Exploring Arches National Park in Utah

Exploring Arches National Park

If you are lucky to be in Moab, Utah, the perfect spot to spend the day is the red-rock paradise of Arches National Park! Nestled in the heart of Utah, this geological masterpiece boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, and breathtaking vistas. Here are some tips to have an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a fabulous day exploring Arches National Park in Utah!

Timing is Everything

Arches National Park can have extreme temperatures, so plan your visit wisely. The best times to explore are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are more manageable. You may want to avoid the scorching summer heat and unpredictable winter conditions. We traveled here at the end of November during the week of Thanksgiving, and the weather was in the low 50’s most days. There were not huge crowds and all restaurants were open.

Timed Entry Permit

In order to enter Arches National Park from April 1 to October 31, you must have a timed entry permit. Make sure to reserve your timed-entry ticket as soon as it becomes available or there’s a chance you may not get in. They give you a detailed map when you pay.

Arches National Park Scenic Drive

Arches National Park Scenic Drive is the main road that runs through the park. This stunning drive is approximately 19 miles long one-way. The drive is a loop, so you exit where you enter. In case you are unsure if you should stop at a certain spot, you can always skip it and decide if you want to do it on the way out. Depending on what time of day you go, there will probably be a line to get in. They label the wait time so you’ll know how long it will be before you get in.

Let Me Show You Some of our Favorite Spots:

Park Avenue Viewpoint

As a first stop, this is actually one of the most breathtaking views of some massive rock formations, so don’t miss it!

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February 14, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

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 12, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

40 Valentine Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! This is the perfect day to show someone you love them. Looking for something different than roses and a restaurant? This is a great year to be creative and try something new. There are many romantic things you can do together to make memories.

Here are 40 Valentine Date Ideas:

Fondue dinner at home

Plan your next trip

Online paint your own canvas class

Massage night

Go skiing

Do a guided meditation

Do a couple’s yoga class

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February 11, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

The Verve Hotel

The Verve Hotel Boston Natick,

Natick, MA

The Verve Hotel Natick is an oasis of sophistication nestled in the heart of Natick, Massachusetts. The hotel has fabulous ambiance, where modern elegance meets New England charm. The Verve Hotel Natick beckons travelers with its stylish ambiance, impeccable service, and lots of amenities that promise a memorable stay. Whether you’re a discerning business traveler seeking a seamless blend of work and leisure or a traveler yearning for a tranquil escape, The Verve Hotel Natick will go beyond your expectations. We were so lucky to experience this hotel while on a press trip for central MA. Let me tell you all about it!

CLICK HERE TO READ ALL ABOUT OUR STAY!

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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February 5, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

30 Valentine’s Gift Idea

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we all need some pampering and displays of love from the special people around us. Is your gift going to remind them of a special memory you have, an inside joke, something flirty, something you can do together? Whatever it is, they will love that you took the time to think of them and show them you care. Need some inspiration? Here are 30 Valentine Gift Ideas…

Chocolate Roses

Madelaine Chocolate One Dozen Sweetheart Roses: Premium 1/2 OZ Solid Milk Chocolate Roses Wrapped in Italian Foils – Chocolate Flower Bouquet (Pink, 12 Pack) I like that the roses are separated so you can give it as a bouquet or spread them out.

100 Dates Scratch Off Poster

100 Dates Scratch Off Poster: creates fun and powerful memories; Fun Indoor and adventurous outdoors dates will make you step out of your comfort zone and bring you and your partner closer together. This cute couple gift will ensure that you keep things fresh whether you have been married for years or in a new relationship.

Music Box

VACTER Can’t Help Falling in Love Wood Music Box: High-quality hand-operated music box toys. It is small and you can put it in the palm of your hand. The surface of the box is hand carved.