One of the great things about living in California is our proximity to both the mountains and the beaches. In fact, just last month I mentioned our plans to hit a local beach to a friend of mine, which prompted him to relate to me his family’s plans to head up to Lake Tahoe that same weekend for some spring skiing. Only in California, baby.

Anyway, the girl had wanted to do a beach trip with her friends for quite some time, so on the recent Spring Break holiday we loaded up five girls and made the short jaunt to Stinson Beach.

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Taxi!

The start of spring means that you’ll glimpse bright yellow water taxis coasting down the Chicago River.  Wendella Boat Tours started the  Chicago Water Taxi for  downtown Chicago commuters in 2007 but they’re a great way for tourists to catch scenic views of the Windy City.  They float on the lower level  between Michigan Avenue and La Salle Street and run on a schedule of about every 20 minutes.  On spring break, I grabbed my kids and headed to the underground labyrinth to the water taxi stop. Read More »

Copper Falls

Featuring dramatic gorges, foot bridges and waterfalls, Copper Falls State Park is famous for being a major highlight of Wisconsin’s North Country National Scenic Trail.  Rolling over 3,068 acres,  Copper Falls State Park owes its name to the Native Americans and European settlers who mined copper in the area.  Admission for vehicles require a sticker that costs $7 daily for Wisconsin residents and $10 for non-residents.  State trail passes are $4 daily and camping fees are $12-$15 for Wisconsin residents and $14-$17 for non-residents per night.  Located two miles Northeast of Mellen in Ashland County, the park also boasts charming 1930s era log buildings. Read More »

Illinois River docks at Pere Marquette State Park

Noted as the largest state park in Illinois and famous as the home of  this country’s national bird, the bald eagle, Pere Marquette State Park supplies lots of beauty and outdoor activties for families and nuture buffs.  Located near Grafton, Il, admission is free for the 8,000 acre park, including the visitor center which features displays and exhibits of local history and wildlife.  The Illinois River creates the focus for the park it offers striking views of the river from atop the surrounding bluffs. Read More »