Earth-Friendly Camping Picks

Are you and the little ones planning a camping trip this summer?  Check out our favorite product picks for spending a day in the woods and a night under the stars.

• Sun care. It’s always important to keep your skin protected while outdoors, especially during the long, hot summer days.  MelanSol sunscreen is an all-natural, chemical-free, and biodegradable SPF that will keep you and your kiddies protected under the strongest of sun rays.
• Footwear. You’ll want your feet to stay nice and comfy while trottin’ the trails.  Sneakers may be too constricting in this heat, so try a comfy, sturdy pair of sandals like Birkenstocks, crafted simply from leather, cork, and a couple of buckles.  Kids will be big fans of the Roma style, which features an ankle strap for extra support.
• Food Supplies. After all the hiking and rafting, you and the kids are sure to work up an appetite.  There’s no better way for some family togetherness time than a barbeque–but supplies are needed for that.  Eco-products offers a line of sustainable products including hot/cold cups, containers, cutlery, straws, and bio-bags.  Easy to tote around and affordable!
• Direction. You want to find the best trails to hike, so what’s more important than a compass and map to guide you on your route?  Eco-Wise offers a combination compass and map navigator to keep you on your path.  Filled with illustrations and diagrams, this is a must-have for campers.
• Bath & Body. With all this rugged outdoors time, you will need to wipe the dirt and musk off!  With an all-in-one natural soap, you can wash your a hair and body while minimizing the amount of product you have to carry.  Dr. Bronner’s “All in One” is an organic line of liquid and bar soaps that effectively clean without being aggressive on your hair and skin.

50 Fun (and Inexpensive!) Summer Activities for Kids

1. Camp out under the stars in your own backyard. Craft a makeshift tent from old bedsheets, or just use sleeping bags! (Don’t forget to make some s’mores.)

2. Organize a neighborhood Olympics with events such as a water balloon toss, three-legged race, or jump rope competition.

3. Hula hoop in the front yard to your favorite songs.

4. Visit a local stable to learn how horses are cared for. Find out if you can bring carrot sticks or rolled outs to feed them.

5. Hang an old sheet on a clotheslines, then fill spray bottles with a mixture of tempera paint and water. Spray away for a unique, colorful masterpiece!

6. Make ice pops with 100% fruit juice.

7. Turn your garage into a neighborhood theater and put on a play.

8. Make dreamcatchers.

9. Make daisy chains.

10. Write verses about the silliest things you can think of, then have a poetry slam.

11. Visit another country at home. Cook a meal, learn key phrases or a traditional dance, and read travel guides. Research popular children’s games and play them.

12. Have an outdoor movie night. Rent a projector and turn an old bedsheet into a screen. Be sure to pass around plenty of popcorn!

13. Spend a day volunteering at a local organization, like an animal shelter or soup kitchen.

14. Go old school with a game of Hide and Seek.

15. Check out a local nature guide from the library and seek out native wildflowers.

16. Learn how to do a headstand. This one might take some practice!

17. Have a picnic lunch at a local park–bonus points if you make a themed meal. What about Southwestern cuisine, or foods that are all the same color?

18. Organize a neighborhood parade.

19. Learn how to twirl a baton.

20. Make your own ice cream. No machine? No problem.

21. Go fruit picking at a local farm. Strawberries, blueberries, plums, peaches, and nectarines are all fun choices!

22. Build a campfire after dark and tell scary stories.

23. Fly a kite.

24. Play a game of crab soccer.

25. Rainy day? Take on a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle.

26. Dress up in wacky costumes and have an outdoor photo shoot.

27. Learn how to make your own paper.

28. Whip out your compass and take a family hike.

29. Blow bubbles outside.

30. Make a time capsule.

31. Organize a game of Ultimate Frisbee

32. Take a tour of your township’s firehouse

33. Make mudpies after a rainstorm.

34. Catch fireflies in a glass jar (but be sure to set them free at the end of the night!)

35. Play a game of hangman on your driveway with sidewalk chalk.

36. Seek out a nearby photobooth, pile inside, and take wacky pictures.

37. Play Monkey in the Middle.

38. Turn old towels into ponchos to wear to the beach.

39. Gather up some stale bread and feed ducks at a nearby lake or pond.

40. Collect snack wrappers for upcycling.

41. Throw a silk-dyeing party.

42. Explore the practice of guided meditation.

43. Play flashlight tag after dark.

44. Birdwatch.

45. Tie-dye old t-shirts with natural vegetable dyes.

46. Build a tire swing for your backyard.

47. Wake up extra early to watch the sun rise.

48. Make a fort, inside or out, it doesn’t matter!

49. Create sculptural masterpieces with homemade play dough.

50. Have a diving competition at your local pool.

Local Events: June 6-14, 2009

Here’s just a sampling of the many fun family events happening across the country over the next few weeks.  Take the opportunity to get involved and connect with your community by attending a local event.  Know of something great happening near you?  Please share in the comments!

