We spent a lovely afternoon in San Gimignano, a beautiful walled, hill town in Tuscany. While driving from Pisa to Florence, we wanted to explore a typical Tuscan town and were intrigued by San Gimignano. It is known as “the Town of Fine Towers” because of the medieval “skyscrapers” that are still the distinctive feature of the town’s skyline. San Gimignano once had 72 towers used as either legitimate fortifications or simply as empty shells that served as ego boosters for wealthy families who either did not feel the need for extra protection or could afford an empty shell but not a protective tower. Here are our recommendations for the best things to do in San Gimignano with kids.
San Gimignano’s towers
Planning a Visit to San Gimignano With Kids
Transportation to San Gimignano With Kids
Without traffic or stops along the way, San Gimignano is about an hour and a half from Pisa. We had planned to leave Pisa right after breakfast and spend the day exploring Tuscany. However, we decided to postpone our departure so that we could visit the Duomo, the Baptistery and climb to the top of the Leaning Tower, and we did not leave Pisa until about 12:30 pm. We decided to stop for lunch at about 2:00 p.m. at the Toscana Resort Castelfalfi before continuing the last half hour to San Gimignano. We could see the remaining 14 medieval towers miles before we reached the outskirts of this idyllic town, which is surrounded by vineyards and cypress trees.
View of San Gimignano
Visit San Gimignano With Kids
The city center is a limited traffic zone. Luckily, we noticed the “ZTL” signs because our GPS directed us into the prohibited zone several times while we were trying to locate parking. There are significant fines for cars entering these zones without permission. The GPS confusion required several u-turns, but we eventually located a parking lot just outside the wall and headed into the city center. Because our daughter had rested in the car on the way to San Gimignano, we went sans stroller. Even with a three year old walking on her own and without a good map, we reached Piazza del Duomo within about 10-15 minutes. This 12th century Collegiate Church of San Gimignano (aka “the Duomo”) is not as intricate or ornate as the focal churches Venice, Pisa, Florence or Rome, but it is still an impressive example of Romanesque architecture. Because of our limited time, we did not visit the interior but enjoyed a bit of people watching in the Piazza.
Collegiate Church of San Gimignano
An Afternoon in Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano
Adjacent to Piazza del Duomo is Piazza della Cisterna, which is a triangular gathering place named for the cistern that was accessed from the well in the center of the square. This Piazza is the home of the world-famous Gelateria Dondoli, which boasts its status as the Gelato World Champion for 2006-07 and 2008-09. Gelato was a daily afternoon indulgence during our time in Italy, and we definitely could distinguish excellent gelato from corner shop gelato. However, the line at Gelateria Dondoli was simply too long, and we desperately wanted to sit in the shade. So, we choose Le Terrazze across the Piazza instead.
The line stretched out the door at Gelateria Dondoli
I thoroughly enjoyed a glass of vernaccia, a San Gimignano wine made from indigenous grapes, while my husband and our kids selected their gelato flavors. We spent about 45 minutes relaxing on the shaded patio.
After we were all refreshed, we took a look at the octagonal well at the center of the Piazza. This well was originally built in 1273 and enlarged in 1346.
Best View in San Gimignano For Kids
We decided that the perfect end to our afternoon in San Gimignano would be to check out the 360 degree hilltop view. So, we took a short walk to the Rocca. The view most definitely did not disappoint.
View from the Rocca
Our visit to San Gimignano was a rare time that we did not bring our stroller on a sightseeing adventure and was pleasantly walkable for three year old legs. We all particularly enjoyed the medieval touches of the city during the walk back to our car.
Why We Loved San Gimignano With Kids
San Gimignano is a beautiful medieval hill town. While we spent most of our time in Italy exploring large metropolitan tourist centers, it was refreshing to spend an afternoon in this quaint town full of old world charm. Our two and a half hour visit gave us plenty of time to see the town, but there are plenty of overnight accommodations for visitors who want to extend their stay. Make sure to check out the rest of our blog posts on Florence and Tuscany before planning your next family adventure to Italy!
Old Town Alexandria is a historic neighborhood located just a few miles south of Washington, DC. Having called Old Town Alexandria home for six years, I can say, without a doubt, that it is not only an amazing place to live, but also a fabulous place to visit. Over the years, I have encouraged many friends/family visiting from out of town to spend a few hours exploring Old Town with kids! Not only is it an incredibly family friendly place, but it is literally dripping in history and architectural design AND also incredibly dog friendly. Old Town is home to the only coffee shop I’ve ever heard of that freely allows dogs into its establishment. So, even on a crummy day, Old Town is a great place to bring your kids and furry pups for some window shopping and good eats.
How to Get to Old Town Alexandria:
Getting to Old Town Alexandria is not difficult. It’s a short drive down the GW Parkway from Washington, DC and if you’re flying into Reagan National Airport (DCA) and planning on using public transportation, the King Street Metro station is just two stops south of the DCA stop. Once at or near King Street (the “main drag”), you can easily take the free King Street Trolley, which travels along King Street from the metro station to the waterfront every 10-15 minutes throughout the day. There is absolutely no charge to ride the Trolley, you don’t even need to be in possession of any passes, you can simply keep an eye out for Trolley stops along King Street and hop on and off as you see fit! The Trolley also carries free copies of the Alexandria’s Visitor’s Guide as well as a map of the main business area, so it really is a great starting point for learning your way around Old Town Alexandria.
The King Street Trolley!
If you find yourself driving to Old Town, the cheapest parking option is simply to park 2-3 blocks north of King Street. On or in the immediate vicinity of King Street, the parking spots are metered and/or you can look for lots that provide day parking. But, if you’re looking for free parking options, just park a few blocks north of King Street and take the short stroll down. Pro Tip: If you park close to the Potomac, you can simply walk due east until you hit the waterfront and then enjoy the gorgeous scenery on your way down.
Top Five Things to Do:
#1: Explore the Waterfront
Situated on the banks of the Potomac River, Old Town Alexandria is the perfect spot to enjoy the serene waters of the Potomac River. There are so many ways to enjoy the water, including water taxis and boat cruises, but my personal favorite way to experience the waterfront is to visit one of the many waterfront parks located along the Potomac and throughout Old Town.
View of the Potomac from the north end of Founders Park
My personal favorite waterfront park is Founders Park, which is located just three blocks north of King Street. Not only does it provide an amazing, shaded opportunity to enjoy the Potomac’s serene waters, but it also has an unleashed dog park for my four legged child AND a beach volleyball court.
Beach volleyball at Founders Park
On any nice day, you can find the park filled with local residents simply enjoying the outdoors. And, if you happen to be in town during Alexandria’s annual birthday celebration and firework spectacular, which always happens the weekend after the Fourth of July, it’s a perfect spot to lay down a blanket or towel and enjoy the show.
There are a number of fenced in walk ways that are perfect for young duck feeders!
#2: Visit Artists’ Galleries at the Torpedo Factory
The Torpedo Factory is presently home to the nation’s largest collection of working-artists’ open studios under one roof. On the day after Armistice Day, the official end of WWI, the US Navy began construction on the Torpedo Factory which was truly intended to be responsible for the manufacture and maintenance of torpedoes for the Navy. For five years, the factory was fully operational until work stopped during and the building became a munitions storage area. During WWII, production picked up again, but eventually, the factory’s production came to a grinding halt due to the end of WWII and the United States continued to use the building for storage. For years, the factory held congressional documents, dinosaur bones, art objects, and other records.
During a tour of the Torpedo Factory, I learned that the building really became something of a liability for the United States government and so it was “sold” to the City of Alexandria for the hefty sum of $1 in 1969. It took a few years for the city to develop a plan, but eventually the Torpedo Factory opened to the public as a working studio for artists.
The Torpedo Factory is presently home to a large number of open artist studios and, on any given, day, its a great spot to enjoy a reprieve from the elements. Whether it’s summer or winter, the Torpedo Factory’s central location directly at the intersection of King Street and the Potomac River is a great place to seek some shade or air conditioning and to use the facilities. Pro Tip: Free, clean bathrooms available!
