Fun Things To Do With Kids in Chester County: Kid friendly travel

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Fun Things To Do With Kids Visits the Loews Philadelphia

Fun Things Kids Family Friendly Travel , Fun Things to do with kids in Philadelphia

Lobby of Loews

If you are like my family, winter is always hard to get through. We constantly seek new adventures to get us out of the house. Pre-covid, we would sometimes hop on the train and head to the city to grab a bite to eat or explore Philadelphia. Since covid we have yet to return to the city for some fun. As we were researching our options we learned about the Loews Philadelphia Warm Up and Save package .

View from our room

If you're in Delaware or Chester County, hopping on the train at any suburban station is not as difficult as it seems. And in most cases, you don't even have to buy your ticket ahead of time. Train conductors now take credit with the tap of your phone. Just make sure when heading to Loews you get off at Jefferson Station.

When arriving at the Loews hotel, you know you are in for a very hip and luxurious time. This art deco-style hotel takes inspiration from its history as the former money center for the elite as the old Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS) building.

Our check-in was easy, and the staff was courteous and helpful. Loews welcomes kids and families all the way down to the family pet. They believe in making memories with your loved ones. Loews Philadelphia has partnered with HelloBello and Little Spoon to provide kid-approved amenities in their hotel and restaurant. It always makes my children feel welcome when a hotel has something special for them.

Grand Room

Our room was on the 30th floor and was called a Grand Room, a recently renovated corner room. This style room offers spectacular 180-degree views of the city. All of the guestrooms at the Loews Philadelphia have all been recently refreshed. The bathrooms now have porcelain mosaic tile, polished nickel, and stand-up showers or low-profile tubs.

Tent for kids

As part of the Warm Up and Save Package, our room had a Kids Cozy Camping tent, which consisted of a pretend campfire, marshmallows, cups, and plates. This will keep your kids entertained the whole time they are in the room.

Bank & Bourbon

The Loews Philadelphia has on-site dining at Bank and Bourbon, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The hotel lounge is where guests mingle, relax and unwind after a day in the city. While unwindinging after long day of checking out the city try the Free Spirited by Loews program. As one of the pioneering hotel brands to embrace the growing trend of mindful consumption, Free Spirited by Loews at Loews Philadelphia Hotel will provide elevated and bespoke bar programming for those who choose to imbibe less or not at all.

As an added touchpoint, Loews Philadelphia Hotel and Bank & Bourbon have seamlessly integrated these specialty cocktails into its standard cocktail menus, with each drink clearly marked by an icon denoting its low or no ABV content. This thoughtful approach ensures that individuals seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages have access to a wide range of options while providing complete transparency and clarity. By incorporating these distinctive indicators directly onto the menus, Loews Philadelphia Hotel ensures all beverages are crafted with the same attention and care.

The lounge has drinks and snacks for you to enjoy. There is also a grab-and-go area called POD Market. You can pick up pastries from many local favorites, including Metropolian Bakery or a cup of coffee from La Colombe Coffee. You can also order room service, which we did for breakfast. We got muffins and the kid's French toast, a decent size for a kid's meal. Everything was delicious.

Lounge

The Loews Philadelphia also has Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon and a fitness center. So you can fit in a quick workout, relax with a massage, or even get your hair styled.

You might be asking what else can you do in the area. The hotel is right next to Reading Terminal Market, the Philadelphia Convention Center, City Hall, the Fashion District, and more. Since you are in Center City, you are within walking distance of many of the historical attractions in Philadelphia.

If you haven't been to Center City with the family in a while, it might be time to explore the area again. The Loews Philadelphia is really a family destination to check out. The accommodations were beautiful; the staff was friendly and helpful, and the location was easy to get to. Add in a visit to one of many exceptional restaurants in the area, and it is also a great option for a romantic getaway for parents and couples. Hopefully, you and your family can visit Loews Philadelphia so you can make memories, too.

