A Mom’s Survival Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

In the early 2000s, budding Potter fans had little hope for leaving their humdrum muggle existence behind and entering the magical worlds of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. No matter how many times they read the series, they were left to wait desperately and despairingly for an acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, which they knew in their heart of hearts would never arrive.

Today’s generation of “Harry Potter” acolytes has it much easier. Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida offers young and old fans alike a wizarding wonderland full of shops and rides designed to dazzle even those with a superficial knowledge of the series’ sensational secrets. With 20 acres of magical fun, it is no wonder this addition to the amusement park has brought in millions of attendees to dramatically increase the park’s profits. In fact, only six months after the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened in 2010, the park announced that it had sold its millionth brew of butterbeer.

Your family may be utterly enchanted by the promise of Universal Studio’s magical realm, but you probably have some doubts about the shops, the rides, and the crowds. Fortunately, with a little guidance, you can prepare fully for your trip to the Wizarding World — unlike Harry while he searched for those Horcruxes.

Stay On-Site

If you and your family make hotel reservations at any of Universal Studio’s four on-site hotels, you are granted early admission to the parks, which means you and your kids will have one hour to see the busiest attractions before the rest of the biggest crowds arrive. Because the Wizarding World remains the newest and most visited region of the park, you can spend your morning touring the shops and riding the rides.

However, it is important to note that Universal Studio’s hotels can be a bit costlier than off-property lodgings. You can stay on budget by booking your flight to Florida on Flights.com. Alternatively, you can stay at a budget hotel for most of your trip and move on-site for the night before you plan to visit the Wizarding World.

Eat the Food

You might be tempted to smuggle in your own snacks and lunches to save money. While in-park meals can be expensive, in the Wizarding World, the experience is well-worth the price. Unlike hamburgers and French fries you’re likely to find in other amusement parks, the Wizarding World offers all the unique British cultural foods mentioned in the books, many of which your kids likely have never seen or tasted before.

There are a handful of restaurants and food stands to fill you up when your energy flags, but the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley and the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade are by far the most bountiful and immersive. For dessert, stop by Honeydukes or Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour.

Use the Facilities Beforehand

Little ones don’t have the best track record for letting you know when they need to go, and unfortunately, the Wizarding World has precious few restrooms to relieve the pressure of tiny bladders. Diagon Alley is particularly egregious of this crime, as there is only one bathroom located in a far, back corner — and as you might expect, there is always a long wait. Before you head to the Wizarding World, and Diagon Alley in particular, you should schedule a family pit stop to mitigate potential bathroom emergencies.

Look for Magical Secrets

Just like the books, the Wizarding World parks contain countless cute (and crucial) details designed to delight those paying close attention. If you and your family keep your eyes peeled, you might be able to spot any of the following hidden treasures around Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and Hogwarts Castle.

• Shrunken heads singing “Show Me the Way to Go Home” in Knockturn Alley
• Talking snake in front of the Magical Menagerie
• Self-playing cello in the window of Dominic Maestro’s Music Shop
• Moving cat made of Measuring tape in Gladrags Wizardwear
• Kreacher peeking out a window at 12 Grimmauld Place
• Moaning Myrtle’s cries in the Hogsmeade restrooms
• The red phone booth outside King’s Cross dials the Ministry of Magic with 62442 (“magic”)
• Potions class in session in Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride
• Voldemort appears in front of Malfoy Manor during Hogwarts Express ride to Diagon Alley
• And literally hundreds more.

Photos by Scott Smith on Flicker’s Creative Commons.

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Planning a Family Vacation

I'm not certain if it's the snow covered yard or the bitterly cold winds that seem to pierce my face when I step outside - but something has me craving a vacation getaway. When I glance at the calendar, there are still weeks upon weeks that separate me from summer and our travel plans. Yet in a blink of an eye, we'll be wrapping up school and summer will be here before we know it! So, it's time to start planning the travel details: finding our destination, booking a hotel online, budgeting the cost and reviewing area attractions.

Though it can seem as if I'm thwarting the point of a fun-filled and relaxing time by pouring over the details - I've found that if I don't, we not only spend more money but we also spend more time trying to decide what to do than actually enjoying our destination. Here are a few things I keep in mind when planning our family vacations.

Try to be flexible

Be flexible on the length of your vacation, destination, hotel, dining and attractions. I've found that our trips are most enjoyable when we travel to a destination that the entire family can enjoy, we make an effort to find attractions that fit the various interest of each family member and find restaurants that satisfy everyone's taste buds.

Set a budget

If you set a travel budget during the planning stage - I believe that you're less likely to overspend or feel you're missing out on adventures while on vacation. If your finances allow, go ahead and be flexible with your budgeting. Whatever the budget, it is possible to have a fun and stress-free trip.

Remember to take everything into account when planning the budget. Think of: transportation, lodging, attracting, shopping, dining, and entertainment. The best part of planning your family vacation and budgeting ahead of time - is that you'll give yourself time to find creative ways to save money for the trip.

Choose a destination

Now that you've set a budget - you can decide what destination fits your budget. The cost of transportation will be a large factor. Driving a long distance will have high fuel costs and flying can be expensive as well - even before you factor in car rental once you land. However, if you drive - you can pack a lot of food to bring if you have the space. We've currently only vacationed in areas that are very family-friendly.