Wellness Festival at AIDS Walk Boston | Boston, MA
6/7/2009

The Wellness Festival is just one part of the larger AIDS Walk in Boston, which seeks to raise money for AIDS research and awareness (aidswalkboston.org).

Arts in the Park | Elkins Park, PA
6/7/2009

Take part in this day-long celebration sponsored by the Friends of High School Park. Listen to live music while exploring the offerings of local artists and crafters, including ceramic pottery, photography, and handmade jewelry (highschoolpark.org).

Dolores River Festival | Dolores, CO
6/6/2009

Head to downtown Dolores to celebrate the community and environment. In addition to plenty of live music, the festival features children’s activities, kayaking, raft rides, and a river parade (doloresriverfestival.com).

152nd Street Cultural Festival | Bronx, NY
6/6/2009

Celebrate all the 152nd Street has to offer with this family event, featuring popular entertainment, folk arts and crafts, games, raffles, ethnic food, and health awareness education (galoscorp.com).
Discover the Past | Tampa, FL
6/6/2009

Discover the Past gives families a fun opportunity to see what Tampa might have been like for their ancestors. Relive 19th-century Florida by spinning wool into yarn, churning butter, and help plant crops (crackercountry.org).

Union Street Eco-Urban Festival | San Francisco, CA
6/6/2009-6/7/2009

Now in its 33rd year, the art festival features an eco-zone with green exhibitors, businesses, and educational displays. There will also be plenty of live entertainment, great food, and arts and crafts made from recycled materials (sresproductions.com).

Banana Split Festival | Wilmington, OH
6/12/2009 – 6/13/2009

This family festival features a build-your-own banana split competition, pony rides, a dunking booth, games, and live music. Sounds like fun! (bananasplitfestival.com)

North Beach Festival | San Francisco, CA
6/13/2009-6/14/2009

This urban street festival promotes the Italian and Beat history of the North Beach area. Come out for live entertainment, craftspeople, music, and delicious food from some of San Francisco’s best restaurants (sfnorthbeach.org/festival).

Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort

Park Description

Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort is an Armed Forces Recreation Center (AFRC) located in Central Florida. The Shades of Green Resort has 586 oversized guest rooms, waterfalls, gardens, dining, championship golf, kids activities and close proximity to all of the Orlando-area attractions.
Shades of Green has guest rooms designed to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards including standard oversized rooms with all the amenities and features you would expect. Oversized elevators, special transportation options and multiple ramps provide guests with full resort access.
This resort is designed to provide rest and relaxation for retired and active U.S. service members and their families.

Green Scene

Shades of Green has gone a little greener by implementing a visible and accessible paper and plastic recycling program for guests and staff.  All of the lights at the resort are on timers, and the lodging area has a program where guests can opt out of daily towel and linen changing to save water and energy.  Transportation to and from the area attractions means guests save time and money, as well as precious resources.

Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort
1950 Magnolia Palm   | Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-8418
407-824-3400

Hersheypark: Hershey, PA

Park Description

It’s billed as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” and we might just have to agree.
Hersheypark has completely reinvented itself over the past decade, with more rides and more shows in the park.  But the one thing we loved best about Hersheypark is that it is truly a destination for the whole family.  Adjacent to the park within walking distance is Zoo America (included with park admission) and Hershey’s Chocolate World (free admission).
Just a short ride away is the Hershey Lodge, The Hotel Hershey and Chocolate Spa (famous for its chocolate-themed spa services) and Hershey Highmeadow Campground, which all connect with the park via shuttle buses.
Nearby Hershey Gardens is a must-see with 23 acres of themed gardens plus a butterfly house.  It’s one of the few parks where every member of an extended family, from toddler to grandma will find something they love all in one place. And The Hershey Story: The Museum on Chocolate Avenue opened this year and offers a fun and interactive look at the life of Milton S. Hershey, the man behind the chocolate bar.
Hersheypark is open for the summer season for weekends beginning in early May and daily from late May through Labor Day. They are also open September weekends after Labor Day and have Hersheypark in the Dark for Halloween in October and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is open from mid-November through the end of December. Hersheypark is closed in January, February and March.
Hersheypark is a top-tier theme park but may not be on the radar of many theme-park aficionados…yet.  It has top-rated scream-worthy roller coasters and rides which are categorized as aggressive thrill rides.  One day when we visited in the fall, we spotted turkey vultures perched on the top of the tracks of the SooperDooperLooper, which seemed foreboding to those of us too scared to give the rides a try.
Hersheypark might be the master of self-promotion but its candy-rating system for its rides is simple and ingenious.  Their ride-height requirements use its branded candy to measure kids. The gentlest rides are reserved for the Assorted Miniatures (up to 36 inches) all the way to Jolly Rancher (over 60 inches). The candy logos are found at ride entrances and ride operators only have to check wristbands to determine if the rider is tall enough to participate.  One note to parents: on some kiddie rides, parents might be too tall to accompany their children.  We luckily had a 10-year-old with us who could ride the kiddie rides with the preschoolers, although some bribery was required and photos were forbidden!
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark: The SEAquel will make a splash this year with two new attractions. The Shore, a nearly 378,000‐gallon wave pool, will blend fresh and filtered water to simulate the ocean’s currents. Offering a moderate surf experience ranging from zero‐depth entry to a maximum five‐foot depth, The Shore will accommodate guests of all ages, who can splash, play and jump the waves under the watchful eyes of trained lifeguards. For people who enjoy a more relaxing water experience, Intercoastal Waterway is a lazy river which enables guests to take a cool, relaxing break as they float along on individual rafts at an easy pace. Visitors to The Boardwalk area must wear swimsuits (yes, even parents escorting little ones in shallow water play areas) but the rest of the park requires that these bathing suits be changed or covered up with regular clothing and shoes.
From dark to light, just like its chocolate, Hersheypark offers seasonal special events such as Hersheypark in the Dark (Halloween) and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.  Hersheypark in the Dark has special trick or treating for kids, rides and entertainment as well as admission to Creatures of the Night at ZooAmerica. They’re not kidding when they say it’s dark—bring or buy a flashlight for the very dark zoo and, if the kids are wearing Halloween costumes, make sure they don’t have tripping hazards. Hershey candy bar characters wander the park wearing masks (costumed characters in costume – how festive!).

