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December 9, 2010

Only 15 More Shopping Days Til’ Christmas . . . .

Posted by Christine B. under Family Friendly Adventures | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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Heralding in a new Holiday Shopping Season - Christmas Tree in front of Macy's - Flickr photo by Pravin-kumar

What a familiar statement that is.  Not to worry as there are numerous shopping opportunities; what with mega malls, discount outlet shopping centers, strip malls with large department stores and discount stores galore in most every city around.  If you are like many folks and simply don’t want to fight the crowds or just get out, you can turn on the tube and seek out gifts for everyone on Home Shopping Network and QVC or other similar TV shopping networks.  Plus, technology has pushed the envelope when it comes to shopping on the Internet.  New or used, you name it and you can find it on a variety of websites.

Some of our readers will remember planned shopping excursions, where for weeks you mapped out your trip to the big city to buy Christmas gifts.  It normally required an overnight stay in a hotel or nearby inn and often included a special meal at your favorite out-of-town restaurant.  Up early in the morning to beat the crowds with a shop until you drop attitude . . . then laden with gifts galore you return to your home-away-from -home; tired, but pleased that you found that special gift for Aunt Mary, Cousin Jane and Grandpa.

Going to the big city for shopping was a treat - Flickr photo of Washington, DC at Christmastime by ktlerconk

Part of the phenomenon of Christmas shopping from afar was the gaiety of sparkling tinsel and twinkling lights, seeing a larger than life Christmas tree and simply being part of the bustling Christmas shopping crowd.

Today, there are more reasons to leave the sofa or laptop to shop – mega malls are not just filled with retail establishments but many house amusement parks, hotels, and are considered tourist destinations.  Here are some stats when it comes to these mega shopping opportunities.  Eight of the 10 largest malls in the world are located in Asia, so if you really want a shopping experience of a life time you might want to travel to Dongguan, China, where the South China Mall is said to be the largest mall in the world.  This mall has it all; a replica of France’s Arc de Triomphe, working wind mills, a theme park, and has a whopping 7.1 million square feet of space to its name. 

If you want to ride the waves or experience the thrill of a towering roller coaster, then Cevahir Istanbul in Turkey is the place to go.  Considered the largest mall in Europe, Cevahir features a wave pool, roller coaster and several IMAX theatres plus a bevy of shops to meet the needs of even the most persnickety shopper.

Rollercoaster shown is in the West Edmonton Mall, Alberta, Canada - Wikimedia photo

Mall of America, Flickr photo by cliff1066

For those U.S. shoppers who want to be a little closer to home, then the West Edmonton Mall in Alberta, Canada might just be the ticket for the whole family.  With 3.8 million square feet of shopping and entertainment space, including a casino, skating rink, water park, a petting zoo and other attractions, this mega mall rivals some of the best and largest.  Let’s not forget the Mall of America, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where forty million visitors a year visit to shop at more than 500+ stores, visit the Underwater Aquarium Adventure, Lego Imagination Center and Dinosaur Walk Museum or party hardy in one of their seven nightclubs.

The town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber - Flickr photo by Alaskan Dude

Lifesize nutcracker in Rothenburg Christmas Store - Flickr photo by Alaskan Dude

Not into mega malls, and simply want to get caught up in the spirit of Christmas?  Dating all the way back to the 14th century is Germany’s Christkindlmarkt experience; a must do and see in towns like Dresden and Nuremberg.   Also, the Medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is famous for its Weihnachtsmarkt.  Even if you don’t buy a thing, just touring this romantic town, whose history goes back as far as 970 AD, with its uneven cobblestone streets, aged half-timbered houses and an imposingly thick wall of stone that surrounds the city, will leave you with a feeling of good will and cheer.

Last but not least are those home-spun Christmas -bazaars, put on by churches and non-profit organizations galore, where crafters and artisans of all kinds put out their one-of-a-kind treasures or cloned home-made articles of all types.  You won’t want to miss these delightful, in-your-backyard shopping opportunities, where often times this is where you find that special gift found no where else. 

Happy holidays everyone – and happy shopping to you!

 

October 26, 2010

Scaring up Business

Posted by Misty M. under Family Friendly Adventures | Tags: , , , , , , |
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Scarecrow flickr photo by Randy Son of Robert

In this day and economy it takes ingenuity to get your fair share of business, so it comes as no surprise that using ‘scarecrows’ to scare up business is a sure fire way to get attention.  It appears that merchants, Steve and Sue Marrazzo, owners of Simple Gestures Gift Shop and Art Gallery, who originated the concept in St. Augustine, Florida, are not only calling attention to their own business located on Anastasia Boulevard in the oldest city of America, but their idea has bloomed all along the Boulevard and throughout St. Augustine, as merchants of all types have climbed on board this newest marketing tactic.