You'll need to decide what is important to you in a destination. Are you wanting to lounge on the beach, spend a few days hiking and fishing or spend time in a metropolis? Once you know that - you're choices will be quickly narrowed.

Keep in mind the cost to get to your destination and the general cost of staying there (including lodging and dining). Remember to research your destination before you book your stay. Find out what time of year is best to visit and what events may be happening in the area that you'd like to attend or avoid.

Affordable lodging

Knowing where you'd like to go now makes it possible to choose a place to stay. Though I want to find a hotel or resort that is affordable - I'm always, always nervous about this stage of planning. Though you may not spend a lot of time at your hotel - your lodging choice can weigh heavily on how much you enjoy your vacation. I spend a lot of time researching all options. When you first begin searching online for a hotel - it's likely that the most expensive options will be at the top of the results. I suggest scrolling down a bit and browsing through all of the hotels. You are very likely to find a place that fits your needs and budget. You may also want to consider, motels, camping sites, bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals. Or perhaps you know someone who owns a condo in that area and is willing to rent it to you during your stay.

Attraction deals and discounts

Before I purchase tickets to local attractions - I try to find any deals or discounts available. Sometime, the hotel or resort you're staying at have special arrangements for discounts at local attractions. Be sure to ask this when booking your stay. Local travel guides and attraction passes are good ways to help save space in your budget. The large the destination, the more likely you are to find an attraction pass. Check out the visitor's bureaus for added savings, discounts and information.

The time of year that you visit can also change pricing on attractions and deals. Going during an off-season may result in lower lodging rates and attraction ticket prices.

Find Free or Cheap Local Activities.

My favorite activity is a free one! When we visit the Smoky Mountains - we love taking advantage of the national park. It's free and it is beautiful! If we stay near the beach - going to the beach is also free unless you need to pay for parking. We often try to find a hotel right on the beach to save ourselves time.

Some museums may offer free days, there may be local festivals happening that you can attend and there are always lower cost activities such as put-put.

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Before you travel to London

London is an amazing city and location to visit. It's rich with history, fashion, dining, and unique attractions. In fact, there are so many options that you may end up a little overwhelmed when trying to decide how to spend your time and leave without having seen all that you had hoped to. Even though my trip was well planned and scheduled - I spent one day feeling under the weather and didn't make it to several locations on my list. Careful planning helped to rearrange my remaining days in London so that I could see the historical sites and attractions that were at the top of my list. Here are a few tips for planning your trip to London.

Decide where to stay

You've decided to go to London - but you need to decide what part of the city will best fit your plans. Will your hotel be close to or make travel to your choice of attractions easy or difficult? I hadn't yet been to London but loved listening to Dan's grandfather's stories of Piccadilly. So The Shaftesbury Premier London Piccadilly was an easy choice. I also loved that it fit another hotel bonus that I like to find - a free meal! Book your reservations directly through their website or by calling Central Reservations and receive Free Full English Breakfast during your stay. Each booking reserved directly also features a lovely fresh fruit platter waiting to welcome you when you arrive to your room.

Arrival and transportation

Now that you know where you'll be staying - you need to plan for your arrival into London and your transportation around the city. Your location will dictate how you arrive. For me, being in the US, it was obviously by air travel. So I had to plan for the appropriate documents and the transportation from the airport to the city.

You'll need to map out routes and transportation options. Your options are the Underground, bus, and taxi. We chose the Underground for most of our transportation. How can you visit London and not use the Underground? Mind the gap and no busking! (Oh it was so much fun!) Between all of your options - you'll be able to navigate your way around the city fairly easily.

Dining

You'll find no shortage of eating options in London. I set out to sample as much of the local cuisine as I could. For me, it seemed as a once in a lifetime trip - and my only chance to truly enjoy what London had to offer. From fish n chips to takeaway - we tried it all. We, of course, also stopped by the Hard Rock Cafe. Harden's London Restaurants is a great place to find restaurants and reviews.

Places to see

I hate to say, but I backed out of one of the top attractions on my list. So, for me, please check out the London Eye. It's the world's tallest observation wheel. From it, you can find a great view of the city and skyline. I also suggest you visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Shakespeare's Globe. You can also schedule bus and river tours. I also suggest that you take a day trip outside of London to visit nearby castles and the countryside.

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Everything is awesome! #LegoKidsfest

I can not believe how much fun we had at LEGO® KidsFest in Indianapolis! Yes, Joey loves LEGOs and could design and build for days on end. But, I wondered how LEGO® KidsFest was any different than playing with LEGO® bricks at home or at a friend's house? I guess I wasn't as hip to this amazing LEGO® world as my seven year-old son.

When we walked into the convention center and were immediately met a life-size Emmet (from Lego Movie) made entirely of LEGO® bricks - then I understood. It was almost unreal to see something so large made of LEGO® bricks. Savannah and Joey were in complete amazement as we walked from one creation to the next. I think I was most impressed with the giant Green Hulk and from Lightning McQueen from Cars. Oh, and Lord Business from Lego Movie was also surreal. He was about three times taller than I am!

After we ooh'ed and aaah'ed at the masterpieces that greet you at the door - Joey spent twenty minutes playing in the over-whemingly large pile of LEGO® bricks. It was difficult to pull him away from all that fun. After we convinced him there were many more activities he would enjoy we finally had the chance to wander between the different sections.

