. Just look at it as a way to keep your likely already overstimulated child from getting overwhelmed, but check to make sure there’s something they like before waiting in line.
Concourse A has lots of new restaurants, including some avant garde options, such as Arami that offers sushi, and traditional Chicago favorites, like Billy Goat Tavern. The latter has one of the larger children’s menus we saw with four options, including chicken tenders. Those aren’t common, although Reilly’s Daughter offers boneless wings. Neapolitan Pizzeria offers a pizetta for kids. If you’re more of a burger connoisseur, check out True Burger. They don’t have seating but are all close to the food court seating. Reilly’s Daughter and Midway Pour House both have seating.
We prefer that food court to the one between Concourses A and B, just past security. It’s darker and doesn’t have a view. That said, it is home to De Colores, which has tacos and burritos, meaning Taco Tuesday (or any other day of the week) can definitely happen. In Concourse B, big and littles also has tacos, including poke tacos for adults and a kids menu with fish or beef tacos.
Speaking of Concourse B, there isn’t a nifty seating area at the moment like there is in Concourse A.
Most people just bring food to the gate and if you’re going that route, check out the mac-n-cheese on the kids menu at Pork Chop. Windy City Tap Room has seating and its kids menu consists of grilled cheese and chicken fingers. Glacier City Frozen yogurt can be a fun treat – it is towards the end of the concourse.
For breakfast, my favorite is The Market in Concourse B, which has both an assortment of muffins, breakfast sandwiches and fruit, as well as juices and milk. They also have peanut butter and jelly. There are also several Dunkin’ carts in both concourses.
Safe and happy travels this holiday season!
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Location, location, location.
Belgium is the crossroads of Europe. That’s one reason why the EU and NATO are headquartered there.
While you could easily entertain yourself without leaving Belgium, day trips are easy given Belgium’s ridiculously central location. We ventured to Gouda in the Netherlands and to Germany for day trips that were completely doable. Amsterdam, Paris, and Cologne are easy train trips that are a few hours, or less.
That also means that people there speak many different languages. Both French and Dutch are used in Belgium, so you get to experience two foreign languages in the same place. (That said, make sure you know the name of your train destination in both languages to save yourself from freaking out, as I did.)
It’s a great example for kids to see people who are multi-lingual. It’s common for many Belgians to speak at least three languages, and often many more. Belgian soccer star Romelu Lukaku is fluent in five languages.
The food is fabulous.
Food may not be the first thing you think of, but let’s face it, a hangry family is not a lot of travel fun. One nice thing is that all this food is really kid-friendly. Also, Belgian waffles are even better than you imagine.
Did you know fries are originally Belgian? And they taste better here than they do anywhere else in the world. They’re also readily available pretty much anywhere you go. There are fry stands all over, from in front of the Grand Place in Brussels to the Belfry in Bruges, and they’re fabulous.
Gelato is popular, and my teen was smitten with the Ferrero Rocher flavor. You can also often find speculoos gelato, or just go straight for speculoos cookies – so yummy.
And chocolate. Belgian chocolate lives up to the hype, and there are lots and lots of chocolate shops. There’s even a chocolate museum called Choco-Story in Bruges. You have to love a nation that appreciates chocolate to the extent that Belgium does.
Something for everyone
Belgium offers of a broad variety of things to do, meaning there’s something for everyone in the family no matter their interest.
My teen said she liked that one of our days consisted of delicious pastries from the French bakery for breakfast, visiting a small Belgian village where our ancestors lived and touring both the stunning ruins of Villers Abbey and Waterloo before returning to the charming town where we were staying to enjoy dinner (with frites, of course).
Bruges was similarly diverse, with a chance to wander the begijnof (an enclave that housed religious lay women started in the 13th century), take a boat tour, visit the aforementioned chocolate museum (with free samples!), climb to the top of the Belfry to get a bird’s eye view of the city, wander the square, grab gelato, and see the Madonna of Bruges sculpture by Michaelangelo.
It’s a rich cultural experience
The Grand Place, Brussels’ central square, dates primarily from the 17th century. Entering it feels like stepping into European history. You can hear echoes of “wow” as people enter, and there’s no doubt that you are really, truly in Europe. It’s just one of a dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites in Belgium, which tells you how much culture there is to be found here.