My personal favorite part about the visiting the Torpedo Factory (aside from the free, clean bathrooms and air conditioning) is the local “water musician,” who can be found nearly every weekend playing his tunes just outside of the factory’s main entrance.
If you happen to visit the Torpedo Factory, be sure to stop by and say hi to my friend Katy who runs EatsPlace Cafe & Market, a great place to grab a sandwich and cold drink (including beer)!
#3: Experience History
I cannot begin to do justice to the City of Alexandria’s history without turning this post into a thesis. The short story is that Native American artifacts dating to 13,200 years ago and as late as 1,600 AD have been found in Alexandria. The city has served as a tobacco trading post, one of the ten busiest ports in America, a part of the District of Columbia, the hometown of Robert E. Lee, George Washington, and a Civil War supply center for Union Troops, among others.
In my opinion, the city has done a wonderful thing of honoring the past by preserving it for the future. There are a number of historical sites and attractions available for visiting and the city runs most of them, with available tours and special exhibits and attractions. While by no means an exhaustive list, some of my favorite sites are:
This 18th century home is located one block north of King Street and is a beautiful example of Georgian residential architecture. John Carlyle was a wealthy merchant and a founder of Alexandria and the home has served as not only a private residence, but as a hospital during the Civil War and is now a museum.
The Lee Fendall House was constructed in 1985 and has housed 37 members of the Lee family, served as a convalescent home for Union soldiers during the Civil War, and has also been the price residence of many wealthy Alexandrians during its 200 year history. The home is located on the National Register of Historical Places and is a wonderful place to visit. Tours run regularly throughout the week and the museum also offers a number of special events. The home also runs an annual “candy free” Easter egg hunt, which we visited one year with our young son. I totally got a kick out of knowing that my four year old was freaking out over the Easter bunny at home that Robert E. Lee likely visited and stayed at while in command of the Confederate Army.
The Churches:
This may come as a surprise to many, but Alexandria is home to a surprising number of “first churches.” The historic Christ Church is located in the center of Old Town and George Washington was a founding member and rented a family pew and Robert E. Lee was a later member of the church as well.
Last but not least, Alexandria is home to St. Joseph’s Church, the oldest black Catholic church in Virginia. Located only two blocks from our home, we frequently attended St. Joseph’s and found it to be a vibrant and welcoming parish. My husband attended an African Methodist Episcopal Church throughout college and loved the choir and worship at St. Joseph’s, which definitely had a lot more to it than our typical mass.
Built in 1785, Gadsby’s Tavern was an essential part of the fiber of the City of Alexandria. George Washington visited the Tavern frequently and other prominent guests include Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and yours truly, of course.
Although the food is truly nothing to write home about, the experience of dining at Gadsby’s Tavern is a real treat. Workers still dress in period clothing and the food is designed to be “authentic” – including some of Virginia’s famous peanut soup.
Even if you don’t have time to dine at Gadsby’s, be sure to stop by and visit the recently renovated Icehouse, which can be viewed for free from the outside rain or shine.
The Old Town Farmers’ Market is the oldest continuously held farmers’ market in the country. Any Saturday morning, rain, sleet, or shine, you can find local farmers and artisans with their booths. Not only is it a great place to purchase fresh produce, but there are a number of local bakeries, eateries, and artisans also out selling their products.
There are truly few things better in life than eating your way through the Farmer’s Market on a beautiful spring or fall day!
#4: Walk the King Street Mile
King Street is a walkable mile of over 160 independent shops and boutiques. As you may have gathered by now, King Street is the heart of Old Town and no visit to Old Town is complete without popping into at least some of the shops that make up the Old Town Boutique District.
The Hour: a shop dedicated entirely to cocktail hour! Although many of the items sold here are way outside of our budget, it’s a great little place to get ideas for hosting your next cocktail hour or dinner party.
Red Barn Mercantile: my favorite home goods store, hands down. Not only does the shop offer an great collection of candles, pillows, and other assorted home decor, but it’s a fabulous place to get Alexandria inspired items for home or gifting. I’ve purchased many candles, mugs, and other related items to give as housewarming gifts.
Handmade and DIY Shops: Alexandria happens to be home to a number of do-it-yourself shops. My favorite store in this category is fibre space, which is hands down the best local yarn shop I have ever visited. Owner Danielle has the most amazing vision and all of the employees are not only seasoned knitters and crocheters, but are also fabulous people to boot. If yarn isn’t your cup of tea, you can opt for a sewing lesson, painting lesson, jewelry making and design course, or just a good old fashioned pottery painting session. Be sure to check out the handmade and DIY shop offerings for your next visit to Old Town!
Pro Tip: I’ve affectionately renamed Old Town “Dog Town USA” and it’s no surprise as Alexandia is incredibly dog friendly. If you’re also traveling with your four legged child, The Alexandria is an ideal place to stay. Not only is it located in the heart of Old Town, but it offers a weekly “Yappy Hour” that we have visited with both our two legged and four legged children. Many of the shops in Old Town are pet friendly, just keep your eyes peeled for this blue sign indicating that even Fido is welcome! The dog friendly aspect of Old Town really makes this an ideal family vacation destination as there’s no need to leave your furry friend behind.
Old Town Alexandria is filled with amazing restaurants and eateries. As a rule, the further from the waterfront you get, the better the quality of the food is. That said, if you’re only in town for a short time, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a meal at Vola’s Dockside Grill or The Chart House. I wouldn’t say that either are particularly kid friendly, though. The Chart House is definitely pricey and Vola’s is hard to manage with young children simply because it is always swamped. If you’re looking for tried and true kid-friendly dining options, our favorites:
Eamonn’s: Amazing fish and chips. Be sure to add some extra sauces to your order.
Pizza Paradiso: Great pizza and beer selection. I’ve maneuvered a double stroller through this place, so don’t hesitate to bring your kids!
Hank’s Oyster Bar: We love the seafood, there’s a great kids menu, and my kids love that every meal starts with goldfish crackers and ends with dark chocolate chunks.
Red Rocks Pizza: If you find yourself further away from the water when it’s chow time, Red Rocks offers great pizza and we even prefer it slightly to Pizza Paradiso.
La Madeleine: A french bakery & cafe that is also a great option for a causal breakfast or light lunch. Also a great place to pick up pastries to enjoy at home later!
And, of course, it is nearly impossible to go to Old Town without enjoying some of the amazing desserts the town has to offer. There’s the Ben & Jerry’s just by the water, but also a number of mom & pop ice cream shops. If liquid nitrogen ice cream is your thing, be sure to check out one of the more recent additions to the Old Town dessert scene: Nicecream. There are also quite a few cupcake and chocolatiers littered throughout town, so definitely save room for dessert.
We are so lucky to have called Old Town Alexandria home for six years and we hope you consider popping in for a visit on your next trip to Washington, DC. Be sure to check out our entire category of posts on things to do and places to visit in Washington, DC with kids and make sure to visit Old Town Alexandria with kids!
Thank you to Hale Farm and Village for providing complimentary tickets for my family. As always, all opinions are my own.
Hale Farm and Village is a historic property that features preserved buildings and craft and trade demonstrations. The costumed docents and artisans are each brilliant story tellers and really brought mid-nineteenth century Ohio history to life. Hale Farm is located in Bath, Ohio near Akron and about 30 minutes southeast of Cleveland on the original homestead of Jonathan Hale. Because Ohio history is near and dear to my parents, who are each Ohio natives who both majored in history, Hale Farm was a perfect place to spend their 50th wedding anniversary. We all thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this open-air museum of the Western Reserve Historical Society and recommend Hale Farm and Village as a fun and educational destination for a day out with kids.
The golden anniversary couple
Visiting Hale Farm With Kids
Our first stop was at the Hale Sheep Barn where one of the artisans was demonstrating broom making. The brooms are made of broomcorn, which is grown on site. Broomcorn is actually not corn at all but a sorghum. Brooms are not only used for floors but also for barn ceilings to remove potential fire hazards like cobwebs.
