Family Excursions Archives : TRAVEL/FOOD

“BOO-ling Green” Is Home to Bushels of Fall Fun for Families

Bowling Green, Events, Family Excursions, Halloween, Hauntings, Ice Cream, Uncategorized

Over the past few years, we’ve been telling you about the frightful amounts of fall fun visitors can have when they come to Bowling Green, Kentucky, the childhood home of horror film director John Carpenter.

This year, though, we’re taking the scare level back to a G-rating as we provide a glimpse into the more family-friendly aspects of a fall trip to Kentucky’s third-largest city. And by G-rating, we mean you’ll find the three best G’s of the season … gourds, goodies and ghosts.

To us, the perfect weekend getaway in Bowling Green with your little goblins includes these highlights:

GOURDS

*Fall is the perfect time to visit Jackson’s Orchard, which is home to both a pumpkin patch and pick-your-own orchard. Credit: VisitBGKY*

Jackson’s Orchard & Nursery: Since 1966, the Jackson family has been welcoming visitors to their farm. Running every Saturday (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (from 1 to 5 p.m.) in October, the orchard’s Pumpkin Festival means hayrides to the pumpkin patch, corn maze and pick-your-own apple orchard; games; pony rides; a petting zoo; and an array of fantastic food. (Insider tip: Do NOT miss the caramel apples.)

Scarecrow Trail at Lost River Cave: The cave, which runs underneath downtown Bowling Green and is visited via a boat (yes!) is a fantastic experience all year round … but especially in this season when we’re all ready to have a little fun in the dark. But there’s also above-ground entertainment here in the form of walking trails, which get even more perfect in the fall.

That’s when local families, businesses and organizations create themed scarecrows to greet visitors. Between October 4 and 26, from dawn to dusk, you can see about 90 scarecrows and vote on your favorites. And this is no trick but all treats: The trail is totally free, though you’re welcome to make a donation if you’d like.

GOODIES

Chaney’s Dairy Barn: If you crave seasonal flavors and also want to hang out with some big, fuzzy creatures (we’re talking about cows here, not monsters), you won’t want to miss one of the region’s most popular agritourism destinations. Chaney’s offers a self-guided farm tour so families can get a glimpse at how milk gets from cows to grocery stores. They also have a stellar playground, and this time of year, there’s a cow-themed corn maze. There’s a restaurant on site (go for the gourmet grilled cheese – you’re at a dairy farm, after all), but let’s face it, all that is just a prelude to the reason you’re really here … the fresh ice cream. You can choose from more than 50 flavors and won’t go wrong with a single one, though we suggest you lean into fall and make at least one of your scoops (because nobody does a single here) either apple pie or pumpkin.

Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain: Not to be outdone by what you’ll find on the farm, this iconic ice cream parlor in the heart of downtown also offers an array of seasonal flavors. Starting this month, those include Hello, Pumpkin (self-explanatory); Apple Butter Biscuits, which is sweet cream with apple butter swirl and biscuit cookies; and Pumpkin Un-roll, a cream cheese ice cream with pumpkin roll cake and pumpkin butter swirl. With flavors like that, you’ll want to go for THREE scoops! The shop also offers fall-themed ice cream floats, of course!

*Our PR pal in Bowling Green made the ultimate sacrifice and stopped by Meltdown on Tuesday night.*
*That’s Hello, Pumpkin on the left and Apple Butter Biscuits on the right. Credit: Carrie Cavitt*

GHOSTS

UnSeen BG Tour: These themed history tours are always a hit with visitors, and this year brings the debut of a new ghostly tour that’s family-friendly, “Phantasms Around Fountain Square.” Guides take participants on a 1.5-mile walking tour that explores the haunted history in and around the city’s iconic Fountain Square. Tours depart at 7 p.m. on weekends throughout October.

Dr. Smith’s Spooky Stories: If you want to check out what most people consider the most haunted spot in town, you need to head to Western Kentucky University, nicknamed “The Hill.” That’s where Dr. Tamela Williams Smith, who’s had an interest in the paranormal since she was a student there, shares the stories she’s learned by conducting interviews with at least 100 students, faculty members and staff. The university is home to an array of unexplained phenomena, and this year Dr. Smith has adapted her standard “Hilltop History and Haunts Tour” to create a more kid-friendly ghost adventure, too.

White Squirrels: Are they ghosts? No! But do these tiny rodents look like they’re ready to trick-or-treat? They sure do. Bowling Green’s favorite animals are the rare white squirrels found in abundance here. A great place to see them is on the campus of Western Kentucky University, where they’re revered.

To start scaring up some G-rated fun for your family on a fall visit to Bowling Green, check out www.visitbgky.com.

This is not a ghost.