Warm Up and Save Package

Package includes:

Overnight Accommodations
Valet Parking for one vehicle
$25 In Room Movie Credit per stay
Welcome Amenity Treat
Upgrade to next room category, based on availability (excluding Suites)
Late checkout of 2 pm, based on availability
Kids Cozy Camping Tent*, based on availability (*not to take home)

Offer Ends Mar 31, 2024

Watch our video review on YouTube

For more information: https://www.loewshotels.com/philadelphia-hotel/specials/warm-up-and-save

Location: 1200 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107

This event is appropriate for: the whole family

Spring Break Travel Ideas to do with the Kids

Fun Things Kids Chester County Family Fun , Family Friendly Travel

Looking for a family-friendly getaway during Spring Break? We have picked out some of our favorite places to visit. All of our picks are driveable and no more than a few hours from the Philadelphia suburbs.

1. DoubleTree Resort in Lancaster PA. There is so much to do at this family-friendly resort. This 185-room resort is very family friendly, but it's also perfect for a weekend getaway without the kids. The hotel is about a 10-15 minute drive to the Strasburg Rail Road, Choo Choo Barn, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and other Lancaster attractions.

2. Kalahari Resort in the Pocono Mountains. If you are looking for a water park adventure then Kalahari will keep everyone happy and entertained. Kalahari is just under two hours away from the Philadelphia area. Kalahari is truly a family oriented place and they have thought of everything to keep all members of the family happy and occupied while on vacation.

3. National Harbor Maryland

The National Harbor area is located on the banks of the Potomac River and it has plenty of activities to keep the family busy, take a breathtaking ride on the Capital Wheel or a spin on the Carousel. Explore the area with Water Taxis or a Sight Seeing Cruises.

There are two great resorts to stay in while visiting the area Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center and The Residence Inn

4. Inner Harbor Baltimore Maryland

Baltimore has something for everyone. Younger kids will enjoy Port Discovery Museum, which offers 3 floors of hands-on activities for the kids. National Aquarium and the Maryland Science Museum are also must see places when visiting the Harbor

If you want to stay check out the Hyatt Regency Baltimore Maryland that is within walking distance to all the attractions.

5. Williamsburg Virginia

The Williamsburg area has plenty of activities to keep your family busy. Head to Busch Gardens for some family thrills. Take a step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown or Jamestown Settlement.

6. Crystal Spring Resort Grand Cascades Lodge

Grand Cascades Lodge is a beautiful and well-appointed AAA 4-Diamond hotel located in Hamburg, New Jersey. The main attraction for families at the hotel is the Biosphere, which is an indoor pool complex with an aquarium, vortex pools, and caves, and lush tropical foliage; year-round outdoor heated pool; 140-foot waterslide. There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep the family busy.

Tip on Saving Money While Visiting Washington DC

Fun Things Kids Christmas in Washington DC , Family Friendly Travel

A few weeks ago my family and I attended a convention in Washington DC. I was trying to keep the cost down since I was paying for both of my children to attend the convention, I spent a lot of time researching a money saving way and I wanted to share what I discovered with my readers.

Many families from our area take trips into Washington to see the sites. Many of the hotels in D.C. have high parking costs $30-$50 a night. If you drive into to Washington there is free parking in the mall area but it's hard to find unless you're there very early in the morning. If you find a parking garage you can pay $25 or more a day to park your car.

After some research, I found out that if I stayed in the town of Bethesda and took the red line metro into D.C. We would be in walking distance to the convention. I never knew how easy and convenient it was.

Where to Stay
We found the Hyatt Regency Bethesda, which is right by the entrance of the Metro. Which turned out to be perfect because it was raining on Saturday. The Hyatt was just renovated and was gorgeous and perfect for our family. I loved the modern finishes in the room. The kids loved the mirror showed the time. The staff at the Hyatt were so helpful with helping us find restaurants, offering umbrellas to use when it was pouring rain and giving us tips on riding the metro.

Bethesda
The town of Bethesda is a great town for families everything was a no more than a 10-minute walk from our hotel. Plenty of restaurants to choose from and many different price points. For instance, they had budget friendly choices like &pizza, Noddles & Company to a romantic date night Morton's Steak House. If you want a special treat after dinner or lunch Georgetown Cupcake is there and also a frozen yogurt store. We loved window shopping after dinner at all of the boutiques.

