family travel destinations Archives

Purchasing Disney World Military Discount Tickets

December 2, 2019 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel tips on Disney World Military Discount Tickets. It’s a great way to save on park tickets. The armed forces have partnered with Disney and are now offering Walt Disney World Resort Promotional Theme Park Tickets. However, the discount is also available at Disneyland.

Armed Forces Salute is the original discount promotion. The Walt Disney World Resort Promotional Theme Park promotion works the same way. The promotion is a discount available to military members and retirees. You will be happy to know that the Disney World Resort Promotion will be available January 1, 2020 through December 18, 2020. Discount tickets can be used throughout the year. For example, you can use the tickets 2 days for spring break and 2 days for summer vacation. The last day for the 2019 promotion is December 19, 2019.

Disney World Military Discount Members Must Be:

Current/Retired military members:
Active
Reserve
National Guard
Coast Guard
Commissioned Corps
100%Service Disabled
Spouses may use their enlisted or retired member’s benefit. They are not entitled to the discount on their own.
Widows are entitled to their spouse’s discount if they haven’t remarried.
Foreign Partners stationed at a United States Base are also eligible. However, they must have a permanent US Military issued ID.

The discount includes:

4-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Option for $241 plus tax
5-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Option $257 plus tax
4-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Plus Option $291 plus tax
5-Day Military Promotional Ticket with the Park Hopper Plus Option $307 plus

Also, you can also purchase the Disney World Memory Maker for an additional $98.00. This is half of the original $199.99 Memory Maker price. NOTE: These prices may change for 2020. Additionally, the military member may purchase up to 6 tickets not including themselves.

We take advantage of the Disney World Military Discount when we travel to Disney World in December. This works great for my family. We divide our time between ESPN Disney World Super Bowl, where my grandson plays, and the Disney World parks. Also, we don’t stay on the property in December. I owe a Time Share about 10 minutes away. So, we rent a car and head to the timeshare. It has a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and 2 bedrooms with a king size bed, 2 queen beds in the second bedroom, and a queen sofa bed in the living room. Since we’re splitting our time between 2 destinations, it’s cheaper for us to stay at the timeshare than on Disney properties.

We purchase the 4 day ticket with the park hopper. However, we didn’t park hop not one day. We just wanted to head home, get a good night’s sleep, and head to another park the next day.

Military Discount Tickets can be purchased at Shades of Green, your local military base, or at the ticket booths at Disney World. We purchased our tickets at the Disney World ticket booth. Otherwise, tickets have to be activated before you can enter the park. The enlisted or retired member must be present with a military ID to activate the tickets. Unfortunately, they can’t activate by using the My Disney app either. So, plan accordingly.

An Amazing Parade of Horses In Ogden, UT

March 29, 2019 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite travel destinations, Ogden, Utah. It is one of my all time favorite places to visit. They host Pioneer Days Parade of Horses, and it doesn’t disappoint. The artist who paints these horses are amazing. Ogden, UT is about 40 – 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. So, if you’re in the area check it out.

So, I discovered the horses when I was on business trip in Ogden, UT. I decided to take a walk to relieve some stress after a business meeting. Amazingly, the streets came alive. As a result, Ogden has become one of my favorite travel destinations. The mountains are beautiful, the food is delicious, the people are warm and the Marriott has yummy beds. I’ll make the trip across country for those perks any day.

I’m going to share a few of my pictures of a some art that I discovered on walk along the streets of Ogden. It’s called a parade of horses. No, it’s not your usual parade through main street. This parade can be found on the sidewalks around town.

First, when I walked into the Marriott Hotel lobby, my usual spot to crash when I’m visiting, I spotted a replica of a horse with a beautiful painting on its body. I snapped a picture for my Wordless Wednesday blog post. However, I thought nothing else of it after taking the picture. So, I headed to my room to prepare for the next day. Ogden is about a 5 hour flight from Washington Dulles. As a result, I’m usually suffering from jet lag. The time difference doesn’t help either.

The next day I went to lunch with a few co-workers, and noticed more horses along the sidewalk. They were full sized horse replicas, and ran along the sidewalk for as far as I could see. I was in awe! I love horses, and had hoped to own a few. However, that dream never panned out and I have accepted that it never will.

One of the ladies stated that I should take a stroll when I returned to the hotel that evening. That’s exactly what I did, and I was not disappointed. They put on quite a show for visitors and residents alike. The horses were simply breathtaking. Some were on their hind legs and others in a grazing position. It was if they knew they were on display for everyone to see.