LEGO® KidsFest Activities

Some activities are subject to change.

• LEGO Model Gallery: dozens of life-sized models made entirely from LEGO bricks
• LEGO Master Builders: live demonstrations and activities from the crew who get paid to play
• Race Ramps: build a custom car, then race it down the ramp against friends and family
• LEGO Chima: choose a tribe and test battling skills with the whole family
• LEGO Star Wars: build and display a Star Wars model
• Creation Nation: build your own creation to add to a custom map of the U.S.
• LEGO DUPLO: younger visitors can explore imagination through building
• LEGO Retail: purchase LEGO merchandise and official KidsFest tour goods
• Brick Pile: a gigantic pile full of LEGO bricks for creative play and enjoyment
• Monochromatic Builds: bricks of a single color to foster group creativity
• LEGO Friends: build for the five empowered friends from Heartlake City
• LEGO Mindstorms: build and program robots and snakes
• LEGO Ninjago: spin the way to being a Spinjitzu member
• LEGO City: using the imagination to create buildings and vehicles to the urban diorama

Every activity we chose ended with the kids receiving a small packet of LEGO® bricks. They were ecstatic to walk away with new additions to their collection. Joey has spent most of today playing with his LEGO® Legends of CHIMA Spider Crawler.



If your kiddo loves LEGO® and you have the chance to attend a LEGO® KidsFest - I recommend going and grabbing your tickets early. Tickets are limited and do not last long! You'll have a fun time and learn a lot about LEGO® that you never knew existed!

Did you know?

• More than 400 billion LEGO® bricks have been produced since 1949.
• The LEGO® minifigure represents the world's largest population of people! More than four billion minifigures have been produced in the last 30 years. This is almost 12 times the population of the United States!
• LEGO® minifigures are out of this world, literally. The two Mars Rovers have an image of the LEGO® minifigure etched into their front grill.
• Approximately seven LEGO® sets are sold each second.
• There are about 62 LEGO® bricks for every one of the world's six billion inhabitants.
• Laid end to end, the number of LEGO® bricks sold in a year would reach more than five times around the world.
• There are 915 million ways to combine six eight-stud LEGO® bricks.
• Children around the world spend five billion hours a year playing with LEGO® bricks.
• With a production of about 306 million tires produced a year, the LEGO® group is the largest producer of tires in the world.
• LEGO® is the contraction of two Danish words, "leg godt" which means "play well".
• There are about 62 LEGO® bricks for every one of the world's six billion inhabitants.
• 19 billion LEGO® elements are produced every year. 2.16 million LEGO® elements are molded every hour, or 36,000 per minute.

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Kids eat free at McAlister's on Halloween!

We love McAlister's - and I LOVE free McAlister's. Dress the kiddos up and visit McAlister's this Halloween for a free kid's meal!

Halloween is right around the corner and McAlister’s Deli knows that trick-or-treaters need fuel for the night. This Halloween (Friday, October 31, 2014), participating McAlister’s Deli restaurants will be offering free kids meals for those wearing a Halloween costume. Families can receive up to two free kid's meals with each adult entree purchased. This delicious deal features a menu of kid’s favorite meals such as mac & cheese, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, nacho basket, or cheese pita pizza. Bring the entire family to McAlister’s Deli this Halloween for a treat everyone is sure to enjoy!

For a complete list of participating locations please visit www.thesaxtongroup.com/locations

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Conner Prairie - Interactive History Park

Last week, the kids and I took a field trip to Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana. As a child, I always enjoyed stepping back in time with a visit to Conner Prairie. That was a field trip experience I looked forward to and was excited to have several teachers who took us to visit the park.

Conner Prairie is an interactive history park - which means you are able to get involved and have a more hands-on experience while learning about the past. Employees within the park are dressed in period appropriate attire and speak as if they are living in that era. This helped to "open up" history for Joey. He began to better grasp the idea that not everyone has lived how we experience life. No cell phones? No computers? No cars or video games? No running water? It was neat to watch as Joey began to process the thought of not having certain possessions or conveniences.

They were able to experience how life was different in Indiana all those years ago. They were amazed that people cooked their meals over a fire. Joey thinks it's neat when I cook our meals over a fire when we're camping and now wants me to cook every meal that way.  Oh dear! 

The kids watched a blacksmith go about his daily work and listened as he explained is trade. They spoke with early settlers to Indiana and got an inside look at what their homes were like.

They were also able to experience a brief moment of how school would have been in those days and what types of toys the children would have owned. Savannah and Joey both enjoyed the simple game of hoop rolling. I loved watching them pick it up with ease and begin having fun.

I'm not sure which experience the kids found most memorable. They've told everyone about their ride in a hot air balloon, joining the military, walking on stilts and going to school.

You can view all of our pictures in the slideshow below.

Conner Prairie is a great place to visit if you're in the Indianapolis area.  It's a fun field trip idea and a nice way to spend the day with your children.  

Conner Prairie also offers fun events and activities throughout the year. I'm looking forward to taking them to the Headless Horseman activities this month!  I loved going to that when I was younger and hope they enjoy it just as much.

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Halloween Haunt at Kings Island

Last night, I had the opportunity to visit Kings Island for their Halloween Haunt! This is a special time of year when the ghosts and goblins make their way into Kings Island and take over the park.