Delving Into the Stories of Some of America’s Greatest Caves

Adventure, Caves, Family Excursions, Mammoth Cave, Shenandoah, Shenandoah Caverns, Soft Adventure, Uncategorized, Virginia, winery

National Caves and Karst Day Is June 6 … and Here’s Where to Celebrate

In a country that has a day for everything, of course there’s one set aside to pay tribute to caves. June 6 denotes National Caves and Karst Day, a celebration of those mysterious pits that humans have been exploring for generations … though not always with great success.

This year seems like a particularly good one to acknowledge America’s caves, considering that the story of what happened to one cave explorer has made it all the way to a Broadway stage in 2025. “Floyd Collins: The Musical” shares the story of the man who got trapped in a Kentucky cave in 1925 and created a media frenzy, and the show has been nominated for six Tony awards. Though things didn’t work out so well for Floyd, what happened to him prompted the National Park Service to take control of the country’s biggest cave. But more on that later …

*Mammoth Cave* *Photo Credit: NPS Photo*

Though today we’re fully focused on caves, it helps to understand what “karst” is, too. That’s the type of topography that’s created when rocks dissolve, and it results in features like natural bridges and sinkholes … and, of course, caves.

MBPR proudly represents destinations in two of the most “karst-y” places in the entire country, western Kentucky and the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Each location is home to a variety of caves, and we’re proud to work with three that are especially fascinating. We encourage you to visit them and learn what’s going on under the earth, then emerge to discover some incredible attributes outside the caves, too.

Shenandoah County, Virginia

Shenandoah Caverns

261 Caverns Road, Quicksburg

These caverns are located within the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a region that’s incredibly rich in limestone. There are plenty of caves to explore up and down the valley, but we’re particularly fond of Shenandoah Caverns. For starters, it’s the only cave in the state of Virginia to offer elevator service, which means it provides a chance for more people to get inside a cavern and look around. The paths are very wide and most of the ceilings are quite tall. This makes it much more “user-friendly” than caves that feature lots of steps or winding paths.

Something else that sets Shenandoah Caverns apart from most other caves in this region and around the country is the fact that it was formed by both underground rivers and seismic activity. Caves are usually formed by one of those elements or the other, not by both. And a little surprise that’s probably the caverns’ most popular feature is the presence of “cave bacon,” unique formations that looks like everyone’s favorite breakfast meat.

The caverns also just added a new display on June 1. Two years ago, researchers found skulls belonging to a prehistoric animal called the Mylohyus fossilis, or long-nosed peccary (a type of wild pig), in a remote passage in the caverns. They were able to excavate the skulls, which are now being studied, but models have been created so visitors can see what sort of creatures used to live here.

The same limestone that forms the caves also makes the Shenandoah Valley an incredible agricultural region. This part of the United States was once covered by an ancient ocean, and the remains of marine life formed the limestone. The rich soil here is perfect for growing hay, apples and grapes. And you know what comes with grapes … wine! Shenandoah County is home to eight wineries. Of these, Third Hill at DeMello Winery is closest to the caverns, but the others are located anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes away.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Lost River Cave

2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green

Lost River Cave is the only natural underground boat tour in all of Kentucky, which is a big bragging right in a state that’s home to at least 5,000 documented caves. That means that to see inside this cave, you board a boat and take a 25-minute ride through a natural wonder.

The boat is equipped for riders of all types of mobility, so even babes in arms can get their first-ever peek at the interior of a cave.

Besides the cool boat ride and the fact that Lost River runs underneath the third largest city in Kentucky, this cave is known for its famous blue hole, which gets its color from – you guessed it – all the limestone in the area. The cave also has plenty of folklore around it … some stories true, some not so much. It has served as a hunting ground for Native Americans (true), a Civil War camp for both Union and Confederate soldiers (yep), a hideout for the outlaw Jesse James (hmmm… has it?), and the area’s most unusual nightclub (fun fact).

The singers from back in the 1930s can attest to the cave’s dramatic acoustics.

The boat tour is only a portion of what your admission ticket gets you. There’s also a complete above-ground experience that shows off the beauty of the land. There’s an array of trails and a geocaching adventure, and from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the cave’s staff also operates the Charlie Miller Butterfly Habitat.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Town of Mammoth Cave

This isn’t just an example of good marketing … the cave earned its “Mammoth” name because it’s the longest cave system in the entire world. So far, more than 400 miles have been explored, and there’s no telling what lies beyond that. Back in the early 1900s, people popped in and out of this area’s caves with reckless abandon. But an accident in the winter of 1925 at a neighboring cave – a news event referred to as the “entrapment of Floyd Collins” – led to the National Park Service taking over Mammoth Cave and putting incredible safety measures into place. That set the tone for new ways of exploring Kentucky’s “Cave Country.”