This horse is called Earth, Wind and Fire, and was painted by two artists. One was self-taught and the other attended art school.

It was my favorite.

Next, this horse is called Cash Back. The artist was a 17 year old student. He was the youngest artist to participate in the Ogden Pioneer Day Parade of Horses.

I saw everything from a 1966 yellow mustang to one covered in candy bars. The horses go on display around the 4th of July, and usually remain on display until October 1. There are approximately 75 horses on display during the Ogden Pioneer Days celebration. If the budget is tight, there are only 55. Artists are from across the country, and each artist has a sponsor. It takes as much work to display the horses as it does to paint them. The horses requires 20 people to secure them to a concrete base and set them in their location.

Hershey is the name of this horse. A local high school artist produced this beauty. He plans to enroll in Weber State University.

I couldn’t get enough of the horses. So, I walked for blocks admiring them. I wondered what inspired each of the artists. Each horse has the artist’s name and the sponsor listed beneath it. I wondered what I would have painted on my horse if I had the ability to paint. Possibly a ballerina, my backyard birds or the beautiful Ogden mountains that stood so majestically in the background of the displays.

Appropriately, wanted is the name of this horse. A 15 year cancer survivor is the artist. He was a high school junior.

A trained filled with children rolled by, and I thought maybe I would have painted a Choo Choo full of children. Or, one of the historical buildings that lined the streets. Furthermore, I admired the colors. They were so warm and bright and every hue imaginable could be found on the horses. You could hear the children’s excitement when they saw the horses. So, I giggled and giggled as I watched them run toward the horses. Most importantly, I hated being a grown up at times. I wanted to let my inner child out too.

Finally, it was a fascinating stroll. But, with a heavy heart I bid Ogden farewell. Sadly, I’ll be heading back east. However, it’s surprises like this that keep me coming back. And, come back I will.

Filed Under: Travel, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family travel destinations, travel destinations, travel tips

15 Things to Do in Palm Springs, California

December 22, 2018 by Rhonda Gales 1 Comment

Today, I’m sharing travel destinations and Things to Do in Palm Springs, CA. First, San Diego and Palm Springs are two of my favorite travel destinations. I simply can’t get enough of either. As a result, I’m encouraging you to visit both.

However, today I’m going to give tips on Palm Springs. There’s so much to see and do. Walking or biking provides the best experience for seeing everything around Palm Springs. Lets get started:

Tahquitz Canyon – It’s approximately two-miles and loops along the Tahquitz River to a 60-foot Tahquitz Falls. It is located in Coachella Valley near Palm Springs, California, and inhibited by the Cahuilla tribe of Native Americans. It is lead by a park ranger who has great knowledge of the canyon. Additionally, it has a beautiful water fall, which makes the hike worth it. In addition, it is filled with wild flowers, cactus, rock ledges providing great views, history of the Indians, and more. The mortar below was used to grind corn by the Cahuilla Indians.

Walk of Stars – Located in downtown Palm Springs, CA. The walk has stars from many of the older legends like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, and James Earl Jones. The walk is unique, it honor celebrities and writers who have resided in the area. So, if you love TMC and older movies, the Palm Springs Walk of Stars is worth the trip.

See’s Candy – One of my favorite places to visit in Palm Springs. The samples are worth the trip alone. But, pick up a box to bring home. You’ll be sorry if you don’t.

Statutes – Next, set a few hours aside and go on a search for the bronzed statutes that line the Palm Springs streets. Some of the statutes include Lucille Ball, Sonny Bono, Gene Autry, Marilyn Monroe and more.

Bike Tours – If you love bike riding, consider renting a bike for the day. You can ride through the celebrity neighborhoods or downtown Palm Springs on the bike loop. If you need a break, park your bike and grab a bite to eat. Check with your hotel to see if they offer free bicycles. If not, there are rental companies that will rent them for a reasonable rate.

Palm Canyon Drive – Palm Canyon Drive is the place to be for great food, people watching and great photo opportunities. There are few chain stores in Palm Springs. So, dining is a unique experience. Furthermore, there are plenty of boutiques, restaurants, and places to get ice cream or beverages if you’re out taking in the sights. We where able to find a parking space with no problems.

Wind Turbines – I took this picture of the wind turbines heading into Palm Springs from San Diego. The Coachella Valley is peppered with thousands of wind turbines. They are used to generate electricity for the city.

