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Family Fun at Castaway Bay

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As much as my family and I love to travel to faraway beaches, we have plenty of ground to cover here in Ohio. We love exploring all of the incredible places, museums, and amusement parks. And the cooling weather won’t stop us from getting in some family fun at Castaway Bay in Sandusky. Especially now that they are open year round!

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

The Waterpark at Castaway Bay

Arriving at the Castaway Bay Waterpark felt like we were stepping onto a tropical island. The wave pool was an immediate hit with all three kids (ages 9, 6, and 4). With zero-depth entry and regular wave cycles, it almost felt like we were back on the beach.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Ari, our 9-year-old, loved going down the waterslides with Chad. I would say that it wiped him out completely thanks to all of the up and down of the stairs. (Mom win, right?!).

In addition to the slides (and stairs!) there were plenty of other ways to wear my kids out in the water park. The “School Crossing” activity (where you use a combination of ropes and floating objects to cross without getting wet) was, hands-down, a favorite with our oldest.

School Crossing

He went on School Crossing at least 30 times — and he only fell in once!

Fun for All-ages

Mila is our youngest, and also the tiniest 4 year old. I wasn’t worried one bit about whether or not she would have fun. Sure, the waterslides are still a few years off for her; but she loved playing in Hank’s Hangout. Hank’s Hangout is an interactive water playground, of sorts.

Fernando’s Tadpole Pool was another hot place for younger kids. With age-appropriate slides, water pipes, and splashing gadgets, it kept her busy for hours.

As you can see, it kept the big kids busy for hours, too. Because you’re really never too big to ride a little water slide, am I right?!

Land activities at Castaway Bay

As much as our family loves playing in the water, we needed to take breaks on dry land. Luckily there is plenty to see and do without ever having to leave the resort. And the kids wanted to do these activities just as much as they wanted to be in the water (if not more!).

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Gamer’s Grotto

Fun fact: All three of our kids (yes, even our four year old) are obsessed with arcade games. We are regulars at our local arcade at home. So I knew they were going to have a blast playing with the latest video games, racing games, and other classics like air hockey.

The game cards were easy to use, reloadable, and easy to track both tickets and plays.

We literally had to pull them away from the arcade to go eat dinner. And, that’s okay with me.

There were no tears. There was only an excessive amount of fun. And that’s what we were there for! The family fun at Castaway Bay that we were looking to have.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Club Castaway

Club Castaway is an awesome offering of dry activities suited for every age. From crafts, to puzzles, to music, there’s something for everyone.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Lobby Activities

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Probably the best thing about staying at Castaway Bay is the fact that there is something interactive for the kids at every turn.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Mini Bowling

My husband and I used to go bowling regularly before we had kids. Our kids are finally at the perfect age to take them bowling, but we just haven’t made it yet. Starting out by introducing them to Castaway Bays Mini Bowling was the perfect way to introduce them to a tried and true American pastime.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

With bumpers available at a literal push of a button, and bowling balls that fit even little hands.

They did great — especially for their first time. And, once again, they didn’t want to leave for our next on-site adventure.

Blacklight Mini Golf

On our last day at Castaway Bay we tried out the Blacklight Mini Golf, located just off of the lobby.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Blacklight Mini Golf consisted of 9 holes of neon fun! You swipe your card at the machine to retrieve your ball and grab a neon-colored putter before heading in to the blacklight zone. All the kids had so much fun.

Family-friendly dining at Castaway Bay

We really like to plan our trips around food. And I spend hours looking at menus, dreaming about what delicious foods I’m going to try when visiting a new place. Castaway Bay has so many options for every person in our family — even the pickiest of them!

Quaker Steak and Lube

If you’ve been around here a bit, you’ll know that I have a borderline obsession with chicken wings. It all started when I lived in Buffalo (the home of the chicken wing!).

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

While I’m not crazy enough to try the Hot Wing Eating Challenge (I like to *taste* my food, not die from it!), I did eat a lot of other flavors of wings.

It’s located on the property of Castaway Bay, which makes it super convenient. In fact, you can take the hallways to the back entrance — so you never even have to go outside.

With 25 featured sauces, and a whole menu of items for kids who don’t eat chicken wings, there’s something for everyone.