These days, Mammoth offers a variety of guided tours, ranging from those that are pretty mild (you can travel in a wheelchair) to some that are kind of wild … perhaps exploring by lantern-light or squeezing through on your hands or knees. Mammoth is an incredibly popular cave, so making a plan and booking your tour early is essential, especially in the summer months. It’s important to note that these days, everyone who enters the cave comes back out again safely, so there’s no fear of someone’s adventure turning into a Broadway musical 100 years from now.

A fun part of any cave tour is experiencing a natural wonder in the dark … but the bonus here is that you don’t have to be underground at Mammoth to do that. This national park is also an official “Dark Sky” park, meaning that the absence of city light results in some incredible stargazing.

In honor of National Caves and Karst Day, make plans to get out there – and get UNDER there – and do some exploring!

Ghouls Just Want to Have Fun and Bowling Green, KY, Knows How to Scare It Up

Adventure, Artisan beer, Bowling Green, Chocolate, Events, Family Excursions, Halloween, Holiday events

For the month of October, you might as well start calling Kentucky’s third-largest city “Boo-ling Green,” because this is a destination that truly gets goosebumps when it sees October 31 approach on the calendar. That makes perfect sense, considering that Bowling Green is the hometown of filmmaker John Carpenter, who created classic horror flicks like “Halloween.”

It’s not all about gore and goblins, mayhem and monsters, though. There are plenty of family-friendly ways to celebrate all the things that go bump in the night. And around here, the creatures that get the most seasonal attention aren’t bats … they’re the rare white squirrels that populate the city. The rodents, which are particularly active now because they’re stocking up on snacks for the winter, look like tiny ghosts already jittery from the trick-or-treating sugar rush.

Here are all the ways you can get into the Halloween spirit in Bowling Green:

JOHN CARPENTER EXPERIENCE

John Carpenter, a filmmaker and composer who grew up in Bowling Green, is widely considered one of the masters of the horror-film genre. His most notable films include “Halloween,” “The Fog,” “The Thing,” “Christine,” “They Live” and “Village of the Damned.” Though he was born in New York state, Carpenter moved to Bowling Green when he was just 5 years old. He became obsessed with cinema shortly thereafter, and he made his first short horror film before he entered high school. Carpenter began college at Western Kentucky University, where his father chaired the music department, then left to pursue his career in California. Though none of his films were shot in his hometown, the people and places around Bowling Green remained influential to his filmmaking.

Fans of his films may already feel like they know sites around the city, though those places are a lot less creepy in broad daylight and without the foreboding music. (Fun fact: Carpenter wrote his own scores.) Horror fans can pick up a brochure called the Reel Sites, Real Scary Driving Tour at the visitor center (or download your own PDF here) and take a self-guided trip to 17 spots that were meaningful or inspirational to Carpenter or mentioned in his movies.

ATTRACTIONS

Skeleton’s Lair Scream Park: Open on weekends through early November, this popular attraction is celebrating its 25^th anniversary this year. The park is located – appropriately enough – on Cemetery Road and features haunted woods, a haunted hayride, a two-story haunted house and a 3D haunted maze. It’s staffed by live actors but also offers plenty of pyrotechnics and special effects, all adding to the fear factor.

Lost River Cave: This attraction offers a glimpse into the darker side of Bowling Green … because it’s one of Kentucky’s famous caves, and the only one that’s explored by boat. Though tours take place year-round, at this time of year you can participate in a special nighttime tour called “Lost Tales of the Underground,” on which guides blend history and fun as they share the cave’s ghost stories. The tour takes place nightly from October 21 through 31 and costs $35 per person. Even if you’re afraid of the dark, you can still explore the exterior of the cave, walking along the Scarecrow Trail and voting for your favorite of the scarecrows that have been crafted by members of the community. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be viewed from dawn to dusk each day through October 27. There’s no admission fee for that family-friendly experience.

HAUNTED SITES

Old Richardsville Road Bridge: Located just off Highway 185, the bridge dates to the late 1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also on locals’ list of Most Haunted Places. As the story goes, a young woman either jumped off, drove off or was pushed off the bridge – that part of the tale is unclear – and died at the site. It’s said that if you drive onto the bridge at night and shift your car into neutral, some unseen force will push your vehicle to the other side of the bridge.

Local legend claims it’s the young woman, trying to safely escort travelers across so they don’t suffer the same fate that she did. Many brave souls have tested the theory over the years, and some have even sprinkled baby powder on their bumper before driving onto the bridge. They report seeing a handprint in the powder when they reach the other side.

TOURS

Hilltop History and Haunts Tour: This 90-minute walking tour explores the campus of Western Kentucky University, which is situated on “The Hilltop.” The university has such a reputation for ghostly encounters that it has been featured on the television show “Ghost Hunters.” The tour is led by former WKU professor Dr. Tamela W. Smith, who describes a variety of mysterious phenomena, focusing not only on the university but also the history of “The Hill” and what may have happened there to result in all the spiritual activity. The tour is intended for guests ages 16 and older and is offered on Friday, Saturday and Monday nights at 8 p.m. A special Halloween version that includes the opportunity to use paranormal investigation equipment is scheduled for at 11 p.m. on October 31. As an added bonus, WKU is a great place to see those aforementioned white squirrels.