Green Scene

Just a short ride away is the Hershey Lodge, The Hotel Hershey and Chocolate Spa (famous for its chocolate-themed spa services) and Hershey Highmeadow Campground, which all connect with the park via shuttle buses.

Recycling

Hersheypark recycles plastic and paper in bins throughout the park.  Thankfully, recycling bins are easy to spot and located throughout the park, not just in the food service areas.

Healthy Food

Hersheypark’s food services traded in the trans fat oils in all of their food service items for zero trans fat oils.  Throughout the park, vegetarian, low-sugar, gluten-free and nut-free options including pre-packaged salads and whole fruit are available.  Hersheypark publishes its menus on its websites and designates where to find food for those with special dietary needs. We brought our own water bottles and the food service staff happily refilled the bottles with ice and tap water for us throughout the day.

Trip Notes

•Instead of corralling the preschool set to one area of the park, age- and height-appropriate rides are scattered throughout the park, making it easy to keep everyone happy.
•ZooAmerica has a collection of animals from North America which is surprisingly diverse.  Bison, elk and pumas are just a few of the residents of the zoo, as well as three new baby bobcats named Kit Kat, Reese and Hershey. We also were mesmerized by the tree-sitting porcupine, the vampire bats and the alligators.
•We’ve visited this park a number of times and we always opt to do the park in reverse.  We enter and go straight to Zoo America and work our way back to the entrance, which significantly cuts wait times.
•Hersheypark has wet and dry rides, so pack extra clothing.  UPF clothing works best plus lots of sunscreen. Everyone must wear a swimsuit for the Boardwalk and you must wear regular clothing in the rest of the park.
•For the seasonal events, the park opens at 4pm, so we took advantage and started with Hershey’s Chocolate World at 1pm because the factory is open regular hours throughout the year.  We took the chocolate factory tour (um, three times in a row), became Hershey honorary employees with an employee badge and gazed open-mouthed at the chocolate shop which is stocked from floor to ceiling in, well, chocolate.

First and Lasting Impressions

Hersheypark is a top-tier theme park but may not be on the radar of many theme-park aficionados…yet.  It has top-rated scream-worthy roller coasters and rides which are categorized as aggressive thrill rides.  One day when we visited in the fall, we spotted turkey vultures perched on the top of the tracks of the SooperDooperLooper, which seemed foreboding to those of us too scared to give the rides a try.
From easy parking with shuttles to fast-moving entrance lines, Hersheypark ranks as one of our favorite parks.  We really loved being able to wander from the zoo to rides to the chocolate factory and back, depending on our energy level and our group’s interests. We could opt to don bathing suits and head to the boardwalk, or relax while watching a show with marine animals.
The most memorable part of this park is that, without exception, the staff was helpful and pleasant, and the park is extraordinarily clean.  The word wholesome was used often to describe the experience.  We encountered excellent manners from the other visitors and it made for a wonderful outing.  The one thing that really seems to impress visitors is that the street lights in Hershey all look like Hershey kisses, wrapped and unwrapped.

