slofamilylife's Lists

What's Kid-Friendly at Northstar-at-Tahoe

I love Northstar-at-Tahoe!  As a kid, I enjoyed taking lessons in the mornings, then spending the afternoons skiing with my Grandpa.  Now, I look forward to taking my kids and continuing the tradition that's grown so near and dear to my heart!

1. Northstar California
Excellent slopes for skiers of all ages and abilities!
2. Ski School at Northstar-at-Tahoe
Out-of-this-world fun awaits kids needing exciting...
3. Minor's Camp at Northstar-at-Tahoe
Well-equipped facilities for young children not quite...

Ice Skating Rinks In Dallas/Ft. Worth

Ice skating isn't just seasonal anymore!  Each of these ice skating rinks are open year-round with open skate days, rentals, and some even with lessons!  

1. America's Ice Garden
Valentines Special: Bring your sweetheart and...
2. Dr. Pepper StarCenters
Locations is Euless, Farmer's Branch, Frisco, and...
3. Polar Ice House
Keep the kids out late and check out their Lazer...

Best BBQ Joints In Dallas/Ft. Worth!

If you come to Texas, you have to try their BBQ!  These family-friendly eateries will not only deliver mouth-watering bar-b-que, but might even spur some fun family memories!

1. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Dickey's is an all-American bbq joint where you can...
2. Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse
Near the West end, this popular barbeque franchise...
3. Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Que
Rudy's is truly one of the most affordable priced bbq...

Where To See Christmas Lights In San Antonio, TX!

These streets, towns, and homes go above and beyond to show their Christmas spirit.

1. River Walk
Starting the day after Thanksgiving, the River Walk...
2. Windcrest Light Up
Every year for the past 53 years, Windcrest has light...
3. Sea World San Antonio
Join the critters of Sea World for their enchanting...

Grapevine, Tx: The Christmas Capitol!

Discover why Grapevine has been nicknamed the Christmas Capitol by visiting these different attractions and events throughout the Christmas season.

1. "Ice" at the Gaylord Texan
The Gaylord Texan is the best at getting into the...
2. Historic Downtown Grapevine
The Parade of Lights debuts on December 1st at 7pm....
3. Twinkle Light Boat Parade
What can be more fun than a boat parade?! On...

Christmas Tree Lots In San Antonio, TX!

After a stroll down the famous Riverwalk, unleash your new found inspiration and buy a Christmas tree of your own at one of these fabulous locations!  

1. Pipe Creek Christmas Tree Farms
This cut-your-own tree farm is sure to please! They...
2. Devine Acres Farm
There is a plethora of activities for families at...
3. Papa Noel's Christmas Trees- Alamo Heights
Great trees on a family-friendly lot!

Christmas Tree Lots In Austin, TX

Pick-your-own, and already cut trees for sale in Austin, TX.

1. Papa Noel's Christmas Trees- Lakeline
Not only great trees, but Christmas music and Santa!
2. Papa Noel's Christmas Trees- 360 North
This is their flagship store. From large to small...
3. Papa Noel's Christmas Trees- 360 South
They guarantee customer satisfaction or a 100%...

Christmas Celebrations In The Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex

Nativities, Santa sightings, decorated Christmas trees, eggnog and cocoa,  reindeer, snow, it's such an exciting time of the year!  Find out where to join in on the fun in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex.

1. "Ice" at the Gaylord Texan
Visit the Gaylord Texan from now until January 1,...
2. Twinkle Light Boat Parade
Saturday, December 3rd, 6pm The boat parade starts...
3. Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Deck The Hall December 10th, 11am Tune into music...

Best Christmas Tree Farms In Dallas/Ft. Worth!

I fondly remember visiting tree farms and lots with my family, each child standing next to a tree they liked until the perfect tree was chosen.  After returning home, the Christmas decorating chaos would erupt with ornaments, bells, ribbon, and lights, scattered across the house, until hung neatly on the tree.  Even though those memories are of a distant time, now that I have a family of my own, you can be sure that we're recreating them in our own special ways.  

1. Mainstay Farms
Nov. 25-26 10am-5:30pm Nov. 27th 1pm-5:30pm Dec....
2. Haynie’s Green Acres Christmas Tree Farm
Nov. 25th from 10-dusk. Tues.-Fri. Noon-Dusk Sat....
3. Flower Mound Christmas Trees
November 25th- Dec. 25th Mon-Fri 12-8 and 9am-8pm...

Holiday Festivities In San Luis Obispo County!

A list of all the fun Holiday Festivities In San Luis Obispo County for 2011!