Though I'm more into the cute pumpkins and adorable Halloween decorations - I have a lot of friends and family that enjoy the more spooky side of this holiday. So, I go along and do my best not to be too scared. However I was much more scared this year than any other year.

Please note that Halloween Haunt is not intended for small children. During that time, the kids rides are closed and that area is only partial used. The part of Planet Snoopy that is used - is solely for haunted mazes.

This year, the haunted mazes have an added and terrifying feature. A Skeleton Key!

Halloween Haunt features mazes, scare zones, live shows, and monsters around every dark corner. Enter if you dare, survive if you can. Plus, scream to the front of the line and unlock five exclusive rooms using your Fright Lane featuring the all-new Skeleton Key.

The all-new Skeleton Key allows you entry into five ultra exclusive rooms.  These five rooms are more terrifying than I could have imagined and they are a fun way to start your journey through the haunted maze. 

If you really enjoy haunted houses and want to experience all of the haunted mazes during Halloween Haunt, I do suggest purchased the Fright Lane pass.  Otherwise, you likely won't have time to get through all of the mazes. 

Though we did make it through every maze - I'm there for the rides!  I love riding Diamondback and Delirium in the dark.  I especially love taking a ride on the Beast in the pitch black darkness.  There are moments when you can see absolutely nothing while furiously traveling through the wooded area that surrounds the Beast.  Much more terrifying.

If you're wanting to enjoy a more family-friendly and relaxing environment, I suggest visiting during the early hours when kid's activities are available. 

During the day it's all fun. No fear.

Kings Island is filled with rides, a petting zoo, costume contest, trick-or-treat stops and more. During the day it's all fun. No fear. Saturdays and Sundays, September 21 to October 26. 

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Snoopy's Halloween Party

Kids, dress up in your favorite costume and get ready to trick-or-treat in this all-new, family-friendly Halloween event. There is so much to see and do! Snoopy's Halloween Party is located in Soak City and included FREE with park admission to Kings Island. It's the ultimate kids' Halloween Party.

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Region's Largest Petting Zoo

Our friends at Honey Hill Farm have provided us with more than 70 animals for children (and parents) to learn about and interact with including a Kanagroo, Camel, African Spur-thigh Tortoise, Alpacas, Hedgehog, Sheep, Goats, Miniature Horses, Ducks and Chickens.

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Planet Snoopy

Planet Snoopy, voted "Best Kids Area in the World" for 14 consecutive years (2001-2014) by Amusement Today, boasts an elaborate collection of PEANUTS-themed rides and attractions for every age, including more kids' roller coasters (four) than any other amusement park in the world.

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Goodbye Mantis - Hello Rougarou!

I'm going to just say it. I was a little disappointed when I heard that Cedar Point's new coaster, Rougarou, is Mantis (view Mantis POV video below) with a new set of trains. I had desperately hoped that the Mantis' last stand this October would mean that the ride was going to be dismantled and delivered to a different Cedar Fair park. I wishfully imagined that it would be Kings Island which just so happens to be the nearest amusement park to me. I had dreamed of it being a wonderful throw-back to the days of King Cobra at Kings Island.

I find myself pleasantly relieved that "Mantis" will actually remain at Cedar Point. It will receive a new name and a new set of trains that will give it a new experience. Joey, my 7 year old, is thrilled as this means he will be able to still ride the track that he wasn't tall enough for this past Summer. It won't be quite the same experience - but he's excited.

Cedar Point, The Roller Coaster Capital of the World!®, will introduce a dynamically new riding experience when it unleashes Rougarou™ in the spring of 2015!

Named after a terrifying werewolf-like creature in French folklore, Rougarou [roo-guh-roo] feeds on screams and lurks in and around the swampy lagoon at the center of the park, shared with other coasters like Iron Dragon and Top Thrill Dragster.

Rougarou’s floorless trains will take riders on an epic journey at speeds reaching 60 mph as their feet dangle just inches above the track and the murky waters below. The trains will be manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard, Monthey, Switzerland, the same team behind rides like Raptor and GateKeeper, and will transform the ride experience dramatically while utilizing the structure and track of the former Mantis roller coaster.

The ride begins with a climb to the top of the 145-foot-tall first hill, providing amazing views of the Cedar Point skyline. After reaching the apex, the trains will make a 180-degree turn to the right and plummet 137 feet, at a 52-degree angle, to within inches above the water. Thrill-seekers caught in Rougarou’s grasp will then be flipped upside-down by a 119-foot-tall vertical loop, spun around a 103-foot-tall dive loop, whipped around a highly-banked 360-degree turn and then twisted upside-down again by the world’s only inclined loop on a floorless coaster, angled at a wicked 45 degrees. Just when guests think the ride is over, the steel beast will take them through a 360-degree flat spin, tight and twisty turns and a figure-eight finale. Riders must be 54” tall to ride Rougarou.

“Rougarou is going to be a fantastic addition to our coaster lineup and our guests are going to love it,” said Jason McClure, vice president and general manager of Cedar Point. “With the swampy waters below, the vibrant colors of the supports and track, lighting and other effects, it will be a ride like no other at the park.”

Even though my hopes were dashed - I'm excited to see the ride revamped. I'll miss the experience that a stand-up coaster offers - and I hope Cedar Fair will once again offer it in the area in the near future.

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Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point - Renovations for 2015!