Ariel Tram – May I suggest, the tram to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. You can hike a few trails, have a snowball fight or grab a bite to eat at the Pines Café. Before you head up, grab a warm coat or jacket. It’s 8,500 foot elevation to the top of Mt. San Jacinto State Park, and takes about 10 minutes. It’s an amazing experience! The tram rotates 360 degrees while heading up and down the mountain.

LG’s Steakhouse – If you’re into fine dining, LG’s Steak House is a must. It’s considered one of the best steakhouses in California. Personally, I agree. As a result, whatever you select will be delicious. However, I would recommend the Caesar Salad and the T-Bone or Filet Mignon. Not into red meat, try the seafood platter. LG’s Steakhouse is perfect for date night or an office party.

McCormick’s Palm Springs Exotic Cars – So, if you’re into exotic and muscle cars you must check out McCormick’s. They auction cars from the 50’s, 60’s, convertibles, Rolls Royce, Porche and more. Great photo opportunity, and a fun way to spend the day.

Celebrity Homes – Also, I enjoyed searching for celebrity homes in Palm Springs. So, grab a map of the homes and head out. I loved that the homes were not huge mansions that celebrities live in today. The homes are actually relatable, and much simpler in style. This is a picture of Jay Leno’s Palm Springs home. I also have photos of the homes of Natalie Cole, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Sammy Davis Jr. and more.

Take photographs of the Mountains – Do you love the mountains? I do! I believe these are the San Jacinto or Santa Rosa Mountains. You can find photography opportunity of the mountains just about anywhere in Palm Springs. As a result, I captured this photo from the balcony of my room at the Riviera Hotel.

Cabazon Outlets – Furthermore, if you love to shop or want to pick up a special gift before you head home check out the outlets. The Cabazon Outlets has luxury shops like Le Creuset, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and more. For $25, you can purchase a Shop & Play bag which includes: our VIP Savings Card, a shopping tote, lip balm, Under Armour gift, voucher for an Auntie Anne’s pretzel, water bottle with lanyard, and a rechargeable power bank.

Big Horse Carriage Company – Also, take a carriage ride through the historic district, celebrity neighbors or an evening ride in a horse drawn carriage. It’s perfect for the family or adding a little romance to your date night.

Lunch at the Riviera Hotel – The Riviera Hotel used to be old Hollywood. However, it has been updated to a more modern décor. I’ve stayed at the Riviera several times and I love it, and their lunch menu. Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford and Joey Bishop frequented the Riviera. Additionally, Elvis Presley performed and escaped to the Riviera when he need to be out of the limelight. Also, Sonny and Cher were performers there as well.

So, make a note of what you want to see in Palm Springs and get to it. It’s one of my favorite places to visit, and I hope to return in the near future. Finally, you may also like Visit Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN.

Filed Under: Travel, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family travel destinations, things to do in California, travel destinations, travel tips

Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN

November 5, 2018 by Rhonda Gales 2 Comments

Parrot Mountain and Gardens in the Great Smokey Mountains was amazing. The gardens and exotic birds piqued everyone’s interest. It’s a great family activity if you’re traveling with children. So, today I’m sharing my pictures on this unique travel destination. Heading to the Smokey Mountains in TN in the fall to relax from the year’s activities has become an annual trip for me.

The fall colors and the laid back environment is a draw. Especially, when I need to regroup and release some stress. I try to visit someplace different each time I go to the Smoky Mountains. I’m a bird watcher and feeder, so Parrot Mountain and Gardens was high on my list of things to do

Fletcher Hollingsworth owns Parrot Mountain and Gardens. He purchased the property and opened the bird sanctuary and gardens. He likes to say that he opened the business on a wing and a prayer. Apparently, he acquired a love for birds when he was a little boy. He has a collection of 130 species. Some were pets that owners no longer wanted or could take care of, abused or needed to be rehabilitated. They are also bred them as well.

First, Parrot Mountain is located on top of a mountain. If you’re not comfortable driving up, over, around or down a mountain, you may not want to be the driver. If I had found a place to turn around, I would have missed this treasure. I thought I was driving straight up to heaven.

If you are driving an RV, there is an area where you can park and an employee will come down to the area to get you. Now that I’m thinking about it, they may do the same for those who have a fear of driving up the mountain. I didn’t know the pull off area existed; however, I heard a conversation between an employee and a visitor. I did notice it as I was going back down the mountain. I must admit, going down wasn’t as nerve wrecking as going up. The beauty of the sanctuary outweighed my nerves in the end.

