Family Fun Archives

Where to Stay when Visiting St. Louis

June 8, 2019

If you are looking for a FUN family-friendly vacation, St. Louis is the perfect destination!

St. Louis offers so many fun things to do, from the amazing Gateway Arch and interactive Museums, to a fantastic Zoo, interesting farm, and the most unique indoor/outdoor playground with slides, caves, and tunnels that your kids will LOVE!

We are so grateful to partner with Explore St. Louis and Drury Inn & Suites on our recent vacation to help us share all about this exciting Midwest Destination!

Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, the website will earn a commission in you click through and make a purchase.

Where to Stay in St. Louis

When you are looking for a family-friendly hotel in St. Louis, with a lot of extras including Free Breakfast, 5:30 Kickback, and popcorn each night, Drury Inn & Suites offers fantastic hospitality and is a perfect place to stay! (Note: These benefits can change at any time. Please verify with your selected hotel before visiting.)

Be sure to visit 8 of the Best Places to Visit in St. Louis with Kids when planning your trip!

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

Look at this view from the Observation Deck!

If you are looking for a wonderful hotel near the Arch, the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch is the perfect place to stay!

We loved sitting out here relaxing each evening high above the plaza, with a beautiful view of the Gateway Arch. It was mesmerizing the see the colors change as sunset fell.

On the morning of our scheduled time for the tram to go up the Arch (it is recommend to schedule these in advance as they often sell out!), we just walked out the front door of our hotel right to the Arch entrance. It was wonderful not having to worry about parking!

The pool is right next to the Outdoor Observation Deck! It also includes 2 hot tubs for the adults to relax.

The beautiful lobby is very different than your standard breakfast area. With a variety of seating options, it was perfect for the Free Breakfast each morning, and the 5:30 Kickback each evening.

It offered a wonderful place for gathering to share a meal, or to talk about the days plans.

Many Drury Hotels offer Free Breakfast each morning full of a variety of options, as well as their signature 5:30 Kickback in the evening!

Tacos, pasta, chicken strips, a variety of soups and chili, baked potato bar, salad, nachos, and more were rotated each night and provided a delicious meal each evening. Adults also received complimentary drinks each night!

It was very nice to come back to the hotel after an exciting day exploring, and eat dinner and relax for the evening.

2 Room Suite with 2 Queen Beds

While there, we stayed in a spacious 2-Room Suite with 2 Queen Beds, a living area with a desk and pull-out couch, and nice bathroom.

This deluxe two-room suite features two rooms separated by a door, with two queen beds in the bedroom, a pull-out queen sofa sleeper in the living room and a TV in each room. The microwave and refrigerator are a necessity when traveling with kids!

The Suites are so nice to be able to spread out and have a separate bedroom!

Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Brentwood

We also stayed at Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Brentwood, which is a perfect location when visiting Forest Park, St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, and The Magic House.

The Indoor / Outdoor Pool and hottub are perfect for relaxing and for the kids playing at the end of the day.

2 Room Suite with 1 King Bed

Here we stayed in a 2 Room Suite with 1 King Bed, living space, pull-out couch, desk, and bar.

This deluxe two-room suite features two spacious rooms separated by a door, with one king bed in the bedroom, a pull-out queen sofa sleeper in the living room and a TV in each room.

I felt spoiled staying in a Suite, and it was very nice to have a separate bedroom and living space!

One of the best things about staying at Drury Hotels was that we felt that each employee went out of their way to make sure we were having a wonderful stay.

From the welcome desk, to the dining area, to the pool, each staff said hello and asked if we needed anything and were happy to help with whatever we needed.

Wonderful Extra Perks

Guests at these Drury Hotels enjoy FREE Hot Breakfast and 5:30 Kickback which included a variety of options for dinner, plus drinks for adult guests each night.

This was fantastic and delicious as we enjoyed tacos, pasta, hot dogs, soup, salad, and more every night!

(Note: These benefits can change at any time. Please verify with your selected hotel before visiting.)

Additionally, popcorn and pop were also available each night in both locations – A perfect snack at the end of a busy day!