High Tide Café

We started both mornings at High Tide Café with their all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet.

The buffet was able to satisfy all of our morning cravings — as there was something for everyone. From cheesy potatoes with peppers, to pancakes, to lots and lots of bacon.

Ice Cream from the Sprinkle Shack

Is it really a trip or getaway without ice cream? I think not. We stopped mid-day at the Sprinkle Shack for a treat. And it was everything we needed.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Surfside Beach Bar and Grill

The Surfside Beach Bar and Grill is located within the waterpark area, which makes it perfect for a quick and easy poolside meal.

We ordered a pizza, half pepperoni, half cheese, to appease the masses. It was SO cheesy and definitely filled us up for some more pool adventures.

The Room and Amenities at Castaway Bay

I was so happy to hear that all of the rooms and public spaces at Castaway Bay have been newly renovated. And it certainly showed in our room. The floors were tile — which I love considering how many wet feet will be trotting in and out. The beds were beyond comfortable and the views of the lake were breathtaking.

Unlike some other places we have been, every speck of the resort was clean. Nothing felt even the slightest bit unclean. As a mom of three littles, that is super important to me.

Family Fun at Castaway Bay

Also, the staff were wonderful. The lifeguards and attendants in the waterpark were always available. They were helpful, knowledgeable, and very attentive to safety. At one point, Ari (our oldest) hurt his toe from dragging it on the bottom of the pool. A lifeguard assisted us with getting him cleaned up and made sure to check on him later during our stay.

Why you should take your family to Castaway Bay

There are so many reasons that you should take your whole family to Castaway Bay. A good three days on the resort property will be all that you need to make memories to last a lifetime.

You can make your reservation here for year-round fun!

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Things To Do at Castaway Bay

Low-Cost Family Time

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Since we became parents, Chad and I have made it a point to take the kids on solo adventures with us. With the big kids (finally) going back to school last week, we’ve taken full advantage of spending a little bit of solo time with our littlest one. With three kids, dining out can easily break the bank. But it doesn’t have to! We have low-cost family time thanks to Bob Evans Restaurants.

Budget Friendly Family Time

Be Sunrise Savers

Although Bob Evans offers lunch and dinner items, we really love their breakfast foods. As hard as I try, I cannot master an over-medium egg the way that the kitchen team at Bob Evans can. Trust me, I’ve tried (and failed)!

Taking Mila to Bob Evans was the natural choice when we decided to take her to breakfast. The new Sunrise Savers menu features items like their famous Buttermilk Hotcakes, Sausage Gravy & Biscuits, Banana Berry Oatmeal, and The Classic Breakfast (and more!) ranging from $4.99 to $7.99. It helps us put more on our table for less! Which is a great thing for families, big and small.

Budget Friendly Family Time

We were able to fill our plates (and our bellies) for so much less than we would elsewhere. And the food was incredible, as usual.**

Low Cost Family Time

So when a picky little eater (Miss Mila) decided she didn’t want her original order, I knew it wouldn’t break the bank to order her something else. And, heck! Her Sausage Gravy and Biscuits didn’t go to waste (thank you, leftovers!).

Low-Cost, Big Memories

I sometimes question if these little moments make a difference. But Mila talked about our breakfast at her favorite restaurant all week. She made her siblings a little jealous, but with such great prices, we will be able to take the other two out on their family dates soon enough.

Low Cost Family Time

I know the importance of these little moments. They turn into big memories. And I’m so happy we’re creating them with our kids.

Head to this link to see the full lineup of Sunrise Savers menu items. And tell me — what do you like to do with your kids to make them feel special?!

**Note: Strawberries on top of pancakes are an extra charge.

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Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

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As someone who has lived the majority of their life in Ohio, I love how each region and city is so different from the next. Despite being just 2 short hours south of Akron, Columbus is vastly different! From the food to the sights, exploring Columbus is an adventure! There are so many must-see attractions. And I’m going to share my go-to tips to experience Columbus as a family!

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

The Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory

My sister and her family (who happen to live in the Columbus area) have raved about the Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for a long time. Scott’s Miracle Gro Foundation Children’s Garden is located outside of the main conservatory. You still enter through the main building, and head back outside and around the building.

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

Combining Nature, Education, and Play!

