Road Trip in Alaska: Plan Your Next Family Vacation

Why a Road Trip in Alaska?

There are so many reasons to take a road trip in Alaska! But let’s stick to the top four so you can move on to everything else you must know about taking a road trip in Alaska for your next family vacation.

Take Time to Stop and Smell the Roses

Okay, so you won’t always be seeing roses in Alaska during a road trip. But a road trip in Alaska will allow you to stop to see everything you spot along the way. And to do whatever you want when you want.

You won’t need to keep to a specific schedule. That means you can spend more time in one place and less time in another. It will all be dependent on what everyone in your family wants to do.

Change Your Plans Whenever

Do you know how you always think it will take less time to do something and more time to do other things? Well, a road trip in Alaska will allow you to change your plans whenever you need to.

Therefore, you can skip over places that don’t look as interesting as you thought and add time to the ones your family decides they love.

Visit Non-Touristy Destinations

Cruises and tour groups will almost always take you to all the touristy places in Alaska. When you venture out on a road trip in Alaska, you can choose to visit all the non-touristy destinations.

And don’t worry, I will help you find the ones that your family will truly love! To get a head start, check out these festivals that Alaskans love.

Take Pictures and Videos at Every Stop

Since you won’t be on a strict schedule, you will be free to take pictures and videos at every stop you make during your family vacation in Alaska. Think of all the memories you will have to look back on with your family in the future!

Check out these bucket list destinations in Alaska you can visit during your next family vacation. 

What to Pack for Your Road Trip in Alaska?

The weather in Alaska can change without warning. Therefore, you must be ready for almost anything on your road trip.

The mornings could be cool, where the afternoons can be a little warmer during the summer. Of course, evenings will cool back down again.

And don’t forget the rain. The winter months will bring sun with snow and ice. Layers will be handy and necessary when you are out and about in Alaska.

Elite Travel Journeys Go-To Items for a Road Trip in Alaska:

• Fleece Jackets and Waterproof Jackets
• Quick Dry Hiking Pants
• Hiking Poles – Lightweight and Collapsible are Perfect for Packing
• Hiking Shoes (Waterproof) and Warm Boots
• Binoculars
• Hats, Gloves, and Scarves
• Blankets – to Keep in the Car Just in Case of an Emergency
• Sunglasses
• Wool Socks
• Thermals
• Mosquito Repellant
• Device with GPS
• Camera with Charger and Multiple Memory Cards
• Sunscreen
• First Aid Kit
• Bottled Water and Snacks

What is the Best Month for an Alaska Road Trip Vacation?

Many people ask me, “When is the best time to plan an Alaskan road trip?”. Well, you can begin the planning process at any time. However, you will want to consider a few things before determining which month of the year you want to visit this amazing destination for your family vacation!

The best month to visit Alaska is actually June and July. But for the truly best time, I recommend going between the middle of June and the middle of July. There are so many reasons why I recommend these dates. But the first one is the fact that the longest day of the year is June 21^st. And up in Alaska, that means between eighteen and twenty-two hours of daylight, depending on where you are in the state. Those longer days mean more time to explore this gorgeous area.

Now, if you want to see something specific in Alaska, you will need to really plan your Alaskan road trip carefully. The Northern Lights can be seen from the middle of August through the beginning of April.

Viewing the wildlife is best from May through September. However, May is the best time, because the foliage isn’t lush yet. To learn more about seeing wildlife in Alaska, see my post about spotting wildlife here.

There are numerous festivals in the state of Alaska each year. The Alaska State Fair is held at the end of August. But if you want to attend the Seward 4^th of July Celebration, Honey Jam, Sitka WhaleFest, or other events, we will need to plan your road trip in Alaska according to the festival dates.

Reasons to visit Alaska during the fall. 

How Many Days Should I Spend in Alaska?

I recommend spending ten days in Alaska if you truly want to get the most out of your road trip. You can spend between five or seven days, but you won’t be able to see as much during your visit. Of course, you can spend two, three, or four weeks in this state on an extended family vacation and see so much more!

Check out this 8-day itinerary for an amazing family vacation in Alaska. 

How Far Can You Drive into Alaska?