With the wonderful hospitality, perfect locations, spacious rooms, fun pools, and extra benefits including Free Breakfast and 5:30 Kickback, Drury Hotels are a wonderful option when looking for a hotel in St. Louis or in various cities where your travels may take you.

For More Information on Visiting St. Louis:

>> SEE ALSO: Day and Weekend Trips from Omaha!

Schramm Education Center

May 16, 2019

The new Schramm Education Center (formerly the Aksarben Aquarium) is now open!

Visitors to Schramm State Recreation Area and the new Schramm Education Center can experience the new facility with:

Newly renovated and expanded aquariums featuring Nebraska’s natural aquatic habitats – cool water streams, rivers, reservoirs and farm ponds. The total water in the four large tanks is 21,200 gallons (compared to the total water for the old aquarium at 7,000 gallons)
Six smaller tanks focusing on some of Nebraska’s smaller, lesser-known fish species.
A touch tank inviting visitors to feel a Pallid Sturgeon (tank is 2,200 gallons).
Seventeen live animal tanks featuring Nebraska’s reptile and amphibian species including interactive digital signage focusing on each species.
Educational nature center areas including a reading nook, maker’s space, bird watching area and pre-school play area, and learning stations focusing on insects, birds and nature.
Bird wingspan exhibit inviting visitors to measure their “wingspan” against several Nebraska native bird species. And, a mammal exhibit inviting visitors to compare their size to that of numerous Nebraska mammals and learn about mammal adaptations.
Interactive digital features including wayfinding map, touch screens focusing on the species of the area, interactive digital games including color-a-fish, lake stocking game and build-a-fish game.
Virtual reality mountain biking experience where visitors will have the opportunity to “ride” the trails of local state park areas on an actual bike.

Additionally, visitors will be able to experience:

Over five miles of amazing hiking trails and new interpretive trail signage explaining the area’s natural resources.
The history of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission through exploring the historic canyon ponds and hatchery house where NGPC was started.
Explore the Biologically Unique Landscape filled with flora and fauna native to the area.

Regular admission and Park Entry Permit required. Find more information about admission fees here.

Find More Omaha Fun:

Teddy Bear Weekend at the Omaha Zoo!

March 22, 2019

Guests are invited to bring their favorite stuffed animal to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium® for repair and care at the ninth annual Teddy Bear Weekend on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (The emergency room will be closing at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, so please arrive beforehand if your furry friend is in need of a special trip to the ER.)

Children, ages 3-11, who bring in a stuffed animal will receive FREE admission to the Zoo when accompanied by a paying adult.

Teddy Bear Weekend at the Omaha Zoo

Teddy Bear Weekend presented by MedExpress Urgent Care is a family favorite that includes learning, entertainment and wild animal fun!

Guests can bring their teddy bear or other stuffed animal to the Zoo on March 30 or 31 and receive special treatment by skilled staff. Stuffed animals will go through a check-up including height, heartbeat, ear and eye exams and, if needed, a trip to a local urgent care or the emergency room.

Guests will also enjoy up-close animal encounters. At the end of the check-up, kids will receive a lollipop provided by Oriental Trading Company. The clinic is a great way for kids to familiarize themselves with the healthcare community and what they may expect if they need to visit a doctor, hospital or dentist.

The first 100 entrants on each day of the event will receive a MedExpress Care Bag featuring fun goodies in a reusable tote. While supplies last, so arrive early!

Event activities are free to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium members or with regular paid Zoo admission. Children, ages 3-11, who bring in their favorite stuffed animal will receive free admission to the Zoo when accompanied by a paying adult.

Find More Omaha Fun:

Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens

January 20, 2019

This is a Sponsored Feature with Lauritzen Gardens to share all about Dinosaur UpROAR!

Experience Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens, January 17 through May 12th!

See what the excitement is all about at Dinosaur UpROAR!

Experience Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens

Experience Dinosaur UpROAR, the exciting new display at Lauritzen Gardens, full of life-sized dinosaurs, January 17 – May 12, 2019!