We then visited the blacksmith shop where the blacksmith was making a decorative leaf. We got to see him heat and shape the leaf, which is sold as a necklace pendant in the gift shop.
Glassworks was my favorite craft demonstration. We watched the glassmith expertly shape the glass to make a Christmas ornament. She then placed it in a furnace so that it would cool slowly enough and not crack or shatter. The final products were also available for sale at the gift shop in the Visitor’s Center.
Pottery was my eight year old son’s favorite craft demonstration. The potter explained the techniques he used to shape the clay into a mug on the wheel. Once shaped, the clay needs to dry overnight to leather hard. At this point, the potter can smooth the bottom surface and then waits until the piece is bone dry before firing it using a kiln. Salt is used in the kiln to glaze each piece, and the final product is dishwasher and microwave safe. This presentation convinced my son that he would really like to try his hands on a pottery wheel and make a bowl.
A number of historic homes have been moved from around northeast Ohio and reconstructed on Hale Farm’s property across Oak Hill Road from the Visitor’s Center. The relocated homes include the Jonathan E. Herrick House, the Jonathan Goldsmith House, the Stow House, the Jagger House and the Saltbox Home and feature period-appropriate furnishings and decorations. My four year old noticed on her own that the homes did not have bathrooms, and a docent gave her a brief lesson on outhouses. The kids now have a new appreciation for indoor plumbing. We also noticed the stark differences between the highly decorated rooms used to entertain guests with the stark private quarters used only for the family.
The parlor of the Jonathan Goldsmith House
Another building relocated to Hale Farm include the law office of Benjamin Franklin Wade. Wade was particularly notable as president pro tempore of the U.S. Senate in 1868 when President Andrew Johnson was impeached. He would have become Acting President if Johnson was convicted. There is also a church and a log schoolhouse, where we participated in a mock classroom and learned about common discipline techniques used in 1858. My kids are glad that school facilities have improved considerably since the mid-1800s when school fees were about $2 per student per year.
Every summer, Hale Farm hosts the largest Civil War reenactment in Ohio. We got a preview during our visit, which was the day before the weekend event began. We met many reenactors on site to prepare and a few horses, too.
The 2018 event on August 11-12 features a reenactment of the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Field commanders have a basic script, but reenactors simply follow the orders they receive from their commanders. They find it more fun to improvise rather than memorize a script. The reenactors travel from all over Ohio and even as far as Tennessee to participate in the event. Throughout the weekend, they each stay in historic period tents that they set up on site. These canvas tents do not use modern conveniences like nylon, zippers or mesh windows. Nonetheless, we learned if these tents are set up properly, they rarely become waterlogged.
Tent village set up by reenactors
Why We Loved Hale Farm With Kids
Our family had the perfect day for a visit to Hale Farm and Village. The grounds were not overly crowded, likely due to threatened rain that held off until we were headed back to our car. Our family was able to personally interact with all of the artisans and docents and asked many questions at this living history museum to gain a better understanding of pioneer life. We also really enjoyed our preview of the Civil War Reenactment without the hundreds of visitors expected for the weekend event. Hale Farm is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2018, and many events are scheduled to celebrate this milestone. We definitely recommend visiting Hale Farm with kids. It’s one of the best living history museums in Ohio.
Pro-tips:
Hale Farm Tickets: Hale Farm admission costs $10 for adults age 13 and older and $5 for youth age 3 to 12. Visitors age 2 and under and active military are free.
Hale Farm Hours: Hale Farm is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays in June, July and August and on Saturdays and Sundays in September and October.
Hale Farm Parking: A large parking lot is available next to the Visitor’s Center.
Hale Farm Map: The Village layout is generally self-explanatory, but it’s helpful to pick up a map when purchasing tickets and inquire about which sites are open.
Hale FarmCaution: The Village spans both sides of Oak Hill Road, so use caution when crossing the street with small children.
Eating Near HaleFarm: The Winking Lizard in Peninsula is a great, family-friendly option for lunch after visiting Hale Farm. If there is a wait for a table, the kids can check out the lizard and the endless free popcorn.
Every so often, we encounter a place that is so fabulous for those traveling with kids that it is worthy of being featured on its own. For more fabulous locations, please check out our other Spotlight features! Also, be sure to check out all our category of posts on Cleveland with kids.
Our first family trip to Paris absolutely exceeded our expectations. It had been 21 years since my last visit, and my husband, who had traveled there more recently for work, was not overly enthusiastic this stop on our family vacation. But, we all loved the City of Lights. In our combined five days and five nights spread over two weekends, we did a great deal of walking and saw a lot of amazing monuments, museums and churches. But, we also had the chance to really explore a few neighborhoods, retrace our steps and enjoy meals at some of the many cafes in the city. Here are 25 top attractions in Paris for families – make sure to note how many are free!
Champs-Élysées With Kids
#1: Arc de Triomphe
Napoleon commissioned the iconic Arc de Triomphe after winning the 1805 battle of Austerlitz. The 165 foot Arc was inspired by Rome’s Arch of Titus and completed in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon’s death. It is the world’s largest triumphal arch. The Arc de Triomphe is located on the western end of the Champs-Élysées at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, the junction of 12 streets.
Arc de Triomphe Facts: La Marseillaise, the relief on the right pillar depicts Lady Liberty rallying tired soldiers onward.
Arc de Triomphe Cost: Free to view. Admission to climb 284 stairs to the rooftop is €12 for adults but is free for kids aged 0-17.
Closest Metro Station to Arc de Triomphe: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
#2: Champs-Élysées
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the world’s most famous boulevards. This magnificent, tree-lined street runs the 1.2 miles between the Place Charles de Gaulle (the Arc de Triomphe’s location) and Place de la Concorde. The portion close to the Arc de Triomphe is lined with cafes and high-end shops. We strayed from the Champs-Élysées only to check out the Grand Palace and the Petit Palace. The Champs-Élysées is the center of Bastille Day and World Cup celebrations (both of which occurred while we were in Italy) and the finale of the Tour de France, which took place one week after our return home.
Champs-Élysées Facts: The Champs-Élysées is the site of the world’s most profitable McDonald’s, which happened to be the only McDonald’s we visited during our European holiday. Orders are placed on touch screens, and our ice cream was more expensive than any of our daily gelato stops.
Champs-Élysées Cost: Free
Closest Metro Stations to Champs-Élysées: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (Arc de Triomphe), George V, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Concorde (Place de la Concorde)
#3: Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is an exhibition hall that was constructed in the Beaux-Arts style for the 1900 World’s Fair and located just off the Champs-Élysées.
Grand Palace Facts: The Grand Palace will be used for the fencing and Taekwondo events in the 2024 Olympics.
Grand PalaceCost: Admission prices vary with each exhibit
Grand Palace Tip: Closed on Tuesdays
ClosestMetro Stops to Grand Palace: Champs-Élysées Clemenceau or Franklin D. Roosevelt
#4: Petit Palace
The Petit Palace was built for the 1900 World’s Fair and houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), which features an extensive collection from Greek antiquities to Art Nouveau, including works of Rembrant, Courbet and Monet. The featured Temporary Exhibit is currently Impressionists in London, which we would have loved to see, but were unfortunately visiting on a Monday when the Museum is closed. Instead, the gorgeous entry way and stairs served as a perfect spot to rest before continuing up the Champs-Élysées.
Petit Palace Facts: Architect Charles Girault won a 1894 contest with a late 17th/early 18th century French architectural design.
Petit Palace Cost: Permanent collection is free, fees are charged for special exhibits.
Petit Palace Tip: The City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts is closed on Monday.
ClosestMetro Stops to Petit Palace: Champs-Élysées Clemenceau and Franklin D. Roosevelt
#5: Place de la Concorde
Place de la Concorde is Paris’ largest public square and is located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. The 75-foot Luxor Obelisk, which was once at the entrance of Luxor Temple, stands at the center of the square. This 3,300 year old granite column is decorated with exquisite hieroglyphics. It’s original gold cap was believed to have been stolen in the 6th century B.C., and the current gold-leafed pyramid cap was added in 1998.