1. Holiday Downtown Lighting Ceremony
November 25th; 5:30pm, then visit with Mrs. Clause!
2. Pismo Pier
Dec 2; 6-8pm Snow, a bounce house, crafts, music,...
3. San Luis Obispo Holiday Parade
Dec. 2nd, 7-10pm. Bring chairs, warm...

Texas's 2011 End Of The Year Deals For Major Attractions!

The United States is the leader when it comes to amusement parks!  From meeting your favorite cartoon characters, to riding rides, people flock to these large destinations year-round, and for good reason, they're FUN!  

1. Sea World San Antonio
Beginning now through the end of 2011, guest can...
2. Six Flags Over Texas
Buy 4 or more season passes for only $59.99 per...

Homeschool Field Trips In Dallas & Ft. Worth

Homeschoolers alike know that the entire world is your classroom.  From museums to hikes, there are plenty of options for getting out of the house and discovering the city around you.  

1. Dallas Museum of Art
2. Fort Worth Zoo
3. In Sync Exotics & Wildlife Rescue Center

Texas' Best War Memorials & US Military Sites With Kids!

We are so proud of all of our service men and women who lay down their own lives to protect our freedoms and civil liberty's every day.  Some make it home safely, and others do not.  To share with your kids about the tragedies and triumphs of the military, sometimes it's best to get out of the house and experience these exhibits first hand.

1. Memorial Park
Not only is this one of the largest parks in the US,...
2. Iwo Jima War Memorial
Joe Rosenthal's amazing photograph of the men holding...
3. Veteran's War Memorial
A war memorial dedicated to the over 1.3 million...

Best Pumpkin Patches Around Dallas and Fort Worth

Pick your own pumpkins or get one that's already harvested at one of these fun family-friendly farms!

1. Celina Big Orange Pumpkin Farm
9am-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm on Sat, and 12pm-6pm on...
2. Owen's Big Orange Pumpkin Farm
9am-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm on Sat, and 12pm-6pm on...
3. Aubrey Pumpkin Patch
October 1-31st, 9am-6pm $7 per person Mosey on...

October Events & Festivals For Dallas/Ft. Worth

Fall is here, the weather's cooling off, and families are wanting to get out of the house!  From picking apples to festivals, Dallas and Fort Worth has a large array of fun events for parents and kids!  

1. Texas State Fair
September 30-October 23rd, 2011 You don't want to...
2. River Legacy Living Science Center
ANIMAL EXPLORATION October 1st, FREE *This event...
3. One Art's Plaza
ART IN MOTION October 1st, 9am Art In Motion...

Ride The Polar Express In Texas!

All over Texas, families can catch a magical ride on the Polar Express or other trains bound to make a special trip to the North Pole.  A train ride made popular by the classic children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, kids will board the train in their pj's and end up at the "North Pole".  Every train has their own idea about how the popular journey is portrayed, but any way you take it, you won't be let down.  

1. Grapevine Vintage Railroad
On weekends starting Nov. 25th and concluding just...
2. West Texas & Lubbock Railroad Polar Express
Nov. 18-20, 22, 23, 25-27, Dec. 2-4, 6-23 Departing...
3. Austin Steam Train
The North Pole Flyer departs on November 27, December...

The Best Ways & Places To See Fall Foliage In Texas!

I love the fall.  Watching the colors change on trees until they gingerly fall from the branches and gracefully land on the ground below. Raking leaves into a big pile for my kids to jump in and then having leaf "fights".  Preparing for the holidays surrounded by family and friends.  I love this time of the year!

1. Lost Maples State Natural Area
In Mid-Late October the reds and yellows from the Big...
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Late October to mid-November visits to McKittrick...
3. Lake Bob Sandlin State Park
Lake Bob Sandlin turns red and gold in late...

Shopping and Malls In Dallas/Ft. Worth!

You know that giddy feeling you got on Christmas morning when you knew Santa was coming soon?  Shivering in your bed partly from the sugar high, but also from the anticipation of all the new presents that would await you the next day.  As an adult that feeling still persists, but now it's in a tangible form that causes my husband to cringe and try to swipe my money when I tell him I'm heading for the stores.  The drive there makes my heart skip a beat and puts an instant smile on my face as the consumer in me dreams about the new items I'm about to bring home.  Of course, my money never goes as far as I hope, but it always keeps me coming back for more.  Below are some great malls and shopping centers where you can experience for yourself the jittery night-before-christmas sensation yourself.

1. NorthPark Mall
You could spend an entire day at the NorthPark Mall...
2. Stonebriar Centre Mall
Stonebriar Centre Mall has a ton of family activities...
3. Grapevine Mills Mall
You don't have to worry about getting your exercise...