UnSeen Bowling Green Tours: This company focuses on the city’s histories, mysteries, scandals and ghost stories, and is offering three fall-themed tours that run throughout the month of October. The “Murders and Misdemeanors” walking tour focuses on Bowling Green’s dark side and reveals a variety of bone-chilling tales. Tickets are $24 per person.

DINING

Bowling Green’s chefs and bartenders have been busy at their bubbling cauldrons, creating all kinds of eats, sweets and liquid treats to soothe the howling in your stomach. Some lean into the creep factor, and others are simply celebrating fall.

For example, at Rafferty’s restaurant you can order a slab of sweet potato pie that’s heavy on the butter, brown sugar and pecans. And though you might think that makes it a dessert, they serve it as a side dish! At Mary Jane’s Chocolates in the town square, they’re coating crisp, tart Granny Smiths in sweet and sticky caramel and hoping that a tricked-out apple a day does indeed keep the doctor away.

Over at Lost River Pizza Co., though, their Killer Garlic Knots are brushed with enough garlic butter to keep away all the vampires.

Speaking of Dracula and his buddies, at Toro, the mad scientists behind the bar are busy concocting El Vampiro, a decidedly devilish drink made with tequila, orange liqueur, blackberry puree, honey-infused simple syrup, lemon juice and black salt.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Boos & Brews at The Capitol: You missed it this year, but note it for the future: If you’re interested in a big-screen scream, The Capitol performing arts center provided the perfect venue to watch a double feature of John Carpenter’s “Halloween” and “Halloween II” last Friday night. White Squirrel Brewery (yes, even businesses around here are obsessed with the little spectral creatures) served some of its beer, and we hear that the audience members tried their best not to spill any when they jumped out of their seats. And … the theater itself is reported to be haunted, with plenty of stories of ghostly footsteps and apparitions to keep your spine tingling.

Downtown BGKY Harvest Festival: This free, family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, October 19 in the heart of downtown Bowling Green. In addition to kid’s activities, live music, craft vendors, and food trucks, the event is home to Downtown BGKY’s annual “pumpkin drops.” There are no tricks but plenty of treats at this fall-themed, scare-free street festival.

Boogeyman Ball: On October 26, White Squirrel will open its downtown brewery for a costume party and contest that features live (not dead) music and some wicked cocktails. There’s a $20 cover charge for the event, which runs from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Back to the Island: Exploring Curacao

Beaches, Caribbean, Curacao, Elegant dining, Family Excursions, Historic foodways, Ocean, Resorts, Uncategorized, Willemstad

The charms of Dutch Colonial Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rainbow palette of gabled buildings accented with louvered shutters and white gingerbread trim, never lose their appeal. The winding cobblestone streets and alleyways of this 17^th century city, located on Santa Anna Bay, are crowded with art galleries, restaurants, shops, and little plazas shaded by acacia trees. Enjoy a Blue Lagoon (frozen pineapple juice, rum, Blue Curacao, and coconut) at the Iguana Café while watching the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge swing open and close letting walkers cross between Punda and Otrobanda districts of the city.

Stroll to the Floating Market, a Curacao tradition where boats from Venezuela, 38 miles away, tie up in early morning along the quay, displaying their wares of brilliantly colored fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, mounds of glistening fish and such Caribbean specialties as tamarind candies and sugar cane. Take in the smells – and if you’re hungry – the tastes — of the foods cooked by vendors along the docks. Pause in Jo Jo Correa, a lovely plaza just across the street where artisans sell their wares.

But no matter the allures of Willemstad, there is more to Curacao than just this jewel of a Caribbean city. Stretch out in the sun on one of the island’s 38 pristine beaches. Don snorkels or dive suits and explore the myriads of dive spots including the 12.5-mile National Curacao Underwater Park and such favorite sites as the sunken Tugboat, the Mushroom Forest, considered a top dive because of its coral formations and even the remains of a wrecked plane.

Hop on a charter boat or rent a catamaran and sail through turquoise waters. Swim with the dolphins at the Dolphin Academy and visit the Curacao Sea Aquarium where, if you’re feeling very brave, there’s snorkeling with sharks and sting rays.

Dolphin encounters at the Dolphin Academy.

Head west to Christoffel Park, traveling along the coastline through the wild and rugged outcroppings of rock where delicate orchids peek from tiny crevices and flowering cacti and twisted divi divi trees are part of the arid landscape known as kunuku.