Place de la Concorde Facts: Place de la Concorde was the site of over 1,200 executions during the French Revolution, including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
Place de la ConcordeCost: Free
Closest Metro Station to Place de la Concorde: Concorde
Time Spent at Place de la Concorde: About 15-20 minutes
Left Bank With Kids
#6: Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower (aka the Iron Lady) is the quintessential landmark. It was #1 on my middle son’s bucket list eversince he saw the half scale model in Las Vegas at age four. This wrought iron lattice tower was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair to recognize the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. When constructed, the Eiffel Tower surpassed the Washington Monument to become the tallest structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in 1930.
The Eiffel Tower is the most visited monument (with an admission fee) in the world with almost 7.0 million visitors each year. There are three observation decks. Visitors who wish to visit the summit should book tickets immediately after flights or as soon as they are available online (about three months in advance). We were only able to book tickets to the second floor in advance because the summit was fully booked each day we were in Paris. We took the elevator to the second floor and chose to take the stairs from the second to first floor. My husband and sons took the stairs from the first floor to ground floor and actually beat my daughter and I taking the elevator. The light show, which begins after sunset, is a particular treat. For more information, make sure to read our entire review of our visit to the Eiffel Tower with kids.
Eiffel Tower Facts: The Eiffel Tower was intended to be dismantled after 20 years but maintained after a wireless telegraph transmitter was installed
Eiffel Tower Cost: Elevator tickets to the second floor cost €16 for adults, €8 for youths aged 12-24, €4 for children aged 4-11 and free for kids under 4. Elevator tickets to the summit cost €25 for adults, €12.5 for youths aged 12-24, €6.3 for children 4-11 and free for kids under 4.
#7: Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are 60-acres of lush gardens, fountains and statues, ponds with toy sailboats for rent and the Luxembourg Palace. This is a haven for children, who particularly enjoy pushing toy sailboats available to rent in 30 minute intervals around the Grand Bassin duck pond.
Photo credit: Marissa Mayer
Luxembourg Gardens Facts: Marie de Medici built Luxembourg Palace in the early 17th century after the death of her husband, Henry IV. It was designed as a recreation of her childhood home, Pitti Palace in Florence.
Luxembourg Gardens Cost: Free to enter.
#8: Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay houses an impressive Impressionist collection of French art featuring Manet, Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh Degas, Cezanne and many more. The Museum opened in 1986 in the former Gare d’Orsay, which was constructed for the 1900 World’s Fair, and the station’s three enormous clocks are spectacular works of art in their own right. Our family really loves Impressionism, particularly the works of Van Gogh and Monet. So, the Musée d’Orsay, which includes 24 Van Gogh paintings, was a particular treat. Our favorite was Starry Night Over the Rhone.
Musée d’Orsay Facts: Because the platforms were too short for modern trains, Gare d’Orsay was closed in 1939. It may not have been able to accommodate trains but now houses the largest collection of Impressionist paintings in the world.
Musée d’Orsay Cost: €12 for adults or €16 if purchasing a combined admission to Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie; kids 0-17 and EU citizens 0-26 are free.
Closest Metro Station to Musée d’Orsay: Solferino
Musée d’Orsay Tip: To avoid ticket lines, purchase tickets online for same day or advance tickets with €1.50 surcharge. Visits to Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie do not have to occur on the same day.
Time Spent at Musée d’Orsay: About three hours
#9: Place du Trocadéro
The Place du Trocadéro is located across the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower and offers a picturesque view of the iconic Tower, along with beautiful fountains.
Place du Trocadéro Facts: The Place du Trocadéro is named after the 1823 Battle of Trocadéro in which France defeated Spain.
Closest Metro Station to Place du Trocadéro: Trocadéro
Place du Trocadéro Cost: Free
Right Bank With Kids
#10: Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world’s largest and most visited art museum with 400,000 art works and a permanent collection of about 35,000 on display. It is housed in the Louvre Palace, which was once the world’s largest palace, and includes DaVinci’s Mona Lisa, Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Venus de Milo and so many more of the world’s masterpieces. This vast museum was not nearly as crowded as the Vatican, except for the room displaying the Mona Lisa, which is a nonstop paparazzi scene. Read our entire review of visiting the Louvre with kids.
Louvre Museum Facts: The Louvre contains more than 380,000 objects.
Louvre Museum Cost: €17 for adults, free for kids 0-17
Louvre Museum Tips: We purchased online tickets directly through the Louvre’s website for 9:30 am on our first full day in Paris. There really weren’t significant lines for either people with reserved tickets or people purchasing tickets, but we were ushered to the front of both lines because we had a stroller. There are a lot of stairs in the Louvre, but this museum goes above and beyond to accommodate strollers. There is a special circular elevator in the pyramid so that strollers do no need to use the escalator, and stroller users have elevator access throughout the Louvre.
Closest Metro Stations to Louvre Museum: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre and Louvre-Rivoli
Time Spent at Louvre Museum: About 3 hours
#11: Louvre Palace and Pyramid
A visit to the Louvre Palace and Pyramid should be on every family’s Paris itinerary. The Louvre Palace is a former royal palace that dates back to the 13th century but has been expanded and renovated over the past 800 years. The iconic glass and metal pyramid that serves as the museum’s main entrance was designed by the Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei and completed in 1989. There are platforms in the courtyard perfect for staging those forced perspective photos that kids particularly love.
Louvre Palace and Pyramid Facts: The pyramid and underground lobby were created so that the Louvre could better accommodate its daily visitors. The pyramid was designed for 4.5 million annual visitors, and the underground lobby had to be redesigned between 2014 and 2017 when the number of annual visitors rose from 4.5 million to over 8 million.
Closest Metro Stations to Louvre Palace and Pyramid: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre and Louvre-Rivoli
Louvre Palace and Pyramid Cost: Free
#12: Montorgueil
Montorgueil is a quaint pedestrian only neighborhood lined with cafes along its cobblestone streets. This is a great place to have an evening drink or watch a World Cup match (which we did!).
Montorgueil Facts: Montorgueil means “Mount Pride”.
Closest Metro Stations to Montorgueil: Les Halles, Centre Georges Pompidou, Hôtel de Ville
Montorgueil Cost: Free
#13: Musée de l’Orangerie
The Musée de l’Orangerie features impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, including the Museum’s main attraction, two oval rooms custom designed to each display four massive Nymphéas (Water Lilies) wall murals completed by Claude Monet in his final years. My ten year old deemed these two rooms the “best rooms of art” he’s ever seen, and he’s visited many art museums.
Musée de l’Orangerie Facts: The Museum completed a six-year, $36 million renovation in 2006 to move the second floor collection underground so that a skylight could be added to the oval rooms featuring Monet’s Water Lilies.
Musée de l’Orangerie Cost: €12 for adults or €16 if purchasing a combined admission to Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie; kids 0-17 are free
Musée de l’Orangerie Tip: Closed on Tuesdays.
Closest Metro Station to Musée de l’Orangerie: Concorde
Time Spent at Musée de l’Orangerie : About 1.5 hours
#14: Opera Garnier
The Opera Garnier is Paris’ grand theater, which was completed in 1875. It seats over 1,900 and boasts one of the world’s largest stages. The Opera Garnier was completed in 1875 and is the home of the Paris Opera.
Opera Garnier Facts: Opera Garnier was the setting for The Phantom of the Opera.
Opera Garnier Cost: Admission for tours is €7-€12 for adults and free for kids 0-11.
#15: Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden is the royal garden of the Louvre Palace, which is located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. The portion next to the Louvre includes a ferris wheel and green space, but much of the rest of the length has more pebbles than grass.
Tuileries Garden Facts: The Tuileries Gardens were designed for Henry II’s wife, Catherine de Medici, in the 1500s as a replica of her family’s Boboli Gardens in Florence.
Closest Metro Stations to Tuileries Garden: Tuileries and Concorde
Tuileries Garden Cost: Free to enter. Rides are available for a fee.
Montmartre With Kids
#16: Montmartre
The Montmartre neighborhood is located on Paris’ highest hill and the former home of some of the world’s most famous artists. This is still an artists’ haven with many galleries and working artists ready to paint portraits or caricatures.
