Insectropolis: a Creepy, Crawly and FUN Museum in Central NJ

Insectropolis: a Creepy, Crawly and FUN Museum in Central Nj

Halloween Fun with Spiders...and Scooby Doo!

Looking for some Halloween fun this weekend?  Too rainy to go pumpkin-picking?  Why not head over to Insectropolis, in Toms River, NJ for some zany Halloween fun?

Insectropolis is fun any time of year but this weekend is their annual Halloween mystery adventure, starring Scooby Doo and his pals.  Called Boo at the Zoo With Scooby Doo: Mystery of the Missing Gold Beetle, this family-friendly event is a perfect evening activity for kids who are too young to go to a Haunted house or hayride.  I have taken my kids and they had a blast!  But it fills up quickly, so go early, or buy your tickets online.  

Basic info:

Friday, Oct 12, 2012     Open 5-8pm

Saturday, Oct 13, 2012   Open 5-8pm 

Tickets are $8 per person.

Insectropolis is located at 1761 Route 9, Toms River, NJ 08755.

For general information about regular visiting hours, admission prices and exhibits, visit their website at 

http://www.insectropolis.com .

Want to read a first-hand account of our visit to Insectropolis?  Then check out my article, which I have posted here as well.

See you there!

Our summer vacation in southern New Jersey

We spent a fun week in late August exploring southern NJ.  We were based in Galloway, and went all over--the shore, the Pine Barrens, and lots of fun places in between.  I will be (hopefully) publishing articles about many of our adventures, and adding them to my blog.

The first one describes one of the spots we visited--Historic Smithville.  It is posted below.  Check it out to learn why we thought Smithville was such a fun place that we visited it twice!  And keep in mind, Historic Snithville is open all year round, so you can visit it any time!

Historic Smithville--small, Quaint, and Packed with Things to See and Do!

Historic Smithville--small, Quaint, and Packed with Things to See and Do!

Something for Everyone All Year Long--mercer County Park

Something for Everyone All Year Long--mercer County Park

Need a light and lazy activity for Labor Day? How about boating?

For those in central Jersey who have kids (like mine) who are tired of swimming and the beach, but who still love water, there is another local option--renting a boat at Mercer County Park.

Mercer County Park's marina offers boat rentals from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so this is your last chance this summer to try this fun activity.  You can rent one or two-seater kayaks, or rowboats or pedal boats (4 people).  The rentals are available from 12:00-6:00 PM and the cost is $15 per hour for pedal boats rowboats, and single person kayaks, and $20 for a two-seater kayak; after the first hour, it is $5 per every 1/2 hour.

Another option--take a pontoon lake tour!  The pontoon tours are held on weekends only, at 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 5 PM.  The cost is $7 per adult and $5 per child or senior.  They are given on a first-come, first serve basis, and the pontoon holds a maximum of 15 people.

For more information, visit the Mercer County Park website at http://www.state.nj.us/counties/mercer/commissions/park/boat_marina.html

See you on the Lake!

September's New Look...

This one is called "ethereal".  Interesting, I think, and the clouds remind me of a nice September day.

Update on Six Flags Wild Safari

As promised, Six Flags has released information about the changes that will be taking place in 2013 at Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari, and Hurricane Harbor.

In a nutshell, there will now be two theme parks, instead of three--Great Adventure and Wild Safari will be COMBINED.  And so, although the company is technically closing Wild Safari, the animals will remain.  Instead of allowing people to drive through in their own vehicles, they will be offering a "Safari Off-Road Adventure", which will leave from the Frontier Adventures section of Great Adventure.  They will be changing the landscaping and topography so that the trip feels like a "real" safari.  And there will be a stop at Camp Adventura, to allow visitors to disembark and directly interact with some of the park's animal life.

As an added bonus, this new adventure will be included in the ticket price for both one-day admissions and season-pass holders. This ride is expected to debut Memorial Day weekend, 2013.

In addition, there will be another new ride opening at Hurricane Harbor--the Big Wave Racer, which will offer guests the thrill of racing head-first on water toboggans on a 4-story high, 1,800-foot track.  This ride is expected to open in the summer of 2013.

For more information, check out the website at www.sixflags.com/greataventure/index.aspx .

REMEMBER:  If you want to drive through Wild Safari in your own vehicle, you only have until SEPTEMBER 30th.  That will be the very last day that Wild Safari will ever be open to private vehicles, so take advantage while you still have the chance.  I know I will!

Wild Safari--Better Visit Soon, Before It Closes!!