Hersheypark
100 W. Hersheypark Drive  |  Hershey, PA 17033
1-800-Hershey  |  info@hersheypa.com

2009 Peak Prices:
Regular (ages 9-54)    $52
Junior (ages 3-8)    $31
Senior (ages 55-69)    $31
Senior Plus (70+)    $21
Children (ages 2 and under)    FREE
AAA Discount Available

Sesame Place: Langhorne, PA

Park Description

There’s something about Sesame Place that no other park can claim—it’s like family when you see your favorite characters like Big Bird and Cookie Monster strolling through the park. Sesame Street has been on the air since 1969, so parents (and even grandparents) consider the show a part of their childhood.
This is the only theme park in the US based entirely on the award-winning Sesame Street television show. “Sesame Place should be a child’s first theme park,” says Rhonda Clements, Ed. D., the past president of the American Association for the Child’s Right to Play and a professor of Education at Manhattanville College. According to Clements, Sesame Place offers children ages two through seven the perfect first time experience at a theme park. “It feels safe for young ones especially because they relate to the Sesame Street characters.”
Sesame Place’s season runs from May through October with special events including a Halloween Spooktacular, character breakfasts and lunches and Cookie Monster’s “Me Love Talented Kids” Weekend.
The new Count von Count’s Splash Castle features multi-level interactive water play that will stimulate imagination and provide exciting hands-on entertainment for the entire family.  The massive attraction features more than 90 features including a 1,000 gallon eight-foot tipping bucket, multiple water slides, bridges, hose jets, water wheels and many other ways to get completely soaked on a hot day.
Carousels have been in the US since the early 1900s, but Sesame Place’s Sunny Day Carousel is a one-of-a-kind ride with the likes of Elmo, Bert, Ernie and Big Bird taking their passengers on a circular spectacular. Kids and parents alike will hear “C is for Cookie,” “Rubber Duckie,” and of course the Sesame Street theme song, “Sunny Days,” as they enjoy the carousel made especially for Sesame Place.
Our favorite attractions on a very hot day were the mostly relaxing and cool Big Bird’s Rambling River (watch out for those water-tipping coconuts – just as you’re getting comfy, you get showered with water) and the Flyin’ Fish in Elmo’s World.  Best advice: start with the dry rides and then head for the wet; once you get the kids in water, there’s no going back.
All of the Sesame Street stars greet visitors throughout the park, including the newest addition, Abby Cadabby, who is the resident fairy in training, complete with training wand and fairy wings. On our visit, we spied most of the characters; more than any other park we went to, it seems you see a furry friend around each corner and they’re very willing to pose for photos or give big monster hugs.

Recycling

Sesame Café traded plastic for planet-friendly plates, bowls, and cutlery that are made from renewable resources. The dinnerware and cutlery are made from by-products of bamboo, corn, sugar cane and potatoes.
The landscaping at Sesame Place uses composting and a technique called lasagna gardening, which is just like it sounds—layers!  Layering recycled wet newspapers, soil and organic material from the park’s many food venues makes a rich bed to grow plants and provides fertile soil for those amazing Elmo topiaries.
In addition to flowers and plants popping up throughout Sesame Place, the newest crop is more recycling containers for visitors. Even though Oscar loves trash, Sesame Place loves to recycle; recycling bins are visible throughout the park making it easy for everyone to pitch in. Sesame Place had tens of thousands of visitors in 2007, so every bottle or can recycled adds up to a big hug for the environment.

Healthy Food

Even Cookie Monster eats healthy food at Sesame Place. The park offers healthy alternatives to traditional theme park fare including whole-wheat crust pizza, fresh salads, grilled chicken entrees, fruits and vegetables, 100% fruit juice and milk. Whole fruits, including apples, oranges and bananas are available throughout the park.

Trip Notes

•Sesame Place is primarily a water park that is cool fun on a hot summer day. Bring lots of waterproof sunscreen and opt for sun-protective clothing with UPF 50 or higher.  Parents are going to get wet, too, and we found that the clothing with UPF kept our families from turning a shade of red similar to Elmo.
•Go a little early to find a shady spot to watch the Rock Around the Block Parade. Make sure you have plenty of water and healthy snacks to watch the show. It’s a great time to reapply sunscreen and take a break.
•This park gets crowded so make sure your kids are wearing ID (see special section) and have a designated meeting spot if you get separated. Although some swim areas are designated for younger children, their older siblings may also play so keep your parent/caretaker ratio one-to-one if possible to ensure maximum safety.
•This park is convenient to Philadelphia and New York, so most people arrive by car which causes delays in getting into the park.  VIP parking is offered for a premium which may pay off at the end of the day when you just want to load up and take off.
•We took advantage of going to a character breakfast to gain early entrance to the park and it was well worth the extra fee.  The characters spent ample time at each table and, when the breakfast ends, you’re the first in the park.
•Bring towels, changes of clothing, waterproof bags (for swimsuits) and wear a waterproof holder for keys and credit cards (available in the shops). Lockers are available.
•All diapers have to be swim diapers for the water attractions.  Although they sell swim diapers in the shops, we recommend reusable swim diapers like Bummis.
•Our kids were asleep before we had them buckled in their car seats, which is our idea of a successful outing.

First an Lasting Impressions

We’ve visited this park several times and it is always crowded.  There are lines for rides and stroller traffic jams, but you can always find a shallow pool where you can cool off or a shady place to sit and watch a show.  The one lesson we learned is that Sesame Place is more fun if you have a strategy (we won’t call it a plan because when traveling with preschoolers that’s destined to change).  Previewing a map and getting to the park early helps to avoid the biggest lines and enable a family to see more of the park.  Timing the day with shady downtimes at shows, the parade and character lunches makes it much more manageable for the younger visitors.  We also noticed that a 1:1 ratio, if possible, of caretaker adult to child is the most optimal because there are a lot of people and water, water everywhere.

