We stayed at the Red South Beach at the beginning of February and we were not really impressed. The hotel's decor is certainly posh and up to date, but that was the only "nice" thing about the hotel. The elevators are very, very slow and there is no staircase option. The stairs are for emergency use only and an alarm will sound, trust me. The rooms are an average size and the bathrooms are very small; equivalent to the size of a large RV restroom. The walls are paper-thin and we could hear our neighbors' nightly conversations. The property is located across the street from the beach. The pool was pretty and the surrounding lounge chairs were convenient. There is a great little store located about 2 blocks away. We brought our own drinks and snacks and ate by the pool. I would not suggest ordering drinks from the hotel bar; the average cocktail was $16 and a beer was $10. I would equate this hotel on a level between a Super 8 and a Marriott.

This museum is absolutely awesome. My boys thought all the full-sized planes were incredible. The Space Shuttle "Enterprise" is on display and that is a must see for any space fan. The kids really enjoyed visiting the lookout tower and watching all the planes land at Dulles Airport. The exhibit showing an air traffic control tower was also a favorite of my boys. Make sure to bring drinks, snacks, and possibly a lunch to eat in the car. The only food option inside the museum is a McDonald's. The museum itself is free, however, the parking is $15. It is well worth the cost if you have a transportation aficionado in your house.

My boys really enjoyed riding Urban Pirate's pirate ship. The crew are in full pirate costume and everyone that boards is expected to become a "pirate". The crew provided everyone with pirate sashes, temporary tattoos, washable marker beards, eye patches, and other piratey garb. Once we were underway the crew played games, sang songs, and told pirate stories. The highlight of the trip was the "attack" of a rival pirate. We were told to defend the ship, using water cannons mounted on our ship, while we were chased by another pirate on a small boat. My kids thought this was fabulous! They loved catching the other pirate and getting his treasure. This attraction is best suited for young pirates, ages 3-10. I would highly recommend bringing sunscreen and drinks. It gets very hot out on the harbor and there is not really anywhere to stand in the shade.

The Diamond Head hike would be a tough one for young kids. If you're planning a trip, make sure to pack lots of water and snacks. There are drinks and snacks available before you start the hike, but not after. Try to go on a clear day so that you get the best view. Also, make sure you wear good shoes. The hike is not super difficult, but it is definitely a "hike". It is worth the hike to see the view. Remember your camera!

My kids absolutely love this park! The park is located right across the street from BWI airport. They love watching the airplanes come in for a landing while they run, climb, and slide. The planes are so close that it looks like you could reach up and touch them. The playground is small; we spend most of our time watching the planes. The park is located on the BWI bike trail and you can park your car at this location to access a 11-12 mile run, bike, roller-blade, or walk.