Once you enter the parking lot, these beautiful parrots await you. More likely than not, they’re having a party! They’re loud, talking, squawking or just commanding attention. It gives you a glimpse of what awaits inside the park.

Once you enter, there’s a sidewalk that leads you around the displays. There’s more parrots and birds than I can count, but each have their own personality and they are beautiful. You can take your time strolling through the park, and watching them interact or checking you out.

The birds are loved and well taken care of at Parrot Mountain and Gardens. The cages are immaculate, and you won’t find a feather on the ground. The only smell is fresh air. They are housed in cages outside during the spring and summer. During the winter, they are moved inside.

This is the Green Wing Macaw, which is confused with the Scarlett Macaw at times. However, the Scarlett Macaw has more yellow in its feathers. (See the first picture above. The bird with the yellow and blue on its wings is a Scarlett Macaw). These guys loved posing for pictures and crave attention. The Green Wing Macaw is native to South America, and has become an endangered species. It’s a large bird that loves Brazil Nuts and sliced fruit. If interested in purchasing, you will need a large cage. However, if taken care of properly the Green Wing Macaw can have a life span of 70 years.

This was my favorite bird at the sanctuary, the Hyacinth Macaw. Maybe because blue is my favorite color. The Hyacinth Macaw is a large bird as well, and also native to South America. They are also an endangered species. Furthermore, they are one of the most expensive birds on the market. They come at a price tag of $850 to $15,000. Their lifespan in the wild is between 50-60 years. However, they are not meant for the novice bird owner.

Another beauty is the Moluccan Cockatoo. It’s actually a pinkish color rather than white. This guy loves attention. He primed and posed for the camera. Moluccan cockatoos are native to eastern Indonesia. Their diet consists of seeds, fruits, nuts and insects. They require a lot of space, and a lot of attention. If they don’t receive it, they will become aggressive. Possibly harming themselves. Furthermore, they don’t like to be confined. You will need to provide an area where they can be free. But, don’t let them near your furniture. They are destructive. Put a play gym on your list.

The Goffin Cockatoo looks very similar to the Moluccan Cockatoo. However, the Goffin is more white than the Moluccan Cockatoo. Also, the Goffin Cockatoo is small for a Cockatoo, but it requires lots of attention just the same. They can be destructive as well, and require a large cage. They Goffin Cockatoo is also native to Indonesia. Your pet Goffin Cockatoo will want lots of toys. They like to chew and destroy. Toys that challenge them are their preference. Taking things apart and undoing knots keeps them occupied. Unlocking their cages is a challenge for them. Make sure you have a sturdy one.

This is the African Crane. Reminded me of myself on a bad hair day. The African Crane is native to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Additionally, Uganda, where it is represented on its national flag and Kenya to eastern South Africa. Also, it is an endangered species. These cranes eat plants, seeds, grain, insects, worms, snakes, and small fish. They spend the day looking for food and roost in trees at night. It too is an endangered species.

This is the Great-Billed Parrot or Island Parrot. The Great-Billed parrot is native to the south-east Asian islands including eastern Indonesia, the Philippines and islands of west New Guinea. They require a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and a high-quality seed mix of safflower, paddy rice, wheat, oats, canary grass seed and various millets. Other foods include pine cones, cooked rice, rose-hips and small quantities of dried shrimp. They are generally quiet birds, but require lots of space.

We also saw a Silver Cheek Hornbill. It is native to Africa as well. They love fruits, insects, rodents, small reptiles and centipedes. What caught my eye was the covering on the beak, which I later learned is a casque. This bird is quite large, and the color striking. It sits quite majestically on its perch just checking you out.

Parrot Mountain has an area where kids and kids at heart can interact with the birds. You can hold them, have your picture taken with them or just watch everyone around you and take your own pictures. There is a fee for the picture, and they can be picked up in the souvenir shop. Additionally, they have a vending machine where you can buy seed for a quarter. The birds love them. This is an employee handling one of the birds. You can see where the birds have torn holes in his jacket. For this reason, I by-passed holding any of them.

There’s also an area where they have baby birds for sale. Make sure you have padded your purse or wallet, they are pricey. But, you can be assured that your purchase at Parrot Mountain has been loved. Just follow the pathways to view the exhibits. After you have exhausted yourself, stop at the café and grab a bite to eat. They have a small souvenir shop there as well. So, be sure to add Parrot Mountain to your list of Things to Do in Sevierville, TN. You will pass Dollywood as you’re heading to Parrot Mountain, so be sure you plan for both.

