It was early October, so kids were back in school and most others were saving their vacation days for the holidays. This meant we could enjoy the famous theme parks of Orlando without the crazy lines. And, without the stress of crowds, I was able to reach a new level of adventure.

America’s Comeback City, Detroit, Michigan, boasts an impressive array of free and affordable attractions. You'll find several on Belle Isle.

I couldn't possibly list all the available activities, but suffice it to say, rivers, lakes, trails, wildlife, and outdoor-loving outfitters make Southern West Virginia an incredible natural playground.

Martin County’s Old Florida flavor perfectly complements its rich trove of fun. Events and festivals to make this fall memorable in the best way.

That intertwining of yesterday and tomorrow is typical of Hampton, where the past, present and future merge to form a fascinating military, academic, and tourism center.

Whether indoors or out, you're sure to reconnect and unwind with fun to be had for the entire family in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Flying over a hill on an ATV, I had an epiphany: this family vacation might just be our best ever.

Sisters and cousins get together for a heart-warming American Girl Store Experience in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Check out these coast-to-coast family attractions to make your summer extra special.

"Be sure to pack athletic clothes and something you don’t mind getting camel slobber on.”

I was trying to figure out how something could be new and old-fashioned at the same time, but Dad had that taken care of—he just needed help from us kids to plan “Operation Gatlinburg.”

Shocked to discover the kids didn’t know who Elvis Presley was, the trip suddenly became a necessity. We were off to Tupelo.

My husband and I decided before we even chose a destination that it was important for our family to disconnect from the distractions of everyday life to really connect as a family; hence, the no cell phone rule.

Here, summer camps allow mom and dad a free morning while kids learn about the environment, learn a new skill and just have plain ol’ fun.

Family fun in Ridgeland, Mississippi, a vibrant, artsy community with small-town appeal and hospitality.

I’d booked a trip to Beaufort, SC for the family after reading that Southern Living had awarded it “The South’s Best Small Town.”

Wanting to give Emmett an authentic taste of the town, the creamery was just our first stop of a trip filled with delicious and eventful treats.

My husband and I decided it was time for a change of scenery, so we planned a vacation to the Smoky Mountains in Sevierville, Tennessee, with the kids.

A playful competition to decide the best season for family fun.

We were looking for a quick weekend getaway with our two boys, and we hadn’t been to Hampton since they were toddlers. It was perfect.

Top 10 Favorite Things to Do in Gainesville with my family.

It is not often that you have the opportunity to really escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enter into a natural wonderland.

While looking at carousels online, we found a spectacular antique wooden one in Hampton, Virginia, just a short road trip from our house.

This year I thought it would be fun to extend our trip by a day or two and venture beyond the park gates to check out some of the more educational sites nearby.

The ‘A’ is for astronomy, because there is nowhere in South Carolina where you can get a better glimpse of the stars.

There are two big ways to get on two wheels in Alpharetta, Georgia.

I was also looking forward to checking out Sumter's annual Iris Festival held at Swan Lake Iris Gardens.

My husband and I brought the kids along for an investigative trip into our family history in Sumter County.

Prepare to congratulate me. I just became Heroic Hubby, Dynamite Dad, Fantastic Father-in-Law, and the Coolest Grandpa on Earth.

“Guess what, guys?” I announced, surprising even myself.  “We’re taking a little impromptu trip and spending some time outside this weekend.”

For birthdays or just any days, you'll find attractions the whole family will enjoy in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Spring is the perfect time to visit thanks to gorgeous weather for outdoor adventure and great local events

“How about Pasco County?” My friend wrote. “It’s part of Florida’s ‘Nature Coast,’ just 30 miles north of Tampa. My own family had a blast there recently, and there’s no shortage of water fun!”

A three-in-one family vacation is our new favorite way to travel. Here’s how it went for us in Martin County, Florida.

The Island Belle sternwheeler pulled up. The 20-minute ride was a fantastic way to begin our day in beautiful Parkersburg, West Virginia.

This mountain getaway hosts scores of road-tripping families and outdoor enthusiasts year-round, with snow sports in the winter and renowned hiking, biking, and water sports throughout the summer.

In Rock Hill, SC, we found a great variety of activities within a short driving distance; Kings Mountain State Park was our first stop.

My husband, Brian, and I like supplementing our kids’ classroom time with learning vacations. We discovered a new favorite destination for “studying” after visiting Sevierville, TN.

Whatever your age, the whole family will enjoy a relaxing weekend on the Chesapeake Bay in quaint and historical Hampton, Viriginia.

The Blackwater River was a tiny ribbon of sparkling water far below us and the mountains hunched like shoulders bending down to meet it. “What a payoff!” I said.