Hopkinton Center for the Arts

Our last stop on our Central MA Press Trip was Hopkinton Center for the Arts, in Hopkinton, MA. As I read more about the center, I was thrilled to see that it is a place the entire community can use. Every town should have a place like this where people can develop and nurture an appreciation for the arts.

What makes this place so special?

They believe the Arts are for individuals of all ages, cultures, and artistic abilities. They develop artistic skills, offer outstanding performances and art exhibitions, and enable visitors to experience art in all forms.

What classes do they offer?

They offer over 200 classes for youth, teens, and adults in the visual and performing arts. They have classes in fine arts, dance, music, theater, film-making, photography, acting, and ceramics. In addition, students can take private music and art lessons with qualified instructors.

What workshop did we take?

We had SO MUCH FUN doing a ceramics class! The class was about 2-hours long and in the end, we had all created fabulous mugs. (Ok…fabulous may be a stretch when you’re talking about MY mug, but you’ll see what I mean…lol)

The Studio

Walking in to the studio will immediately spark your creativity and ideas will start popping.

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February 13, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

American Heritage Museum

American Heritage Museum was designed to fully engage people in understanding our turbulent past. In this remarkable place, American history will be explored, studied, and most of all, remembered. Through educational interpretation, and a chronologically arranged series of dioramas and exhibits, the American Heritage Museum will bring the history of our veterans to life.

The following is just a few of the exhibits you’ll see at the museum:

WWI Trench Experience

1940- 1943 North Africa

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February 9, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

Old Sturbridge Village

Do you ever wish you could step back in history to see what life was like in New England? At Old Sturbridge Village you can do just that. Prepare to transport back in time as you wander through this enchanting re-creation of a 19th-century rural village. From historic buildings to costumed interpreters, explore the sights, sounds, and stories of yesteryear in this captivating destination.

Explore 200+ acres and 40 historical buildings, chat with costumed historians as they work the tasks of the past, and be inspired by the stories of early 19th-century rural New England life.

Come with us as we explore this fun spot. Because we were on a tight schedule, we weren’t able to go into all the buildings. I can’t wait to return with the rest of my family and explore the whole village. Here are some fun stops we did get to see:

Center Meetinghouse

This was the gathering place for town meetings, elections, and Congregational worship services.

Fenno House

We loved looking at the adorable sheep in the yard at this home that was known for spinning, weaving, and dyeing woolens.

Cabinetmaking Shop

These cabinetmakers made a variety of objects from fancy furniture to basic wooden tools used around the home and farms. Today they were making legs that can be used for tables and chairs.

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February 8, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, located in the heart of New England, beckons travelers with its diverse collection of plants, meticulously curated gardens, and immersive experiences. From vibrant floral displays to tranquil woodland trails, it offers a sanctuary for both avid plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. If you think botanic gardens are only good during warm months, let me show you how lovely a visit can be during winter.

The New England Botanic Garden is 200 acres and has 18 distinct gardens.

There’s nothing I like more than seeing fresh flowers during winter. I try to keep a vase of flowers in my kitchen every week so I can enjoy their color and scent. The conservatory was a plant/flower haven and we loved seeing so many in bloom.

Is Winter a Good Time to Visit?

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February 6, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

Letz Rage: Rage Room and Paint Splatter

Letz Rage

Rage Room & Paint Splatter

If you’ve ever dreamt of releasing pent-up frustrations in a fun, cathartic way, then a visit to a rage room should be at the top of your list. They are a brilliant idea! These unconventional spaces offer a unique and liberating experience unlike any other. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a fun outing with friends, or simply a novel way to blow off steam, stepping into a rage room promises an unforgettable journey into the realm of controlled chaos. We had the opportunity to go to Letz Rage, Rage Room & Paint Splatter, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and we can’t wait to return!

First up…RAGE ROOM

Suit Up

Safety is important to the staff so they provide gloves, and headpieces.

Choose Your Smashables

As soon as you enter, you’ll see a room full of glassware, televisions and appliances begging to be destroyed. We were able to fill a crate with whatever breakable items that spoke to us.

Choose Your Weapon

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February 5, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

12 Fun Reasons to Go To Wachusett Mountain Ski Area

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of central Massachusetts, the Wachusett Mountain Ski Area beckons winter enthusiasts to embrace the thrill of alpine adventure. Renowned for its pristine slopes, diverse terrain, and family-friendly atmosphere, this ski haven is a hidden gem for those seeking the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. As the snow blankets the mountain, transforming it into a winter wonderland, the Wachusett Mountain Ski Area emerges as a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Here are 12 Fun Reasons to Go To Wachusett Mountain Ski Area:

Amazing Skiing and Snowboarding

Wachusett Mountain boasts a diverse range of slopes catering to beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers and snowboarders, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

They have 27 trails and 8 lifts so your choices are endless. The summit elevation is over 2000 feet, so the views are stunning!

Grab a Snack at The Core

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March 20, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

15 Teen-Friendly Activities in Boston

Boston, Massachusetts is one of those cities I immediately fell in love with… cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and it’s WICKED New England charm. It was love at first sight! Boston is a city with rich history and culture that offers family-friendly activities to explore. From outdoor adventures to educational experiences, there are many things to see and do in Boston that the whole family can enjoy. Here are ten family-friendly activities to do in Boston:

Visit the New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium is a popular attraction for families, featuring over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sea turtles, penguins, and sea lions. Kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits and touch tanks, where they can get up close and personal with marine life. Make time to watch a 3D movie at the Simons Theatre.

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June 27, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

Stone Zoo

The Stone Zoo is on 26 acres, so it is a small zoo that can easily be enjoyed in a few hours. Since the zoo is only about a half hour from Boston, it is the perfect day trip.

Our favorite animals at the Stone Zoo

There are so many incredible animals to see at the Stone Zoo in their many exhibits. Let me introduce you to some of our favorites:

My all-time favorites are the flamingos!!

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January 24, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

Day in Boston with Teens

If you live in New England and have a teen that loves theater, then Boston is the perfect destination for a getaway. Plays, musicals, bands… Boston has it all! Here is an itinerary for an amazing day in Boston with teens:

Check In

First stop is to drop off your bags at Kimpton Nine Zero hotel. This boutique hotel has it all…gorgeous rooms, elegant charm, and one of the most desirable locations in the heart of Boston. I recommend a City Skyline 2 Queen Beds room. The room has personal touches that give it historic charm while keeping modern amenities. (Check out a review of our stay!)

Look at the stunning view we had!

New England Aquarium

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January 20, 2022 mytravelingkids.com

New England Aquarium

(Boston, Massachusetts)

As soon as you walk through the doors of the New England Aquarium, you leave the busy streets of Boston and are transported to a world under the sea. Beneath the dim lights you are surrounded by the calls of penguins and the shadows of the large fish swimming in the center tank.

Our favorite animals live outside of the aquarium and even if you choose not to go in, take some time to visit with the adorable Atlantic harbor seals. They are seriously the cutest little guys and they are so curious that they come right up to the tank to peek at you. Look at this sweet face!