Sesame Place
100 Sesame Road  |  Langhorne PA 19047
215-752-7070  |  guestcomments@sesameplace.com

2009 Peak Prices:
Elmo’s ANY 2-Day Ticket     $51
Good for any second day during the 2009 season
2008 Single-Day Admission    $51
Children (23 months and younger)             FREE
Seniors (55+) (single-day admission)    $46
AAA discount (with valid card)    $48
Summer Nights (pre- and young teen events)     $17

Military Discount
Throughout 2009, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter any one of Anheuser-Busch’s SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Sesame Place parks with a single-day complimentary admission.

Epcot: Orlando, FL

Park Description

Walt Disney World’s Epcot wasn’t part of our original itinerary. We were advised by some veteran Disney-goers that it would hold little appeal for a preschooler, but we ignored this advice and it turned out to be one of our hands-down favorite stops for the whole family.
Was it the wide walkways that made us feel less subjected to the whims of a cranky crowd? The treasure hunt for kids called Kidcot where each location had a cool craft or a special cultural memento?  The amazing array of quality food?  All of the wonderful features of EPCOT had us at “Wilkommen,” “Bienvenu,” “Bienvenido” and “Welcome.”
Epcot is three times the size of the Magic Kingdom, with 305 acres separated into two distinct ‘worlds’: Future World and World Showcase. Future World showcases new ideas and technology and World Showcase is its infamous villages celebrating 11 nations situated along a 1.3-mile promenade that encircles the 40-acre World Showcase Lagoon.  EPCOT got its name from the acronym: Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.
There was a very different atmosphere at Epcot than anywhere else.  Although there are rides and shows, it seemed that most visitors weren’t in a big hurry for the next great attraction and really just enjoyed the experience, stopping to watch the one of 20 strolling musical groups or gaze at the gorgeous landscaping.
Another new feature this year is Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure at Epcot. The newly debuted high-tech spy game uses state-of-the-art technology to literally put the park in the palm of players’ hands.  Inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning animated series “Kim Possible,” the unique interactive experience takes players on an exciting quest for clues around seven pavilions in World Showcase: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, France and United Kingdom. Armed with an official Verizon Wireless “Kimmunicator,” a hand-held wireless controller, guests maneuver through missions at their own pace as they save the world from diabolical comic villains.
Staying on Disney properties does have its advantages when accessing the parks or being able to “hop” from one park to the next.  We opted to stay off-property and ended up driving more than we planned when we learned that the courtesy shuttle ran once per day in each direction, which was sub-par for families with young children.

Green Scene

Walt Disney World and all of its properties have an elaborate program called “Environmentality” which we have covered under the Walt Disney World – Magic Kingdom listing.
Eight submarines used on the Finding Nemo ride at Epcot are now fueled by clean, quiet, magnetic-coil technology. The adventure ride’s coral reefs, painted in brilliant shades, now get their color from a durable, less toxic recycled glass-and-epoxy spray.
At Epcot this year, an elaborate “Cinderellabration” topiary and an environmentally friendly Green Garden headlines the 16th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 18-May 31, 2009.  This annual spring event has a number of exhibits and activities geared toward gardening and outdoor fun.
This year also features a Green Garden where visitors learn how to create an environmentally friendly garden, which uses less water, incorporates native plants and includes composting and recycled materials.  Also, to recognize Earth Day, the Special Environmentality Celebration (April 24-26) showcases keeping the planet green through solutions like reducing waste and using friendly bugs.

Recycling

The Innoventions attraction at Epcot just got a bunch of trash — literally. Waste Management, a provider of waste and environmental services in North America created a sponsored exhibit called Don’t Waste It! This 4,000-square-foot exhibit entertains and educates about the trash disposal process.
Throughout the park, recycling is easy to spot.  Stores still give out plenty of plastic bags for shoppers, but now offer a lower cost reusable souvenir bag as an option as well.

Healthy Food

More than 30 tons (27 metric tons) of fruits and vegetables grown each year at The Land Pavilion at Epcot are served in Walt Disney World restaurants.  Inside the theme park’s experimental greenhouses in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. a one-of-a-kind tomato plant yields thousands of tomatoes has grown more than 32,000 tomatoes that are harvested and served at restaurants at Walt Disney World. The world record-setting tomato tree can currently be seen by guests on the attraction’s “Living with the Land” boat ride.
Epcot has, in our opinion, the best food choices in all of Disney in its World Showcase, so you can choose to dine healthy and even enjoy a little wine with your meal (it’s the only theme park venue that serves alcohol). Salads, whole fruit, fish and many options abound.
Disney properties all have an excellent reputation with families with food allergies.  Check their website to inquire about restaurant options and special dietary accommodations.