I've had the opportunity to enjoy several getaways to Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point over the past few years.  Hotel Breakers is a historic beachfront hotel located at Cedar Point amusement park.  Guests can enjoy gorgeous views of Lake Erie and short walks to all that Cedar Point has to offer.  

I've personally enjoyed the history that is evident at Hotel Breakers.  Opening its doors in 1905, Hotel Breakers boasted 600 rooms and accumulated a guest list that included Annie Oakely, Theodore Roosevelt, John D. Rockefeller, Helen Keller, and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

This resort, which holds so much history - has undergone several renovations and changes since its debut.  This fall and winter - it will again see many changes.  A few weeks ago, I was able to experience a glimpse of the exciting updates you can expect for 2015.

We were able to spend a few nights enjoying an updated standard room with two queen beds.  It was an amazing and unexpected change.  The decor has a more vibrant and beachy-feel that reminds you that you are here for some fun and relaxation. 

In 2015, guests will experience a completely renovated Hotel Breakers. The renovations will result with fewer guest rooms (going from 650 down to 511), a completely redesigned entrance, new furniture, bedding, flat-screen TVs and more.

I look forward to exploring all of the renovations throughout the hotel and property in 2015!

Updated: New Video Link!






*I was provided accommodations at Hotel Breakers. All opinions are my own.

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Meal Deals at Kings Island!

Amusement parks are a lot of fun and we enjoy visiting them often - especially Kings Island! Taking kids to an amusement park can include a lot of planning depending on their ages. The older they've become, the less that I need to take with us to the park.

However, food is always the biggest focus of my trip-planning. Where, what and when are we going to eat?

Since we live a bit of a distance from the park - I pack food to eat on the way there. Often, I also pack a cooler full of food for lunch and dinner. It's a bit of a trek to leave the park and make our way to the car for a quick meal - but I grew up doing that and am use to it. However, I very much enjoy just eating inside the park.  This year, I've finally looked into purchasing a meal deal or plan.  If you plan to spend a lot of time at the park - I think it is well worth the money.

We purchase season passes each year to Kings Island - and the All Season Dining Plan would absolutely be worth the time I would save by not preparing picnic meals ahead of time.  We visit Kings Island a lot and the price per person would more than pay for itself over the course of one season.

Interested in a Kings Island Meal Deal?  Check them out:

Single Meal Deal

The Single Meal Deal includes an entree, side and a regular size fountain drink at participating restaurants throughout the park.

This is available only online at $12.99 plus applicable fees and taxes.

All Day Dining Plan

Guests with All Day Dining will receive a wristband at any of the participating locations and enjoy an entree and side as often as every 90 minutes! Drinks are not included.

With the All Day Dining Plan, you'll never go hungry, but you'll save a bundle. Enjoy an entree and a side every time you choose to stop in at one of the participating restaurants inside the park. Best of all, there's only a 90-minute wait time between meals. Stay fueled for the fun with the All Day Dining Plan.

Dine All Day. One Great Price.

This deal is available online at $29.99 plus applicable taxes and fees

All Season Dining Plan

When you purchase the All Season Dining Plan, it will be uploaded to your season pass at any participating location. Simply present your pass at any participating location. You'll enjoy 2 meals per day with a minimum of 2 hours between each meal. Drinks are not included.

As low as $72.00 plus applicable taxes and fees.  This is available for purchase at the park.

Remember to visit Kings Island online to keep up with any changes made to the meal options.

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Thomas the Tank Engine - Day Out with Thomas™: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 Giveaway!

We are giving away tickets to Day Out with Thomas™: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014!

Scroll to the bottom of this post to enter for a chance to win (4) tickets to Day Out with Thomas™: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014!

This fun-filled event offers little engineers and their families the opportunity to take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends® series. In addition, children will meet Sir Topham Hatt®, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas-themed activities including arts & crafts, storytelling and more.  The tour, now in its 19^th year, will make stops in 42 U.S. cities and is expected to welcome nearly one million passengers in 2014.

WHO:                       Thomas the Tank Engine

WHAT: 

·       A 25-minute (approximate) ride with Thomas the Tank Engine and hear Thomas greet his fans!

·       Meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway

·       A Thomas & Friends Imagination Station; featuring stamps, temporary tattoos, hands-on arts & crafts, train tables, and coloring sheets.

·       Storytelling, video viewing, handcar rides, bounce house, miniature golf, Marty the Magician live, and much more.

WHEN:                    June 20 – 22, & 27 - 29, 2014

TIME:                       Activities begin at 9am.

WHERE:                  Grand Central Station, 455 Market Street, Connersville, Indiana 47331

Tickets for Day Out with Thomas: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 are on sale now and available by calling Ticketweb toll-free 866-468-7630, or by visiting this link here. or www.whitewatervalleyrr.org.  Prices are $20 for single ride tickets of ages 2 and up and $34 for an All-day pass with unlimited rides behind Thomas the Tank Engine (service charges and fee may apply). 

For more information and directions, contact the Whitewater Valley Railroad via phone at 765-825-2054 or on the web at www.whitewatervalleyrr.org.

For information on Thomas & Friends, visit www.thomasandfriends.com

Follow Thomas & Friends on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thomasandfriends and Twitter @ThomasParent

Prize

One winner will receive (4) Tickets to see Thomas the Tank Engine at Day Out with Thomas™: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 for June 27th at Whitewater Valley Railroad.