Kids learn so much through play and discovery. The Children’s Garden provides a safe space with so many fun activities to get kids of all ages engaged and playing with the natural world around them.

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family
Flower Kaleidoscope at the Children’s Garden

The Children’s Garden features a canopy walk, nature play zone, learning pavilion, wetland exploration, a gardening centers, and so much more!

Wetland exploration!

The staff at the learning pavilion was absolutely wonderful. They were patient and excited to share information with all three of the kids — and show off this beautiful caterpillar.

My kids enjoyed every single activity. In fact, we had to practically drag them out to head on our next adventure!

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

I can’t even decide what my favorite part of this adventure was. The Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory is an absolute must-see! Bring a towel, lather on the sunscreen, and let them explore!

See the hours and admission rates for the Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory here!

Grab a bite at The Rusty Bucket

One of my favorite family-friendly restaurants in the Columbus area is the Rusty Bucket. The kids and I have been going to one of their restaurants (most are located in the greater Columbus area) almost every single time we’re in Columbus.

The reason it’s the absolute greatest?! This upscale casual restaurant has the absolute most delicious pub food — with a twist.

Bonus? It’s incredibly affordable for a family of five to grab a full meal — even with appetizers.

Rusty Bucket
Pierogi appetizer

My suggestion is to try the Pierogi as a starter. It features four perfectly cooked cheese and potato pierogi. But I also have to say this — the chicken tenders appetizer may be my single most favorite food from any restaurant ever. Yep. They are that good.

The Rusty Bucket Dublin
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and Soy Glazed Salmon from the Rusty Bucket Dublin.

Lucky for us, our kids wanted chicken tenders, so I was able to sneak one (or two!) from them! Just know, whatever you order, the portions are BIG. So bring your appetite (and you’ll probably still leave with a box!).

Rusty Bucket

View locations, menu, and hours here.

Stay in the city’s center at the Drury Inn

One of the best ways to immerse yourself and your family in the Columbus experience is to stay in the heart of the action. The most central location to stay in is at the Convention Center. And the most relaxing and most inclusive spot to do so is at the Drury Inn.

Drury Inn Columbus Convention Center

The Drury Inn and Suites at the Convention Center features on-site garage parking, clean and spacious rooms, free breakfast and dinner (including adult beverages!), and my kids personal favorite — an indoor and outdoor pool!

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

It’s located just minutes from the North Market and the Short North Arts District, as well as the Arena district. Additionally, its central location means you can jump on the highway with just a 5 minute drive!

Catch a Columbus Clippers Game

If you know me, you’ll know I don’t follow sports. But if you know me, you’ll know that I am 100% always down to see a sporting event live and in person — especially minor league teams. The food, the fans, the energy — it’s perfect! And one of the most fun and energetic stadiums I’ve ever been to is the Columbus Clippers at Huntington Field.

Columbus Clippers

To my surprise, all three kids lasted until nearly the 7th inning! I can honestly say I saw about 15% of the game because the rest of the time was spent either getting my kids snacks or helping them eat the snacks (they tried shelled peanuts for the first time ever).

Huntington Park Entrance.

The stadium is gorgeous. Not too big and the perfect way to see a game as a family. The food options at the stadium are awesome — from stadium dogs to pretzels, from local craft beers to Dippin’ Dots — you will get whatever you have a craving for!

Head here for ticketing information for the Columbus Clippers.

Dine on the patio at Milestone 229

Milestone 229 is located in Downtown Columbus on the Scioto Mile — a collection of parks and trails along both banks of the Scioto River. The patio sits overlooking the huge Scioto Mile fountain.

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family
Scioto Fountain

The restaurant serves fresh made cocktails and upscale comfort food. But don’t worry — they have plenty of kids options on the menu! And you absolutely must try the pretzels — and ask for extra butter!

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family
Pretzel Bread from Milestone 229

The location alone is stunning. But the atmosphere and the food just push this location to a must-visit! And, as gorgeous as the inside of the restaurant is, try to get a seat on the patio so you can get a view of the whole city.

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

The food and the drinks are delicious. I recommend getting the Chicken Salad with fresh sliced strawberries, goat cheese, bacon, red onion, cashews, and a poppyseed vinaigrette. I don’t usually go for salads when dining out, but this salad is absolute perfection!