Montmartre Facts: Famous Montmartre residents include Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Maurice Utrillo, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Salvador Dalí and Amedeo Modigliani.
Closest Metro Stations to Montmartre: Pigalle and Abbesses
Montmartre Cost: Free
#17: Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Sacre-Coeur Basilica, a white Romano-Byzantine cathedral, is located at Paris’ highest point. The Basilica was completed in 1914 . The mosaic above the altar depicts a 60-foot-tall Christ exposing his sacred heart. The view from the Sacre-Couer steps is absolutely phenomenal both during the day and at night. The central mosaic is one of the largest in the world. It’s definitely worth the two long flights of stairs to reach. We attended a memorable Sunday Mass here.
Sacre-Coeur Basilica Facts: Architect Paul Abadie was the winner of a design competition for the Basilica.
Sacre-Coeur Basilica Cost: Free
Closest Metro Station to Sacre-Coeur Basilica: Anvers
Time Spent at Sacre-Coeur Basilica: About 1.5 hours – We arrived 15 minutes before Mass, stayed for the duration of Mass and then about explored the Basilica and gift shop for about 15 minutes.
#18: Wall of Love
The Wall of Love is a love-themed mural that includes the phrase, “I love you” featured 311 times in 250 languages. The mural was created in 2000 by Fédéric Baron and Claire Kito.
Wall of Love Facts: While most walls divide people, the purpose of this wall is a place of reconciliation and support.
Wall of Love Cost: Free
Wall of Love Closest Metro Station: Abbesses
Time Spent at Wall of Love: Less than five minutes
Ile de la Cite With Kids
#19: Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is medieval French Gothic cathedral that was one of the first to use flying buttress supports. Notre-Dame was completed in 1345 and is known for its Rose Window with original medieval glass, gargoyles, two 226-foot towers and of course, the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Our kids were particularly amused by the statue of St. Denis holding his own head near the left portal. We attended Sunday evening Mass, and the archbishop presided.
Notre-Dame Facts: Point Zero Paris is a geographic marker located right outside of Notre Dame. The distance from Paris to all other places is measured from this Point.
Notre-Dame Cost: Free
Closest Metro Stations to Notre-Dame: Cite, Hotel de Ville and St. Michel
Time Spent at Notre-Dame: About 1.5 hours – We arrived 15 minutes before Mass, attended Mass and then walked around the exterior exploring the carvings, gargoyles and flying buttresses.
#20: Square du Vert-Galant
The Square du Vert-Galant is a triangular park at the tip of Il de la Cite. The apex of the Square is shaded by an enormous weeping willow. We spotted this tree during our Seine River cruise and visited it afterwards and met the picnickers who appeared in my husband’s cruise photos. This is an amazing spot to watch the sunset.
Square du Vert-Galant Facts: This small public park was named to honor Henry IV, who had been nicknamed the “Green Gallant.”
Square du Vert-Galant Cost: Free (BYOB)
Closest Metro Station to Square du Vert-Galant: Pont Neuf
Time Spent at Picnic at Square du Vert-Galant: About 30 minutes
#21: Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle, a 13th century Gothic chapel, is known for the stunning stained-glass windows in its sanctuary. It is considered as the world’s largest expanse of stained glass.
Sainte-Chapelle Facts: Sainte-Chapelle was completed in just six years and means “Holy Chapel.”
Sainte-Chapelle Cost: €10 for adults, free for kids 0-17
Closest Metro Station to Sainte-Chapelle: Cite
Time Spent at Sainte-Chapelle: About an hour, including security, purchasing tickets and browsing at the gift shop
#22: Soap Bubbles
After visiting Sainte-Chapelle, we had a little time before our 9 pm appointment tickets to the Eiffel Tower. We walked through Place Louis-Lepine and found a street performer creating soap bubbles with accompanying music. Our kids were absolutely enthralled with the enormous bubbles and joined the pack of kids chasing the bubbles around the square. There were no long faces or tired faces in the group, and there was a constant clinking of change in the performer’s basket.
Soap Bubbles Facts: The changing colors that appear on the surface of soap bubbles appear because of the interference of light reflecting off the surfaces of the soap film.
Soap Bubbles Cost: Free, but tips appreciated
Family Trip to Paris – Generally
#23: Cafes
Cafes are synonymous with Paris. Chairs on the patio tables generally face outward so diners can take in the hustle and bustle around them. Many offer fixed price, three course lunch meals, which we particularly enjoyed.
Cafes Facts: There are 37 bridges in the city of Paris.
Cafes Cost: Varies
#24: Seine River Cruise
There are several options for families to take an iconic cruise along the Seine River. Vedettes du Pont Neuf, Bateaux-Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens all offer similar one-hour boat cruises. We chose a Vedettes du Pont Neuf cruise because the dock was within walking distance of our Airbnb and had a lovely time listening to the narration and checking out the view of Paris from the River.
Seine River Cruise Facts: There are 37 bridges in the city of Paris.
Seine River Cruise Cost: €10+ for adults, €5+ for kids aged 4-12, free for kids under 4
Seine River Cruise Tip: We purchased our tickets on Vedettes du Pont Neuf’s website for the 8:45 cruise as we were leaving our Airbnb and saved €12 over the ticket office price for our four tickets. We made good time to the dock and ended up using our 8:45 for the 8:15 cruise with no issue. Cruises leave promptly, so make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before the departure.
Time Spent at Seine River Cruise: About 1.25 hours
#25: Street Art
Paris is a major art capital, but art is not only displayed in its fine museums. We found so many street art gems while wandering around the city. This Guate Mao creation down the street from our VRBO in Montorgueil was definitely our favorite.
Street Art Facts: Parisian street artist Gaute Mao secretly paints portraits around Europe.
Street Art Cost: Free
Best Family Attractions in Paris
The Eiffel Tower may have been Paris’ biggest draw for my kids, but we were all wowed by its art, cathedrals and landmarks. Planning a family trip to Paris? Make sure to check out our Planning, Logistics and Itinerary blog post as well as our other blog posts about Paris!
Thank you to the Goodtime III for providing complimentary tickets for my family. As always, all opinions are my own.
Our family spent an amazing summer afternoon cruising on Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River aboard the Goodtime III, Cleveland’s largest sightseeing vessel. The ship’s four decks offer indoor and open air seating for up to 1,000 passengers to enjoy the view of Cleveland’s skyline, its many bridges and all the new development at the East Bank of the Flats. This family owned tour boat was established in 1958 and is celebrating its 60th anniversary this summer. The Narrated Sightseeing Tour is especially kid friendly and a great way for visitors (and residents!) to learn about Cleveland’s downtown from a unique perspective. A ride on the Goodtime III with kids is a particularly good first boating experience for young passengers, and the views just can’t be beat.
Goodtime III Parking
Parking is conveniently located at the East Ninth Street Pier Parking lot and costs $10 for 2-3.5 hours. The kids’ excitement started escalating as I parked along the side of the enormous Goodtime III. My only challenge was locating the pay station, but lucky for me, my eight year old has a keen eye and pointed it out for me. Our car was parked only a short distance from the ticket booth, and we had to walk only about 20 steps after disembarking.
Goodtime III Tickets
After paying for parking, we headed to the ticket booth. There were separate lines for visitors with pre-booked tickets and for those purchasing tickets. General admission for the two-hour Narrated Sightseeing Tour costs $18 for adults and $10 for children, and reservations are available online for a small booking fee. Children under five are free, but need a ticket to board. Advance reservations are required for special events and all trips that include a meal.
The ticket booth is easy to find
Pro-Tips: Tours are offered Tuesdays through Sundays. The Goodtime III offers kids a special $1 admission on their 3 p.m. Narrated Sightseeing Tour from Memorial Day to July 4th.
Boarding the Goodtime III
Getting ready to board
I was happy to walk right up to the will-call booth and secure our tickets with my picture ID. We arrived at about 2:20 p.m., collected our tickets and made our way to the boarding area by about 2:25 p.m. and had only a few minutes to wait before boarding for our 3:00 p.m. cruise, which began sharply at 2:30 p.m. The kids really enjoyed experiences on smaller boats while touring the Kerala backwaters and whale watching in Dalvik, Iceland and were ecstatic to board this massive vessel.
