Author: Karyn Locke

7 Best Outdoor Activities in Fort Wayne for Everyone

Karyn Locke
best outdoor activities in Fort Wayne for everyone: Sculpture with Purpose

Fort Wayne, Indiana, is always calling my name to come back and there’s good reason why: its outdoor attractions and fun locations. And, while you may not think of it as an outdoorsy city, maybe it’s time you should. From affordable sports to cuddly animals, here are the 7 best outdoor activities in Fort Wayne for everyone.  Disclosure: I was graciously hosted by the folks at Visit Fort Wayne to give you the scoop on its outdoor activities. All opinions are my own! Lead photo image courtesy of Visit Fort…

11 Best Free Museums in Ohio

Karyn Locke
Best museums in Ohio: Ohio Statehouse state seal

Free in Ohio? Oh, yeah. Traveling to Ohio and looking for a little educational fun? Well, you’re in luck in that department, too. From massive art displays to aviation tributes, here are the 11 best free museums in Ohio.  Ahh, Ohio. It has lakes, hills, rivers, big cities – and plenty of freebies! And when it comes to those freebies, its museums make the top of my list. While there are plenty that are worthy of a visit, this list has something for everyone from 1 to 101. While it…

Nine Hefty Universal Orlando Hotel Benefits and Perks

Karyn Locke
Universal Orlando Hotel Benefits and Perks: Aventura Resort early park entry

When visiting Universal Orlando Resort, is it better to stay at an on-property resort or off? While both may work well for your traveling needs, you may want to consider staying onsite for the hefty benefits. From freebies to transportation, here are nine Universal Orlando hotel benefits and perks. For past trips to Universal Orlando Resort (UOR), I have stayed both on property and off. Yes, I had my own vehicle so driving to the parks wasn’t a problem. But, if given the choice (and budget) to do either, I’ll…

Never Make These Seven Universal Orlando Mistakes

Karyn Locke
Universal Orlando mistakes: rope drop

Getting ready to visit Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, FL, and want to make the most of your visit? Or maybe you’ve already visited and want to better your park experience. Either way, I’ve got you covered. From when to hit the theme parks to what never to buy, never make these seven Universal Orlando mistakes! Don’t Skip Early Park Entry for Resort Guests Never Spend Money on Water Don’t Expect to Hop on Rides Midday Don’t Think Spring Break Will Have Low Crowds Never Discount Single Rider Lines Don’t…

5 Best Museums in Indianapolis for Families

Karyn Locke
Best Museums in Indianapolis for Families: Children's Museum of Indianapolis and its Chocolate Slide

Headed to Indy with the kids and looking for fun places to visit? Want to add some learning while you’re there? From massive, outdoor ways to blow off steam to lessons in Indiana geology, here are the best museums in Indianapolis for families!  Eiteljorg Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Indiana State Museum Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art) NCAA Hall of Champions I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Indianapolis, Indiana, several times. And while each visit was for a different reason, I loved adding in some culture and learning for my daughter.…

How to Keep Kids Safe at Theme Parks: Dos and Don’ts for Amusement Park Safety

Karyn Locke
how to keep kids safe at theme parks: storage lockers

Let’s get this out of the way: theme parks are very safe. But accidents happen everyday at theme parks all over the world. While I don’t like to think about it, I have to. I have a kiddo, after all, and do everything possible to maintain her health and well-being. But there are important dos and don’ts to know on how for kids (and their caregivers and parents). Whether you’re planning a trip to a theme park or are standing in one right now, here’s how to keep kids safe…

10 Fun Reasons to Visit SeaWorld With Younger Children

Karyn Locke
SeaWorld with younger children: manatees

I love taking my family to Orlando, FL, a super popular vacation destination for families. While most theme parks and attractions are geared towards both adults and kids, SeaWorld is an especially great choice for parents with children between the ages of 2 and 8. Here are 10 reasons to visit SeaWorld with younger children on your next family vacation. When I was a kid, my family used to make an almost-yearly summer visit to Ohio. On almost every visit, we’d pack up the family car and head to Aurora,…

The Best Characters that Walk Around Magic Kingdom at Disney World

Karyn Locke
best characters that walk around Magic Kingdom at Disney World: Prince John

Scoring a FastPass to meet and greet characters at Disney World is always a good idea, but sometimes it’s just not happening. So, when you don’t have a reservation to meet them, or don’t want to wait in the standby queue, how can you still have fun character interactions? Happily, there are several Disney characters that wander around the parks. Here are the best characters that walk around Magic Kingdom at Disney World and tips for finding them.  Check the Times Guide Arrive a Few Minutes Early Have Your Camera…

11 Best My Disney Experience Tips and Tricks for Your Disney World Vacation

Karyn Locke
My Disney Experience Tips and Tricks:

Getting ready to visit Walt Disney World and looking forward to making the most of its app, My Disney Experience? Or maybe you just want to know the ins and outs of the app? Either way, I’ve got you covered. From dining to resorts to photos, here are the 11 best My Disney Experience tips and hacks.  Order Quick Service Meals Find Your Favorite Character Current Ride and Attraction Wait Times Memory Maker Purchases and Viewing Unlock Your Resort Room Door Bus Wait Times Play Disney Parks Add or Update…

Essential First Timer’s Guide to Seven Springs Ski Resort

Karyn Locke
Essential guide to Seven Springs Ski resort

Learning the ins and outs of a large ski resort, especially when it’s your first visit, can be overwhelming. But, if you do your research, it’s a breeze. From where to eat to when to hit the slopes, here’s my first timer’s guide to Seven Springs Ski Resort: what you need to know.  An Overview Lift Tickets Equipment Rentals Lodging Tubing Indoor Activities Dining Weather I’m super lucky in the fact that Seven Springs Mountain Resort is under two hours from my home. Not only is it accessible, it’s a…