Riding the Metro
Since we arrived after dinner on Friday night we decided to check out the metro before we needed to board it on Saturday morning. I do have to warn you there is a very steep and long escalator that you need to take to get to the Metro. You can purchase passes right at the station you load the SmarTrip card with money and you can use the card over and over just reload it with more money. I found the Metro station clean and the metro cars were clean. Coming from Bethesda and going into DC you pass many stops, for instance, the zoo, Smithsonian, Dupont Circle, and so much more that are perfect for sightseeing in the area. The D.C. Metro website has tools for you to plan your trip using the Metro.

Overall, we found staying in Bethesda and taking the Metro a fun experience and would do it again. My husband and I couldn't get over how easy it was and how much money we saved on parking and the stress of driving in the DC area.

Big Changes Coming to Kalahari Resorts in the Pocono Mountains

Fun Things Kids Family Friendly Travel , Family travel

If you ever visited Kalahari Resorts before, you will want to plan a return trip. If you haven't been there before, it's time to start planning your trip.

This past week I got a sneak peak of all the new things coming to Kalahari Resorts. The resort will truly have something for everyone in you family, no matter what age they are.

This March, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in the Pocono Mountains will become the home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterpark – dethroning the current title holder, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Sandusky, Ohio.

The indoor waterpark will have 8 new slides

Screaming Hyena:

Sahara Sidewinder:

Kenya’s Korkscrew:

Zig-Zag Zebra:

Cheetah Race Mat Slide:

During this expansion, Kalahari has added 520 rooms. They also added a few suites so you can bring your whole family and even your extended family, with the option of 3 bedroom suites or five bedroom suites. With the addition of these suites, you will have plenty of room to relax and spend holidays or special occasions with your family.

Kalahari will be adding some new dining options too. I had the chance to try samples of food that will be served at the restaurants and guest will be in for a special treat. This is not your typical resort food, you will be enjoying gourmet food.

Double Cut Charcoal Grill/Liquor Bar:
Kalahari’s signature steakhouse experience featuring: premium cuts of meat, craft cocktails, family style sides and more

Sortino's Italian Kitchen:
The menu will include: wood-fired pizza, Italian family dining, a large variety of wines and more.

Marrakesh Market:
Grab and go convenience bazaar style shopping, unique gifts, authentic-African items and everyday needs.

Even more family fun:

If you get tired of the waterpark you will be able to check out the new virtual reality experience, The Arena. Guest can step into the virtual reality and play with other guests.

If you want some outdoor adventure check out Gorilla Grove Treetop Outdoor Aerial Adventure Park (now open)

Kalahari Resorts continues to be a top-notch family friendly resort for families looking for a weekend getaway or a family reunion.

For more information: https://www.kalahariresorts.com/pennsylvania

Disclosure: Thanks, Kalahari Resorts for arranging for our complimentary stay to facilitate this article. As always all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Last Minute Summer Travel Ideas

Fun Things Kids Family Friendly Travel , Family travel

Looking for a quick getaway before the kids head back to school? We have picked out some of our favorite places to visit. All of our picks are driveable and no more than a few hours from the Philadelphia suburbs.

1. Double Tree Resort in Lancaster PA. There is so much to do at this family-friendly resort. This 185-room resort is very family friendly, but it's also perfect for a weekend getaway without the kids. The hotel is about a 10-15 minute drive to the Strasburg Rail Road, Choo Choo Barn, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and other Lancaster attractions.

3. National Harbor Maryland

There are two great resorts to stay in while visiting the area Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center and The Residence Inn

4. Inner Harbor Baltimore Maryland

If you want to stay check out the Hyatt Regency Baltimore Maryland that is in walking distance to all the attractions.

5. Williamsburg Virgina

6. Crystal Spring Resort Grand Cascades Lodge

Water Park Family Fun

Fun Things Kids chester county summer fun , Family travel

Beat the heat this summer and head to the water park. Most of the water park offer day passes, but a few require overnight stays. Please check ahead to see their specific requirements.
CoCo Key Water Resort
915 Route 73
Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054

CoCo Key Water Resort is the ULTIMATE in indoor water resort adventure located in Mt. Laurel NJ.

Camelbeach Mountain Resort
309 Resort Drive

Tannersville, PA 18372

Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark is the biggest water park in Pennsylvania, with over 37 rides slides and attractions.