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family
Roasted Chicken Salad + Mila’s Kids Cheeseburger.

View the full menu and make a reservation here.

Visit the Columbus Zoo

The Columbus Zoo has been made famous by Jack Hanna. His service and dedication as the zoos director from 1972 to 1992 put the Columbus Zoo on the map. Spanning 580-acres and featuring 10,000 animals, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is unlike any other zoo you’ve been to before.

The zoo is comprised of 6 distinct regions as well as over a dozen rides at Adventure Cove.

I’m going to be 100% honest — It is incredibly difficult to see and do everything at the Columbus Zoo in one day. Especially if you have little kids. But it is absolutely, wholeheartedly worth it.

Jack Hanna

If you’re short on time, here’s what you must see:

  • the carousel (it’s a beautiful work of art — and the kids always love it)
  • feed the giraffes
  • ride the island boat ride
  • see the elephants up close!

Whatever you do, stay hydrated and prepare for a lot of walking!

Head here for zoo hours and admission information.

Stop for lunch at Cap City Fine Diner

Cap City Fine Diner, features a retro-feel across its three Greater Columbus locations. But know this before you go — you are going to want to order the meatloaf and a Peach Palmer (an Arnold Palmer made with house made peach puree).

Cap City Peach Palmer
Peach Palmer.

Cap City Fine Diner is really upscale comfort food with a twist. Order one of their “Famous Large Plates” and you’ll be full to the max! Honestly, all of their menu offerings are super big.

cap city fine diner dublin

Cap City is known for their meatloaf. But, if you’re like me and don’t want to order a whole hearty meatloaf dinner in the middle of the day (cause it would cause me to sleep all afternoon); you have options! Try the Diner Meatloaf Melt.

The Diner Meatloaf Melt.

But save room for dessert! Because it is to die for! The staff and chefs at Cap City are so incredibly talented. I suggest not leaving a single course behind.

Cap City Dessert

For hours, menu, and reservations, head here.

Learn and Play at COSI

The first time I was at COSI (or the Center of Science and Industry museum), I was a girl scout in grade school. I remember my visit vividly — from the astronaut ice cream to the planetarium — it was a defining moment in my childhood.

COSI

Lucky for me, I’m able to visit COSI with my kids whenever we are in Columbus.

COSI Exhibit

One of the reasons COSI is on my must-see list is because it has something for everyone. Every single age group will get a kick out of (at the very least) one of the exhibits.

Experience Columbus Ohio as a Family

Some of exhibits are permanent and others are temporary or special exhibits. Be sure to check out the current special exhibits because they won’t be there for long!

Most recently we were able to see The Animation Academy. Ari made a short stop-motion movie with Gumby and Remy played around with the green screen.

Explore German Village

Whenever someone asks about areas of Columbus that cannot be missed, I mention German Village. German Village is known for its charming brick houses and red brick roads. But it’s also known for having some of the best food and shopping spots in town.

The German Village

When you’re visiting German Village, you absolutely must go to the following places:

Kids at Stauf's
scone from stauf's
  • Pistacia Vera – Grab a pack of French Macarons or a ham and cheese croissant.
  • The Book Loft – Spend an hour (or a day) walking through one of the 30+ rooms filled with practically every book you can dream of!
The Book Loft
The book loft
  • Schmidt’s Restaurant and Sausage Haus – Grab a to-go pack of the famous Schmidt’s Sausages and whichever seasonal Jumbo Cream Puff is available!
  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – Columbus’ own Jeni Britton Bauer is the mastermind behind some incredible ice creams and sorbets.
jeni's splendid ice cream german village
  • The Thurman Cafe – If you’re really brave, order the Thurmanator as seen on the show Man v. Food!

What is on your must-see list when visiting Columbus, Ohio?!

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Family Fun at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

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If you have ever travelled through or lived in Ohio, you’ll know there is a lot of ground to cover. We are lucky to live within driving distance to so many incredible places. With three young kids, taking 12-hour road trips is less than ideal. But finding places within driving distance here in Ohio is incredibly easy. And the perfect adventure and family fun can be found at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake.

Why the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake?