In my opinion, the best thing about Six Flags Great Adventure, and what sets it apart from other amusement parks, is the Wild Safari.  A NJ institution since July 4, 1974, this interactive zoo in the heart of NJ has delighted families for generations.  But that is about to change.  Six Flags made the shocking announcement earlier this week that Wild Safari will be closing to private vehicle traffic FOREVER on September 30th, 2012 (a month earlier than regularly scheduled to close).  More news is expected on August 30th, so stay tuned.

For those of you who--like me & my kids--love this park, you had better get in one or two last visits.  And for those who have always wanted to go but never got around to it--NOW OR NEVER!

And for those who are interested in reading more I recently published an article about this soon-to-be-lost NJ treasure, which I posted below.   Hopefully my family's experiences will inspire you to go one last time.

Looking for a Great Adventure in The Heart of New Jersey? How About Visiting a Wild Safari?

Looking for a Great Adventure in The Heart of New Jersey? How About Visiting a Wild Safari?

Another fun place to visit this summer--Lucy the Elephant

If you are looking for more fun at the Jersey Shore this summer, how about checking out Lucy the Elephant in Margate, NJ?  After all, how often do you get to climb into a six-story pachyderm on the edge of the beach?  And if you go on a Thursday in July or August you can go to Margate beach for free!

Check out my article (below) for more details on this fun NJ icon.

Want to Walk Inside an Elephant? You Can--at The Jersey Shore

Want to Walk Inside an Elephant? You Can--at The Jersey Shore

Another Gem Worth Visiting in Atlantic City–the Aquarium | Quazen

Another Gem Worth Visiting in Atlantic City–the Aquarium | Quazen

Atlantic City. . .full of casinos, restaurants, shopping. . .and one REALLY nice aquarium!

If you are looking for something to do with the kids this summer, why not check out the Atlantic City Aquarium? It is small, but surprisingly well-stocked, and there are plenty of things to do in the area (besides casinos).  Visit their website at www.acaquarium.com for more information.  Or, you can check out the article I wrote about our trip there--I will post it here as well!

Ok, took a bit of a hiatus--had a few family and friend-related life events that took some time. But I am back, with a new design for July, and some fun things to write about!  How did you spend your Fourth of July?  We went to Baltimore for the week and it was AWESOME (although VERY hot).  When you are considering your travel plans for next summer, you might want to consider Baltimore.  Some highlights:

• There are two sets of fireworks over the Inner Harbor--one highlights the big, "bloom" sort of fireworks that explode high in the sky and change color or shape; the other features lower fireworks that shoot upwards like colorful sprays of water.  If you sit in the right spot, you can see them both at the same time.  We figured out that the best spot is most likely Federal Hill, which is across the Bay from the Inner Harbor.  If you want to stay on the Inner Harbor side, then the best spot is probably near the new Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum (open late on July 4th, btw). 

• For those who want a really great view, (and have cash to burn) several of the venues had special viewing options--several of the restaurants had reserved outdoor seating, the USS Constellation was hosting a fireworks party on deck, and even the electric boats vendor was offering his boats for fireworks viewing--for a mere $50!

• Lots of music leading up to the fireworks, all along the Inner Harbor-two of the best were at the Hard Rock Cafe, (classic rock) and the bandstand near the USS Constellation (dance music & hip-hop). But all along the walkway were smaller sometimes impromptu musicians playing every type of music--street music, rap, jazz--something for everyone!

• Ft. McHenry had family events all day--the only fee was the admission fee. There was flag hoisting (of the giant replica of the original Star Spangled Banner that flew there, fife and drum concerts, musket and cannon firing demonstrations, and the reading of the entire Declaration of Independence. Lots of fun, and informative, too!

• The National Aquarium, Maryland Science Museum, and Port Discovery Children's Museum all had special, kid-friendly hands-on events, and the Star Spangled Banner/Flag House had free admission and tours (Baltimore is in fact the birthplace of the Star Spangled Banner, created for the War of 1812).

This is just a sampling of all of the activities offered throughout Baltimore on July 4th.  Lots of fun, entertainment and history all rolled into one great day! 
 

Visit a Historic Landmark in Atlantic City and See The Light!

Visit a Historic Landmark in Atlantic City and See The Light!

Swashbuckling Fun This Sunday

Looking for something different this weekend? Need a break from all of the blooming green, pollen-laden plants?  Why not head down to the Jersey Shore and visit Absecon Lighthouse, on the corner of Pacific and Rhode Island Avenues in Atlantic City, NJ. It's the tallest lighthouse in NJ, and the 3rd tallest in the United States and is a pretty cool place to visit.

And if you visit this Sunday, May 20, 2012, you'll get to experience a real adventure--it's "Be  A Pirate Day!". From 11:00-3:00 pm, come on down and meet pirates, watch a pirate show, play pirate games, make pirate crafts, eat snacks, tour the grounds of the Lighthouse and even hike up the 228 steps to the top of the Lighthouse.  There's even a pirate cruise at 3:00 pm. Admission is $12 for kids, and $6 for adults, and all proceeds go towards the continuing restoration and maintenance of Absecon Lighthouse.

