USA Family Discovery: Coast to Coast Adventure
Family-Friendly Adventures in !
Historic Route 66
Why Visit?
Embark on a nostalgic road trip along the iconic Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road," stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic highway offers a blend of vintage Americana, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for a memorable family adventure. **Start: Chicago, Illinois** Begin in the bustling city of Chicago, exploring the starting point of Route 66 at Grant Park. Visit the Route 66 Begin sign near Adams Street and Michigan Avenue. Don"t miss the iconic Art Institute of Chicago where kids can enjoy the Ryan Learning Center"s interactive art activities. **Springfield, Illinois** Drive to Springfield to delve into the world of Abraham Lincoln. Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the engaging Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which features hands-on exhibits great for children. **St. Louis, Missouri** Cross into Missouri and explore St. Louis. The city"s Gateway Arch isn’t just a marvel of modern engineering but also offers tram rides to the top for a stunning view of the city and the Mississippi River. The nearby City Museum, with its whimsical, kid-friendly exploratory spaces, is a must-visit. **Oklahoma City, Oklahoma** As Route 66 continues into Oklahoma, stop in Oklahoma City to visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton. The museum offers interactive displays about the history of the route, perfect for curious minds. **Amarillo, Texas** In Texas, make a unique stop at the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, where you can see ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground. It’s a fantastic spot for quirky family photos! **End: Santa Monica, California** Conclude your journey in Santa Monica. Celebrate the end of Route 66 at the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the classic family-friendly beachfront, visit the aquarium, or ride the historic carousel. Throughout your journey, embrace the roadside diners, vintage motels, and countless photo opportunities that embody the spirit of old America, making every mile a story on Historic Route 66.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Glen Canyon Dam
Why Visit?
Embark on a memorable family adventure at Glen Canyon Dam, a pivotal structure on the Colorado River in Page, Arizona. Start your day at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, located at the dam itself. It"s easily accessible via U.S. Route 89. The visitor center offers free admission and provides a comprehensive introduction to the dam"s history and operations through engaging exhibits. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the dam from the scenic overlook outside the center. Next, take the guided tour of the dam. These tours, available for a small fee, offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of this massive hydroelectric facility. You’ll descend into the dam, marvel at the huge turbines, and learn how this 710-foot structure helps manage the water resources of the Colorado River. Note that children must be at least 8 years old to join the tour. After exploring the dam, head to nearby Lake Powell, a reservoir formed by the dam"s construction. Here, families can enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing. Rent a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters and hidden coves. Lake Powell Marina provides all the necessary gear and is just a short drive from the visitor center. Wrap up your visit with a leisurely hike along the Rimview Trail, offering easy paths perfect for families and stunning views of Glen Canyon and Lake Powell. The trailhead starts right from the visitor center parking lot. Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats to stay comfortable in the sunny Arizona climate. With its combination of educational opportunities and outdoor fun, Glen Canyon Dam is a fantastic destination for families looking to mix learning with leisure.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Grand Canyon Railway
Why Visit?
Embark on a captivating journey to the Grand Canyon with a family-friendly adventure on the Grand Canyon Railway! Start your escapade in the charming town of Williams, Arizona, accessible via Interstate 40 or a scenic drive from nearby cities like Phoenix or Las Vegas. Here, you can board the historic Grand Canyon Railway, a delightful way to reach one of the world"s most awe-inspiring natural wonders without the hassle of driving. **Day 1: All Aboard the Grand Canyon Railway** Arrive early at the Williams Depot to explore the small railway museum before your departure. The train leaves at 9:30 AM, so gather the family to experience the thrill of riding a vintage train. Each car, restored to its early 20th-century splendor, provides a comfortable and scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of Northern Arizona. The ride is complemented by engaging cowboy musicians and historical characters that roam the train, sharing tales and facts about the area"s fascinating history. **Arrival at Grand Canyon South Rim** After a leisurely 2.5-hour journey, arrive at the Grand Canyon South Rim. Here, you"ll be greeted by breathtaking views. Take advantage of the free shuttle buses within the national park, making stops at notable viewpoints and attractions like Yavapai Point and Hopi House. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center where interactive exhibits provide a deeper understanding of the canyon"s geology and ecology. **Return Journey** The train departs the Grand Canyon at 3:30 PM, giving your family ample time to explore. The return trip features more entertainment, culminating in a classic Wild West shootout performance at the Williams Depot to delight the kids and adults alike! With its combination of historical allure, educational opportunities, and natural beauty, the Grand Canyon Railway promises a memorable and hassle-free family outing to one of America’s most iconic landmarks.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Why Visit?