Pelikaan Casino, Breedestraat, Willemstad

Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a big life changing event or recovering from an illness, many islanders prove to themselves and the world that they are back in the game by trekking to the top of Curacao’s highest point, the 1237-foot Cristoffel Mountain. But you don’t need a reason to enjoy the climb or the park’s wild life such as blue iguana (get over it, they’re all over the island), the rare Curacao white tailed deer said to have been imported from South American some 500 years ago, brightly colored birds and even an occasional donkey or two.

Not up for a mountain climb? You can also tour the park on horseback (even night riding is an option), rent a mountain bike or take a Jeep tour. The park is also crisscrossed with hiking trails geared towards all abilities from the challenging Orchid Route to an easy meander that leads to the magnificent Landhuis Savonet. At one point in time, Savonet and Plantation Zorgvlied, covered almost 4000 acres of the land

Built in 1662, burned by the British almost 150 years later and then rebuilt shortly after, Landhuis Savonet is one of the oldest of Curacao’s 55 remaining landhuizen or plantation houses. Situated at the park’s entrance, the fabulously restored landhuis now houses the Museum of Natural and Cultural History known for its state-of-the-art exhibits.

Jaanchie’s in Westpunt is the oldest restaurant on the island and is still family owned.

Head to the charming village of Westpunt nestled atop a ridge at the western point of the island. Try the fried iguana – an island specialty–at Jaanchies in Westpunt. The third-generation family run business, the oldest on the island, opened in 1936.

Or order pizza fired in a wood burning stove using island woods and topped with locally sourced toppings or grilled tuna with mango salsa at Sol Food and enjoy the ocean view. For those wanting to spend the night, the 1800-square-foot apartment has three bedrooms and is a terrific way to get away from it all.

Check out two unique Westpunt’s beaches–Playa Santu Pretu and Playa Forti tucked away in secluded coves and famed for their black sand made from surf pounded volcanic beach stone.

And remember, there’s never enough time to do it all in Curacao so plan on coming back soon.

For more information, visit curacao.com

Top photo shows Curacao at night and was taken by Klaus Jessen.

Apple Fest 2024: A Celebration of Fall at Virtue Cider

Cidery, Events, Family Excursions, Fennville

As leaves begin to swirl in a kaleidoscope of fall colors and apples ripen in hues of yellows, reds, and greens, it’s time to celebrate Southwest Michigan’s harvest at Apple Fest 2024. Hosted by award winning Virtue Cider, enjoy live music, orchard and farm tours, tastings of their proper farmhouse cider, and much more on their sustainable solar-powered farm.

The festivities kick off on Saturday, October 12th from 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. EST (2170 62nd St., Fennville, MI) with live bands, a pig roast, face painting, and a bustling bonfire where guests can relish the crisp autumn air while exploring the charming Norman French-style cider houses. The celebration continues on Sunday, October 13th from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. EST with a variety of programming open to all ages. Guests over 21 have the option to delve into the world of cider making with founder Gregory Hall and Virtue’s cidermakers on a production tour, exploring the intricacies of the fermentation, blending, and barrel-aging processes — or talk all things apples and proper farmhouse cider on a guided cider tasting.

Guests of all ages can also join a guided farm and orchard tour to experience Virtue Farm’s flora and fauna, visit the heritage breed animals, and meander amongst the orchards. No reservations or entry fees are required for this exciting celebration, but those interested in booking tours and guided tastings can do so in advance on Virtue’s website here.

ABOUT VIRTUE CIDER: Founded in 2013 by award-winning Goose Island Beer Company brewmaster Gregory Hall, Virtue Cider crafts proper farmhouse cider from local heirloom fruit on a sustainable solar-powered farm in Fennville, Michigan. Following a two-month pilgrimage to study the craft of cider in England and France, Hall brought traditional techniques from faraway lands to Virtue Farm, located in one of the country’s best apple-growing climates.

The Norman French-style cider houses are located on over 48 acres of grasslands, surrounded by an array of Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs and chickens, and house several below-ground fermentation tanks, naturally cooled and heated by the Michigan climate.

Virtue Farm also features a full taproom with tasting flights, handhelds, and charcuterie selections, offers guided tastings and tours, and supplies seasonal bottle selections for Virtue Cider’s national Cider Society subscription service.

For more information on Virtue Cider, please visit www.virtuecider.com.

Photos courtesy of Virtue Cider.

Fairbanks: A Prime Destination for Aurora Viewing

Adventure, Alaska, Aurora, Fairbanks, Family Excursions, Uncategorized

The highly anticipated Aurora Season in Fairbanks begins on August 21, once again offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights. Spanning August 21 to April 21, this eight-month viewing period allows countless opportunities to experience the aurora borealis in all its glory.

Aurora Season in Fairbanks is consistent each year due to the area’s prime location under the Auroral Oval, where aurora activity is concentrated. This advantageous position ensures that Fairbanks remains one of the best places on Earth to view the northern lights, regardless of the solar cycle.