For more information, check out the official website: www.abseconlighthouse.org

Day Trip on The Banks of The Delaware River

Day Trip on The Banks of The Delaware River

Can You Eat This? Find Out at Washington Crossing

On Sunday, May 6, from 1:30-3:30 PM, the nature/interpretive center at Washington Crossing State Park will be hosting a program called "Wild Edible Plants".  This cool program is free, and open to anyone ages 3+.  Learn what wild plants are safe to eat--and why you should eat them! You can even bring plant clippers and garden trowels to dig up and bring home your own samples.

Advanced reservations are required, so visit http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/washcros.html or call (609) 737-0623 for more information or to register.

And if you are interested in more information about the nature center, check out my article about our visit there!

May's Color Change--For Mother's Day :-)

Not sure about this style--what do you think?

MONEY-SAVING MUSEUM TRAVEL TIP!

For those of you who like science or natural history museums, zoos, or other science-related venues (or who have family members that do), here is a money-saving tip for you.  NOTE: This tip works especially well for those who travel to various states and/or countries throughout the year.

Buy a membership to one of the museums in your state that participates in the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) and you can take advantage of their Travel Passport Program. There are over 300 museums and science centers who participate in this program; your membership will get you free admission, and/or discounts at gift shops, and/or other benefits at all of the other participating science centers!

For instance, if you have a membership at the Gateway to Science (in North Dakota), you can use your membership at any of the other participating locations.    We have a membership in one of our state's participating museums, and have used it to visit WONDERFUL museums in every other state we have visited, including the Virginia Living Museum, the Orlando Science Center (Florida), and the Arizona Science Center, to name just a few.  We received free admission for a family of 4, plus discounts at the gift shops, and sometimes even at food concessions.  Best of all--we discovered so many great science centers, which we probably would never have even visited but for the fact that they were ASTC members!

There are a few caveats:  

1. Each museum's discount is slightly different--for example some offer free admission for families of 4, some offer for additional family members, some offer discounts at gift stores etc.
2. The list of participating museums and centers changes every 6 months, so make sure to check it before you embark on your trip.

3. Science centers and museums that are located within 90 miles of each other are excluded from the program unless that exclusion is lifted by mutual agreement. ( 90 miles is measured "as the crow flies" and not by driving distance).

4. Finally, to receive Travel Passport Program benefits, you must live more than 90 miles away ("as the crow flies") from the center/museum you wish to visit.

For more information, visit the website http://www.astc.org/members/passlist_about.htm .  And go have fun learning about science!

Spring Break On Cape Cod, MA

Although most of NJ had Spring Break Week either this past week, or even the week before, most of Massachusetts has Spring Break starting tomorrow, April 16th, which is Patriot's Day. (In case you were wondering why your income taxes aren't due until Tuesday, April 17th, it's because of Patriot's Day).

So, while I am organizing all of the great information I collected about many great places to visit in Virginia, I thought I would mention a great place to visit with kids for Spring Break in Massachusetts--the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, in Brewster, Mass. This museum--which is also an aquarium--has activities all week long, including nature hikes, archaeological lectures and digs, interactions with aquarium animals, arts and crafts using recycled materials, interactive programs involving beehives, and much more!

So if you are in the Cape Cod area during Spring Break, make sure and visit this great museum.  You can read my article to learn more about the museum, at http://trifter.com/usa-canada/massachusetts/the-perfect-rainy-day-activity-for-your-cape-cod-ma-vacation/.

Enjoy the article, enjoy the museum, and enjoy your Spring Break!

Off to Williamsburg, VA!!

We are heading to Williamsburg for Spring Break!  We hope to visit Colonial Williamsburg, the two Jamestownes, (the real one and the fake one) the two Yorktowns, (the national park and the other one), Busch Gardens, Virginia Living Museum, and more.  So stay tuned for posts on these fun and historic Virginia attractions!  Happy holidays, everyone!

Hop on Down to Storybook Land for a Fun Easter Adventure!

The Easter Bunny is in town!  He will be visiting Storybook Land all 3 weekend days--April 6, 7, AND 8!  So if you're looking for something to do--or if the kids need even more candy--head on down to Storybook Land for a visit with EB and his Easter Egg hunt.  He will be there from 12:00-4:00 pm all three days.

And there's lots more to do at Storybook Land--rides, animatronic figures, snacks, animals--all which revolve around fairy tail themes.  Storybook Land is an old-fashioned theme park, great for young kids--or the young at heart. There are even a few rides which will appeal to older kids, like a (smaller) roller coaster and the park's newest ride, Tic Toc Clock Drop.