One of the things you will notice when you are planning your road trip in Alaska is that you can’t drive everywhere you want to. Not all communities and towns are connected by roadways. With that being said, there are approximately fifteen thousand miles of roads you can travel along.

You can reach many of the areas in the middle and southern parts of Alaska by car. Therefore, we can plan for you to visit Anchorage, Fairbanks, Denali, and many other destinations. Juneau is also accessible by car, but you must travel through part of Canada to get there.

Destinations in Alaska like Sitka, Bethel, and Dutch Harbor can only be reached via plane or ferry. No worries, I can easily arrange for that transportation when I am booking your trip.

Is the Alaska Highway Dangerous?

When it comes to driving in Alaska, many people ask me if the Alaska Highway is dangerous. The Alaska Highway is not dangerous. It is actually one of the most famous highways in the state, because of all the different things you can see along the way. This highway is approximately thirteen hundred miles in length, so you can drive along it for quite some time.

Just think of all the memories you can make with your family along that road! The laughs, the arguments, and the question, “Are we there yet?”, millions of times! I get all weepy eyed just thinking about those vacation drives with my kids!

What is the Best Vehicle to Drive in Alaska?

I recommend driving an SUV or a truck for your road trip in Alaska. You can drive a car, but you may not be able to reach everywhere you want to go. SUVs and trucks are known to be able to get up steeper inclines, as well as the rough terrain in some of Alaska’s backcountry areas.

Can You Sleep in Your Car on the Alaska Ferry?

If you do happen to take the Alaska Ferry to a destination you can reach by car, there are a few things you should know. The main one is that you will not be able to sleep in your car during the trip. Once your car is on the car deck, you must head to the upper decks and stay there until you reach your destination.

Driving Tour of Alaska

There are many different routes to take during a road trip in Alaska. Whereas one route may be perfect for some people, other travelers like yourself may prefer a different route. It is all about what you want your family to see and experience during your Alaskan vacation.

Alaska Loop Road Trip

The Alaska Loop Road is quite long, so you will want to plan on a few extra days if you are tackling it. The Alaska Loop will take you throughout the southcentral section of the state. It also includes stops within interior Alaska.

This trip will take you from Anchorage to Denali, Healy, Fairbanks, North Pole, Delta Junction, Tok, and the Matanuska Glacier. This is the main Alaska road trip from Anchorage that many people take when they visit Alaska. I can easily personalize the Alaska Loop Road trip to meet the needs of your family.

Kenai Peninsula Road Trip

An adventure along the Kenai Peninsula will have you and your family seeing a lot of southcentral Alaska. During your days on the road, you will find yourself stopping in areas like Whittier, Soldotna, Seward, Kenai, and Homer.

This adventure can be accomplished in a week. But extra days will be appreciated if you choose this route for your family vacation.

Alaska Road Trip from Anchorage – Scenic Drives to Consider

There are many scenic drives you can take from Anchorage. This means you can easily do a road trip in Alaska while having a home base in Anchorage every single night.

Here are my favorite scenic drives from Anchorage:

• Portage Valley and Whittier Tunnel
• Turnagain Arm Drive
• The Seward Highway
• Arctic Valley Road
• Old Glenn Highway
• Eklutna Lake
• Matanuska Glacier

What National Parks Can You Drive to in Alaska?

There are twenty-three national parks in Alaska. But did you know that most of them are so remote that you can only get to them via plane?

Thankfully, there are three national parks that you can drive to in Alaska. And the best part is they are exactly what you will be looking for during your Alaskan family vacation!

The three national parks you can drive to in Alaska include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Denali is the most popular of the three, due to the massive mountain of the same name.

Many people ask the question, “How do you get to Glacier Bay National Park?”. They often ask this question when they realize it isn’t one of the national parks that can be driven to.

Well, don’t worry, because it isn’t a park you must skip over during your road trip to Alaska. All you need to do is put your car on the ferry and ride over to the park. You must visit Alaska during the summer months though for this adventure because that is the only time the ferry is running.

