Our middle school went to Gatlinburg for a trip, and one of the kids' favorite activities was horseback riding. The staff is helpful, friendly and careful. The horses are well-trained for trail rides. The trails were maintained very well, and the ride was so peaceful through the forest, with the horses walking though streams and up and down the mountain. Four of our kids had never been on a horse and loved it. I am an experienced rider and enjoyed it, too!

We toured the USS Midway in Sept. 09, and it was a wonderful experience. The ship is docked and staffed with volunteers who can answer questions. There are flight simulators, and about 25 aircraft on the landing deck, some of which you may tour. Boy Scouts were spending the night on the ship the day we were there, and Navy Seals were sky diving and landing on the ship!

We visited in islands for a few days in July/09 and absolutely loved it. Birds are everywhere! The wild ponies were visible from the road leading to the beach. The beach is clean and has lifeguards. Bring a picnic to the beach, because it is a national park without restaurants or hotels. A wonderful place for families!

Ocean Isle Beach is a wonderful beach for families. It is much quieter and less commercialized than many other beaches on the East Coast. We rented a house in a community with a pool through Cooke Realty. There are several good restaurants at the beach and more just a short drive into town.

Our family spent one night in December 2008 at this hotel which is part of the complex that includes the Kodak Theatre. It is around the block from the beautiful Grauman's Chinese Theatre where the stars' hand prints are in the cement. Large, comfortable rooms, a good restaurant and a nice pool.