How To Enter

Add your link to the Link-Up below to be entered for a chance to win a set of four tickets to see Thomas! Note: If you do not have a blog, you can enter your Facebook or Twitter URL. You must enter an email address. Giveaway ends June 20, 2014 at 12:00pm

*We will be provided tickets for our upcoming trip. All opinions are my own.

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Silver Shells Resort - Destin, Florida

We had such an enjoyable and relaxing time during our recent trip to Destin, Florida. The highlight of our stay was by far the Silver Shells Resort.

Situated on a private stretch of beach, Silver Shells Beach Resort and Spa by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is in Destin, Florida and offers easy access to Morgan Sports Center, Indian Bayou Golf Club, and Henderson Beach State Park. Also nearby are Big Kahuna's Water and Adventure Park and The Track Family Recreation Center.

We loved our stay so much that the kids wanted to just move in. As if they don't enjoy their own rooms while at home - they were thrilled to each have their very own room with balcony as well as their own personal bathroom.

I also loved the private bedrooms - and the awesomely large bed in the master bedroom. I can see why the kids wanted to stay. It was amazing to have the balcony door open in the evening and just listen to the sound of the waves crashing onto the beach.

With such fantastic accommodations, we opted to have all breakfast meals at the resort as well as a few of our evening meals.  The kitchen and the sitting area were beautifully decorated - complete with a balcony that opened up to a beautiful view of the beach.  View the entire condo in the video at the bottom of this post.

Silver Shells Features

Spend the day at the beach and work on your tan with sun loungers or relax in the shade with umbrellas. Pamper yourself with a treatment at the full-service spa and enjoy amenities at Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa by Wyndham Vacation Rentals like an outdoor pool and an indoor pool. Want a nice, cool drink? Try the beach-side bar or one of the condominium resort's other drinking venues including 3 bars/lounges and a beach bar.

This spa condominium resort features 2 restaurants. High-speed (wired) Internet access is complimentary in public areas. Additional amenities at this 3.5-star condominium resort include a children's pool, outdoor tennis courts, and a health club. Complimentary self parking is available onsite for guests.

Bedrooms

Rooms open to balconies or patios. The 280 air-conditioned guestrooms at Silver Shells Beach Resort and Spa by Wyndham Vacation Rentals include washers/dryers and coffee/tea makers. Complimentary wired high-speed Internet access is provided. Televisions are equipped with cable channels and DVD players. Bathrooms offer separate bathtubs and showers with jetted bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. All units have kitchens with stove-tops, full-sized refrigerators/freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers. Additional amenities include irons/ironing boards and ceiling fans.

Planning a trip? Hop over here to find great deals for your stay!



We were provided a complimentary stay at Silver Shells.  This post may contain affiliate links.  Please read our disclosure policy here.  All opinions are my own.

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The Verrückt at Kansas City Schlitterbahn

So, Joey wants to know if we can go and ride the Verrückt at Kansas City Schlitterbahn. The Verrückt is scheduled to open this Summer and will be the world's largest waterslide.

Photo Credit: www.schlitterbahnnews.com

Joey cried on White Water Canyon at Kings Island. So, I don't think we'll be riding this. Not just yet.

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COSI - Columbus, Ohio

During our recent trip to Columbus, Ohio - we had the opportunity to visit COSI (Center of Science and Industry)! I love taking the kids to places where they will not only have fun - but learn. COSI is a fun and interactive environment that helps to increase the natural curiosity that children have.

COSI, Columbus, Ohio's dynamic Center of Science and Industry, inspires the scientists, dreamers, and innovators of tomorrow. Opened in 1964 at Memorial Hall in downtown Columbus, COSI moved in 1999 to a new 320,000-square-foot home designed by internationally-renowned architect Arata Isozaki, creating one of the largest modern-built science centers in the United States. COSI continues to represent a significant investment in the economic development and community revitalization of downtown Columbus.

In 2008, COSI was named America's #1 science center for families by Parent Magazine. Since 1964, COSI has engaged with over 30 million people from all 50 states and around the world, both on-site and through its award-winning outreach programs.

At COSI, you will find a wide assortment of interactive science exhibits. We spent a lot of time in the Energy Explorers area. The kids learned how energy is generated, how we use energy and how we can conserve energy. Through various activities, they could see the affects of different energy choices and consumption.

Savannah testing a bicycles energy against the energy it takes to walk or drive a vehicle.

 Joey loved the Curious George exhibit that is available through January 5, 2014. 

Let’s Get Curious!

Letting curiosity and inquiry be your guide, explore familiar buildings and locales from the Curious George™ book series and television show on PBS KIDS in Curious George™: Let's Get Curious! The exhibit presents key concepts in science, technology, math, and engineering, which are woven throughout the exhibit. Activities invite children to learn like Curious George – through direct experience and problem solving! Included with COSI admission or Membership.

The Curious George exhibit had a farm where the kids were able to experiment with wind machines and the effects of wind on objects.  They explored the Produce Stand and even 'worked' for a while at the Construction Site.

While we were there - my little daredevil also decided to ride a unicycle. Not only did Savannah ride a unicycle but she rode it in the air at a height of 2 stories!

"It’s all about balance. COSI’s High Wire Unicycle—the only one in the world—challenges you to ride a unicycle across an 84-foot cable while 17 feet above the ground. If your sense of balance isn’t world-class, don’t worry. The Unicycle’s 250-pound counterweight drops the cycle’s center of mass to well below your feet, keeping you safely upright at all times."