The solar cycle, which spans approximately 11 years, influences the level of activity on the sun’s surface, including sunspots. These sunspots are closely tied to aurora activity. During the solar maximum, when sunspot activity peaks, there is an increase in aurora displays at lower latitudes, such as the northern part of the Lower 48. Conversely, during the solar minimum, when sunspot activity is low, aurora visibility is generally confined to areas under the Auroral Oval, such as Fairbanks.

Fairbanks’ location under the Auroral Oval means that any aurora activity, even at the lowest levels, is visible here, making Fairbanks a top destination for aurora viewing.

Explore Fairbanks invites travelers from around the world to experience the magic of Aurora Season. With the return of the aurora borealis, visitors can expect unforgettable experiences, from guided aurora tours to cozy accommodations offering prime viewing opportunities.

Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or a first-time visitor, Fairbanks offers the perfect backdrop for witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. Plan your visit today and prepare to be captivated by the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska.

About Explore Fairbanks

Explore Fairbanks is a non-profit marketing and management organization whose mission is to be an economic driver in the Fairbanks region by marketing to potential visitors, optimizing the visitor experience and advocating for a thriving year-round visitor industry. Explore Fairbanks markets Fairbanks as a year-round destination by promoting local events, attractions and activities to independent travellers, group tour operators, travel agents, meeting planners and the media as well as by developing public policy and infrastructure to achieve marketing objectives. Find out more at explorefairbanks.com

Photo caption: In October 2018, as the solar minimum approached, the aurora borealis shines above Golden Heart Plaza, illuminating the heart of downtown Fairbanks, Alaska. (©State of Alaska-Jody Overstreet)

Six Great Places to Stay in Peru When Traveling with Kids

Adventure, Family Excursions, Historic foodways, Peru

ACCOMODATIONS

Sol y Luna (Cusco): They have forty-three casitas (houses) to accommodate families. They are surrounded by gardens filled with flora native to the Sacred Valley and all face the Andes Mountains. They offer experiences such as tandem paragliding, cycling or hiking through terraced fields, horseback riding to remote villages and kayaking.

La Base Lamay (Cusco): The main purpose of the daily activities they offer is all about conservation and sustainable development through responsible tourism in Lamay. Offerings Family fun offerings include activities such as hikes in the mountains, experiences in local communities, fly fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, farming and culinary activities, as well asinteractive experiences in the village.

Colca Lodge (Arequipa): Their family suites are perfect for those traveling with children. Consider requesting activities such as lunches cooked by the riverside near the hot springs, visiting an alpaca ranch and condor room, hiking to a pre-Inca ruins near the hotel, or just relaxing treatment at the thermal spa.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica (Madre de Dios): An ecological luxury lodge. It offers a varied selection of excursions, including a visit to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, a system of bridges 30 meters above the ground. In 2013, Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica was chosen by National Geographic Traveler magazine among the top 25 eco-lodges in the world.

Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort (Paracas): They offer family-friendly accommodations with furnished terraces, sea views and garden views. There’s a Kids’ Club as well as an entertainment area for children, where staff organizes fun activities indoors and outdoors.

Decameron (Lima and Tumbes): It is a family-friendly resort with many activities throughout the day. In Peru, you can find them in Lima and Tumbres. You can enjoy activities such as shows, water sports and other sports, in addition to having specialized restaurants, unlimited food, beverages and alcoholic drinks.

FOOD

Traveling with kids can be an adventure, especially when it comes to mealtime. Peru offers an array of delicious and child-friendly dishes that will have your little ones asking for seconds.

Kick off your flavorful journey with a few sips of Inca Kola. A soft drink is a great special treat for kids, especially those who don’t have much soda at home. This soda is sweet and fruity—channeling its main ingredient, lemon verbena. Inca Kola has been around since 1935, so it’s definitely the perfect way to get a swig of authenticity during your trip!

Next on the menu is lomo saltado, a mouthwatering stir-fry that blends tender strips of beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries, served over a bed of rice. It’s like a Peruvian twist on beef and fries—and who doesn’t like fries?

For those with a sweet tooth, Peru offers a delightful treat called picarones. These fluffy doughnuts made from sweet potato and pumpkin are fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a decadent syrup made from molasses and spices. It’s a dessert that will have both kids and adults coming back for more. You also can’t miss out on classic churros, the sweet treat made from crispy fried dough covered in cinnamon sugar—and a side of chocolate dipping sauce.

To introduce your young ones to the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine, try the savory delight that is anticuchos—or grilled skewers of marinated beef heart or chicken, seasoned to perfection and served with a side of roasted potatoes.

Peru for kids is an immersion into a different culture –a learning experience for the entire family from strolling through cobblestone city streets, exploring ancient remains, and hiking through Peru’s lovely to sampling the different foods and meeting new people. It’s more than that as well. It’s a way to bond with your family and also enjoy what the world has to offer.