Sahara Sams Oasis
535 North Route 73
West Berlin, NJ 08091

Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor and Outdoor Water Park offers families of the greater Tri-State community entertainment the entire year with 58 of its 68-thousand square feet under a retractable roof system.

Great Wolf Lodge
1 Great Wolf Dr
Scotrun, PA 18355

This indoor water park offers 4 restaurants and a Starbucks. Other amenities include a spa and free parking, while adventure activities and mini-golf are also available. This water park does require an overnight stay.

Kalahari Resorts and Conventions

250 Kalahari Blvd.

Pocono Manor, PA 18349

Experience the 100,000 sq. ft. Indoor Waterpark featuring a retractable roof, stand-up surfing or body boarding on the FlowRider, the twists and turns of the Anaconda and Swahili Swirl waterslides, relaxing lazy river and indoor/outdoor family hot tub, tons of activities for the little ones and much, much more!

H20ooohh!
428 Moseywood Road

Lake Harmony, PA 18624

H20ooohh!! is an indoor family water park adjacent to the Galleria at Split Rock Resort in beautiful Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania. With 53,326 square feet of water attractions to enjoy, H20ooohh! has five exciting body, tube and raft slides, a wave pool, activity pool, fun play structure, crossing activity, snack and Tiki bar, and more.

Photo from Kalahari

Review of Crystal Spring Resort Grand Cascades Lodge

Fun Things Kids Chester County family fun , Family Friendly Travel

If you have been following me on Instagram or Twitter you know that my family and I were invited to spend a few days at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, New Jersey. Crystal Springs in about 2 1/2 hours from the Philadelphia Area, located in the Mountains in New Jersey and 1 hour away from NYC.

Resort

We stayed at the Grand Cascades Lodge which is a beautiful and well appointed AAA 4-Diamond hotel. Minerals Hotel and Mourtain Creek Resort are also part of the Crystal Springs Resort. The views of the Kittatinny Mountain Range were breathtaking. I loved the high ceilings and natural light in our room, with a husband who is tall this was a plus making our family comfortable. We stayed in a room with 2 double beds and we had plenty of room for the 4 of us.

Our Room

The main attraction for families at the hotel is the Biosphere, which is an indoor pool complex with an aquarium, vortex pools and caves, and lush tropical foliage; year-round outdoor heated pool; 140-foot waterslide, My kids loved the outdoor heated pool, nothing like swimming outside when the air temp is 30 degrees.

Biosphere

I had the chance to sneak away for some me time at the Reflections Spa. The spa was ranked #19 in Spas of America’s Top 100 Spas. I can see why it was ranked so high. This was a truly relaxing place to unwind. One of my favorite parts was the post-treatment sensorial room for relaxation.

Dinning

There are multiple restaurants at the resort. While we were there not all of them were open. I liked that we could call down to the lobby and a bus would drive us over to the Minerals Resort to have dinner at Kites. We went there for pasta night and had a wonderful meal! If you wanted to stay at the Grand Cascades there is the Crystal Tavern which offers American cuisine with plenty of options for the whole family from sandwiches to rib eye. I also loved that the ingredients are provided by local growers.

What to do in the area:

View from High Point State park

If you love golf then this is the resort for you, there are 6 golf courses in the area to choose from. There are many wineries in the area the offer tours. Also there is plenty of hiking in the area. The two places we went to for easy hikes were the High Point State Park, I recommend checking this out for some breathtaking views and incredible pictures. We also went to the Pochuck Boardwalk on the Appalachian trail.

Pochuck Boardwalk

We also visited Warwick New York. This adorable town was a 20 minute ride from the resort. This cute town has shops and restaurants for you to explore. Many people recommended Fetch for us to grab a bite to eat and this restaurant didn't disappoint.

Other options for activities are fishing, horseback riding, skiing, mountain biking and much more.

In conclusion Crystal Springs has something for everyone in you family. This is a year round resort with plenty of activities or relaxation if that's what you need. The resort has plenty of things to do for families, but it's also good for a romantic getaway, or a girls/guys weekend.

For more info: http://www.crystalgolfresort.com

Disclosure: Thanks Crystal Springs Resort for arranging for our complimentary stay to facilitate this review. As always all thoughts and opinions are our own.