Located throughout the lush vegetation in the garden’s floral display hall and the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory, the dinosaurs will range in size from a 14-inch Sordes to a 30-foot Parasaurolophus and a 33-foot tall Daspletosaur.

These incredible sculptures are the work of Guy Darrough and his team at Lost World Studios, who bring the prehistoric world to life with amazing detail.

Be sure to stop by to see the fossil displays!

Family Fun

Lauritzen Gardens has put a strong focus on creating family-friendly fun. Throughout the exhibit, families can enjoy a variety of activities!

Budding paleontologists can visit the dig site to uncover buried artifacts, play in the dinosaur garden, or participate in other fun drop-in activities created by the garden’s education department.

Be sure your kids pick up a scavenger hunt to help find all of the dinosaurs!

$A little dinosaur in a planter with a sign that reads, :Hello, I\'m Spike.\"$

There are a few hidden surprises, too! Try to find Spike, and the Barbasol can!

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the giant Connect 4 game!

Visit Lauritzen Gardens

>> Members of the Omaha Public Library can check out a pass to visit Lauritzen Gardens for FREE! Find out more here! <<

Upcoming Special Events

Get a glimpse of the dinosaurs illuminated at night during Dino-Nights!

Dino-Nights – February 15-17, 22-24, March 1-3, 8-10, 2019 (5 to 8 p.m. each evening)

Explore the garden’s “Jurassic dark.” Get an evening fossil fix that’s fun for the whole family when the sculptures of Dinosaur UpROAR are illuminated. Included with regular admission.

More Special Events

Dinosaur Yoga for Families
Family Workshops
Read and Grow at the Garden
Adult Only Dino-Night
Painting with Pinot’s Palette
Dinos at Twilight Tour
The Great Paleo Panel
Find out more about these Special Events here!

Giveaway: Enter to WIN a 4-pack to see Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens! (Ended)

THE PRIZE: A Family 4-Pack to visit Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens!

This giveaway has ended. Many thanks to all who entered! Congratulations to Laurie D.!

OTHER: Entrants must be 19 or older and located in the US only. Winner must respond within 48 hours to claim their prize, or another winner will be chosen. Only one entry (+ bonus entries) per person. Duplicate entries will be deleted.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Lauritzen Gardens who provided the giveaway. See disclosure and privacy policy here. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

Amazing WinterFest Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun!

November 25, 2018

Special thanks to Worlds of Fun for partnering with us so that we can share all about the fun at WinterFest!

Enjoy a wonderful Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun – WinterFest!

The minute you walk into WinterFest, you are immersed in the Holiday Spirit, surrounded by beautiful lights, a huge glistening Christmas tree, Holiday music, shows, songs, and even some snow!

This special Holiday experience is filled with family fun, activities, shows, rides, characters, and special moments that will create lasting memories. Find more fun in Kansas City over Christmas here!

Experience all the fun at Winterfest at Worlds of Fun!

Wonderful Holiday Experience

Immediately upon entering Worlds of Fun, you are greeted with dazzling lights and displays.

Families can take their photo with St. Nick and meet holiday characters like Jack Frost, the Sugar Plum Fairy, Candy Cane, Jingle Bell when they visit.

Holiday Lights Everywhere

Everywhere you look, twinkling lights, intricate displays, and many of the rides all decked out in sparkling lights.

The carousel is one of the first rides you see!

Beautiful Holiday Lights surround the park!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqnm4fNFlaz/

Charlie Brown Christmas Town

Planet Snoopy is transformed into Charlie Brown Christmas Town filled with giant colored light bulbs throughout the park. Many of the rides are open including Woodstock Gliders, Lucy’s Tugboat, and Peanuts 500!

Meet Charlie Brown and Snoopy at Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree Lot!

Meet the other Peanuts Gang, too!

Decorate Cookies at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen

Choose from giant cookies that your kids will love to decorate! (Extra charge for this activity.)

Choose from frostings of a variety of colors, sprinkles, and toppings to decorate your cookie how you would like.

Mrs. Claus joins in the fun!

More Special Treats

Many restaurants are open, with fun new names!