It can be a little nerve-wracking to go driving in a state you are not that familiar with. Especially one like Alaska, where the next “rest stop” could be hundreds of miles down the road! However, when I plan a road trip in Alaska for you, I will give you everything you need to know to have an amazing time with your family.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Alaska or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready to reach out to me, that’s ok. Let me show you my 3 Insider Ways to Travel to Alaska where you will learn some of the best ways to see Alaska. Just click here.

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Explore Seattle’s Underground During Your Family Vacation

Tours of Seattle’s Underground

Since Seattle’s Underground was left untouched for so many years, it was almost completely forgotten about. However, Bill Speidel realized during the 1960s that he could capitalize on this part of the city. The Seattle Underground Tour was started.

Many other tour options have popped up since that time. However, if you are like most people, you will want to take the tour that started them all!

Getting hungry during your family vacation in Seattle? Check out Pike Place Market! 

How Long is the Seattle Underground Tour?

Most of the underground tours take an hour and fifteen minutes to complete. You will walk through the underground area for the duration of your tour. So, comfortable shoes are a must.

What Will You See on Your Tour?

Your family’s tour will begin at Doc Maynard’s Public House. You will then cross through Pioneer Square before climbing down under the earth to Seattle’s Underground.

Your tour guide will share quite a bit of history during your tour. Learning what each area of the underground was used for is included in your family’s tour. Plus, you will also learn about how people used these cordoned-off spaces as gambling halls, flophouses, and so much more.

The end of your tour happens when you arrive at Rogues Gallery and the Underground Gift Shop. There are many different souvenirs for you to purchase.

If you are like many other visitors, you will choose your very own copy of Sons of the Profits by Bill Speidel. This book relives all the information you discovered during your tour. So, you can share it all with your friends back home.

I don’t know about you, but most kids, especially teenagers, love history lessons like these! After all, dark creepy spaces are interesting and full of wonder.

Experience the best things to do in Seattle during your family vacation. 

If you are trying to plan your next family vacation to the northwest, you are going to want to add Seattle’s Underground to your itinerary. It’s one of the many fabulous things you can do in Seattle.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary in Seattle or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Whale Watching in Massachusetts: Where to See Majestic Marine Life

Types of Whales You Will See in Massachusetts

You will see many different types of whales in Massachusetts. Those whales include fin whales, sperm whales, blue whales, sei whales, and minke whales. However, you will see many more humpback whales than the other whales mentioned above.

Best Time for Whale Watching in Massachusetts

The best time to see the whales in Massachusetts is from the middle of March through early November. However, those dates are not carved in stone. They can change if the water is cooler or warmer than normal.

Cooler waters earlier in the season will mean the whales will swim up to Massachusetts later. Warmer water means they will arrive earlier. Of course, towards the end of the season, if the water gets cooler faster, the whales will leave earlier than they normally do.

Take a day trip to Salem during your family vacation and enjoy some of the best things to do there. 

Best Whale Watching Tours in Massachusetts

There are so many tour groups for you to choose from for your whale watching goals in Massachusetts. Each tour group offers something slightly different. However, they all basically guarantee you will see at least one whale during your family vacation.

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

If your road trip vacation takes you out to Cape Cod, you must consider Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises. This whale watching tour leaves from Barnstable Harbor. Every tour is between three and a half and four hours long.

This tour operator has been offering tours since 1980. They have their favorite whales out in the water. And they are one of the best options for family-friendly whale watching tours in Massachusetts.

Boston Harbor Cruises

Boston Harbor Cruises is one of the best options for whale watching near Boston. These whale watching tours are right from the shoreline in the city. So, you don’t need to travel too far for this type of family adventure.

After you board the boat, you will be taken out to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. In addition to whales, you will also see dolphins and other marine life.

One of the things that sets this whale watching tour apart from all the rest is there is always a New England Aquarium specialist on board. They can be a wealth of information and will answer any questions you may have.

Captain John Boats

This tour company has been taking people like yourself out to see the whales near Massachusetts since 1946. They have two different whale watching tours to choose from. So, you can easily have the experience you want with your family. The first tour goes over to Plymouth, while the other one takes you over to Provincetown.