Most famous scarecrow of them all can be seen at Oz Park - Flickr photo by ikrichter

About ten scarecrows are having a picnic at the R. B. Hunt Elementary School, while a tattered scarecrow is encouraging residents to get their flu shot at Island Doctors establishment.  This phenomenon has now blossomed into a daylong event that recently took place on October 16th, considered an old-fashioned fall fun day.  Hats off to the Marrazzo’s for coming up with a simple but fun solution in attracting would-be customers, and what could be better than to turn it into an activity for a charitable cause that will no doubt bring a smile to many faces

St. Augustine is already known for its fall activities, especially those affiliated with Halloween and all things that go bump in the night.  First there is the Ripley’s Halloween Ghost Trail where you can board a Ghost Train, visit a variety of haunts, call on spirits from days gone by and just have an eerie good time.  This begins on October 16th and goes through Halloween.  Then, beginning October 26th-31st, Halloween-Haunted St. Augustine is everywhere with ghost walk tours, hayrides, trick or treat parties and just a ghoulish good time for all.

Thinking of Halloween brings to mind “haunted happenings” in Massachusetts, especially Salem where you can take a ghost cruise, be introduced to Italian witchcraft, experience ghosts in 3-D, tour Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery, tremble as you walk about the haunted neighborhood of the Salem Wax Museum, don your one-eyed mask as you visit the New England Pirate Museum, and learn all about witches at the Salem Witch Museum.

Ghost tours are available (not just at Halloween) in New Orleans cemeteries - Flickr photo by benswing

Let’s not forget New Orleans, Louisiana, where you can take your pick of a ghost, voodoo or vampire tour as well as visiting numerous haunted cemeteries.

Although these tours are popular tourist attractions, it sounds kind of spooky to me — Happy Halloween . . .

Jackolantern - Flickr photo by euart

 

October 20, 2010

Touring America’s Safest Cities . . .

Posted by Christine B. under Family Friendly Adventures | Tags: , , , , , , , |
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New York City's Brooklyn Bridge - Flickr photo by Francisco Diez

An article, recently published by Forbes appeared on Yahoo, citing America’s safest ‘top 10’ cities.  Criteria used to formulate this list included stats from 2008 and 2009, and was based on population (250,000+); violent crimes per 100,000 residents and traffic fatalities per 100,000 residents.  If you missed the article, you can read all about it here: http://www.forbes.com/2010/10/11/safest-cities-america-crime-accidents-lifestyle-real-estate-danger.html

Here are three of those cities; beginning in the far Northwest  with #2, Portland, Oregon; then in the heartland of America, #5, Omaha, Nebraska and ending up on the East coast is New York City, ranked #6.

Your travels begin in Pioneer Square - Flickr photo by phillie casablanca

According to www.travelportland.com, Portland is “big on livability, big on visit-ability, and is very accessible.”  One of Portland’s key attractions is the Pioneer Courthouse Square, considered the “4th Best Public Space in the World.”  At one time a school was located on the square as well as a hotel.  Located in downtown Portland, Pioneer Courthouse Square is ‘affectionately known as the city’s living room,” and boasts of more than 300 events a year.

Waterfall in Pioneer Square - Flickr photo by anne.oeldorfhirsch

Another key attraction in Portland is the Portland Art Museum, which was founded in the 1890’s, and “houses permanent collections that include Northwest Coastal Indian art, Chinese artifacts and European and Classical art.”   

While in Portland you might also want to visit the International Rose Test Gardens and the Pittock Mansion, built in 1914.  To get details and check ou the top 10 attractions in Portland, click on this link: http://www.10best.com/destinations/oregon/portland/attractions/best-attractions-activities/

Cousin Joe can be found at the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha - Flickr photo by jan-tik

Traveling further east we visit Omaha, Nebraska, the 5th safest city on Forbes list.   After touring the 31-acre “Heartland of America Park,”located in downtown Omaha, you won’t want to miss taking a fun boat ride on the General Marion Boat for only a quarter! Before you climb on board though, be sure to take in the natural beauty of the lake and their two fountains (shooting water more than 300 feet into the air) as part of this phenomenal downtown attraction.  The whole family will also enjoy the Henry Doorly Zoo, considered one of America’s best (where you can visit Cousin Joe), and the Strategic Air & Space Museum.  Why not check out their great attractions here: http://www.omaha.world-guides.com/omaha_attractions.html.