Trip Notes

•Although we walked for miles, the Kidcot program really kept us moving along so we could add to our collection of crafts and souvenirs. Our stroller came in very handy for tired little legs.
•We spent hours at The Seas with Nemo and Friends and visited “Turtle Talk With Crush” more than 4 times. Somehow, those Imagineers figured out a way that Crush and Dory from the movie Finding Nemo could interact with the audience—similar to talking to a movie screen, but actually getting a response from the characters. It was as amazing for parents as it was for the kids.  It was also a cool place to sit and relax for a while as the kids enjoyed chatting with a century-old sea turtle, dude.
•We visited Epcot in the middle of a very busy vacation week, which was perfect timing. Instead of racing to rides or standing in the hot sun, our kids did many crafts indoors, enjoyed watching interactions with dolphins, played educational computer games and had a relaxing and rejuvenating day.  There were plenty of educational opportunities, but most of them seemed well disguised as fun.
•We were able to meet more Princesses at Epcot and the lines were much shorter for photos.  This was an added bonus to our princess fans who were disappointed with the long lines for photos and autographs at the other parks.

First and Lasting Impressions

Epcot was a family favorite and it was a truly enjoyable day. We happened to be at Epcot during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival which features cuisine from across the globe, live music, cooking demonstrations and special activities for kids.  Our next trip to Florida will definitely include more time at Epcot.
This park was the least stressful and easiest day of our Florida excursion. At some of the other parks, we felt a little trampled by other guests who, in the grand effort to see everything and be first, elbowed us out of the way.  Epcot was a very welcome change from that experience.
Because we were staying off of Disney property, we drive to Epcot and were able to park within walking distance of the entrance, which was perfect for us since we had a jogging stroller and all of our gear (sunscreen, change of clothing, small snacks, water bottles, etc…). Those staying at Disney properties could take the monorail.

Epcot
1200 Epcot Resort Blvd. |  Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) WDW-MAGIC

2009 Peak Prices:
As with all Walt Disney World resorts, there are many ticket options and upgrades.
Adult (ages 10+)    $75
Child (ages 3-9)    $63
Children (ages 2 and under)    FREE
AAA Discount Available

Military Discount
Through December 23, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary 5-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket with Park Hopper® and Water Park Fun & More options. Activated members of the National Guard or Reservists (with orders showing active status after January 1, 2008) and active or retired members of the United States Coast Guard are also eligible to participate in this offer.

Disney’s California Adventure: Anaheim, CA

Park Description
Directly across from Disneyland is a no-so-little gem called Disney’s California Adventure. From the wine country to the San Francisco piers, this park represents the best that the state has to offer.  At Disney’s California Adventure, popular attractions and entertainment include Soarin’ Over California, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, a Broadway-style production.

To our great surprise, there was a big section of preschooler-level rides in A Bug’s Land which were creative and fun, although the line length exceeded the ride length exponentially.  We rode Heimlich’s Chew Chew Train where you become the caterpillar and eat your way through cupcakes, candy corn and, eventually, some sweet-smelling fruit (getting misted with water smelling faintly of watermelon).  We happen to have been traveling with a preschooler who is easily spooked, so the mildness of the rides in this section was perfect.

Green Scene

Recycling: Recycling containers for plastic are easily spotted throughout the park.

Healthy Food

Since the park mimics the sights and sounds of California, the themed restaurants had a wide array of food from a celebration of the wine country to the sourdough and soup of the San Francisco pier.  It was easy to find healthy choices especially in the market cart areas, but not always easy to convince the kids that was the best choice.

Disney properties all have an excellent reputation with families with food allergies.  Check their website to inquire about restaurant options and special dietary accommodations.

Trip Notes:
•Definitely home of the tamest rides for young kids in the Bug’s Life area. We’re not sure if we will ever graduate to coasters.
•You’re going to get soaked on all of the water rides so bring extra clothing and water shoes. There are smaller water play areas for younger children so it’s always a good idea to bring a few changes and a reusable bag to store the wet stuff.
•Redwood Creek Challenge Trail was a big hit.  Whoever planned these play areas in the middle of the theme parks is a genius.  Even though the kids get tired of walking, they get more tired of being herded through the park and watched like hawks by parents.  This ersatz campground has zip lines, cargo nets, forts and suspension bridges, as well as only one entrance, staffed by a cast member.  The parents can stay close by but the kids can run!

First and Lasting Impressions
We were pleasantly surprised by this park and ended up spending two days here.  While we were traveling with another family from Australia with very brave, thrill-seeking kids ages 7 and 9, we happen to have a thrill-averse child (age 4), which makes for very different planning and a very different experience. Ok, I’m pretty thrill-averse, too so it might be genetic.  Our daughter had the most fun at this Disney park because the rides were just her level. But, we kept crossing paths with our fearless friends who raced from the “California Screamin’” coaster to the “Twilight Zone’s Tower of Terror.” Yes…something for everyone.