Baby & Toddler Hangouts In Dallas/Ft. Worth

Now that the older kids are back in school, it's a great time to get out of the house and explore without the crowds!  Check out the list below for some fun ways to spend the day with your little ones.

1. Going Bonkers
Toddlers can climb and play in the toddler only play...
2. Dallas Zoo
Toddle your way past the giant giraffe sculpture and...
3. The Children's Aquarium at Fair Park
Don't miss the white alligators or see the larger...

21 Ways To Beat The Heat In Texas!

Even these incredible heat waves can't keep Texans down!  Nationwide travelers and Texas's residents alike can beat the heat with the unique and vast options Texas has to offer.  

1. Padre Island National Seashore
South Padre Island National Seashore "protects the...
2. Galveston Island State Park
Damaged by Hurricane Ike, this park has slowly been...
3. Mustang Island State Park
Take a break from day-to-day living and camp, swim,...

The Best Family Attractions In Houston

Get out and explore Houston!  Houston is home to not only Nasa's Space Center, but it's Theater District ranks second behind New York City for the number of theater seats in a concentrated downtown area.  Explore Houston's tunnel system with over 77 shops underneath Houston's streets, get wet at SplashTown, and interact with all types of animals at the Houston Zoo.

1. Space Center Houston
Your children's imaginations will "blast off" with...
2. Houston Zoological Gardens
Houston's Zoological Gardens has been recently...
3. Houston Aeros Hockey
Keep cool in the HOT Texas sun by visiting the Aeros...

Texas's Best Children's Museums!

One of my favorite memories with my own children are watching their faces light up as they fly a plane, drive a firetruck, or even launch a space shuttle into outer space.  Of coarse, these things aren't actually happening, but I love the intensity in their eyes as they experience the world around them in a unique way.  I mean, where else can a 5 year old be a movie star, engineer, astronaut, and doctor while saving the world from the evil forces of the galactic empire?!

1. Children’s Museum of Brownsville
"Watch out world, here I come!" I imagine my little...
2. Austin Children’s Museum
With the goal to educate and inspire young minds,...
3. Children’s Museum of Houston
Dance, climb, and invent your way through the...

Must See Family Attractions In Austin!

Austin is home to the weird and funky, but also boasts amazing cultural and family-friendly activities!  The list below lists several must-see attractions for the whole family.

1. Austin Duck Adventures
Explore the city with duck beaks quacking and...
2. Texas State Capitol
A trip to Austin isn't complete without a visit to...
3. Austin Zoo
This Zoo is not your typical zoo, it's an animal...

Best Major Attractions For Families In San Antonio!!!

San Antonio is one of the most visited cities in Texas, rich in history and culture.  It is also filled with fun for the whole family with it's theme parks, water adventures, concerts, and other activities.  

1. The Alamo
2. River Walk
3. Wonderland of the Americas

Best Family Attractions In Dallas & Ft. Worth!

Dallas and Fort Worth has become an amazingly family-oriented place with a huge variety of family attractions!  If you're visiting the area, you won't be bored if you go to one of these places.

1. Six Flags Over Texas
Although it is in need of some basic touch ups, Six...
2. Hurricane Harbor
Across from Six Flags Over Texas is Hurricane Harbor,...
3. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Ok, so this is not a "major" attraction, but it...

Celebrate the 4th of July In Texas- Family Style!

Texas does everything bigger, including fireworks!  With so many different festivities and firework shows, that glowing state you can see from space will be us for sure!  Because I can't name them all, below are a few great options to celebrate the United States Independence with your family!

1. Sea World
July 2-4th An amazing fireworks show choreographed...
2. Kaboom Town- Addison
July 3rd 5pm-11:30pm Kaboom Town lights up the sky...
3. Fireworks Over Lake Grapevine
Every Friday Night!

Family-Friendly River Rafting Trips!

Are you ready to get away from the life-sucking electronic necessities that steal away your precious time or that of your loved ones?  Do you want adventure?  How about experienced guides that will not only lead you down rushing gauntlets of water as they pound against your raft as you paddle between rocky canyon walls but also do all of the cooking and cleaning while you rest or take a break beneath the open night's starry sky?  If that sounds like an adventure you'd like to have, check out these family-friendly river rafting excursions that are not only designed with families in mind but offer single as well as multi-day trips!

1. ROW Adventures
ROW Adventures offers Family Rafting Trips called...
2. Sheltowee Trace Outfitters
Sheltowee Trace Outfitters has different excursions...
3. ECHO River Trips
The Rogue River is a great river for beginners and...

Father's Day In Texas- Sporty Dad's List!