Filed Under: Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family travel destinations, family travel tips, smoky mountains

Kid Friendly Things to Do In Virginia

July 14, 2017 by Rhonda Gales Leave a Comment

Today, I’m going to give a few travel tips on Things to Do in Virginia. Washington, DC is the nation’s capital. So, it’s full of history, galleries, restaurants, museums, and more. However, the state of Virginia is close by and is also full of history and things to do. Furthermore, it boasts beautiful skylines, caverns, wineries and more. It’s a perfect place to vacation or spend a few days of your vacation.

Monticello – First, the home of Thomas Jefferson is a must see. Jefferson inherited land from his father when he was 26. He began building Monticello, and it became the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Monticello has approximately 5,000 acres, which 2,000 were tended by 150 slaves. The grounds consists of slave quarters, gardens, a dairy, a washhouse, store houses etc. The house is approximately 11,000 square feet.

Skyline Drive – Second, Skyline Drive is approximately 105-mile road long with several entry points. It has 75 overlooks, places to lodge and dine along the way. It takes about 3 hours to drive the route at 35 mph. It’s most popular in the fall with the colorful foliage, but it’s just a beautiful in the warmer months too. There’s plenty of wildlife, hiking trails and waterfalls.

Luray Caverns – Next, discovered erroneously in search of a cave, the caverns were discovered in 1878. The guided tour of the Luray Caverns are the most popular caverns in Eastern America. You will also find a replica of a frontier home and Car and Carriage Caravan Museum. Feeling adventurous, enter the garden maze and attempt to find your way out. In your in need of a few adult beverages, check out the wine tasting. There’s also a café to satisfy your hunger.

Shenandoah Caverns – The Shenandoah Caverns are around 56 degrees year round. The guided tour takes about an hour through 17 rooms. The Breakfast Bacon has been featured in National Geographic magazine. Long View Hall and Grotto of the Gods as well as formations like Capitol Dome, Diamond Cascade, and Rainbow Lake. The Yellow Barn, American Celebration on Parade, and Main Street of Yesteryear provide great family photo opportunities. My grandchildren love this place.

Arlington Cemetery – Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You will find John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy Onassis gravesites at Arlington Cemetery as well as the Changing of the Guard.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens – Next, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens was voted as one of the Top 10 Botanical Gardens in the country. It offers 50 acres of gardens, dining and shopping. It has more than a dozen themed gardens, which include a Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Flagler Garden and the Kroger Kitchen Community Garden.

Great Dismal Swamp – The Great Dismal Swamp is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It inhibits 112,000 acres. The area is occupied by bobcats, bears, white tail deer, an array of fish, turtles, lizards and more.

Victory Rover Cruises – Last, be sure to add Victory Rover Cruises to your list of things to do in Virginia. It offers a 2 hour narrated cruise by the captain. The Norfolk Naval Station is the largest Naval Base in the world. You will see Destroyers, Aircraft Carriers, Submarines, Cruisers, Yachts and more. Additionally, lunch boxes may be available.

Family Drive-in Theatre – The Family Drive-In Theatre is located in Stephens City, VA located off I-81. It has two screens, and offers first run movies at affordable prices. For example, the price for children ages 4 – 11 is $4.00 and $8.00 for adults. Also, you can bring lawn chairs, blankets and pillows and watch the movies under the stars. The concessions are great too. They sell everything from Angus burgers to grilled chicken salads. Kids will love the chicken fingers, fries and mozzarella sticks.

Colonial Williamsburg – If your kids like history, head to Williamsburg. They can enjoy Fife and Drums or a carriage ride through old town. Add the Virginia Museum of the Civil War, African America Heritage Trail, Manchester Slave Dock or Government Island.

Kings Dominion – Enjoy the 20 acre water park. They also have

Busch Gardens – Great amusement park. It has something to offer kids off all ages. You can see bald eagles, Clydesdale horses and gray wolves. Additionally, you can ride roller coasters or head over to Dragon Land for and enjoy rides geared to smaller children.

Water Country USA – Furthermore, be prepared to get wet! Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park. Sound refreshing doesn’t it.

Ocean Breeze – If your further south, check out Ocean Breeze. It’s located close to Virginia Beach. You can cool off at Adventure River, Rides and Slides or the Little Buccaneer area.