These are some of the best whale watching tours in Massachusetts. But they are not the only ones. I can help you find the best tour for your family vacation. I will also plan the rest of your Massachusetts family vacation by creating a personalized itinerary.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Massachusetts or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Best Things to Do in Vermont for Families

Hike a Trail at Mount Philo State Park – Best Outdoor Thing to Do in Vermont with Family

There are plenty of family friendly hiking trails in Vermont. Over in Charlotte, Vermont, you can hike a looped trail within Mount Philo State Park.

This looped trail is just under two miles in length. It will take your family through the forest to the summit. At the summit, you can see breathtaking panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain.

I recommend taking a picnic lunch with you to enjoy at the summit. It will be a perfect way to spend time together as a family while enjoying the outdoors.

Grab a Drink at The Vermont Brewery

The Vermont Brewery opened in 1988. It is currently the longest running brewery in the state. And it is family friendly, so you won’t need to worry about the kids being bored during this part of your Vermont vacation.

You will find this local brewery in Burlington. I recommend visiting for lunch or dinner. After all, you will want to indulge on their pub food while drinking a pint or two.

They always have eleven types of beer on tap. However, they rotate what is on tap. Therefore, you may not always find your favorite available. But you should be able to find a new favorite every time you visit.

Use my travel guide during your family vacation in Vermont. 

Eat Ice Cream at the Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory

Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory is in Waterbury. Your family can take a tour to see how they make their ice cream.

During your tour, you will stand high above the factory floor. This will allow you to look down at the entire ice cream making process.

At the end of your tour, everyone in your family will get a small ice cream cone that contains the flavor of the day.

And yes, this is one of the best things to do in Vermont for families.

See Teddy Bears at the Vermont Teddy Bear Company

A visit to the Teddy Bear Company in Vermont is another popular thing to do while on vacation with family.

A Bear Ambassador will be with you every step of the way during your tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Company factory. The tour is very informative. And you will be surprised to see how these bears are carefully created by hand.

Before the end of your tour, you will spend a little time in the Bear Hospital. This is where all teddy bears go when they need a little extra TLC.

While you can purchase a bear inside the Bear Shop, you can also create your very own bear. I recommend the later if you truly want to create memories during your time in Vermont.

Drink Apple Cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill – A Delicious Thing to Do in Vermont with Family

There is so much to do at the Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center. I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at the Apple Core Luncheonette and Brew before you begin the rest of your cider adventure.

Then check out the cider press, donut robot, and the honeybee corner. Before you leave, grab all the yummy Vermont products that are for purchase at the store. There are hundreds of items to choose from, so take your time as you are shopping. After all, you won’t want to leave anything behind!

This is the perfect place to purchase honey, cheese, maple syrup, apple cider donuts, and so much more.

Eat Cheese at Cabot Cheese

Over in Cabot, Vermont, you will discover Cabot Cheese. While you can no longer take a tour of their cheesemaking factory, you can watch the process on a television in their store.

Afterwards, wander around testing all types of delicious creamy cheeses and other products with your family. You will have a difficult time deciding what to purchase.

I recommend having a large cooler filled with ice with you because it will be full when you go to return home.

This is one of the best things to do in Vermont for families when everyone needs a little snack in the middle of the afternoon.

Learn about Maple Syrup at Sugarbush Farm, Inc.

You must plan your road trip to Vermont carefully if you want to see all the maple sugaring fun. While the sugaring takes place during the cold winter months, you can still learn quite a bit during a visit to this farm at any time of the year.

I recommend taking the maple walk and the sugarhouse self-tour. They are both exciting things to do in Vermont with kids.

Don’t forget to grab some maple syrup, as well as maple cream and maple cookies before you leave at the end of the day.

Vacationing in Vermont with family during the winter? Check out these incredible ski resorts! 

Learn About Glassblowing at Robert Burch Glass

One of the best places to watch a glassblowing demonstration is Robert Burch Glass in southern Vermont. The owner has been blowing glass for more than thirty years now. So, he can answer all your questions easily.

Your family can even take a glassblowing lesson if you have always been interested in learning how to do this craft.

After your demonstration or class, you will want to do a little shopping. This will allow you to go home from your vacation with a few souvenirs to remember all your glassblowing adventures.