Because this mid-week cruise afternoon cruise had about 150 passengers, we had plenty of seating options. The kids excitedly tried out a half a dozen views before the ship even left the dock. While there was plenty of room on our cruise, the Goodtime III, which has a maximum capacity of 1,000, never exceeds 800 to maintain comfort for all passengers.
Checking out the views while docked on the Ninth Street Pier
An Afternoon Cruise on the Goodtime III
The ship departed exactly at 3:00 p.m., so visitors need to arrive on time or will be stuck on shore. We enjoyed an hour of narration about Cleveland’s history, buildings, bridges and trivia and then a second hour of music on the ship’s sound system, which was fun to listen to while watching the ever-changing views.
The Flats have had significant development over the past few years
The facilities on board were excellent and kid-friendly, and it is clear that safety is a huge priority for the Goodtime III. After previous rides on much smaller boats with kids, I was relieved to see that all side railings provided a safe enclosure for little people. Although I still had to remind my kids to keep their feet on the ground and not to lean out of the ship, I did not have to spend the entire cruise holding my daughter. There were also bins full of adult and child-sized life vests strategically placed around the ship, and the crew provided a demonstration on how to use the life vests before we departed. The restrooms featured running water and even a diaper changing station not common on smaller boats.
He spent a lot of time just gazing at the city.
We ordered popcorn for the kids, which was reasonably priced at only $2 a box on the second level. Of course, after popcorn, they needed water, which was $2 a bottle. We also treated them to ice cream sandwiches, which were available on the main level and cost only $2.50 each. The Goodtime III also offered burgers, grilled chicken, nachos and a full bar on board.
Cleveland’s Public Square
I always love the idea of boating but am prone to seasickness and have regretted several boating or sailing excursions. However, I had no issues on the Goodtime III, which was large and very stable. Every staff member we met was also helpful and friendly. I apologized to crew member Ashlynn for the popcorn crumbs surrounding my daughter and even offered to sweep them up myself. She replied that she was happy to have something to do.
It was fun to see planes taking off from Burke Lakefront Airport.
My favorite piece of trivia from the narrated portion of the cruise was that TheLorax by Dr. Seuss, originally included the sentence, “I hear things are just as bad up in Lake Erie.” However, Seuss removed the line 14 years after publication when Ohio Sea Grant Program researchers informed him of efforts to clean-up the Lake.
We spent the last 15 minutes of the boat ride on the main deck, and my daughter took full advantage of the empty dance floor to try out some moves.
The dance floor and seating area on the enclosed main level
The Goodtime III docked at 5:00 p.m. on the dot. We loved the punctuality, especially because my boys had evening swim lessons that we had to rush off to make.
Pro Tip: Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, light jackets, hair bands and a charged camera. It was a warm and sunny 73 degree afternoon, but it got chilly on Lake Erie due to the wind. Even my son who never gets cold was happy to have a jacket. My camera battery died with about 30 minutes before the cruise ended, and I had to rely on my mobile camera for the last pictures.
Pro-Tip: With four different levels, the Goodtime III is not stroller-friendly. There isn’t much walking needed, so I’d recommend leaving the stroller on shore unless it’s need for nap time.
Pro-Tip: While buying tickets in advance can save time, I recommend pre-booking the Narrated Sightseeing Cruise only after checking the weather or just purchasing tickets upon arrival. Note that the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise sells out annually, so advance reservations are definitely needed for that.
We were lucky to take advantage of a beautiful summer afternoon and truly enjoy our hometown from a perspective we rarely get to see. We recommend a ride on the Goodtime III with kids. Our kids would love to make an afternoon on the Goodtime III an annual tradition, and I’m sure they would see and learn different things on each cruise.
Every so often, we encounter a place that is so fabulous for those traveling with kids that it is worthy of being featured on its own. For more fabulous locations, please check out our other Spotlight features! Also, be sure to check out all our category of posts on Cleveland with kids.
Located approximately 45 minutes south of Washington, DC, Manassas National Battlefield Park is the perfect destination for families. Administered by the National Park Service, the battlefield provides a great hands on opportunity to experience American history, while providing some fresh open air and solitude away from the city.
On a recent weekend, I decided to venture out to the battlefield with my two children, ages 3.5 and 9. Little did I know this would end up to be a great way to spend a beautiful spring day!
Upon arrival at the main welcome center, I was thrilled to see a clearly marked sign, indicating the turn off. There was ample parking, and we made our way into the facility to pick up a map, use the restrooms, and visit the gift shop. My boys were immediately enamored by the replica canons and the other Civil War memorabilia available for purchase, and we also spent quite a bit of time perusing the indoor exhibits, which also include a short film depicting the progression of the Bull Run (both the First and Second battles).
After a short 20 minutes or so indoors, we ventured out into the battlefield and that’s when my kids really went wild. They loved the canons, loved the historic buildings, and just loved being out in the wide, open expanse of field. While my 3.5 year old dedicated himself to blowing as many dandelions as he could, I explained the battlefield set up to my 9 year old. We made our way down to the various historical markers in the main battlefield area, taking in the historic burial ground and the other monuments.
To give my kids the full experience, however, I really wanted them to see just how large the battle of Bull Run had been. That is, I wanted to disabuse them of the notion that the battle was limited to the space we were standing. The map we had picked up earlier had a driving tour of the two Battles of Bull Run, so we piled into a car and made our way to 3-4 other stops on the driving tour.
The Stone House served as a Union hospital during the first Battle of Bull Run, with the dirt floor of the cellar covered in injured and dying soldiers throughout the battle.Marking where the First Battle of Bull Run began.
I was thrilled to see that many of the stops were well marked and included not only historical signs, but also restrooms and facilities! My oldest son definitely got a sense of just how large a battlefield can be and how even though we refer to the battles as “the First Battle of Bull Run” and “the Second Battle of Bull Run,” that the battles really took place over a series of weeks, if not months, and that it involved covering a very significant area of land under harsh conditions (no four wheel drive vehicles and air conditioning, that’s for sure!).
In total, we spent about 2 hours visiting the main battlefield and touring the various stops along the driving tour. It was a surprisingly captivating experience for my 9 year old and it made an impression even on my 3.5 year old as for days thereafter, he recreated “the Manassas Battlefield” using his toys and has repeatedly asked if we can go back for a second visit. With only 900,000 visitors annually (versus the roughly 15 million visitors who descend upon Washington, DC annually), the Manassas Battlefield is such a welcome reprieve from the mass of tourist and congestion while also providing a great hands on opportunity to where a significant part of American history actually took place. That it’s just a short 45 minutes drive outside of Washington, DC makes it a great destination for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
The Manassas Battlefield Park is located at 6511 Sudley Road in Manassas, VA and is open daily from dawn until dusk. The Henry Hill Visitor Center is open daily from 8:30am – 5pm (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day) and is a great place to start your visit. The orientation film is shown daily at the top of every hour, from 9am – 4pm and admission is free.
Be sure to check out our entire category of posts on things to do and places to visit in Washington, DC with kids! We are so lucky to call this place home and hope that our tips and tricks come in handy as you plan your own adventure in Washington, DC with kids!
Every so often, we encounter a place that is so fabulous for those traveling with kids that it is worthy of being featured on its own. For more fun locations, please check out our other Spotlight features!
Guest Blogger: Cynthia, her husband, and two boys are Floridians who recently road tripped to Virginia where they quickly learned that Virginia is not “only” for lovers. The state offers so much rich history and fun stuff for a family to do. With her sons now of teenage age, their road trip to Virginia’s historical sites was the perfect opportunity to not only learn more about their country but to actually see and experience it in real life. For more on Cynthia and her family, visit Mackintosh Travels.
Getting to Virginia:
Our family has traveled extensively abroad, but we have not spent much time traveling within the United States. My husband is a history buff, so we decided to take our boys on an epic road trip from Florida to Virginia to visit Virginia’s amazing historical sites.