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake is located on the most beautiful lakefront location — right on Lake Erie. The views are truly picturesque. And the lodge is gorgeous — both inside and out! With 109 rooms and 25 lakeside cottages, there is truly a space for all sizes of families. Our family of 5 was more than comfortable in our fireplace room, overlooking the outdoor pool and splashpad.

Here are my favorite parts of the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake:

Lakeside and poolside

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake not only has incredible views, but it also features both an indoor and outdoor pool, and a splash pad. While we spent a lot of time exploring the strip and the state park, my kids wanted to spend every other waking moment at the pools.

We alternated between the indoor and outdoor pools for a change of scenery. But both pools have a view of Lake Erie that would give oceanside cities a run for their money. It is simply breathtaking.

Exceptional on-site dining at Horizons Restaurant

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake features on-site dining from Horizons Restaurant. With stunning views, both indoor and outdoor dining, and a rotating seasonal menu, it’s the perfect place for dinner with the family.

Our appetizer was the kids choice — Warm Pretzels with Guinness Beer Cheese. They were so good that the kids asked for another order!

Family Fun at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

All three kids ordered their own kids meal while the parents indulged in the most decadent meals we’ve had in a long time. My smoked pork chop with local blueberry beer glaze, and brussels sprouts and kale salad paired perfectly with my all-Ohio wine flight featuring Ferrante’s best wines.

Chad ordered the quinoa crispy shrimp, which he let me taste. Also an incredible option. In all honesty, all five of us were so impressed by both the service and the meals. I truly have not stopped thinking about my pork chop since our visit.

Comfort for the whole family

The service in the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake was outstanding. From our check-in experience, to the friendliness of the gift shop staff, we felt over-the-top welcomed by everyone.

The kids loved the fireplace in our room (despite the 90 degree weather). I couldn’t help but think about visiting in the winter to get the full effect of our beautiful fireplace room.

S’mores and Sunsets

Sure, the views of Lake Erie are stunning during the day. But a Lake Erie sunset is magical. Whether you visit the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake with your whole family, as a couple, or with girlfriends, you absolutely must catch the sunset.

I wish I could put into words how magical this moment was for my small kids. They’ve seen plenty of sunsets before; but none have compared to the sunset on the lake. The only thing that made it more magical for them was getting to make s’mores with this incredible backdrop.

The gift shop at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers s’mores kits and it is a must-do (especially if you ask my kids). Heck, even if you’re visiting as a couple, I highly recommend making s’mores with this view. What could be better than s’mores and this Lake Erie sunset?!

Family Activities at Geneva-on-the-Lake

Many people immediately think about the fun activities for couples in Geneva-on-the-Lake. But I am here to tell you there are absolutely so many fun activities for families. In fact, when we were in the car on the way home, all three kids declared that we must return for a visit soon!

Zipline Adventure Park with Lake Erie Canopy Tours

Before settling down and having a family, Chad and I were super adventurous. Heck, if we have a babysitter, we are still super adventurous. But there’s also a huge thrill in watching your children accomplish things they didn’t think they could do.

Lake Erie Canopy Tours

I will tell you that our middle child, Remy (age 5), is always the first to volunteer for something fun. But she also quickly realizes that she may be too nervous or scared. Luckily the guides with Lake Erie Canopy Tours and her brother, helped to convince her that she is strong and brave.

Family Fun at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

Both Ari (age 8) and Remy, completed the kids adventure course multiple times. Near the end of their hour long tour, Ari decided to see how quickly he could make it through the ropes course. His best time was about 2 and a half minutes.

Family Fun at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

I will forever be grateful for the confidence and bravery the staff helped to develop with my kids. And I cannot wait for Mila (age 3) to join in on the fun next year.

Tour the strip and park by renting a golf cart

During our first morning at the Lodge, I convinced my husband and kids that we should walk to get lunch from The Old Firehouse Winery. Honestly, it isn’t far. But what I didn’t factor into our adventure was the humidity and having 3 tiny people making the trek. But we made it! We enjoyed our lunch, wine slushes, and ride on the ferris wheel.

Wine Slush at The Old Firehouse Winery.

But, from there on out, we decided to travel the strip by golf cart rather than by foot. The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers on-site rentals for kayaks, paddle boats, and golf carts. It made exploring so much easier — the strip is a lot longer than I expected!