Storybook Land is located at 6415 Blackhorse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ.  Admission is $22.95 per person (kids under 2 are free).  Hours are currently 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Storybook Land is also open Monday, April 9th, but the Easter Bunny will be gone.

For more information, visit https://storybookland.com .

Soar Through the Skies, or Plunge Into the Sea's Depths. . at the NJ State Museum Planetarium

There are lots of reasons to visit the NJ State Museum, in Trenton, NJ, a small yet diverse museum located in the state's capital city.  But one of the main reasons has to be the museum's high-def, totally cool planetarium. The largest planetarium in NJ, it seats 150 people in specially-designed reclining seats which allows visitors to view the entire 360-degree dome.  At this planetarium, you really feel like you have been immersed in the show going on above and around you.

Open on Saturdays and Sundays, the planetarium offers several shows each weekend day.  And the shows are great! Regardless of your age or interest level, there will be show that's right for you and your family.  And since the museum itself is also worth a visit (and admission is free) why not combine a planetarium show with a stroll around the museum?

Currently, through April 1, 2012, the planetarium schedule is as follows: 

1:00 pm - One World, One Sky--travel through space with Elmo Big Bird, and friends--a perfect show for the younger crowd.

2:00 pm - The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket--learn the basics of astronomy as you voyage through space with two kids and their homemade rocket--designed for kids ages 3-10.

3:00 pm - Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure--a journey back in time, when Mosasaurs, plesiosuars, and other giants ruled the seas.  An awesome story about what our ancient oceans may have looked like--including all of the dangers that lurk in the depths.  This show is intended for children ages 6+, and has some quite vivid imagery (I took my sons to see this one--truly amazing visuals, but be prepared for the Bambi-like moment when the cretoxyrhina--an ENORMOUS ancient shark--eats the "mommy" Doli a peace-loving species).

4:00 pm - Passport to the Universe --narrated by Tom Hanks, this movie details new scientific astronomical discoveries,, and is also filled with vivid and startling (but not scary) imagery.  This beautiful movie is suitable for all ages, including adults.

(The planetarium is sometimes open during holidays & vacation weeks, such as Christmas week in December.  During that week, there are extra showings of the phenomenal show "Laser Nutcracker."  Make sure to get there early to get your tickets--it is ALWAYS a sell-out).

Admission is $7 for adults, and $5 for kids 12 and under.  Check out the website for more information about the planetarium shows, as well as a coupon for $1 off tickets.  http://www.njstatemuseum.org/dos_museum_programs_planetarium.html

Definitely check it out before this movie line-up changes!  Sea Monsters, for sure, is not one you want to miss!

Erin Go Bragh--Something For the Little People On St. Patrick's Day!

St. Patrick's Day is this Saturday, March 17th.  And the weather is supposed to be beautiful.  So, most people will be headed to NYC to attend the huge St. Patrick's Day parade held in NYC every St. Patrick's Day.

But if you have little ones, and NY is just too far, or too crowded, or too disorderly for them, there 

are other options:

The NJ Children's Museum, in Paramus, NJ, is hosting St. Patrick's Day crafts and activities all day long on Saturday, March 17, and Sunday, March 18, from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Free with admissions to the museum. (Check out my previous blog post about this fun and entertaining museum).

On Saturday, March 17, at 1:00 pm, the Saddle River Cultural Center will be hosting an afternoon of Irish dancing and live Irish music.  It is designed to appeal to children and adults of all ages.  After the performances kids can meet the dancers, have photos taken, and even learn a few Irish dance steps!  The cost is $12.00 per person in advance, $15.00 at the door. Here's the address: 305 West Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River NJ 07458.  

March 17-March 18 is a crafting weekend at Imagine That, 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, N.J.  07932.  Kids can make a shamrock and other St. Patrick's Day crafts.  There will also be a Shamrock Scavenger Hunt on March 17th.  Imagine That is open from 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and admission is $9.95 per child, and $7.95 per adult.

New Month, New Layout

Ok, so I am a little late with this, but, Spring is right around the corner, so I thought I would update my blog with a "Spring" background.  Let me know what you think!

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO ON SATURDAY? TRY THIS!

The First Annual Community Business Expo! It is being held THIS SATURDAY,  March 3, from 9 AM-1 PM at Village School 601 N. Village Road, West Windsor, NJ.  Lots of vendors, crafts, games, demonstrations, food, fire trucks, great door prizes, and MORE.  And best of all it's FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

It's supposed to rain on Saturday, and this event is indoors!  So come check it out!

(OK, so this isn't really a travel destination, but since I'm running it, I guess it's ok to post on my blog!)

See you there!

The Trenton Times Came to Rockingham Too!