Father's who have a sporty side will love these Father's Day adventures!  Celebrate the Texas way-BIG- with a fun day out on the golf course, catching a game, on the lake, water skiing without a boat, and so much more!  

1. Wake Nation
A Fun option for kid's ages 5 and up from beginner to...
2. Dallas Cowboys
105.3 and The Dallas Cowboys are teaming up to bring...
3. Lonestar Park At Grand Prairie
First 200 guys gets a chance to win!

Fun Father's Day Ideas For The Whole Family- Texas!

Father's come in all shapes and sizes!  Some like exploring the outdoors and getting their hands dirty, and others prefer to have their adventures indoors by exploring museums and discovering ancient art, pottery, scientific discoveries, and more.  Here are some great ideas for all types of Dad's!

1. Houston Museum of Natural Science
2. Space Center Houston
3. Wake Nation

Memorial Day Family Fun In Dallas/Ft. Worth 2011

Memorial Day is a great time to spend with your family and friends in remembrance of all of the men and women who’ve died in battle protecting our freedoms.  Join in the fun and celebrate with your community at a local bbq, charity fun-run or bike, fireworks, or music event!

1. Bike The Bricks
Watch the 500+ racers as they zoom through the...
2. Dallas Dog Sports - USDAA Agility Trial
Watch some of the most agile dogs in Texas battle it...
3. Fireworks Over Lake Grapevine
Watch Fireworks for free from any Lake Grapevine Park...

U-Pick Farms Near Dallas and Ft. Worth

It's time to get your hands dirty!  Bring your kiddos to one of these u-pick places and discover why picking your own fruits, veggies, nuts, or flowers can be so much fun!  

1. RJR Farms
A U-Pick non-certified organic vegetable farm where...
2. Foster Crossing Pecans
Pick your own pecans! They have pecans , pre-picked...
3. Lavender Ridge Farms
Lavender Ridge Farms has 2 acres of lavender, cut...

Texas Music & Spring Festivals 2011

April showers don't only bring May flowers, but  festivals as well!  Texas will be rocking out with live music, street fairs, kids booths, art, performances, and fun runs!  

1. NAS Fort Worth JRB
Air Power Expo 2011 April 15th & 16th The NAS Ft....
2. Scarborough Faire
Renaissance Festival! Weekends beginning Saturday,...
3. Kennedale Town Center
FREE Friday, April 15th - 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM...

Best Kid-Friendly Cinco de Mayo Festivals in North Texas

Celebrate Mexico's most important national patriotic holiday with your kiddos at one of these festivals!  It's a great way to introduce them to the culture and traditions of Mexico.

1. Fairpark Dallas
May 13 11am The Children's Museum at Fair Park will...
2. Cinco de Mayo Big Parade
May 7th Parade starts at 11am, Festival From
3. Southeast Dallas Cinco de Mayo Parade & Festival
Parade begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 7, 2011....

Best Kid-friendly Mother's Day Events In Texas

Show Mom your appreciation by dedicating a day to her!  Figuring out what Mom would want can sometimes be tricky.  Here are some great ideas for activities and events in Texas that are sure to please the Mom in your life!  

1. Four Seasons Houston
The Four Seasons in Houston is offering 3 different...
2. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery
May 6th and 7th 10am-5pm No reservations. Grown-ups...
3. Savage Park
Gawk at the historic residences along the Swiss...

Best Mother's Day Retreats In The Dallas Ft. Worth!

Mom's deserve to be spoiled!  This is a list of the best brunches and activities to celebrate mom's!

1. Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery
May 6th and 7th 10am-5pm No reservations. Grown-ups...
2. Savage Park
Gawk at the historic residences along the Swiss...
3. Grapevine Vintage Railroad
Mom's Ride Free On Mother's Day With One Paid...

Best Easter Egg Hunts In The Dallas Ft. Worth Metroplex!

These are the Best Easter Egg Hunts in the DFW Metroplex!

1. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
This egg hunt is for members only and is so popular,...
2. North Lake Aquatic Center
April 8, 2011 This is an Underwater Easter Egg Hunt...
3. Pizza Hut Park Stadium
April 9th 1-4pm Frisco's largest Easter Egg hunt!

Best Easter Egg Hunts In Houston!

Their are many great Easter Egg Hunts at several local churches as well as in Houston and the surrounding communities.

1. The Orange Show
April 23rd 10am-2pm Explore every nook and cranny of...
2. Jimmy Burke Activity Center
Sunday, April 17, 2-4 p.m. "Beeping" Easter Egg Hunt...
3. Old Town Spring
April 16th (rain out date: Ap. 23rd) Sign in by...