Heartland of America Park is a key attraction in Omaha - Flickr photo by connermajik

New York City with 8.4 million residents came in at #6 on America’s Safest Cities list.  Wow, where does one start?  After all, New York City “has it all,” including historic landmarks, Broadway, theaters, hundreds of museums and too many attractions to list.  Visiting this website might be a good place to start.  http://www.mustseenewyork.com/attractions.html. 

New York City skyline - Flickr photo by vtravelled

A few key attractions that you don’t want to miss include the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Madame Tussaud’s, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Statue of Liberty, Times Square and the World Trade Center site and more than 60 other great places to visit.

 

August 13, 2010

“It’s one, two, Three strikes you’re out”

Posted by louise C. under Family Friendly Adventures | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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  . . . . Part Four of a Four Part Series

Pipe organs, 7th inning stretch, food and souvenir hawkers; all of these things, including the famous “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” ditty are part and parcel of America’s favorite pastime: baseball!  And, in case you’ve forgotten the end of this song, check out this website:  http://www.kididdles.com/lyrics,  

Fenway Park - Flickr Photo by charliekwalker

As we end our four-part series on baseball as an attraction and special event, we hope you will take time out to attend at least one ball game this year, and while you’re at it, look around at your surroundings.  The beauty of America is everywhere, including some historic major league baseball parks like Boston’s Fenway Park, built in 1912, dubbed as ‘America’s most beloved park’, and home of the Boston Red Sox.

Fenway Park - Flickr Photo by chipgriffin

Boston's 'Beantown' Trolley

While you’re in Boston, be sure to check out all their great attractions, beginning with a bean town trolley ride.   Don’t miss touring the Old State House Museum built in 1713, as the seat of British Government for the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

For all those history buffs, why not visit the Salem Witch Museum and Old Sturbridge Village, or if you’re one of those politico types then a trip to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum would suit.  Other attractions include the Franklin Park Zoo and, my favorite; whale watch excursions at the New England Aquarium.  For a bevy of attraction information in Boston, visit this website: http://www.boston.com/travel/boston/

Wrigley Field - Flickr Photo by dnewman8

Since we are talking about baseball’s historic venues; how about Wrigley Field, an icon in Chicago since 1914.  While the Chicago Cubs have called Wrigley Field home since 1916, Wrigley was also the home of the Chicago Bears between 1921 through 1970.  One of Wrigley’s main distinction is its ivy covered outfield walls and the wind phenomena off of Lake Michigan which can affect which way the ball flies, so to speak. 

Another unusual aspect of Wrigley field is not the field itself but the neighboring community where enterprising residents even set up bleachers atop apartment building roofs, which the Chicago Cubs organization finally cried foul when this became a money making venture.   An eventual mutual resolution was reached and these rooftop seats are now effectively part of the ballpark’s seating area; although they are not included in the seating chart.  I guess you could say this took ‘tailgating’ to new heights . . . pun intended.

Navy Pier - Flickr Photo by willowbrookhotels

Who wouldn’t want to visit Chicago, with its many museums and the infamous Art institute of Chicago; or how about the Brookfield Zoo, but if you’re not into live animals, don’t forget, Chicago is home to the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs and Wolves.  These sports teams are sure to provide excitement when visiting the ‘windy city’.  Why not trek on down to Navy Pier, off of Lake Michigan.  You might even enjoy touring the Chicago Trolley Company, and you sure won’t want to miss going to the top of the Willis-Sears Tower Skydeck.  Want to learn more about Chicago, visit here: http://www.chicagotraveler.com/attractions.htm

So many ballparks, so little space . . . 

World Champion 1926 St. Louis Cardinals team promotional photo - Flickr photo by kopper

How about old versus new, something the St. Louis Cardinals can boast about – there was Busch Memorial Stadium (1964-2005) and now there is the ‘new’ Busch Stadium, located directly across the street from where the ‘old’ stadium stood.  The Cardinal’s have a rich history in St. Louis, although they actually began playing ball, as a tenant, in Sportsman’s Park (home of the St. Louis Browns) before acquiring their own stadium.  The skyline beyond the stadium is awesome with towering office buildings and the famous Gateway Arch easily seen. 