As I mentioned, we went to celebrate George Washington's b-day at Rockingham Historical Site--and so did the Trenton Times!  And, because my kids are so cute, the photographer snapped their picture a few times.

Here's one of them:


http://photos.nj.com/the-times/2012/02/rockingham_historic_site_in_ki_1.html
 

An Eclectic Art & Science Museum in the Middle of New Jersey

An Eclectic Art Science Museum in The Middle of New Jersey

Another Reason to See Mighty Mike at Adventure Aquarium

Remember my post about Mighty Mike, the largest alligator on display outside of Florida?  Well, my friend Serene told me about an even better reason to go see Mighty Mike and the rest of the Adventure Aquarium: THIS WEEKEND ONLY,  FEBRUARY 17-20, ONLINE admission tickets to the Adventure Aquarium are ONLY $15 (plus tax and processing fee--works out to be $17.05).  

The promotion is called "cabin fever" and you must purchase the tickets online. The savings for kids' tickets is about 1 dollar but since adult ticket prices are normally $23.95, this is a significant savings.  There is also a 20% savings on annual passes, should you decide to purchase them through the Cabin Fever online promotion.  Here's the link:  http://www.adventureaquarium.com/specials/cabinfever.aspx

So now you really have no reason to delay--and say goodbye to Mighty Mike!

Celebrate Washington's Birthday in Central Jersey

Ok, so most of you are probably on the slopes in the Poconos, Vermont, or Utah.  Or on your Caribbean getaway.  But for those of us who were SURE we would lose our February snow days and so didn't make vacation plans, here's some more fun things to do with the kids for Washington's birthday all on SUNDAY, February 19th.  And they are a LOT cheaper than scuba diving in Aruba!

• Washington Crossing State Park (NJ side)--head on over to the Johnson Ferry House from 1-4 pm tomorrow for a family-friendly celebration of good old George's 280th b-day. The festivities will include Colonial harp music, kids' toys and games, and period demonstrations, including "the history of gingerbread." Refreshments, including punch and hearth-baked gingerbread, will be served.  The event is FREE; the Johnson House is asking for a $5 donation.  

• Rockingham Historic Site--Rockingham is offering special guided tours of the house and visitor center, with an emphasis on interesting facts and details about Washington.  The tours are offered on the hour at 12, 1, 2, and 3 p.m., and reservations are required! Please call 609-683-7132 to make reservations. Light refreshments will also be served.  This event is FREE; donations are always appreciated.

• Allaire State Park--visit the Historic Village at Allaire from 12-3 and celebrate Washington's birthday circa 1830.  You can tour the homes and watch as villagers  prepare for a "Birth Night Ball" and explain the birthday customs of the time, make authentic birthday dishes, and tell visitors about interesting Washington-related facts and stories.  There will be speeches and toasts given in Washington's honor, enjoy refreshments, and more! This event is FREE. 

Visit the website for the NJ Department of Envirnomental Protection, Divison of Parks and Forestry, for information about all three places: www.state.nj.us  

And then have fun celebrating the big man's birthday, right here in central NJ!

Unique, Cool, and FUN Art Exhibit

Unique, Cool, and FUN Art Exhibit

Two Cool Exhibits at the Charles River Museum of Industry

Hello Massachusetts fans, and anyone visiting Massachusetts over the Presidents' Day holiday! Here's one for you!

On our last visit to WALTHAM, Massachusetts, we discovered the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation located at 154 Moody Street, Waltham, MA.  This museum is small, but a lot of fun.  Its permanent exhibits many of which are hands-on,  which showcase  American innovation and invention from 1812 to modern day are cool enough to warrant visiting the museum any time--my sons spent all day there and didn't want to leave!

But two temporary exhibits, which are about to move on, really justify a visit to the museum right now.

The first is called Another Side of In, which is a collaboration between Phish Bassist Mike Gordon, artist Marjorie Minkin (his mom), and electronics designer Jamie Robertson.  It is small exhibit, but one which can keep your kids occupied for a LONG time.  The exhibit is made up of iridescent, translucent molded plastic torso-like shapes, which are decorated with swirls of color, and glowing lights, and which light up and play sound when you move back and forth in front of them.  Some play music, some make weird noises, and all glow luminous colors when triggered.  You can move fast and slow past several of them at the same time and create a veritable symphony (or cacophony, depending on how you look at it).  LOTS of fun--for kids and grown-ups, too!