Vermont is a treasure trove of family adventures. There are plenty of Vermont family vacation ideas to choose from. I can help you determine the best things to do in Vermont for your family, so you can create lasting memories during your vacation.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Vermont or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Freedom Trail in Boston: Explore Must-See Sites During Your Family Vacation

Boston Common – The First Stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston

Most tourists like yourself begin their Freedom Trail journey at Boston Common. This is one of the oldest public parks in the country. The park has approximately fifty acres. Centuries ago, this park was a pasture for Puritan settlers. The military then took it over for their use.

Today, you will see families having picnics, people running, and during the winter, ice skating on the pond.

Use my travel guide for Boston to help you before and during your family vacation. 

Park Street Church

Park Street Church was built in 1809. “My Country, Tis of Thee” was first sung publicly in this church in 1831. When you arrive at this Freedom Trail site during your family vacation in Boston, point out the two-hundred-seventeen-foot steeple to the kids.

Granary Burying Ground

Old cemeteries hold lots of history. The Granary Burying Ground dates back to 1660. Numerous notable people are buried here. The most famous people include Paul Revere, John Hancock, and Samuel Adams.

As you wander around, have your kids point out the oldest headstones. Or have them point out all the people they learned about in history class in school.

Old Corner Bookstore – Unique Stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston

A family vacation isn’t a family vacation until you have spent time inside a bookstore! Thankfully, the Old Corner Bookstore on the Freedom Trail in Boston isn’t any ordinary bookstore.

Nope! This building was constructed in 1718. And it was used by a Boston publishing company in the 19th century. In fact, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Harriet Beecher Stowe both had books published by this company.

I recommend wandering through this building, searching for historical items. And of course, making a purchase or two before you leave.

Check out these other bookstores to visit during family vacations. 

Old State House

The Old State House was constructed in 1713. It was where the colonial government met many years ago. It was also where those in government witnessed the infamous Boston Massacre in 1770.

I recommend going inside to explore the interactive exhibits. Your family can also stand on the balcony. It is on that balcony where the Declaration of Independence was first read in Boston.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace – A Popular Stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been a part of Boston’s history since 1742. At that time, merchants and fishermen sold items to the locals. However, it wasn’t long before prominent people like George Washington and Samuel Adams used this area to give inspirational speeches.

This marketplace received major renovations back in the 1970s and it looks slightly different nowadays. Currently, there are approximately eighty shops, restaurants, and pubs at Faneuil Hall. And yet, your family can still see, and imagine, the history that took place at this site on the Freedom Trail in Boston.

Old North Church

April 18, 1775, was an important night in Boston’s history. This church was where Robert Newman signaled to the locals that the British were approaching.

The Old North Church is the oldest church in the city. You can see the family names from years ago on the private benches.

I recommend climbing the steps to the top of the tower to see the panoramic views of the city. Feel free to say, “one if by land, two if by sea”, while at the top to reenact history.

There is a museum tucked away into the gift shop next door. So, make sure you check that out before you continue along the Freedom Trail during your family vacation.

Paul Revere House

Everyone knows the important role Paul Revere played when the British were arriving to attack. However, not many people have seen his home.

Paul Revere’s home was built in 1680. He lived in that home from 1770 through 1800. It is the oldest home in the city.

You can tour his home during your family vacation in Boston. Inside, you will see the original furniture, as well as some of the silver he produced.

Bunker Hill Monument

You can see the Bunker Hill Monument well before you reach it, as you are walking along the Freedom Trail in Boston. This shouldn’t be surprising since it towers over the city.

If your children are old enough, I recommend climbing the two-hundred-ninety-four steps to the top of the monument. You should also take a selfie once you reach the top to commemorate your efforts. And to remember how you managed to persuade your kids to keep going.

Check out the best bars in Boston (and yes, Cheers is on the list!)

USS Constitution and Museum – The Last Stop on the Freedom Trail in Boston

The USS Constitution is known as Old Ironsides. It is the oldest warship still in the water today.

She first set sail on July 22, 1798. Her final voyage was July 21, 1997. The USS Constitution is currently a museum, so board the ship with your family for a tour. The tours occur every half hour. Your tour guide will be dressed in clothes from the Revolutionary War.