Busch Stadium Inagural Season - Flickr Photo by pdsphil

Gateway Arch - Flickr Photo by davef3138

The Gateway Arch, built between 1963 and 1965, has been a popular tourist attraction since its opening on July 10, 1967.  Millions of visitors have taken its unusual tram to the top of this 630’ tall structure.  In case of emergencies there are two stairwells with 1,067 steps.  The world-renown St. Louis Zoo is celebrating its centennial this year.  They are inviting you to help celebrate their rich history with a year of special activities, events and a new Zootennial exhibit; definitely something for the whole family.  If you’re into museums; this is the city to visit with its Black World History Wax Museum, Bowling Hall of Fame Museum, Dog Museum, Lewis & Clark Center, Miniature Museum of Greater St. Louis and the National Great Rivers Museum; just to name a few.

Want to cool off?   A trip to Citygarden, an urban oasis in downtown St. Louis, with its lush gardens, family and pet-friendly walking areas, artistic sculptures and water falls is sure to be a hit.   Better yet, visit when the sun goes down so that you don’t miss Citygarden’s colorful dancing water show.   Need more information about site-seeing in St. Louis, visit here: http://www.explorestlouis.com/visitors/25things

Citygarden - an Urban oasis in downtown St. Louis - Flickr Photo by englishsnow

 

 

August 2, 2010

Let Me Root, Root, Root for the Home Team . . .

Posted by louise C. under Family Friendly Adventures | Tags: , , , , , |
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. . . . Part Three of a Four Part Series

If you’ve forgotten the 3rd stanza of this catchy baseball tune, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”, you can find it here:  http://www.kididdles.com/lyrics,  

Artist rendering of a young Frank Robinson, in the suite of the same name at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Flickr Photo IMG_701 by dbking

The Baltimore Orioles were one of the American League’s “eight charter franchises in 1901,” although they were known then as the Milwaukee Brewers; for one short year, until their move to St. Louis, then becoming the St. Louis Browns.  We won’t delve into their 52- year history as the Browns though (before their move to Baltimore in 1954), since we want to focus on the Orioles, who had their greatest success in the late 60’s and early 70’s, winning four pennant races and two world championships.  Some famous players, who were inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, wore the Baltimore Orioles uniform, like Frank Robinson and Jim Palmer, and we can’t forget Cal Ripken Jr. who led the Oriole’s to their 3rd world championship.

Oriole Score Board - Game Time Flickr Photo by See MidTN.com (aka Brent)

A special note here: some teams that relocated in the 50’s (like the Browns) retained their nicknames as a sense of continuity with their past; such as the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston/Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves.  Not so with the St. Louis Browns, who were renamed the Baltimore Orioles upon their transfer, “distancing themselves at least somewhat from their history”.

Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Flickr Photo by Conspiracy of Happiness

Misty M, one of our bloggers shares per personal experience  . . . “I have been to a Baltimore Orioles game with my son, sister and best friend. It was apparent as soon as we entered the stadium that the fans are loyal, all games are nostalgic to those long time fans and exciting to all others in attendance. Camden Yards is located in the heart of Baltimore. There are nearly endless activities for all age groups. Located a few blocks from the stadium is the Baltimore Inner Harbor where locals and tourists can enjoy fine dining, music, and art. I enjoy visiting the aquarium and eating at the Fago de Chao. It is well worth it to explore this area.” . . .

Baltimore Harbor - Flickr Photo by kymagirl

Why not take Misty’s suggestions, and while you are in Baltimore, take advantage of all the great attractions, especially those that are FREE, like visiting The Baltimore Museum of Art, or for a great photo op, why not check out the statues of famous Baltimore sports heroes at the M&T Bank Stadium or at Camden Yards.  If you’re the adventurous type, why not play a little Bocce Ball in Little Italy or climb the 228 steps to the top of the first monument dedicated to George Washington.  Want a little night life, why not cruise Fell’s Point Art Loop where you can spend an evening ‘mingling with artists’ and sample cheese and wine.  Many restaurants in the area are open late and offer specials to night time visitors.

You can also take in an outdoor performance at the Harborplace Amphitheatre, and if you happen to be in town with your pooch, then head to Locust Point Dog Park for the time of their life.  There are 42 more ‘FREE” things to do in Baltimore, and to help you find them, visit this website http://baltimore.org/50-free-things/ or for even more information about Baltimore and its attractions, try this website: http://www.baltimore.biz/

 

 

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