The other exhibit you really should see is entitled Steampunk Form and Function II. It features FANTASTIC Steampunk creations from renowned Steampunk artists as well as amateurs.  My kids loved the paper shredder monster (which really ate paper) the Eye-Pod, and the mechanical piano.  There were computers attached to typewriter keyboards, coffee pot percolating toasters, a metallic grand piano with an old-fashioned speedometer, and much, much more.  (Gotta love the brass-studded Steampunk dresses too). Don't know what Steampunk is?  The museum describes it as ". . . an alternate history where modern technology and Victorian life meet.  At its core steampunk asks the question, what would the world look like if modern technology were available, when steam was king, corsets were mandatory and man was learning to fly?"  But to really understand it, you should definitely check it out.

But hurry!  Both exhibits close on February 26th.  The museum will have special extended hours and open days for the  February School Vacation, Monday Feb. 20-Sunday Feb. 26, 10am-5pm.

For more information about the museum, check their website at  www.crmi.org  .

Rainy Day Fun Place in Paramus, Nj

Rainy Day Fun Place in Paramus, Nj

Need Something To Do With the Little Ones This Weekend?

Try the Children's Museum in Paramus, NJ.  Located at 599 Valley Health Plaza (between Paramus Park and the Fashion Center) the NJ Children's Museum has lots of hand-on, dress-up, and other fun activities for your younger kids.  And they have all sorts of special events going on during Presidents' Day weekend and winter break week:

• Feb. 18-19th, celebrate Mardi Gras--there will be beads and mask-making, and two parades at 11:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m.
• Feb 20--normally closed on Mondays, the Children's Museum will be OPEN on Presidents' Day.
• Feb 20-Feb 24--Winter break arts and crafts activities, focusing on dinosaur arts and crafts projects, all week long.

So go have fun with your kids at this fun, family-friendly museum!

Admission is $10 each for adults and children 1+; children under 1 year old are free. The museum is open 10:00 a.m.-5 p.m. on week days and 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. on weekends.

For more info about this cute museum, check out their web site at www.njcm.com .

High Point State Park--A Great Place for Families

Check out the link below to read about why I think High Point is so family-friendly. . .and then stay tuned for "an inside scoop" on my adventures there!

By the way, if we actually start to get more than a dusting of snow this year (other than Halloween), High Point may reopen for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  If it does, I will post it here!

Climb as High as You Can--in New Jersey

Climb as High as You Can--in New Jersey

Go See Mighty Mike Before He's Gone!

Hello, central NJ and Pennsylvania folks--and anyone visiting the area during the month of February!  Looking for something to do over that LONG weekend coming up? (My kids are off from Thursday-Tuesday!)  Then why not head over to Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ, and come nose to nose with Mighty Mike, a 14-foot-long alligator.

At 800 pounds, Mighty Mike is the third largest animal at the Adventure Aquarium--behind the hippos, of course. He is the largest alligator on display anywhere outside of Florida so he something to see.  But he will only be at the Aquarium for a few more weeks, so make sure and see him soon.  His last day in our fair state will be February 29th.

The Adventure Aquarium is open every day in February, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and of course there are many cool and exciting animal exhibits to visit, plus animal shows, 4-D movies, and more.  It's a great way to spend one of those vacation days, or any day. So go and have fun, and gape at Mighty Mike while he gapes at you.

For more information, visit the Adventure Aquarium's website at www.adventureaquarium.com .

Air travel with kids does not have to be stressful.  Check out my article below for some tricks we have learned throughout the years on our various travels.

Five Steps for Successful Air Travel with Young Kids

Five Steps for Successful Air Travel with Young Kids

Final Thoughts on Shawnee Mountain Ski Resort

Shawnee Mountain, Part 3

There is more to do at Shawnee than just skiing, of course.  Shawnee offers plenty of excitement for snowboarders, too.  From lessons to equipment, Shawnee provides everything the beginner snowboarder needs.  (Caveat here--there are so many novice snowboarders on the beginning slopes that they make it tough for kids on skis to maneuver off the lift.  Why do snowboarders just sit down right where they stumble off the lift? There must be a reason, but I have never snowboarded, so I don't know.)

And for more adventurous snowboarders (and skiers), Shawnee offers two different terrain parks, with a host of different experiences in each.  There are boxes, handrails, down rails, jumps, a hitching post, a rainbow bridge, a down log, a double staircase, and more--I did not try any of them, so I cannot offer any review of them, but they sound cool: down-flat-down box, hip with log coping, battleship rail, butter box, and more. 

Finally, for those looking for a rush that they can't get on skis (usually, like me because you are snowplowing down the steep parts) Shawnee offers snow tubing. The snow tubing park, to the right of the ski lesson area, offers 6 chutes, so the line moves fairly quickly.  There are double tubes for parents and little kids; everyone else must ride in a single tube. Another carpet (conveyor belt) takes you to the top of the chutes, so no need to carry your tubes far, either.

With all of its amenities and features, including the fact that 25% of its ski area designed for beginners, it is easy to see why Shawnee is attractive to families.  As my family discovered, it is definitely worth a visit!