**Family-Friendly Itinerary to Montezuma Castle National Monument** **Morning Arrival & Visitor Center Orientation** Begin your exploration early in the day to beat the heat and crowds. Montezuma Castle National Monument is located in Camp Verde, Arizona, easily accessible via Interstate 17, exit 289. Follow the signs for about 11 miles to the park entrance. At the Visitor Center, grab a park map, watch the 20-minute informative video about the Sinagua people who built the castle, and check out the educational exhibits. This will set the tone for the historical adventure awaiting you! **Guided Tour of Montezuma Castle** Join a ranger-led tour (check timings at the Visitor Center) to learn about the impressive five-story cliff dwelling that is perched 100 feet above the valley. Built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago, this 20-room high-rise apartment represents their ingenuity in architecture and survival. The paths are stroller-friendly, ensuring easy access for all family members. **Picnic Lunch by Beaver Creek** Pack a picnic to enjoy by the serene Beaver Creek. There are shaded picnic areas perfect for a family lunch. Post-lunch, stroll along the creek"s edge; keep an eye out for local wildlife including diverse bird species, likely to thrill young nature enthusiasts. **Junior Ranger Program** For kids aged 4-12, participating in the Junior Ranger Program is a must. They"ll receive an activity booklet at the Visitor Center. Completing the activities will earn them an official Junior Ranger badge, making for a memorable and educational part of their visit. **Afternoon Hike & Montezuma Well** Drive to nearby Montezuma Well, a natural limestone sinkhole that sustains a unique ecosystem. Explore the trails and discover more Sinagua ruins, including dwellings and an ancient irrigation system. **Wrap Up** Finish your day by reflecting on the incredible blend of natural beauty and history you’ve experienced. Montezuma Castle National Monument offers an enriching glimpse into the lives of the Sinagua people, making for an engaging and educational day out for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Coconino National Forest
Why Visit?
**Day 1: Explore Sedona"s Red Rocks** - **Morning:** Start your adventure in Sedona. Grab breakfast at a local café before heading to the Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center. Here, you can pick up maps and get personalized advice. Then, hike the easy yet stunning Bell Rock Pathway for iconic views and family-friendly paths. - **Afternoon:** Have a picnic lunch at Crescent Moon Picnic Site, famed for its fantastic view of Cathedral Rock. Post-lunch, enjoy a dip in Oak Creek or explore the surrounding trails. - **Evening:** Dine in Sedona, where options range from casual to gourmet, all offering the spectacular backdrop of red rocks. **Day 2: Discovering Flagstaff and its Natural Wonders** - **Morning:** Drive to Flagstaff (about 45 minutes from Sedona). Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona to learn about the region"s history and culture. - **Afternoon:** Head to the Walnut Canyon National Monument (15 minutes from downtown Flagstaff). Explore the Island Trail looping around a scenic canyon rim, with ancient cliff dwellings visible along the way. - **Evening:** Enjoy downtown Flagstaff’s family-friendly restaurants and maybe catch an early movie at The Orpheum Theater. **Day 3: Adventure in the Mogollon Rim** - **Morning:** Travel to the Mogollon Rim, about an hour and a half from Flagstaff. The Rim offers breathtaking views over the Colorado Plateau. - **Afternoon:** Pick a trail suitable for your family"s experience level; Woods Canyon Lake Trail offers an easy loop perfect for families, with great opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. - **Evening:** Return to Flagstaff or Sedona for dinner. Throughout your visit, keep an eye out for wildlife including elk, bald eagles, and countless species of birds, making this a thrilling educational experience for kids and adults alike. Coconino National Forest holds wonders that are sure to enrich your family’s travel diary.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.