Things to Do in Orlando That Everyone Will Love—From Toddlers to Teens (and Parents Too!)

Head to Icon Park and visit Madame Tussauds to see your favorite celebrities in a whole new way. Photo by Charlotte Blanton

There are so many awesome things to do in Orlando with kids of all ages, which makes it an easy city to hang out with the entire family. From amazing theme parks with rides and attractions to free nature spots, there is no shortage of things to do in Orlando with toddlers to teens. This guide of Orlando attractions for families make it the perfect entertainment resource for all-ages activities. Keep reading for Orlando activities that everyone will love!

Haunted Houses, Horror Nights, and Scary Farms for Los Angeles Teens Who Like a Good Scare

The entrance to Midnight Falls at the world-famous Los Angeles Haunted Hayride. Photo courtesy of the Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group

Did someone say Haunted House? What goes on at theme parks in Los Angeles for Halloween is nothing like the wholesome thrill of a Tigger-clad child ringing doorbells for candy. It may seem like Los Angeles celebrates a night that's all about children with an awful lot of entertainment that is clearly not for children, but these frightful haunts, houses, and hayrides keep the Halloween fun going for older kids and teens. How to know which haunts are best for which ages? We've braved a few of them to share our reviews of just how scary is scary.

Looking for something not quite so scary, and a good deal cheaper? Check out the coolest free haunted houses and Halloween decorations in Los Angeles. For more spooky fun see our Halloween Fun and Activities Guide for Los Angeles Kids.

Gift Guide to the Best Toys & Gifts for Kids, 5-Year-Olds to 9-Year-Olds

Suspend Family is a game the whole family can play. Photo courtesy of the Melissa & Doug Toy Company

If you're looking for the perfect birthday or holiday gifts for kids from 5-year-olds to 9-year-olds, you've found the right place!

When it comes to choosing gifts for kids, particularly this marvelous, coming-into-their-own age range of 5 to 9-year-olds, the temptation is to start veering towards digital. While we’re not into screen-shaming at Mommy Poppins, this list is free of screens and leans heavily on hands-on toys, physical books, and wonderfully messy art supplies. These creative and tactile toys keep kids' brains as active as their hands and bodies.

The lack of screen inclusion among these toy recommendations isn't a case of virtue signaling; we've seen that these are the toys that get treasured and played with for years to come.

Looking for awesome gifts for other ages? Find our faves for first birthday gifts, the most beloved toddler gifts, and more in our Mommy Poppins Gift Guide for Birthdays and Holidays.

Pumpkin Hill at Nalls Produce: A FREE Hidden Gem for Fall Family Fun Near DC

Take a picture in front of the famous pumpkin wall at Nalls Produce! Photo courtesy of the author

For over 30 years, visiting Nalls Produce and Garden Center in Franconia, Virginia has been a fall tradition for many families. Each autumn, Nalls opens Pumpkin Hill, a free play area with tunnels to crawl through, a mountain of pumpkins to climb, farm animals to meet, and a famous pumpkin wall that provides the perfect family photo op. 

But despite its popularity, I'd still call Nalls a hidden gem. That's because if you don't know about it and you're driving by, blink and you'll miss it. From the street, Nalls looks like a small garden center and produce stand. But pull into the parking lot and you'll find a fall wonderland for families. Pumpkin Hill is geared towards toddlers and preschoolers, but older kids and grown-ups will also love soaking up the autumn vibes. 

I recently stopped by Nalls Produce's Pumpkin Hill with my husband and 11-year-old daughter. We walked away with lasting memories and some pretty perfect pumpkins. Read on to learn all about what to expect at Nalls in the fall. Then check out our DC Fall Activities Guide for more autumn fun with kids, including our ultimate fall bucket list

Things To Do in Philly That Everyone Will Love—From Toddlers to Teens (and Parents Too!)

The animals are very friendly at the Philly Zoo... especially around lunchtime. Photo by J. Fusco

It’s hard enough pleasing one child, but when you have multiple kids in completely different developmental stages, it can feel downright impossible to find activities that are entertaining and age-appropriate for every member of the family. Things may be more complicated when there’s an age gap, but fortunately it’s still possible to find fun activities in Philadelphia that will make everybody happy. Whether you have a preschooler, kid, and/or teen, we’re here to help you plan a day that everyone can enjoy (including you!). 

Best Winter Vacation Ideas for Families: Affordable Vacation Spots for Kids of All Ages

Photo courtesy of Gulf State Park Beach

The days are getting shorter and colder, and the winter blues may soon be setting in. Why not cure them with a family vacation? While a trip to an all-inclusive resort or one of our warm and sunny winter vacation ideas would be nice, our wallets don't always agree. Luckily, there are plenty of fun and affordable vacation spots that won't break the bank.

Here are 18 low-cost winter vacation ideas for families in the US and abroad. Many of these affordable vacation spots have lower prices and thinner crowds in the winter months, making winter the perfect time to visit—even during February break. For more fun family vacation ideas any time of year, check out our Family Travel Guide.

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