Exploring the Freedom Trail in Boston is more than just a walk through history. It’s a chance for families to step back in time and experience the stories that shaped the US. Every stop along the Freedom Trail offers an opportunity to spark curiosity and conversation. Unforgettable adventures are waiting your family at these must-see places in Boston, as well as many others. And I can help you see the destinations you want to see the most by creating a personalized itinerary for your family vacation in Boston.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Boston or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. Clicking this link will take you to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Portland Culinary Scene: What to Know for Your Family Vacation

Best Culinary Walking Tour of the Portland Culinary Scene

The best place to partake in a culinary walking tour is the Old Port area of Portland, Maine. There are numerous restaurants and pubs throughout the streets of Old Port. So, you actually never know where you will be stopping during your journey.

Check out this 8-day family vacation itinerary for Maine.

Your tour guide will share all sorts of culinary history as you walk from one destination to the next. They will even point out different eateries you are not stopping at along the way. While they share what each one of those eateries is known for, they will let you know the exact reasons why you should add those locations to your list of places to eat during your family vacation.

A few dishes and drinks you will indulge in during your walking tour of the Portland culinary scene include:

• Temaki
• Lobster
• Nut Mylk Smoothie
• Maine Seafood Chowder
• Local Soups
• Dark Chocolate Truffles
• Maine Honeywine
• Maine Craft Beer

Different Culinary Tour Options

The Old Port walking culinary tour is one of the most popular culinary tours in Portland. However, it is not the only option when you want to explore the Portland culinary scene. There are quite a few other foodie options for you to choose from during your Portland, Maine family vacation.

The Bon Appetite Culinary Walking Tour is one that will have you exploring one of the best foodie neighborhoods in the state.

You can also choose from the Old Port Seafood Lovers Tour, Old Port Afternoon Artisanal Tasting Tour, East End Artisanal Tasting Tour, and the Culinary Palette Food Tour. That last one in the Portland culinary scene includes art and culture.

You may even want to consider dining at The Top, where you can also take a restaurant tour.

If you are really looking for a unique culinary tour option while on a family vacation in Portland, you must check out the Lunch and Aquaculture Cruise in Casco Bay. This cruise food tour is three and a half hours long. You will dine on delicious cuisine, as you see the sights of Portland from the sparkling water of the bay.

Use my travel guide to get started thinking about a delicious family vacation in Maine. 

As you can see, there are so many delicious options when it comes to food in Portland, Maine. If you love food and want to combine delectable bites with your next family vacation, let’s chat. I can reserve your spot on any of these culinary tours in Portland. So, you can enjoy food, the nearby attractions, and your family all at the same time while exploring Portland’s culinary scene.

Are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your culinary trip to Portland, Maine?

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Acadia National Park: Things to Do During Your Family Vacation

Watch the Sunrise in Acadia National Park

Watching the sunrise from anywhere in Acadia National Park during your family vacation will take your breath away. However, if you want the best experience, I recommend going over to Cadillac Mountain early one day.

You must start your journey to the summit of Cadillac Mountain early in the morning. But your reward will be the first light to touch the east coast during certain days of the year. If you are not a morning person, you can always choose to watch the sunset instead.

Use my travel guide to help you start planning a family vacation in Maine. 

Stop at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center

Most people will skip over the visitor centers at the national parks, due to the crowding. I always stop at them though, because they are jam-packed with important information that allows me to enjoy my visits so much more.

So, take my advice and visit Hulls Cove Visitor Center to talk to a ranger before you venture out to explore Acadia National Park.

Go Hiking on the Trails in Acadia National Park

There are so many different hiking trails to choose from within Acadia National Park. You will definitely not be able to do them all during your family vacation. However, you should be able to do a couple.

I recommend the Precipice Trail, which is just over two miles long. The Beehive Trail is a little shorter at a mile and a half. Plus, it is not as high as the former trail, which is good if you are scared of heights.

Check out these other hiking trails in Acadia National Park. 

Take a Drive Along the Scenic Park Loop

The scenic park loop in Acadia National Park is one of the best things you can do during your family vacation in Maine. This road is twenty-seven miles long.