Make Your Summer with Experiences in Nayarit Mexico

Adventure, Beaches, Elegant dining, Family Excursions, Gastronomy, Golf, Nayarit, Pacific Ocean, Resorts

With summer fast approaching on the horizon, Mexico’s state of Nayarit is inviting travelers to embark on a journey filled with rugged, pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences.

With its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Nayarit is always an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

Nayarit boasts a wide range of activities for travelers of all interests, from pristine beaches to cultural immersion, organic coffee, and luxurious hotels and resorts.

Beautiful Beaches: Nothing says summer quite like a day at the beach, and with nearly 200 miles of coastline it’s no wonder Riviera Nayarit is one of the most popular coastal destinations in Mexico. The ribbon of golden, sandy beaches that lay beneath the Sierra Madre mountains is peppered with more than two dozen beach towns all along the coast of Riviera Nayarit. The beaches here offer a paradise for sun-seekers and adventurers alike, with groves of swaying palm trees and powerful Pacific waves.

From the lively beach towns of Sayulita and San Pancho to the secluded coves of Punta Mita, and the remote, wildlife-rich estuaries of Rincon de Guayabitos, San Blas, and beyond, Nayarit’s beaches cater to every preference.

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Surfers and surf enthusiasts head to the beaches of San Pancho on June 20 for International Surfing Day. Join the excitement of the powerful waves and enjoy the vibrant surf scene on the main beach, Playa San Panch.

Beyond the shores, visitors to the beaches of Nayarit can explore vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving adventures. Diving is best in Nayarit during the summer months when water temperatures and visibility are at their peak.

Outdoor Adventures: For thrill-seekers, Nayarit is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Explore the lush jungles of the Sierra Madre mountains on a zip-lining excursion, hike to hidden waterfalls, surf the secret breaks, or go whale watching along the coast. With its diverse terrain, Nayarit offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Cultural Immersion: Dive into the rich cultural heritage of Nayarit by visiting its charming towns and villages. Explore the colorful markets of Tepic, where you can sample local cuisine and shop for handmade crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience traditional Huichol art and learn about the indigenous culture that has thrived in the region for centuries.

Nayarit has more Magical Towns than any other state in Mexico. Magical Towns are recognized for qualities like their heritage, culture, natural beauty, legends, gastronomy, and more. Nayarit is home to nine Magical Towns, including Ahuacatlán, Amatlán de Cañas, Ixtlán del Río, San Blas, and Puerto Balleto (Islas Marías), Sayulita, Compostela, Jala, and Mexcaltitan. Each one offers a different experience for travelers looking to get in touch with the history and soul of the state.

Luxurious Resorts: Summer is one of the best times to check into the many luxurious resorts along the coast of Nayarit.

Often summer means lower prices or exclusive travel deals when visitors can get the most value out of these five-star escapes. Indulge in the ultimate paradise as you discover serenity amidst lush tropical gardens and azure waters.

Each resort boasts meticulously designed accommodations, from palatial suites and private villas, each offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean or jungle landscapes.

Nayarit’s resorts provide a gateway to thrilling outdoor activities, from championship golf courses to water sports and tours of nearby villages and vibrant markets.

Golf: Summer vacation is the perfect time to brush up on your golf game. Golfers looking to take a swing at the best golf destination in Mexico will feel right at home in Nayarit. With nine world-class golf courses, Nayarit is one of the top destinations for a golf summer break. These courses have been designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Jim Like, Percy Clifford, and Robert Von Hagge & Baril. These top-tier golf courses feature spectacular views over the Bay of Banderas and the Pacific Ocean, as well as the beautiful beaches and mountain rainforests of the Sierra Madres.

Wellness: The beautiful jungle-covered mountains, crashing Pacific coastline, and abundance of wildlife sets the ideal backdrop for a wellness journey. Whether it’s an indulgent treatment at a world-class spa in Punta de Mita, a multi-day yoga retreat in Sayulita, or filling your days with alcohol-free activity and adventure, Nayarit has everything travelers need to embark on a wellness journey.

Indy Zoo: Big Winners on Super Bowl Sunday

Adventure, Animals, Family Excursions, Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo, White rhino, White River State Park

Forget the Kansas City Chiefs. Indianapolis has its own big winner to celebrate today with the arrival of a white rhinoceros calf born at 9:13 a.m. to 19-year-old mother Zenzele. This is the first live-birth rhinoceros calf for the Indianapolis Zoo and Zenzele’s seventh calf.

Rhinoceros care staff began overnight watches early this month when Zenzele started producing milk and showed physical signs of impending labor. “Zenzele is an experienced and confident mom and everything is going very well,” said senior rhinoceros keeper Amber Berndt. Both Zenzele and her calf are doing well, and keepers say Zenzele is relaxed and the calf is content.