The famous Mannekin Pis statue is nearby and also sure to make an impression, though for different reasons. He’s often dressed up in costumes and has a wardrobe that includes an Elvis outfit, track suit, and Santa suit.
Comics!
Did you know that the Smurfs and Tintin came from Belgium? Comics are huge here.
The Belgium Comic Strip Center is fascinating for all ages, and gives a unique perspective on an art Belgians hold dear to their hearts. And it’s hard not to smile when you see Smurfs in planes hanging from the airport ceiling.
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Where to find turtles
Turtles hang out at the aptly named Turtle Beach on the North Shore, but you don’t have to venture that far from Aulani to have a good chance of seeing a sea turtle. Often they swim in the water near Paradise Cove, which is a short walk from the resort. (Head out of the resort, go left and walk past the Four Seasons. You’ll come to a parking lot and there’s a trail to the beach from there.) I was there at sunrise one day and saw no turtles. I went back with my family around 8:30 a.m. the next day and made the new friend in the photo above. We enjoyed snorkeling there and saw lots of different fish. There were also two different wedding parties taking photos.
Please, please respect the signs and do not touch the sea turtles. There was one group of people that kept trying to touch them until someone (okay, fine, me, I’m that beach goer) pointed out the sign, and that they could be fined.
Bring a waterproof pouch for your phone before you arrive
We bought couple different ones to use on the trip (one for each family member), and this one was our favorite. Buying in advance is cheaper than purchasing one at Aulani and gives you a chance to test it out to ensure there aren’t any leaks.
While the photos are fine, I appreciated the pouch mostly because it kept the phone protected at the pool, the beach and on the canoe ride.
Tips for reservations at Ama Ama
Dinner at Ama Ama overlooking the ocean at sunset was one of my very favorite meals at Aulani. When making reservations, first check to see what time sunset is the evening you wish to go – you can do so here. Make reservations early but if the time you want isn’t available, don’t give up. People change their plans and it’s worth checking back as a few different times, especially the day before you wish to go.
I confess that I was a wee bit disappointed when we didn’t get a table in the row closest to the ocean, but I needn’t have worried. Our view was still spectacular.
Also, be sure to tell them if you’re celebrating a special event. They were happy to make sure that my husband had a cake, with cute Mickey-shaped sprinkles.
We enjoyed dinner as a couple while my teen was off participating in a teen activity. She joined us for dessert, and the restaurant was fine with that, so we had the best of both worlds.
There is a fun scavenger hunt, and it is best do it at twilight
You pick up an iPad in the Pau Hana room. Once it’s activated, Aunty takes you on a scavenger hunt around the property and there’s some magic in store at some of the stops. You learn about the menehune and some Hawaiian traditions. There are a few different options, but I think outside and in the evening is the best. I really liked it, my family enjoyed it, too.
Some of the stops along the way involve lights. They are easier to see and thus a little more magical when not in the blazing sun.
The Luana Lounge can be a lifesaver
Traveling so far means you need to make the most of every minute at Aulani. the Luana Lounge lets your family do that. Learn more about how to use it before your room is ready and after you’ve checked out of your room here.
If going to Pearl Harbor, get your tickets 60 days in advance
A visit to Pearl Harbor can be a powerful experience. My family felt that it was well-worth the time. That said, it’s tough to just walk up and get your tickets. They are available online 60 days in advance at Recreation.gov and go quickly. You can find more info on tickets here.
The character hotline is helpful
If you want to plan your day around meeting a certain someone, you can, but you don’t have to. There’s a number to call each morning that gives you the time and location for each character meet and greet. Sometimes, though, that means jumping out of the pool to mingle with your favorites, as we were here with Stitch. It’s awesome, but you might want to get cute coverups ahead of time. Get more tips on meeting characters here.
Water shoes are good
While not a necessity, we were glad that we brought water shoes. (I had Lands End sandals designed to go in the water. Not a sponsored shoutout, I just really liked them.) We wore water shoes when checking out the turtles as mentioned above, while swimming at Waimea Falls, and even just for cruising around the pool deck.