Our first stop was to pay a visit to the “world’s first successful combat submarine,” the Hunley, located in Charleston, South Carolina. Our tour guide was extremely informative and we enjoyed the experience.
Our next stop was at a fun town located literally on the border of North and South Carolina. What a fun place South of the Border is! Vibrant colors surround this mini-Mexico, and it was a fun road trip break to get out and stretch our legs. My boys loved the attractions and sights and we all enjoyed the opportunity to dine and shop a little.
Virginia!
After 12+ hours in the car, we finally arrived in Virginia! We decided to head straight to our hotel, the Historic Powhatan Resort, which is owned by Diamond Resorts. Our goal was to rest and refresh in time to begin exploring Virginia’s historical sites. We stayed at this resort for the entire time we were in Virginia, so it was nice to have a place to come “home” to at the end of each day. We were able to make use of the swimming pool and hot tub on days we had extra time in the evenings.
While there was so much to see and do in Virginia, here are our top five fun family activities:
#1: Mount Vernon Estate
Mount Vernon was George Washington’s plantation home. This lush and well-manicured estate is situated next to the Potomac River. It is not far from Washington, D.C. which makes it an easy day trip. With school aged children, this was a really great opportunity to make history come to life! My teenage boys were amazed to experience first-hand what Colonial America in Washington’s time was like rather than reading about this era in a history book.
Mount Vernon Estate is made up of many different components. The mansion is the actual living quarters of our first President and General, George Washington. The first two floors are available for general touring (there is a third floor, which requires an additional admission fee). The mansion is well-preserved with period furniture so it looks just like it would have looked during Washington’s time, but photos are not allowed inside the mansion.
The outdoors, or the grounds of the Estate, are just as beautiful as the indoor mansion. There were several small buildings that comprised, among others, George Washington’s barn, carriage, tools, meat curing, spinning, and laundry facilities. The intricate gardens are also presently maintained and open for visitors to stroll through.
The icehouse is located along the Potomac River and although the icehouse is not available for touring because of its 22 foot drop, it was amazing to see its proximity to the Potomac River and to read about how it was used to make ice for the family. The Potomac River runs along the base of the Estate and, although Mount Vernon is located on the Virginia side, the other side is Maryland! My boys got a kick out of pointing to the other side. There are also special tours available to cruise on the Potomac River by boat.
Washington’s Tomb is also located on the Estate and it is a quiet place of reflection. George Washington lays on the right, and on his left, lays his wife, Martha Washington.
Kid Facts: Mount Vernon offers a special behind-the-scenes tour that takes visitors through a number of locations that were featured in National Treasure: Book of Secretsfeaturing Nicholas Cage. The Potomac River and the back of the Mansion are some of those scenes and while we were in the Mansion’s basement, we took this photo, not knowing it was not allowed – oops! When we got home, we watched the movie and paused at the point in the movie where the basement was shown so we could compare with our own photo.
Virginia’s Historic Triangle is comprised of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown, which were all important stops on our nation’s journey from English settlement to a new, independent nation. Connected by 23 scenic miles, the three towns are jointly administered by the National Park Service and The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Tickets to all three sites can be booked via this website.
Tickets to experience the Historic Triangle can be expensive, but we really wanted to experience first-hand Colonial America, so we decided in advance to spend one full day at each location.
Yorktown:
The Battle of Yorktown ended on October 19, 1781 and marked a decisive victory by the American and French armies over British troops led by General Cornwallis. The battle not only boosted faltering American morale and revived French enthusiasm for the American Revolutionary War, but it helped undermine popular support for the conflict in England. During our tour of the battlefield, a National Park employee explained the battle, sights, and surrender flags situated throughout the battlefield. We loved being able to spatially orient ourselves and imagine the 18th century scene.
The American Revolution Museum is an outdoor living museum with people dressed in period costumes, illustrating how people in that time period would have lived from day to day. Officially dedicated on April 1, 2017, the museum boasts 22,000 square feet of exhibition space with films, interactive galleries, and artifacts.
Just outside the main museum building is the Revolution-era farm site, complete with log kitchens and attached brick chimneys.
The museum posted procession times and we decided to hang around outside so we could catch it live. The fife and drums procession was absolutely amazing to hear live!
Jamestown Settlement:
Like the American Revolution Museum, Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that visitors can walk through and get a first-hand feeling of what life was like during the time of the Revolution. It is a preserved piece of history situated in the heart of Virginia and consists of an expansive gallery, three re-created ships that visitors may climb aboard and explore, and numerous cafes and shops. The Jamestown settlement ships were the highlight of this stop and we loved being able to climb aboard and experience the small, but efficient ships.
We also enjoyed visiting Powhatan Indian Village, a re-created Indian village featuring reed-covered houses, crops, and a ceremonial circle of carved wooden posts.
The Jamestown Settlement also contains the re-created James Fort, a recreation of the Virginia Company of London’s 1610-14 outpost.
Colonial Williamsburg:
Colonial Williamsburg was the highlight of our Virginia’s Historic Triangle experience. It was like nothing I have ever seen! One minute, I was in modern day 21st century and the next minute, I had time traveled and stepped into the past. Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is an amazing teaching experience for children, and it is definitely worth setting aside a full day for the experience and favoring Colonial Williamsburg over Yorktown and Jamestown. Make sure to wear good walking shoes as there is a lot of ground to cover!
Colonial Williamsburg is a re-created 18th century city and is the world’s largest living history museum. There are over 40 sites and trades, four historic taverns, and two world-class museums on site.
We particularly enjoyed the opportunity to go on a horse carriage ride and we also sat in on a mock trial session that my kids were able to participate in. If I had more time, I would have liked to have participated in a wool spinning class, but even with dedicating a full day to the experience, there was so much to do that I did not have time to work it in.
#3: The American Civil War Museum and the Confederate White House
Located in Richmond, the White House of the Confederacy was the Executive Mansion of the Confederacy from 1861-1865, when Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy. During the Civil War, the President of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis, lived in this home, and it is from here that he fled just before the surrender of Robert E. Lee’s Army at Appomattox.
The White House houses a collection of objects associated with the Confederacy and President Davis, and a contemporary museum in the building houses many other Confederate artifacts, including Robert E. Lee’s field tent and Stonewall Jackson’s sword and cap.
#4: Naval Station Norfolk
The Naval Station Norfolk is located in Norfolk, Virginia, the southeastern corner of the state. It is home to the world’s largest naval base and we were able to tour the base and see many ships, aircraft carriers, and destroyers. The tours are conducted by naval personnel and last 45 minutes and cost (cash only) $10 for adults and $5 for children 3-11, senior citizens over the age of 60. Although we could not get up close to the ships, it was a good opportunity to get a feel for what it is like to live on base. The entire experience took about three hours.
#5: Busch Gardens and Water Country
Although not a historical site, we decided to indulge in a visit to Busch Gardens and Water Country near the end of our trip. Living in Florida, we are no stranger to water parks, but even though we have Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg had a much different vibe. Throughout the park, there were different countries represented, and we enjoyed visiting the different themed areas. Water Country was also much bigger than we expected and overall, we had a great day experiencing the parks.
Final Thoughts?
As we neared the end of our trip, we could not have imagined it going any better than it did. We had a wonderful time learning about our country together and our 10-day road trip turned into a full semester of historical learning. For families with school-aged children, I highly recommend taking a trip to experience Virginia’s vibrant history!
The Tower of London is a historic castle with an infamously bloody past. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this complex includes several buildings including the Royal Armouries collection and the Crown Jewels, defensive walls and even a moat. It’s not surprising that this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. On our last trip to London, our children were 10 months, five and seven and thoroughly enjoyed the Tower. Visiting the Tower of London with kids was a wonderful family outing.
Getting to the Tower of London
We traveled to the Tower of London by Underground to the Tower Hill station. From the station, the Tower of London was a short walk. The London Underground is an efficient way for families to travel, and kids under 11 ride free.