Magic Mountain Farm – If you enjoy horseback riding, check out the Magic Mountain Farm.

Polo Matches – Last, Virginia is horse country, and no stranger to great Polo matches. Check out the Banbury Cross Polo Club or the Great Meadow Polo Club. And, don’t forget to stomp some divots!

Finally, I hope that you liked my list of things to do in Virginia. So, pick a few items and enjoy the day with your family and friends. Additionally, you may also like 9 Budget Friendly Activities in Virginia Beach.

Filed Under: Travel, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family activities, family travel destinations, things to do in Virginia

9 Virginia Beach Budget Activities

July 30, 2015 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing a few travel tips on Virginia Beach budget activities. First, as a single mother budgeting has become second nature to me. This year I will be spending a few days in Virginia Beach with my grandchildren instead of taking them to Myrtle Beach as we normally do. So, before I leave for vacation I search for things to do to ensure we don’t get bored and the activities within my budget. Unfortunately, many families think they can’t afford a vacation because they have to fund every activity for the entire week. Not true!

There’s more to Virginia Beach than the Atlantic Ocean and miles of sand. So, the key is to research free and budget friendly things for the family to do before you leave for vacation. Furthermore, make a list of Virginia Beach activities and discuss them with your family. If it’s something they aren’t interested in, you still have time to do additional research before you arrive. I searched the Hampton Roads area, which includes Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Williamsburg and Hampton. Trust me, there’s something for everybody.

Here’s 9 Virginia Beach Budget Activities:

1. Naval Station Norfolk – You must see the world’s largest naval base. The base houses 75 ships and 134 aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, large amphibious ships, submarines, supply ships, airplanes and helicopters. In addition, the tour includes historic homes in the Jamestown, VA area.

2. Beach Street USA Entertainment – Next, you can find laser and light shows to interactive adventures based on a theme or popular movies. You could be required to unravel a murder mystery, play other games or compete in contests. Also, they have nights where you dress up as characters from movies or watch a movie on the beach. Check out the site for activities of for day.

photo from Virginia Legends

3. Virginia Beach Legend Walk – Additionally, free tours of Virginians who have made significant contributions to the country and/or world. Some of the inductee are Arthur Ashe, Patsy Cline, Katie Couric, Ella Fitzgerald, and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson to name a few. Great way to get a family conversation going on the inductees.

4. Virginia Beach Amusement Park – The Hurricane, Skycraper, Music Express and Comic Storm are a few rides that you will discover on the boardwalk. Great entertainment for the entire family, and the park offers all day wrist bands too.

photo from Mt. Trashmore

5. Mt. Trashmore Park – Also, a 165 acre park that has 11 picnic shelters of various sizes, 2 volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, a skate park, restrooms, outdoor fitness stations, concessions and fishing awaits you. Also, if you have a driver’s license or other photo ID you can check out badminton equipment, a football, frisbee, horseshoes, volleyball and net, wheelchairs and more. So, it’s a great way to spend the day away from the beach and enjoy free activities along with a picnic.

photo from Jungle Golf

6. Jungle Golf – So, if you love miniature golf check out this 18 hole golf course with an air conditioned snack bar.

Photo from Ocean Breeze Water Park

7. Ocean Breeze Water Park – Fortunately, the park has over 30 rides, slides, and attractions. Additionally, it is located approximately 10 minutes from the Virginia Beach ocean front. Parking, sunscreen and inner tubes are free. Trams are also available to help you breeze your way into the park. Be sure to put this on your list.

8. Firework Display – The firework displays are awesome. The fact they are ocean front makes it even better. So, be sure to check the schedule for dates and times for the firework displays.

9. Hunt Club Farm – Last, Virginia Beach has plenty of ocean and sand. But, it also has a Petting Zoo and Pony Rides at Hunt Club Farm. They have chickens that are friendly enough to pickup, llamas, goats, peacocks, turkeys and many other animals. They also offer pony rides, a playground area and shaded tables to enjoy a snack. The farm also sells homemade jams, jellies, soaps, candles and more. So, be sure to grab a few souvenirs while you’re there.

Finally, the fireworks displays are truly spectacular over the ocean. Be sure to add this to your Virginia Beach activities. Additionally, my grandchildren love the petting zoo and pony rides at Hunt Club Farm. The Ocean Breeze Water Park is a great way to spend the day too. Adults and kids can enjoy Beach Street USA entertainment. Most importantly, you can find something for everyone on my Virginia Beach activities list without breaking the bank.