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Prior Post: Summer Stitch Fix Review June 2017
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Adventure awaits!
Teens love to do things, especially activities that get their adrenaline pumping or that make for good Instagram photos. In the summer, Vail has an abundance of exciting activities, including whitewater rafting, hiking, zip lining or tubing at Epic Discovery, zooming on the Forest Flyer (a mountain roller coaster), mountain biking, and more. We took a llama to lunch in the mountains with Paragon Guides, something I’ve definitely never done before.
I was apprehensive about the hiking at altitude given that Illinois is crazy flat and close to sea level, but nearly 5 miles later, and I was happy to have done it.
Whitewater rafting with Sage Outdoor Adventures was even more fun than I anticipated, and I loved that our boat was comprised of three parent-child duos. I was excited to do those activities with her while it’s still feasible for me to do so. I stepped out of my comfort zone, which was hopefully a good lesson for her that you’re always capable of addressing your fears and/or trying something new.
It was really interesting seeing my daughter share on Instagram why she loved the rafting experience. She wrote:
It’s such a great combo of fun, adventure, exercise, nature, and so many other things. It was sooo gorgeous. While I was kinda sad I didn’t have my phone to take pics, it was so nice to just take it in and not worry about the pictures. The rowing part is so fun – you’re actually doing the work and having an impact on the trip and that feels so good. Plus it’s just fun to stand up or jump in and watch other people jump in and just going over huge rapids and, long story short, I 10/10 recommend.
There’s also free outdoor community yoga on the weekend in front of Solaris if, like me, you like to balance rafting with a gentler approach to staying active.
Ample downtime, which might just be when your teen starts talking.
While I love being active with my teen, I also treasured the quiet moments we shared on this trip. We stayed at the Sonnenalp and it offered a few different opportunities to take advantage of down time to just connect.
It was when we were relaxing in the outdoor jacuzzi beneath the pine and aspen trees after hiking that she shared some new thoughts about the upcoming school year.
There was also a great fireplace with comfy cushions and a tea station in the spa. It was a cozy place to relax during a brief rain shower. 
While we found our hotel to be a good place to relax, we found lots of places around for doing so, too. There are lots of benches, especially along the creek and near the many fountains. They are also great spots to people watch. We also saw some people hanging out in front of the local library.
The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are also a lovely and relaxing space to take a breather and just be. I let my teen nap and headed here on my own, and had a great time. It’s so nice to be able to do that with teens. As an added bonus, I could hear the music from rehearsals for that evening’s performance at the amphitheater next door, which brings me to my next reason.
Awesome artistic performances, which teens can actually appreciate.
Traveling with teens has a lot of perks, including that they can stay out late at night and they can appreciate cultural activities. That means that they can catch a show, concert, or performance. Those are great ways to really get to see the creative side of a community in a meaningful way. We were fortunate to attend the Vail Dance Festival. From our seats on the lawn of the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater we had a great view of the stage.
Misty Copeland wasn’t able to dance due to the flu, but the other dancers we saw took our breath away. My teen dancer was awestruck. It’s a toss up as to whether it was more fun to watch the dancers or watch her watching them.
Opportunities for Independence, for both you and them.
Teens are always striving to be independent and Vail is a great place for them to have some time on their own. The town is small, self-contained, and easy to navigate on foot. Really, walking is the way to go. It’s also not terribly crazy, so parents can feel pretty confident that teens will be fine on their own. It also means that parents can enjoy a bit of adult time, too. It’s a win-win.
Fantastic food.
Hangry teens are not happy people, and they are not fun to be around. Well-fed teens, however, can be downright delightful. Vail has a ton of restaurant options. Start the day with amazing breakfast buffet Ludwig’s at the Sonnenalp, which my teen said made her so happy she could cry. There’s a wide array of restaurants, there’s something to please all palates. Mountain Standard was one of our favorite restaurants, and the choco taco there was a great way to cap off our night.
Fear not, foodies, there are lots of options for you, including Matsuhisa for sushi and the new German restaurant, Almresi that has amazing spaetzel. Turns out that well-fed adults are also more pleasant and engaging!
You don’t need a ton of time to have a ton of fun.