Disney’s California Adventure
1313 S Harbor Blvd. | Anaheim, CA 92802
714-781-4565

2009 Peak Prices:
Adult (ages 10+)    $69
Child (ages 3-9)    $59
Children (ages 2 and under)    FREE
AAA Discount Available

Military Discount
Active duty, Reserve, National Guard, Retired, and DOD employees can buy Disneyland discount tickets, with the amount depending on the time of year. Bring your military ID to show at the gate.

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom: Orlando, FL

Park Description

We always have the theme from “It’s a Small World” stuck in our heads for six months after we’ve returned home. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom was pretty magical and we joined the millions of others who don’t feel complete without one trip to see Mickey Mouse in his natural habitat.
The official Disney moniker for this place is the Magic Kingdom Theme Park and it’s one of the four Theme Parks in Walt Disney World Resort (the other parks being Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park).  This park is all about the classic Disney experience with fairy tale castles, princesses, and classic rides like the Mad Tea party spinning tea cups to the thrilling Space Mountain.
Designed like a wheel with the hub in front of Cinderella Castle, pathways spoke out across the 107 acres of Magic Kingdom Theme Park and lead to these seven different themed areas:  Main Street, U.S.A. (modeled after Walt Disney’s real hometown of Marceline, Missouri), Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, Mickey’s Toontown and Tomorrowland.

Green Scene
Specific changes in the Magic Kingdom include Cinderella’s Castle glowing “green” during the holidays by using 170,000 LED white lights which use the equivalent energy of only 12 microwave ovens. Disney has also started selling reusable bags to cut down on the ubiquitous plastic Disney bags from shops and food services.
Disney’s “Enviromentality” program has a special website with activities for children, guides for parents and teachers and ideas for everyone to participate in improving the environment.

Recycling
Recycling containers are easy to find for plastic bottles, but it’s wise to bring your own reusable bottle (which you will fill many, many times). As with all Disney parks, the restaurant supplies such as napkins, plates and utensils are now made of sustainable and recyclable materials.

Healthy Food
The Magic Kingdom has a plethora of options for eating and healthy food can be found easily.  Planning ahead always help, especially if you have food allergies.  There were plenty of market carts with whole fruit and healthier snack options, and the sit-down style restaurants seemed to offer more options in the vegetable and fruit categories.
One service that we tried which proved to be our ticket to happy, healthy meals was the Garden Grocer (gardengrocer.com/) which delivers groceries to your hotel room, even off the Disney Resort properties.  For a $12 service fee (or free if your order $200 worth of groceries), you can stock up on everything from fresh fruit, whole grain cereal, organic milk to diapers and sunscreen.  Many hotels offer free mini refrigerators in guest rooms, so it’s the perfect way to eat healthy on vacation.

Trip Notes
•We brought a jogging stroller which turned out to be a huge mistake since we had to drive to the Disney parks.  It was impossible to on and off of parking shuttles (it has to be folded down and there are no special stroller areas) or the monorail easily or quickly. To get to the Magic Kingdom and all of the WDW Resorts, there’s a lot of walking before you enter the park so, while renting strollers in theory is a great idea; it’s not great in practice. The scenario generally plays out that it’s the end of a long day, the kids are tired, the gear is heavy, and you have to return the stroller at the gate. We just ordered the new Maclaren Techno XLR stroller (just out in 2009) which holds up to 65 lbs to solve this problem.
• Water play areas are sprinkled throughout the park, so bring bathing suits and several clothing changes.  Don’t forget reusable bags to hold wet clothing such as Babygear’s Wet Happened? Wet Bags.
•It was pouring on one day in Disney and we had our rain gear packed. We didn’t, however, bring rain gear to cover the stroller and stroller parking is not covered.  We ended up buying a rain poncho for the stroller, which we ‘recycled’ to another guest as she was entering the park.
•We went to the Magic Kingdom on our third day of vacation and returned a few days later for a second visit.  This gave us ample time to revisit the customized maps we received for free from the Disney website.
•There are so many things to remember so I now use my digital camera to record parking spot locations, promising restaurants and cool travel products (we always ask before photographing).
•We found a ‘dog tag’ engraving machine at various Disney locations (Downtown Disney, Epcot’s the Seas) where you could engrave a dog tag for $10 (some are higher, chains are $2 extra) with your child’s name and your cell phone number.  It works just like the dog tag engraving machine at pet stores.  We all wore our Disney tags throughout the whole trip and I felt safer knowing we all had our names and contact info easily accessed in case of emergency.
•Perfection is an elusive, insane goal.  We ate healthy breakfasts, dinners and snacks and went the nugget and pizza route for lunch.  Do what you can!

First and Lasting Impressions
There is abundant magic at this park, but you find it where you least expect it! Ensuring that your family is protected from sun, rain, hunger pangs and too much heat are also helpful.  For our daughter, finding Alice in Wonderland strolling along the castle grounds or watching a swan swim gracefully on a pond gave us some of our best memories.  We, naturally, rode “It’s a Small World” several times in a row as well as spent hours at Ariel’s Grotto (water play area) but it was the quieter moments we loved best.