You can see many attractions and landmarks during your drive. A few of the most notable things you will see include Cadillac Mountain, Otter Cliff, Sand Beach, Jordan Pond, and Thunder Hole.

I recommend you plan on at least half a day for this drive, so you can make as many stops along the way as you wish.

Check out this 8-day itinerary for an amazing family vacation in Maine that includes a visit to Acadia National Park. 

Visit Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

The most popular attraction in Acadia National Park is the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. There are two trails that lead to this lighthouse. They are both just over a mile long. Although, one is steeper than the other.

The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is still in operation, but you cannot go inside. You can take pictures though. I recommend taking advantage of the many different vantage points. This ensures you capture the best shots to frame when you get home from your family vacation.

These are some of the best things to do in Acadia National Park during your next family vacation in Maine. I can recommend so many other things to do for your family trip too. After all, I want to make sure you have the best family vacation when you travel through the state of Maine.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip to Maine or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Amazing Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains for Your Family Vacation

Chimney Tops Trail – A Challenging Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

The climb to the top of the Chimney Tops Trail is steep. But older kids should be able to tackle this 3.8-mile round trip hike with you easily. And don’t worry, there are stairs in place where the hike is considerably steeper!

You will find yourself gaining 1,500 feet in elevation during this hike in the Great Smoky Mountains. Therefore, take your time to adjust to all the altitude changes.

When you reach the new observation platform, you will be rewarded with incredible views of Mount LeConte, the slate crags, and the rest of the surrounding area.

If your family loves vacationing in the mountains, check out these other mountain vacation destinations.

Porters Creek Trail – An Easy Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

Porters Creek Trail is very family-friendly and easy to conquer. It is even considered one of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains.

The trail goes along a historic road and leads directly to Fern Branch Falls. It is best to hike this trail in the spring, because a section of the trail is covered in wildflowers. Allow time to stop at the historic structures and of course, the waterfall at the end.

I guarantee you will be able to take a lot of photos during this hike while on your family vacation.

Deep Creek Loop Trail

Does your family love waterfalls? If they do, then the Deep Creek Loop Trail must be on your hiking list in the Smokies.

This trail loops around and allows you to stop at three different waterfalls. Those waterfalls are Juney Whank Falls, Tom’s Branch Falls, and Indian Creek Falls.

Deep Creek Loop Trail is five miles long. But it offers the peace you may be craving while spending time with your family.

Does your family want to hike the Rocky Mountains? Click here to see my travel guide for planning an amazing family vacation in the Rocky Mountains. 

Rainbow Falls Trail

The Rainbow Falls Trail is 5.4 miles round trip. The entire trail goes along the creekside and leads you directly to Rainbow Falls. This waterfall is eighty feet high. It is considered the highest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Families that are looking for longer hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains can continue on another 4.2 miles. The extra mileage will lead you directly to the summit of Mount LeConte.

Planning a dream family vacation in New Zealand? Click here to see the best places to go hiking. 

Clingman’s Dome Hike

Clingman’s Dome is the third highest mountain in the eastern states. There is a parking area up high on the mountain that offers extraordinary views. But the best panoramic views can be seen from the observation tower at the summit of the mountain.

The path to the summit is only half a mile long from the parking area. The trail is quite steep, but the reward is the views that reach one hundred miles in the distance.

Want to take a family vacation in the Southwest? Click here to see the best places for hiking there. 

Newfound Gap to Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail

No one can spend time in the Great Smoky Mountains and not hike at least part of the Appalachian Trail! After all, that trail is the best hike in the Great Smoky Mountains.

The trail between Newfound Gap and Charlies Bunion is 8 miles round trip. During this hike, you will see the Ice Water Spring Shelter. You must have a permit to stay there, but that shouldn’t prevent you from stopping at the building to see it.

When you reach Charlies Bunion, you will see views so stunning you will never want to leave. It is best to do this hike during the late spring and summer because lots of snow is common in this area for the rest of the year.

These are some of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains. There are a few others that are a little shorter and many more that are much longer. Let me help you plan your family vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains. We can include as many of these hikes as you wish, as well as everything else your family will love to do. The result will be those incredible experiences every generation of your family will love!