Since Joey was too short to try the unicycle - he and I experimented with floating hot air balloons, creating a stop motion movie, controlling robots and launching a 2 liter bottle through the air!

There really are so many fascinating things to do and learn while visiting COSI!

I wish that we lived closer to COSI. It would be an amazing place to visit often. We were only able to spend a few hours there and weren't able to see or experience nearly everything. It's definitely on our list of places to revisit.

Some of their exhibits change throughout the year - so check their sit often to keep up with new activities to experience!





COSI.org | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

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Myrtle Beach Black Friday Deals!

Give the Gift of Travel with Travel Deals from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on November 30, 2013

The Myrtle Beach CVB introduces Travel Saturday, a one-day flash sale on heavily discounted travel deals

With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, Myrtle Beach area businesses have come together to offer Travel Saturday, a day that features a selection of heavily discounted deals on accommodations, entertainment and attractions for the upcoming 2014 travel season. Deal seekers can log online on Saturday, November 30 and take advantage of a variety of travel deals from Myrtle Beach, SC. Whether you’re looking for the perfect present for that special someone or a family gift the kids won’t forget, consider giving the gift of travel to America’s favorite family beach this holiday season.

Myrtle Beach offers an abundance of accommodations and activities, along with 60 miles of pristine coastline. Take advantage of these Travel Saturday deals that will bring you closer to paradise in Myrtle Beach, where beautiful oceanfront hotels and breathtaking views await you.

For a full listing of deals, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/travelsaturday.

Travel Saturday Accommodation Deals

Anderson Ocean Club
Guests that stay of three nights or more at Anderson Ocean Club will receive up to 30 percent off their visit. This offer is valid for purchase only on Nov. 30, 2013 and for booking May 26 through Aug. 31, 2014. Black-out dates include July 3 through July 5, 2014. When booking, the rate plan is “TSAT” and the promo code is “TRAVEL.”

Avista Resort
Guests that book with Avista Resort on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Beach Colony Resort
Guests can enjoy a getaway at Beach Colony Resort in an oceanfront suite with rates starting at $49. This offer is valid for purchase only on Nov. 30, 2013 and for booking Jan. 1 through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 15, 2014, weekend rates start at $59.

Beach Cove Resort
Guests can enjoy a getaway at Beach Cove Resort in an oceanfront suite with rates starting at $49. This offer is valid for purchase only on Nov. 30, 2013 and for booking Jan. 1 through April 1, 2014. Starting Feb. 14, 2014, weekend rates start at $59. Black-out dates include March 13-15 and March 24-26.

Caledonia Golf Vacations: February “Fore” Star Golf Getaway
Guests that stay at The True Blue Resort for three nights in a two bedroom villa will receive a $50 per person discount. Guests will also be able to play four rounds of golf at Caledonia and True Blue in any combination. The starting rate for this package is $399 per person. The package is only available to be purchased on Nov. 30, 2013 and the dates booked must be Feb. 1-16.

Caledonia Golf Vacations: March Mania 2014
Guests that stay at The True Blue Resort for three nights in a two bedroom villa will receive a $50 per person discount. Guests will also be able to play four rounds of golf at Caledonia and True Blue in any combination. The starting rate for this package is $499 per person. The package is only available to be purchased on Nov. 30, 2013 and the dates booked must be March 1-19.

Captain’s Quarters
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Captain’s Quarters in an oceanfront room with rates starting at $45. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $55. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15. Guests that stay before Feb. 13, 2014, will receive daily breakfast for two and one complimentary game of bowling at Captain’s Quarters.

The Caravelle Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at The Caravelle Resort in an oceanfront room including daily breakfast for two with rates starting at $45. This offer is valid for booking Jan. 1 through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $55. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15.

Carolina Winds
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Carolina Winds in an oceanfront suite with rates starting at $39. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Black-out dates include Feb. 14-15. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $49.

Crown Reef Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Crown Reef Resort in an oceanfront room with rates starting at $45. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 14, 2014, weekend rates start at $55. Guests that stay before Feb. 13, 2014, will receive daily breakfast for two and one complimentary game of bowling at Captain’s Quarters.

Forest Dunes Ocean Front Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Forest Dunes Ocean Front Resort in an ocean view with rates starting at $35. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $45.

Grande Shores Ocean Resort Condominiums
Guests that book with Grande Shores Ocean Hotel on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Grande Shores Ocean Resort Condominiums
Guests that book with Grande Shores Ocean Resort Condominiums on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Horizon at 77th
Guests that book with Horizon at 77th on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Hotel BLUE
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Hotel BLUE in an oceanfront room with rates starting at $35. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $45. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15. Guests that stay before Feb. 13, 2014, will receive one complimentary game of bowling at Captain’s Quarters.

Landmark Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Sea Watch Resort with rates starting at $45. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $55. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15. Guests that stay before Feb. 13, 2014, will receive daily breakfast for two and one complimentary game of bowling at Captain’s Quarters.

MyrtleBeachHotels.com
Available online only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can save as much as 35 percent off a summer vacation. This offer is valid for booking May 28 through Aug. 29, 2014.

Ocean Creek Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Ocean Creek Resort in a lodge studio with rates starting at $39. This offer is valid for booking Jan. 1 through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $49. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15.