Visiting Arizona's National Parks? Don't Overlook The "Smaller" Ones

Visiting Arizona's National Parks? Don't Overlook The Smaller Ones

Hello Everyone!  A new month, a new look--let me know what you think! 

Hard to believe it is going to be 61 degrees today here in central NJ.  Such warm, sunny weather in the middle of winter reminds me more of Arizona than New Jersey (not that I'm complaining).  We took our first trip to Arizona last summer, and it was a LOT warmer than 60 degrees (but it's a DRY heat--lol).  What a beautiful state!  We had many, many adventures--we got caught--outside--in a massive sandstorm, drove right through one of the sections of Tonto National Forest where forest fires had been raging (the day before), ran into Africanized bees at Tonto National Monument, and got caught in a monsoon at the Grand Canyon.  But it was a great trip, and I HIGHLY recommend checking it out.  More to come on our Arizona adventures. . .meanwhile, feel free to read one of my articles about some of the "lesser" national parks in Arizona!  

Enjoy our summer day! 

A GREAT NJ LANDMARK--SEE IT SOON!

Hello NJ folks--and anyone looking to visit a cool place in NJ.  You should check out one of oldest--and most easily accessible--landmarks:  The Old Barracks Museum, located in Trenton, NJ, right near the Capitol Building.  The Old Barracks Museum, built before the FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR, is a great place to experience a hands-on history lesson. Perfect for families, schools, scouts and other groups, the Old Barracks Museum lets you step back in time and learn about life during the French and Indian War, and again during the Revolution, when the Barracks was occupied by the Hessians!

Following the well-versed, knowledgeable docents dressed in period-piece garb, you will learn interesting historical facts while having fun doing it!

Check out my article about the Barracks posted here for more information, or go to www.barracks.org .

But visit soon--due to State budget cuts, the Barracks may soon close--and then a vital piece of American history will be lost forever.

A Piece of History Soon to be Lost Due to "Budget Cuts"

A Piece of History Soon to be Lost Due to "Budget Cuts"

SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT Part II

Another reason for liking Shawnee--they have a lot of lodge space!  There is an upstairs, divided into 2 sections, a downstairs (naturally) surrounding a huge fireplace, a restaurant, a cafeteria and an 21-and-older bar/lounge. Each floor has one or more food kiosks as well, for people looking for a quicker meal or beverage.  There are floor to ceiling windows overlooking the mountain, and lots of outdoor seating, too.

With all of the space, it was relatively easy to find seats for a family of four, and will so many food options, it was easy to feed everyone too.  There is everything from burgers and chicken fingers to soup, chili, and nachos and the restaurant offers sandwiches, soups, and salads, too.  Unfortunately, we didn't get a chance to visit the lounge, but it looked like a fun place to hang out.

Another family-friendly section of the Shawnee lodge is the ski shop.  The shop has a large selection of clothing and supplies for children and adults, and we found their prices to be very reasonable-- $20 for goggles, or $6 for glove liners, for example.  They offer skis, poles, snowboards, and other "real" equipment, as well as clothing and outerwear.  For us, the large selection and convenience, as well as the not-outrageous prices, was another "plus" at Shawnee. 

Shawnee also offers a nursery on Fridays-Sundays for children ages 18 months and older.  Great for the little ones, as well as kids who don't want to ski or snowboard this is another amenity that caters to families. The cost is $40 per day, or $5 an hour, and includes a hot lunch.  Gluten-free meals are available here as well as the other food services for Shawnee Mountain.

These are a few more reasons I think Shawnee is a good destination for families, or anyone who is just learning to ski or snowboard. I am sure there are more challenging mountains in the Poconos, but when you or your kids are just starting out, a little less of a challenge can be a good thing!

Hope some of you made it over to Howell Living History farm yesterday in our newar-60 degree January weather!  Don't forget today's Chinese New Year concert at Grounds for Sculpture this afternoon at 2 pm!

I will be at our annual Cub Scout Pinewood Derby (!) but will be posting more on Shawnee Mountain when I return, so stay tuned!

Another Holiday Gem in Central Nj--winter Wonders at Grounds for Sculpture

Another Holiday Gem in Central Nj--winter Wonders at Grounds for Sculpture

LOCAL ADVENTURE NEWS FLASH!

Calling residents and visitors to central NJ!  Looking for something to do this beautiful January weekend? According to the weather channel, it is going to be sunny and in the mid-high 40s, so why not do something outside?