Teens have very busy schedules, particularly as they get older. With jobs, volunteering, friends, testing and college prep, their vacation availability may be limited. Our trip to Vail wasn’t long, but we fit in a ton of quality time. We did a lot in what amounted to a long weekend. Of course, I would have loved to have stayed longer, but we had to get back for school registration. It was a perfect way to end our summer.
Take away: Vail is great in the winter primarily, no doubt, but it’s also the perfect summer destination for families with teens.
Disclosure: As mentioned above, we were hosted for this trip. All opinions are mine or my teen’s, and trust me, she tells me exactly how she feels.
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Do check the weather forecast — and don’t give up hope if it’s raining
We planned to go on a Saturday and when we woke up to a steady downpour, disappointment set in. I checked the weather forecast, however, and it said that we weren’t socked in and that it would clear in a few hours. The showers moved out and so did we. It turned out to be a warm, sunny afternoon. The rain seemed to scare a lot of people away as the crowds were light.
A corollary to this is do check the water park’s social media accounts to make sure that they’re open.
It’s also wise to know the park’s policy in the event of inclement weather. For example, at Raging Waves has a weather guarantee, meaning if the park closes during your visit, you will get a ticket to return for another day.
Don’t miss out on a chance to bond with your tweens and teens
While you should give your kids a chance to be on their own, you should be sure to have fun with them, too. We met up with my daughter and her friend to go on a few different rides that allowed for four people in a raft.
Does someone over 40 belong on a ride called the Wonambi that generates “high speed, near-vertical, zero gravity moments”? Probably not. But I did it anyway, and was glad I did. (Also, there were a ton of families together, which was fun to see.)
We are excited to return a bit later in the summer when we can race each other on the Wild Wallabies, the newest slides in the park that weren’t yet open when we were there. If you have little ones, definitely take time to enjoy the interactive play features with them. They’ll delight in seeing you stand under a large octopus that spouts water like the one in the new Quokka-Nut Island at Raging waves, which is for kids ages 2-5 and their grown-ups.
Do give your kids some freedom
A water park is a great place let your kids explore and have fun on their own. At 58 acres, Raging Waves is big, and they love feeling like they have control over where they go. It’s also well-staffed, the lifeguards are very on top of things and the park itself is contained, so parents have peace of mind, too. It’s a win-win. Do have a set meeting place and time, and use that same place in case of an emergency.
Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for the lazy river
While your kids are off doing their thing, enjoy the adult time! My husband and I had the best time chilling out on the lazy river. The one at Raging Waves is a quarter-mile long, so it gives you plenty of time to really relax. There’s nothing like a good float down a lazy river to make me feel like I’m living my best summer life.
My only regret was that we saved this for last and while one trip around was great, two times around would have been better.
Do remind kids to follow the rules
This sounds basic but a quick refresher in the car of the kind of behavior you expect isn’t a bad thing, and following the rules and heeding the directives of lifeguards is really important at the water park. They’re there for a reason! Put in a plug for being kind to the younger kids while you’re at it.
Don’t forget sunscreen, and don’t forget to keep applying it.
Even on cloudy days, sunscreen is important. Tweens and teens aren’t likely to remember to reapply, so a gentle reminder can be helpful.
Do leave valuables at home or in the car
You don’t want to have to worry about keeping track of valuables and making sure that they stay dry. If you can leave items like wallets and phones in your car, do so. While lockers are available, they’re small and not using them is a way to save money.
Along the same lines, consider leaving jewelry at home. It didn’t happen on this trip, but I’ve been a member of a search party for a wedding ring on more than one water park trip before, and trust me, you don’t want to be in the position.
Don’t forget to hydrate
Kids are all about the slides and the waves, and while they’re immersed in water, they likely aren’t drinking much water. Encourage kids to hydrate, especially when it’s hot out.
Water parks have varying rules about bringing in beverages, but Raging Waves permits factory-sealed bottled water and allows empty water bottles that you can fill up at drinking fountains once you’re in the park.
Do enjoy a frozen treat
I was a bit surprised that the teens sat and enjoyed an ice cream cone with us at the water park. They were happy to have a treat (and had worked up a pretty good appetite after a few hours.) Just be careful and don’t plan a crazy slide or ride right after you eat.
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