How to Tour the Tower of London
We booked our Tower of London tickets online and showed our receipt for at the ticket booth. After entering the Tower, we were greeted by one of the Yeoman Warders, commonly known as the Beefeaters, who began our extremely informative tour that focused on Tower of London history. Among other things, the tour highlighted the execution of two of Henry VIII’s six wives on Tower Green – Anne Boleyn in 1536 and Catherine Howard in 1542 – and the history of the ravens in the Tower of London. Over 500 years ago, King Charles II declared, “If the ravens leave the tower, the kingdom will fall…” and ruled that at least six ravens must be kept onsite at all times. Our whole family enjoyed our Tower of London guided tour.
Our tour guideOne of the Tower’s ravens
Kid Facts: King Charles II’s superstition is not one to be tested. Seven ravens are always kept at the Tower – six plus one spare. The ravens are cared for by the Tower’s Ravenmaster, and their wings are clipped so they can’t fly away.
Visiting the White Tower With Kids
The 11th century White Tower was the keep of the castle and is the most iconic image of the complex. The White Tower now holds the collection of the Royal Armouries and St. John’s Chapel, which was built for William the Conqueror. Expert warders provide guided tours of the White Tower.
The White Tower
Kid Facts: St. John’s Chapel is the oldest church in London. The White Tower was almost destroyed in 1940 during a World War II bombing.
Visiting the Crown Jewels
The Crown Jewels of England have been displayed in the Tower of London since the 17th century and are protected by armed guards. No photography of the jewels is permitted.
Guarding the Crown Jewels
Kid Facts: The Crown Jewels are owned by Queen Elizabeth II and not the government.
During our wall walk, our boys enjoyed exploring the inner battlements that served as protection for the castle.
The Tower of London is also a fantastic place to view the Tower Bridge.
View of Tower Bridge from the Tower of London
Why We Loved the Tower of London
We regularly tour a museum or historic site in less than two hours, but we spent the better part of a day on our tour of the Tower of London. We arrived close to noon and ate ice cream (possibly twice!) but did not stop to sit down for lunch until about 4:00 p.m. because there was so much to do and see. There was a good deal of standing and listening the whole afternoon, our boys were fascinated and did not complain. While we brought a stroller for our daughter, we parked it for much of the day and predominately used the carrier instead. A visit to the Tower of London definitely requires a few hours but is a site not to miss when visiting London.
Every so often, we encounter a place that is so fabulous for those traveling with kids that it is worthy of being featured on its own. For more fabulous locations, please check out our other Spotlight features!
Thank you to Duquesne Incline for providing complimentary tickets and a tour for my family. All opinions are my own.
The Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh is an amazing example of living history that combines a trolley ride up Mount Washington, engineering genius and an amazing city view. We were traveling to Pittsburgh for Thanksgiving and planned to arrive early enough to visit the Duquesne Incline before our big turkey dinner. It was a beautiful clear day, and we were eager to get out and take a trolley ride on the Incline after our drive from Cleveland.
Duquesne Incline Carson Street Station
The best way to get to the Incline is to park at the gravel Station Square parking lot just below the Incline’s Carson Street Station. Head up the stairs and over the Carson Street pedestrian bridge that takes you to the beautiful station with notable old-world charm. When we arrived, a trolley was ready to depart, and we were able to get right on the trolley for a private ride to the top of Mount Washington. We were surprised that the car ran without a driver onboard, but later realized that the trolley was operated by a control station at the top of the hill. The trolley sits on top of a platform with an angled base that keeps it level for the entire ride. It felt like we were stepping back in time when we entered the original trolley car.
Interior of the trolley car
The detail of the wood work in the trolley car was absolutely exquisite.
Trolley car woodwork
The 794-foot wooden track was both an engineering masterpiece and a work of art.
Wooden track
We thoroughly enjoyed our private ride up the Incline and made sure to check out the view from every angle. When we neared the upper station, the trolley car slowed down until it came to a gentle stop, and the doors opened.
The Upper Station
We met Tom Reinheimer, who handles Marketing and Group Tours for the Duquesne Incline, when we arrived at the upper station. Tom provided us an amazing tour of the museum and gave us an overview of the history of Pittsburgh, its many inclines and the engineering challenges that the engineers had to overcome to build and operate the Incline. The Incline was designed by Samuel Diescher, who designed a majority of the inclined planes in the US in the late 19th century. Diescher was associated with John Endres, who built the nearby Monongahela Incline along with his daughter Caroline, who was one of the first female engineers in the US. Diescher married Caroline in 1872, and the two lived on Mount Washington. The Duquesne Incline was completed a few years later and opened on May 20, 1877.
Trolley car traveling down the Incline
The main purpose of the Incline was to transport cargo and people between Grandview Avenue at the top of Mount Washington to Carson Street at the bottom. The Incline was especially helpful to the many coal miners who worked by the river providing coal for Pittsburgh’s steel industry and lived up on Mount Washington. Those who did not take an incline would have to climb up or down 1,400 stairs instead.
On the tour, Tom shared a great deal of Pittsburgh history – all the way back to the city’s role in the initiation of French and Indian War. Steam originally powered the Incline, but eventually was retrofitted to electricity and a generator just before the Great Flood of 1936 when passengers were stranded midway up the Incline for the only time in its 140 years of operation. Passengers were warned that the Incline might not make it to the upper station due to rising flood waters. We also learned that Pittsburgh was once the US steel capital and produced 60% of the country’s steel. Before the Clean Air Act, the city was very smoky due to soot produced by the coal mines.
Tom Reinheimer’s tour of the Upper Station
Tom then took us to the David H. Miller Working Museum to tour of the Incline’s hoisting machinery. The Incline still uses its original hoisting equipment that features giant cogs with wooden gear teeth.
Hoisting equipment
The tour concluded on the observation deck. The view was magnificent. We saw Pittsburgh’s “Three Rivers” confluence of the Allegheny River and the Monongahela River, which together form the Ohio River and the city’s “Golden Triangle” central business district. Other highlights include views of the outline of Fort Duquesne, the Steelers’ Heinz Field, the Pirates’ PNC Park, the Carnegie Science Center and many bridges (up to 18 can be visible).
Three rivers and so many bridges
The Duquesne Incline is a historic landmark but does not receive state or federal subsidies. The Society for the Preservation of the Duquesne Heights Incline is a non-profit organization that operates the Duquesne Incline and relies on fares, gift shop income and donations to maintain the Incline.
Our family really enjoyed the Incline ride and breathtaking view. We all learned a great deal about Pittsburgh history and engineering during our visit. It is a great attraction for families and visitors of all ages because of the fun trolley ride up, the historical significance and the amazing city view. It’s no surprise that USA Today recently named the Duquesne Incline as one of the 10 great streetcars, trams and funiculars. If you can organize a group of 10 or more, I definitely recommend that you request a tour by contacting Tom Reinheimer to schedule.
Before You Go: The Duquesne Incline runs every day (even Thanksgiving!) and stops only for electrical storms because of concerns related to a power surge. Note that the Duquesne Incline accepts only cash and requires exact change. There is an ATM available at the upper station. You can request free tours for any group larger than 10, including school groups and Cub Scout groups (check out their Patch Program) through the Incline’s website.
There are truly few things better in life than eating your way through the Farmer’s Market on a beautiful spring or fall day!
We then visited the blacksmith shop where the blacksmith was making a decorative leaf. We got to see him heat and shape the leaf, which is sold as a necklace pendant in the gift shop.
Photo credit: Marissa Mayer
To give my kids the full experience, however, I really wanted them to see just how large the battle of Bull Run had been. That is, I wanted to disabuse them of the notion that the battle was limited to the space we were standing. The map we had picked up earlier had a driving tour of the two Battles of Bull Run, so we piled into a car and made our way to 3-4 other stops on the driving tour.
Our next stop was at a fun town located literally on the border of North and South Carolina. What a fun place South of the Border is! Vibrant colors surround this mini-Mexico, and it was a fun road trip break to get out and stretch our legs. My boys loved the attractions and sights and we all enjoyed the opportunity to dine and shop a little.
The Tower of London is also a fantastic place to view the Tower Bridge.