Go for a ride on #5 Big Eli — and then grab a meal at Old Firehouse Winery

Old Firehouse Winery - Geneva on the Lake

Old Firehouse Winery, just minutes from the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, was purchased in 1956 for the now closed “Erieview Park.” After the park closed, Old Firehouse Winery bought it and it is the only winery in the world with its own ferris wheel!

You can purchase tickets from your server at the winery or in their storefront. But I offer you this pro tip: ride before you eat. The #5 Big Eli is fast. I may have had to put on a brave face for the kids (I’m afraid of heights, but I really wanted to experience seeing Lake Erie from that viewpoint. And it did not disappoint).

Old Firehouse Winery - Geneva on the Lake
Chicken sandwich and fries from Old Firehouse Winery.

It is completely obvious why people visit Old Firehouse Winery. Even without the ferris wheel experience, the views and food are laid back and perfectly paired with their wine offerings.

Explore Geneva State Park

Geneva State Park is located right next door to the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake. It’s easily accessible by walking or riding on the paved trail from the lodge. Or you can take the golf cart through the main entrance. Either way you enter, the state park offers amazing views, and almost 700 acres to explore.

views from Geneva State Park

A six-hundred foot beach shoreline is a great place for kids to play on the shore of Lake Erie. Who needs an ocean, right?!

Get your adrenaline pumping at Adventure Zone

Within our first hours in Geneva-on-the-Lake, we walked past Adventure Zone. It’s located less than a half of a mile from the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, so it’s an easy walk. My 8-year-old declared that we must go there! This family-owned and family-run business features a full arcade and a bunch of other exciting attractions.

We made the most of our visit to Adventure Zone by hitting the go-karts (yay for tandem karts), bumper boats, merry-go-round, and bungee trampoline before making the grand finale exit from Geneva-on-the-Lake: the Zip Zone Zipline.

I credit my 8-year-olds willingness to climb the 60-foot tower and fly down the 1000 foot zipline because he had previously done the kids course at Lake Erie Canopy Tours. To tell you the truth, this mama was nervous for sure! Chad and Ari climbed that tower and I watched like a hawk from below. I had butterflies in my stomach and so much excitement for this adventure for him.

And guess what? They both did great!

Whether you take a two-day trip or week long trip to the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, your family is going to have a blast. Book your stay today!

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Tips for Going On a Camping Trip with a Baby

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What’s more exciting than taking your toddler or baby on their first camping trip? It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy, have fun, and bond over a hot campfire and roast marshmallows. Camping also so happens to be one of the few ‘safe’ ways we can travel and explore right now. Whether you’ve just started camping, or you’re an expert, there are a few ways to make sure that everything runs smoothly. Here are my tried and true tips for going on a camping trip with a toddler or baby. Let’s make that camping trip with a baby a success!

Do Weather Research

When going on a camping trip with a toddler or baby, you need to be conscious about the weather. Young children are super vulnerable to weather conditions. It wouldn’t be fun to spend the camping trip huddled inside the tent. Doing some basic research will help you in the long run!

Do a Test Run

When you feel that you’re ready and everything has been prepared, do a camping test run in the backyard. That way you’ll be able to catch if there are any snags with the camping gear. It will also be a test run for your toddler or baby to spend the night in a tent.

Bring Familiar Toys

If your toddler or baby is uncomfortable, giving them with a familiar toy will make them happy and calm them down. Only take a couple of familiar and favorite things. By giving your child their favorite toy, you’ll be keeping them busy — and it will give you more time to prep the campsite!

Do Your Research on the Location

As any parent knows, kids (especially young ones) are naturally curious. So if they see wild berries, they might try to eat them. As soon as you get to the campsite, make sure to check for any harmful plants, like wild berries. If you do find any harmful plants, make sure to warn your toddler about them. In addition to warning them, you need to check up on what your toddler eats at all times. Especially if they have the tendency to wander off!

camping trip with toddler

Choose a Campsite With Lots of Activities 

Toddlers are filled with energy, so they need to be kept busy. If you only sit around the campsite all day, they’ll surely get bored quite fast- and naughty! When there are many activities at your campsite, your toddler will have a wonderful experience and they’ll definitely want to come back again the next year. It’s best to plan these activities in advance to avoid potential disagreements with family members once at the campsite.