Palace Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Palace Resort in a suite with daily complimentary breakfast with rates starting at $35. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $45. Black-out dates include Feb. 14-15.

Prince Resort
Prince Resort is offering three nights and three rounds of golf for $200 per player (based on quad occupancy) for guests that book only on Nov. 30, 2013. Golfers will enjoy accommodations in a two-bedroom oceanfront condo and access to play at Carolina Shores, Crown Park and Sandpiper Bay. The special is valid for any time in the month of March and the price includes all taxes and fees.

Prince Resort at The Cherry Grove Pier
Guests that book with Prince Resort on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

River Oaks
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, book two nights at River Oaks Golf Villa and receive the third night free. Guests will be able to play courses including Black Bear, Burning Ridge, Indian Wells and Founders Club at Pawleys Island, as well as receive complimentary pre-booked replays. This offer is valid Jan. 16 through June 1, 2014, with rates starting at $201 per person.

Sands Resorts
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests that book a four night stay at Sands Resorts will receive an additional three nights for free. This offer also includes unlimited rounds of golf at Diamondback Gold Course and full access to any available Sands Resorts amenity that is in season at time of stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through Dec. 31, 2014. When booking use the promotional code is “TS”.

Sandy Beach Oceanfront Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, book your getaway at Sandy Beach Resort and enjoy 30 percent off your visit of four nights or more. This offer is valid for booking Feb. 17 through April 10, 2014.

Seaside Resort
Guests that book with Seaside Resorts on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay and complimentary breakfast each day. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Sea Crest Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests will receive a 35 percent discount if the reservation at Sea Crest Resort is made 90 days in advance or a 30 percent discount if the reservation is made directly with the hotel at least 60 days in advance. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013 through Dec. 31, 2014.

Sea Watch Resort
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can enjoy a getaway at Sea Watch Resort in an oceanfront room with rates starting at $49. This offer is valid for booking Jan. 1 through April 10, 2014. Starting Feb. 16, 2014, weekend rates start at $59. Black-out dates include Feb. 13-15.

Towers at North Myrtle Beach
Guests that book with Towers at North Myrtle Beach on Nov. 30, 2013, will enjoy 30 percent off their stay. This offer is valid for booking Nov. 30, 2013, through June 1, 2014. Some restrictions may apply.

Travel Saturday Attraction Deals

Carolina Opry
Guests can save with a two-show package at the Carolina Opry. By purchasing one full-price ticket, guests can receive a $15 ticket for a second show.

Legends in Concert
Available only online on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can save $10 off Adult tickets to see Legends in Concert. Enter promotion code “24SALE” when purchasing tickets. This offer is valid for all 2013 and 2014 events, excluding the 10 p.m. New Year’s Eve show and UETA contest.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Tickets must be purchased on Nov. 30, 2013 to receive the discounted ticket offer of $35 for adults and $25 for children (ages 12 and under).

Ripley’s Attractions
Available only on Nov. 30, 2013, guests can purchase 50 percent off General Admission tickets.

SkyWheel
Myrtle Beach’s iconic SkyWheel is offering of 40 percent off Adult and Child tickets when purchased online only on Nov. 30, 2013. Use promo code “visitmyr” when purchasing. The SkyWheel will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas day. Tickets are valid for one year from date of purchase.


Check Myrtle Beach hotel rates! Read reviews & find the lowest prices at TripAdvisor!

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Dirty Franks Hot Dog Palace

Not only do we love to travel and visit different places to see new sites and scenery - we also love to try new restaurants and foods.  As often as possible, we will avoid restaurants that are available to us where we live - and opt for a menu that is different.  Finding a local favorite while we're traveling adds to the overall experience of visiting a new city.  We love finding restaurants that are rare and memorable.

Dirty Franks Hot Dog Palace has by far the most unique menu that I have sampled.  With over thirty hot dog items on the menu - you will find something to fit any taste.  That number doesn't even include creating your very own dog!    

View the Dirty Franks menu here.

Dan tried the T-Dog (topped with sriracha mustard, roasted red peppers, bacon bits and cheddar) and Puff the Magic Popper (topped with cheddar cream cheese, jalapeno and real bacon bits).  I had Slappy Pappy's Super Sloppy dog.  It came with bacon (they had me at bacon!), coney sauce, cheddar, sour cream and french fries.  The french fries came on top of the dog!

Savannah and Joey each had a chili dog - and loved them!  Joey and Dan tried the soft, salty pretzels as their sides.  We all enjoyed a basket of fried leeks as an appetizer.  None of us had previously eaten fried leeks - but Tracey H. of Dirty Franks recommended we give it a go.  Glad she did!

I had really wanted to save room for their funnel fries - but we all spent a lot of time sampling each other's food.  I was left with absolutely no room.  So, hopefully we'll make it to Columbus, Ohio again and get a chance to try even more of their fun and tasty menu!    

When you visit Dirty Franks - make sure you give yourself extra time.  It is a very popular restaurant and you may have to wait in line... out the door and down the sidewalk.  It is very much worth the wait and you'll not want to miss out on trying as much of the menu as you can.




Keep up with Dirty Franks Hot Dog Palace on their website,  Twitter and on Facebook

*I was provided the opportunity to visit Dirty Franks Hot Dog Palace and sample their menu. All opinions are my own.

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