“Our Life Sciences team has done a tremendous job. It is a privilege for our Zoo to care for these magnificent animals and advocate for their conservation,” said Dr. Robert Shumaker, Indianapolis Zoo President & CEO.

Zenzele’s calf brings the Zoo’s herd of rhinoceroses to five, including male Spike and females Mambo and Gloria, who is also Zenzele’s grandmother. Both mom and baby will spend time together indoors and will begin introductions with other members of the herd later this spring.

In the wild, rhinoceros populations are threatened by habitat loss and poaching. Four of the five remaining species of rhinoceroses are at risk of extinction, according to the International Rhino Foundation. White rhinos are categorized as near threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. The Red List status represents the likelihood of a species becoming extinct in the near future.

By visiting zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), guests are helping to save wild rhinos. AZA institutions support field conservation, research, habitat restoration, reduction in human-rhino conflicts and community-based initiatives to protect wild populations. To learn more, go to www.indianapoliszoo.com/exhibits/plains/white-rhinoceros/.

About the Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo protects nature and inspires people to care for our world. Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com to plan your visit.

Rhino Mom Zenzele

Gray, Humpback, and Blue Whales – the Largest Mammals on Earth – Return to Their Annual Winter Sanctuary

Baja California Sur, Beaches, Ecology, Family Excursions, Gulf of California, Nature, Whatles

BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR ONCE AGAIN WELCOMES WHALE MIGRATION SEASON

Baja California Sur, the southern half of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, is the annual winter playground for whales of many species where the spectacular sight of whales in near proximity becomes downright commonplace. Whether in the lagoons and bays off the Pacific Coast or around to the eastern side of the peninsula up into the Gulf of California, whale watching in Baja California Sur is a bucket list adventure for the whole family.

Each year more than 20,000 gray, humpback, and blue whales (among others) travel 6,000 miles from the cold waters off Alaska to mate, socialize and give birth in the shallow, nutrient rich bays and lagoons of Baja California Sur. As they engage in this extraordinary pilgrimage, they also provide a magical opportunity for locals and tourists alike to witness the graceful creatures in their winter habitat.

The routes and habits of the various species differ, as do their personalities and interest in us as the human onlookers. But all offer fascinating insights and experiences with some of the planet’s most enigmatic creatures.

The charming municipality of Loreto is well known for its natural beauty and intimate proximity to some of nature’s finest offerings, but nothing comes close to the awe-inspiring sight of a blue whale, the largest animal on earth. Blue whales, often shy and elusive, make their way south along the western side of the peninsula but for a few winter months they can be found exploring up into the Gulf of California and in the tranquil waters of the Bay of Loreto.

With its crystal-clear waters, the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Gulf of California is the perfect place for travelers to get up close with blue whales. Local companies such as Tours Loreto and Wild Loreto Tours offer tours where visitors observe these creatures, who grow more than 100 feet long and weigh as much as 30 elephants combined.

In Mulegé, further north, gray whales make their way to the lagoons of San Ignacio and Ojo de Liebre, part of Mexico’s El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve—the largest wildlife refuge in Latin America which was established in 1988. These shallow lagoons have been the breeding grounds of gray whales for thousands of years.

Visitors can take small boat excursions out to lagoons to witness the whales as they near the boats. Known to poke their heads out of the water and interact with humans who come to watch them, gray whales have developed a reputation of being some of the most socially receptive and mellow whales in the ocean. The nearby small municipality of Comondú also offers whale watching excursions in the ports of San Carlos and Adolfo López Mateos where humpback, gray, and finback whales all can be spotted.

Whale watching is highly regulated in Baja California Sur, with the safety and preservation of these mammals and their ecosystems always taking priority. Tours consist only of small groups, led by marine biologists and local whale experts who are familiar with all the various species and conservation efforts.

As an area known for its rampant wildlife, seabirds and other marine mammals such as dolphins and sea lions can also be found in Loreto, Mulegé and Comondú. Baja California Sur also offers other ocean activities such as diving, kayaking, and snorkeling, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. Travelers can explore the area on-land further by mountain biking, hiking, or exploring the town and enjoying family-owned shops and restaurants.

About Baja California Sur

Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, the state of Baja California Sur encompasses the southern half of the Baja Peninsula. The climate is perfect for fishing, boating, surfing, and diving, making the destination an adventurer and thrill-seeker’s dream. The state features breathtaking scenery from the windswept ocean beaches on the west to the tranquil, turquoise waters on the east. In between are canyons, desertscapes and lush oasis ripe for exploration. Known for its extraordinary marine life, whale watching is one of the area’s most well-known tourist attractions along with sportfishing, kayaking and bird watching. More information on Baja California Sur’s Loreto and northern regions can be found at Visit Baja Sur.

Photo credit Visit Baja Sur.