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom
Orlando, FL 32819
407-939-6244

As with all Walt Disney World resorts, there are many ticket options and upgrades.
Adult (ages 10 and older)    $75
Child (ages 3-9)    $63
Children (ages 2 and under)    FREE
AAA Discount Available

Military Discount:
Through December 23, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary 5-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket with Park Hopper® and Water Park Fun & More options. Activated members of the National Guard or Reservists (with orders showing active status after January 1, 2008) and active or retired members of the United States Coast Guard are also eligible to participate in this offer.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Orlando, FL

Park Description

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park was dedicated on Earth Day 1998. Primatologist Jane Goodall helped the Disney management introduce the theme park. According to park officials, Disney’s Animal Kingdom also continues Walt Disney’s legacy of wildlife protection by managing and breeding threatened species, conducting wildlife research, participating in local and global conservation projects, partnering with national and international conservation organizations, and educating guests, students, and the local community on ways they can take action for wildlife.
Although it is clear that this park loathes the term ‘zoo,’ Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an accredited institutional member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The mission of the AZA is to establish and maintain the highest zoological and aquarium standards. AZA accreditation acknowledges Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s excellence and commitment to animal care, professionalism, ethics, conservation, and education.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is home to more than 1,700 animals from 250 species that inhabit 500 acres of lush landscape. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is divided into seven themed areas (Africa, Oasis, Asia, Dinoland, Discovery Island, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Rafiki’s Planet Watch) and visitors can see some pretty amazing animals in each area.  To keep everyone happy, there are rides, dinosaur digs, water-play areas, shows and animal observation areas.
A ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari will give you a chance to see many animals and, to be honest, really felt like the real safari ride we had taken in Kenya (except for the fact that we actually saw more animals at Disney through the magic of fencing).  The Disney safari takes you through the African Savannah but the driver kept such a pace that it was impossible to get a good photograph.  And, true to form, Disney requires faux unstable bridges and poachers ‘firing’ at the jeep just in case seeing a real baby giraffe isn’t exciting enough.
Out of all of the parks, this one may actually have been the toughest to maneuver with a stroller.  The walkways are narrow and ride lines are long, often with the designated stroller parking situated fairly far from ride entrances.  We took advantage of the Fastpass system more here than at any other park to ensure we were able to ride the most popular rides.

Green Scene

Disney uses certified green cleaning products in Animal Kingdom to protect the animals.

Recycling: Recycling containers are easy to find for plastic bottles, but it’s wise to bring your own reusable bottle (which you will fill many, many times). As with all Disney parks, the restaurant supplies such as napkins, plates and utensils are now made of sustainable and recyclable materials.

Healthy food: We discovered a fresh market with fruit salads, whole fruit, garden salads and natural juice products which was a wonderful find amongst the chicken nugget and chips. Eating light and healthy made a big difference at this hot, crowded park, although we found it challenging to find a shady spot to nibble.

Trip Notes

•For some reason, this park just seemed so much hotter than the rest of the parks we visited.  Many of the rides and attractions are not air-conditioned and its hard to find shady rest spots, so try to find indoor shows like “Finding Nemo – the Musical” to cool off throughout the day.
•There is a dinosaur dig and water play area in DinoLand where the preschoolers could have stayed all day. Save this for last if possible because wet, sandy, hot kids can get cranky in a hurry.  The sand pit does have a canopy for sun protection but the other play area gets very sunny. Bring water shoes, changes of clothing and plenty of sun protection.
•We were a little concerned when an older child (about 7) took our younger child (3) and started to lead her away.  Apparently, any discussions we had with our preschooler about leaving an area with strangers are unheeded when that stranger is another kid.  We stopped it in time, and we also had an ID on Me on our daughter in case we were separated. It is time to reread some Gavin DeBecker books, including Protecting the Gift.
•Bring a long lens for the camera or binoculars because there are so many animals to see, but they might be a distance away.
•The safari ride was really amazing but the guide really sped through it, which was a little disappointing. The ride takes place in an off-road vehicle, so younger children have trouble seeing the animals. We had a welcome stop when a baby giraffe decided to approach our vehicle to say hello and we were able to take a good look at all of the animals.
•The Tree of Life at the center of the park is breathtaking, with animals intricately carved on this man-made tree’s surface.

First and Lasting Impressions

Kids and animals are generally a great combination and this park is no exception.  Animals which we had only seen in books were trotting and prancing around. We were even being stalked by an ibis for our popcorn. We saw many animals, and I imagine you see different ones every time you go because of feeding times and the weather.
We really enjoyed the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail where we walked along a trail and spied gorillas, Nile hippos, birds and fish (which are easily identified by a laminated guide). We could do this walk at our own pace and not be concerned about rushing from exhibit to exhibit.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Bear Island Road    |   Orlando, FL 32819
407-824-4321
2009 Peak Prices:
As with all Walt Disney World resorts, there are many ticket options and upgrades.
Adult (ages 10 and older)    $75
Child (ages 3-9)    $63
Children (ages 2 and under)    FREE
AAA Discount Available

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