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip for hiking the Great Smoky Mountains or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Salem Tours to Consider for Your Family Vacation

Historical Salem Cemetery Walking Tour

This tour in Salem will take you through the oldest cemetery in the town. This is the perfect time to learn about the different residents from the Salem Witch Trials. As well as how their role played out within this historical time.

The Historical Salem Cemetery Walking Tour is only one hour. So, it is easy to squeeze into any type of family vacation.

Click here to see what other activities are available for your family vacation in Salem. 

Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour

Walking is an excellent way to see the sights of Salem. The Historic Overview of Salem Walking Tour will allow you to hear the history of four different centuries. Plus, you will hear the history of the time around the Salem Witch Trials.

This tour is also only one hour-long, but you can easily go back to revisit your favorite locations at the end.

Magic Lantern Tour

The Magic Lantern Tour is offered at night. It is best attended on the days around Halloween. However, even if you go at a different time of the year, you will find you can easily learn more about all the pagan rituals that took place in this town.

This is one of the more interactive tours available. So, I recommend you add it to your list if you really want history to come to life during your family vacation.

Salem Ghost Tour

There are many hauntings around Salem. But this tour focuses on those lesser-known facts of the hauntings.

You can choose to take the basic tour, which offers eight different locations. However, I recommend the longer version since it offers a few off-the-beaten-path experiences.

This tour is one of the best ways to add a little “spook” to your family vacation.

Check out these other haunted towns for your next spooky vacation. 

The Salem Night Tour

If you want to see the Salem witch trial sites at night, the Salem Night Tour must be on your itinerary. Your local guide will take you to the many key sites of the trials. During the tour, they will share the most popular ghost stories.

This walking tour lasts one and a half hours. So, you will still have plenty of nightlife options available when you are done.

Salem Trolley Tour

If you do not want to take one of the many walking tours in Salem, you can easily hop onto the trolley tours. The Salem Trolley Tour is an hour long and covers eight miles.

You get to see many of the Salem witch sites during this tour. Your tour guide will share lots of information during your ride. And you can easily get on and off at the stops all day long.

These are the best historic tours in Salem. You can easily add many of them to your itinerary during your next family vacation.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your trip to Salem or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Things to do in Salem, Massachusetts for Your Family Vacation

The Witch House

Out of all the houses that were part of the Salem Witch Trials, the main one was the Witch House. This house is officially known as the Jonathan Corwin House. Corwin was a judge.

When you tour his house, you will see many of the furnishings. As well as how the family lived back in the 1600s. While you can take a self-guided tour, I guarantee you will get so much more out of the guided tour options.

Witch Dungeon Museum

Watch live reenactments of the Salem Witch Trials at the Witch Dungeon Museum. They use actual transcripts from the trials.

The dungeon is a replica of the one used to hold witches before their trial.

House of Seven Gables

The House of Seven Gables is a museum, as well as a colonial museum from 1688. This home ended up being famous after Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote a book by the same name.

After you tour this house, you must tour the house next door as well. The reason for this is it was where Hawthorne was born.

Visit one of these haunted towns in the USA during your family vacation.

Old Burying Point Cemetery

This is the oldest cemetery in Salem. You will find it directly behind the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.

Many famous residents from Salem are buried at Old Burying Point Cemetery. But the most popular person is Mary Corey. She was accused of being a witch all those years ago. She played a key part in the darker parts of history in this town.

Salem Witch Museum

One of the best ways to learn the history of the Salem Witch Trials is to explore the exhibits at the Salem Witch Museum. Inside this museum, you will find official trial documents, as well as thirteen life-sized stage sets with different scenarios.

You can easily see these attractions and landmarks on your own during a visit to Salem during any road trip. However, you will get much more out of these sites, and so many others, if you take one of the many tours. One of the best tours is the Bewitched After Dark Walking Tours of Salem, but I can help you find the tour that will best fit your family’s needs.

Historic tours of Salem your family won’t want to miss during your vacation. 

These are some of the best things to do in Salem during your family vacation. I can offer you more ideas, as I am planning your personalized family vacation itinerary.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for your trip to Salem or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. Clicking this link will take you to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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