Family Travel

Everything You Need to See & Do at COSI

May 1, 2023 by Rachel 6 Comments

There are so many fun and exciting opportunities throughout Ohio. We have an incredible amount of art and culture spread across the state. One of my favorite must-see places is located in Columbus, Ohio. COSI, or the Center of Science and Industry, is an innovative, hands-on science center that is perfect for families in all age ranges. I’ll share with you all of the things you need to see & do at COSI.

Who, what and where?

COSI is located in Columbus, just off of the interstate, at 333 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215. On-site parking is located just off of Broad in an underground (and covered) parking deck. The hours of operation as well as ticket pricing can be found here.

COSI food — Various lunch options from Atomic Cafe

Changing tables for kids and adults are located throughout various bathrooms in the building. On-site food and beverage (as well as adult beverages) are available in both the Molecules and Atomic Cafe (and both are delicious).

Must-See Exhibits at COSI

There are so many different exhibits and experiences available. Some of the exhibits are on permanent display, like “Energy Explorers” and “Big Science Park.” While other exhibits are open on a temporary and rotating basis. These can’t-miss experiences are perfect for the whole family:

Dinosaur Gallery

If you’re a parent of any sort, I’m certain your children have gone through at least one dinosaur phase. For many of us, kids and adults alike, we can struggle with the concept of just how huge these creatures were.

So for the American Museum of Natural History and COSI to come together to showcase these creatures in all of their glory is truly incredible.

This permanent exhibit consists of a full size T. rex, a climbable nest, as well as life-scale diorama of the creatures in their natural habitats.

It’s truly a fascinating exhibit. And our dinosaur-obsessed crew could have spent all day learning even more about these creatures.

Ocean

For as many times as I’ve been to COSI, I don’t think we’ve ever made it through the Ocean exhibit. And holy smokes! It is incredible!

It’s like travelling to a magical world of water, where kids are taught about both Greek mythology and science!

This hands-on exhibit allows kids to use actual oceanic technology like sonar and remote operated vehicles to explore the world around them.

They can even climb into a mini submarine!

Fair warning: You may end up just a tiny bit wet from this exhibit, but it’s totally worth it (and it truly is just a little bit, I promise!)!

Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures

Tutankhamun, or King Tut, as he’s widely referred, was discovered just over 100 years ago by Howard Carter.

The huge exhibit walks you through a self-guided audio tour of King Tut and his rise to the throne. The audio tour offers a kid-friendly guide for even the littlest explorers in your group.

Our history-loving 10-year-old was completely enthralled to hear the story of King Tut and get a behind-the-scenes look at so many artifacts.

It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get to see so many replicas and artifacts from a time in history that continues to be so fascinating for many (myself included!).

Everything You Need to See & Do at COSI king tut

This temporary exhibit runs from now until September 4th, 2023. Tickets to the Tutankhamun exhibit are an additional charge and can be found here.

Planetarium Show

The COSI Planetarium show is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. Shows run every half an hour from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM from Wednesday through Sunday. The planetarium itself is the largest planetarium in the state of Ohio!

It is currently showing Passport to the Universe, which is about a 20 minute show. It kept 5 kids and three adults incredibly entertained the entire time. To be honest, space stuff just blows my mind. It’s hard to really grasp how big the universe is. And the COSI Planetarium really puts things into perspective.

The shows are on a first-come, first-served basis. So be sure to plan ahead and get in line about 5-10 minutes ahead of the showing of your choice!

Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits

This brand new exhibit explores the cool ‘superpowers’ that certain species have to help them survive. From mammals that can survive for hours without breathing, to extraordinary (and bizarre!) mating rituals, Nature’s Superheroes covers all of it.

This exhibit is included with your COSI admission and features larger-than-life models, dioramas, and interactive learning.

COSI Tips and Tricks

Arrive early.

We arrived just before opening and there were cars lining up the street to get into the parking deck. We didn’t have to wait at all, but there is just so much to see and do. You’ll want to give yourself ample amounts of time for everything.

Build in breaks to your schedule.

Science and technology are so cool, but it can be overstimulating for some folks (big kids and little kids).

Be sure to build in ‘breaks’ to your schedule for snacks, downtime in the play area (where kids can get some energy out), and get outside at the Big Science Park exhibit for some fresh air!

Get the schedule of the live shows upon arrival.

COSI offers super fun and interactive live-shows on the science stage at certain times throughout the day. Be sure to catch a seat during one of the performances to get a chance to see the power of electricity up close!

HAVE FUN! And consider becoming a member!

There is so much to see and do. The memories you make at COSI will last a lifetime. Becoming an annual member includes benefits like member previews and events, as well as discounted or free reciprocal admission to over 360 other science museums.

Learn more about membership opportunities here.

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Family Fun at Castaway Bay

October 25, 2022 by Rachel 11 Comments

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!

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.

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.

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!).

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.

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.

Lobby Activities

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

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.

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.

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!).

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.

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.

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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Low-Cost Family Time

September 2, 2022 by Rachel 2 Comments

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.

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.

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.**

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.

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

August 25, 2021 by Rachel 23 Comments

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!

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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!).

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.

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!

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.

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).

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters – Try their lavender latte and a scone!

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!

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

July 9, 2021 by Rachel 19 Comments

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

July 16, 2020 by Rachel 23 Comments

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!

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!

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.

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.

Family Travel

Who, what and where?

Must-See Exhibits at COSI

Dinosaur Gallery

Ocean

Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures

Planetarium Show

Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits

COSI Tips and Tricks

Arrive early.

Build in breaks to your schedule.

Get the schedule of the live shows upon arrival.

HAVE FUN! And consider becoming a member!

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The Waterpark at Castaway Bay

Fun for All-ages

Land activities at Castaway Bay

Gamer’s Grotto

Club Castaway

Lobby Activities

Mini Bowling

Blacklight Mini Golf

Family-friendly dining at Castaway Bay

Quaker Steak and Lube

High Tide Café

Ice Cream from the Sprinkle Shack

Surfside Beach Bar and Grill

The Room and Amenities at Castaway Bay

Why you should take your family to Castaway Bay

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Be Sunrise Savers

Low-Cost, Big Memories

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The Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory

Combining Nature, Education, and Play!

Grab a bite at The Rusty Bucket

Stay in the city’s center at the Drury Inn

Catch a Columbus Clippers Game

Dine on the patio at Milestone 229

Visit the Columbus Zoo

Stop for lunch at Cap City Fine Diner

Learn and Play at COSI

Explore German Village

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

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

Lakeside and poolside

Exceptional on-site dining at Horizons Restaurant

Comfort for the whole family

S’mores and Sunsets

Family Activities at Geneva-on-the-Lake

Zipline Adventure Park with Lake Erie Canopy Tours

Tour the strip and park by renting a golf cart

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

Explore Geneva State Park

Get your adrenaline pumping at Adventure Zone

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Do Weather Research

Do a Test Run

Bring Familiar Toys

Do Your Research on the Location

Choose a Campsite With Lots of Activities

Take a Mat for Crawlers

Take a Headlamp

Take Sunscreen and Bug Spray

Put the Electronics Away

Pay Attention to Children Near the Campfire

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