Take a Mat for Crawlers

If you have a young child that’s still in the crawling stage, make it a priority to take a large enough mat for them. It will stop them from crawling in the dirt and potentially hurting their tiny hands. If you have a pack and play, that works as well!

kids withs mores

Take a Headlamp

To avoid your little one getting scared at night, and to keep them calm while you move around the campsite- take a headlamp with. A fun headlamp would also be fun for them, as well as aid in reducing the anxiety that the darkness may cause. 

Take Sunscreen and Bug Spray

You may be able to stand a sunburn, or a few mosquito bites- but your toddler or baby on the other hand may not. Especially if your child hasn’t had a sunburn or been bitten before. If they experience such a thing, it may cause them distress to a certain degree where they would end up avoiding camp. Young children are quite vulnerable to the sun’s rays, so take the necessary precautions like keeping your child in the shade. When you buy sunscreen and bug spray make sure that you buy the right ones- such as ones that are made with natural oils and don’t contain DEET.

Put the Electronics Away

Once you get to the campsite, put the electronics away. If you give your toddler or baby a cell phone or tablet to keep them busy, the whole purpose of going on a camping trip would be defeated. Only bring your camera along to snap photos during outdoors family time.

camping trip with baby

Pay Attention to Children Near the Campfire

It’s easy to assume that your child knows not to go near the campfire. But the truth is they don’t. If you’re not mindful of what your toddler or baby is doing when they’re by the campfire, don’t be surprised when you see them going straight for it! If you plan on having a fire, sit and tell your child that they can sit near it, but they remain seated in a designated spot. Of course, you still need to keep an eye on your child just the same.

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Tell me — what tips would you give to parents going camping with young children?!

How to Make the Most of Your Staycation

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Let’s face it, this summer has been weird. Normally this is the time of year when we would be taking vacations, but most of us are stuck at home. My family and I were bummed when we realized we had to cancel our vacation. After being in lock-down, we were itching to get out of the house, so I developed a plan to make a memorable staycation. Here are four tips I used to make the most of our staycation. 

Unplug

First and foremost – unplug. This should go without saying, but I know how easy it can be to check emails even when you are miles and miles away on vacation. It will be doubly tempting when you are on vacation, but close to home. Make a vow to yourself that you are going to unplug during your staycation. If you must check-in, designate one or two times a day that you get in touch, and then don’t worry about it for the rest of the day. 

girl riding a bike on staycation

Plan Your Perfect Day

What is your perfect day? My perfect day would be sleeping in, eating brunch at a quaint restaurant that has excellent coffee, followed by browsing small shops, taking a walk in a nice park, eating dinner somewhere unique, and ending the day by watching a movie in my PJs. If I were on vacation anywhere, that is how I would spend at least one of my days, so I looked for a cool town within a reasonable driving distance and planned my perfect day there. It matters more that you are doing what you love, rather than where you are doing it. Let each person in your family plan their perfect day during your memorable staycation and you are sure to make some great memories.

Think Adjacent

You may be thinking, “but my perfect day looks like getting up and going to the beach, reading a book all day by the ocean, followed by seafood for dinner.” If you are like me and don’t live anywhere near a beach – your perfect day seems impossible. Instead of the beach, start thinking adjacent. What could you do that is similar to the beach, but within reasonable driving distance? Maybe there is a lake close by or maybe you have a family friend with a pool? Follow your day on the water by trying out a new seafood restaurant or maybe make your own seafood boil. It won’t be the same, but it will still be relaxing and a break from routine.  

staycation or travel map

Create the Atmosphere

The road trip is part of the adventure when it comes to vacations. I have certain road trip snacks that I will only eat while on long car rides. Think about that snack you grab in the gas station in the middle of your trip. While you are driving to the next stop on your staycation, eat and enjoy it. My dad always blared Jimmy Buffett on the way to the beach. It was annoying, but it also made our trip special. What would be on your vacation playlist? Make a staycation playlist and blare it as you drive from place to place. Don’t forget the road trip games! Regardless of how long you are in the car, play one. Your kids will love it! 

staycation in cleveland

Making the most of your staycation isn’t difficult. You only need to do what you love, with the people you love! That’s what you really need to make a memorable staycation.

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