Here's two local offerings, both being held this weekend:

• Celebrate Chinese New Year at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ with the Yang Yi Guzheng Academy.  Master musician Yang Yi will lead his students in a heartbreaking concert featuring the sounds of the guzheng, a 21-string instrument dating back to ancient China.  The concert is part of the "Winter Wonders" series of events being held at Grounds for Sculpture throughout February.  The performance is being held on SUNDAY, JANUARY 29th at 2 p.m., and is free with paid admission to Grounds for Sculpture.

 For more information about Grounds for Sculpture, see www.groundsforsculpture.org And be sure to check out my full-length article on their Winter Wonders posted below!

• Looking for something a little more energetic?  How about ice harvesting?  TODAY, JANUARY 28th, is the Howell Living History Farm's annual ICE HARVEST.  Visitors to the farm can help Howell staff cut, chop, and shave ice, and can help make ice cream.  The ice will be stored in an authentic ice house, and will last all year long.  If it is cold enough, visitors may even be able to use an old fashioned ice saw to harvest ice from the frozen pond.  The ice cream-making will be held at 1:00 and 3:00 pm; the ice harvesting is ongoing.  Howell Farm, located in Lambertville, NJ, is also offering ice candle making for kids, between 11:00 am-3:00 pm., for a $3 materials fee.  Admission to Howell and the ice harvest activities is FREE.  They will also be offering food and beverages for sale. It is LOADS of fun (we went with our Cub Scout den one year) so head on over and harvest some ice!

For more information about Howell Farm, visit www.howellfarm.org .  

My Thoughts on Shawnee Mountain Ski Resort, Part I


As I mentioned before, our trip to the Poconos was ostensibly to go skiing at Shawnee Mountain.  Let me say first that I think Shawnee Mountain would be a great place to visit year-round, and I plan on heading back out there in warmer weather. Minutes from the Delaware, right near the Gap, Shawnee is surrounded by natural beauty, and the nearby town on Shawnee-on-Delaware is as rustic and quaint as you would expect.

Full disclosure time--I am by no means a good skier.  I am perfectly happy staying on the beginner and mild intermediate slopes, and will NEVER EVER ski on anything harder (unless I lose control and can't turn fast enough to avoid heading straight for the black diamond trail).  So my opinion of Shawnee or any ski mountain is based on its level of family-friendliness and amenities, not its difficulty level.

Having said that, I really liked Shawnee.  It advertises itself as being beginner-friendly, and it is.  If offers plenty of group and private lessons for young and old, and its lesson/rental packages are very reasonably priced, even on a holiday weekend.  In fact, its overall prices, especially combined with the coupons it offers, are very reasonable as well.

Shawnee has plenty of easy and moderate trails, as well as more difficult ones, but what I liked the best was the "bunny hill" or the easiest trail.  Right next to the area dedicated to ski school, the beginner slope is wide and easily accessibly by both a conveyor belt and a ski lift, so skiers can take their pick. So I could ski down the beginner slope while my kids were at their lesson, and I could watch them and warm up for skiing all at the same time.  Then, once their lesson was over, they only had to go a very short distance to hope on the conveyor belt and try out their new skills.  Nice planning and layout on Shawnee's part, and one strong reason why I would recommend Shawnee for families, especially for those with younger or beginner skiers.

Stay tuned for Part II!

Woohoo!  I got my first question on my blog (although it was posted on facebook, not here).  But it still emasn that someone actually read this, so it's all good.

Ok, the questions: price of admission and food at the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm, and how far a drive it is from central NJ.

Admission prices: adults $7.50, seniors $6.50, children 2-12 $5.50, under 2 are free.  The food (for the animals) is $2 per item (baby bottle, cup of bear pellets, etc.).  There is no people food or cafeteria on site.

East Stroudsburg is is just west of the Delaware River, and so is very close to northern NJ. From central NJ the trip is a bit further; approximately 2 hours each way.

Hope this helps!

As some of you may know, my family and I love to travel, and I take us all over the place--from local New Jersey spots to distant lands.  Our most recent adventure was to head northwest to Shawnee on Delaware, PA. There, we went skiing, snowtubing, and visited several unusual places, including a snake farm and a haunted candle shop.  I will be writing about our adventures and misadventures over the next several posts. In the meantime, if the idea of visiting a snake farm (really a very quaint small zoo) appeals to you, check out an article I recently published about the Pocono Snake and Animal Farm in East Stroudsburg, PA. It's posted on my blog.

Enjoy!



 

Vacationing in The Poconos? Need a Break From Skiing? Why Not Visit Some Snakes? | Scienceray

Vacationing in The Poconos? Need a Break From Skiing? Why Not Visit Some Snakes? | Scienceray

My first blog

Well, here goes nothing. . .this is a "test blog" to see if I've set this up the right way. . .and who knows, maybe I'll get the hang of this!  After all, if 75% of the population (more or less) has a blog or two--or twenty--how hard can it be, right?