$A restaurant sign that reads, \"Vixen\'s Fixins\" and \"Prancer\'s Pizza\" at WinterFest Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun.$

You can purchase a special WinterFest cup and refill it with delicious Hot Chocolate!

Browse through many Holiday shops, including the Artisan Alley, a local showcase of 30+ local artists offering hand-made collectibles and special gifts for your holiday shopping list.

$A banner over an activity area that reads, \"Artisan Alley\" at WinterFest Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun.$

Exciting Rides and Attractions

We loved our favorites the Prowler Roller Coaster (especially fun at night where you can see all of the bright lights!) and the Autobahn Bumper Cars!

Le TaxiTour is transformed into the 12 Days of Christmas!

$A sign over an activity area that reads, \"The Twelve Days of Christmas\" at WinterFest Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun.$ $A sign in front of railroad tracks that reads, \"Merry Christmas\" at WinterFest Holiday Experience at Worlds of Fun.$

The Worlds of Fun Railroad is transformed into the WinterFest Express!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb_AFP2BAhi/

Enjoy multiple shows throughout WinterFest, including the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with snow, Charlie Brown’s Christmas Spectacular, and more Live Entertainment!

One of our favorite rides at WinterFest – Woodstock Gliders!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcAVelDBvuD/

Enjoy special Holiday Ice Skating! (Sessions are $15 and includes skate rental and guides for beginner skaters.)

Walk into a giant snow globe!

Warm bonfires invite you to warm up on the colder nights.

Truly amazing spectacle everywhere you look!

Taste of WinterFest

Experience A Taste of WinterFest, which includes 8 Tastings from 8 Specialty Locations!

Our favorite item was the Holiday Loaded Yams, delicious sweet potato fries, topped with chicken, cranberries, toasted shaved brussel sprouts, and a cheese sauce.

Choose from 2 kinds of Bubble Tea, Chai or Pumpkin Spice.

We were definitely full by the end of the night and enjoyed a variety of tastings!

Enjoy WinterFest at Worlds of Fun

WinterFest at Worlds of Fun is a wonderful way to celebrate the Holidays with your family!

$An entrance sign that reads, \"Worlds of Fun WinterFest.\"$

Find more fun things to do in Kansas City at Christmas here!

Ashfall Fossil Beds: Visiting with Kids

August 9, 2018

A close up of a fossil bed at Ashfall Fossil Beds

Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park is a fascinating Natural Landmark located right here in Nebraska!

See complete skeletons of barrel-bodied rhinos, three-toed horses, llama-like camels, and sabre-tooth deer that were entombed in volcanic ash 12 million years ago. These skeletons are preserved for an amazing viewing and discovery experience!

View a glimpse of Ashfall Fossil Beds here:

Plan Your Visit

Ashfall Fossil Beds is open for visitors from May – early October (approximately). See website for dates and hours. It is located in Northeast Nebraska, near Royal, approximately 3 hours from Omaha. (See below for ideas for places to visit nearby!)

Admission: Entrance Fee per person plus a valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required.

Ashfall Fossil Beds Visitor Center

Begin your visit in the Visitor Center, learning about the history of the Ashfall Fossil Beds.

Enjoy interpretive displays to help offer an overview of what you are going to see in the Rhino Barn.

Kids enjoyed looking through the microscopes!

Hubbard Rhino Barn

The highlight of your visit to Ashfall Fossil Beds is the ‘Rhino Barn’! Excavation within this new Rhino Barn started in 2009.

It is divided into sections, with each area slowly excavated. We were told it would take another 14-16 years to complete the excavation in the Rhino Barn!

(If you have a child interested in paleontology, they might be able to return to help with the excavation!)

It was fascinating to watch the college students who are studying paleontology work on the excavation. They answered questions, and explained their process.

She pointed out that since she is just beginning (it was her first day of excavation!), that she was at a higher level (less fossils) than her colleague who was at a deeper level (more fossils) since he was nearing the end of his 10-weeks and had more experience.

While we were there, he said he found another print of a bone-crushing dog!

The displays helped visitors understand what they were looking at.

View a variety of skeletons including this Young Adult Male Rhino here.

This area has been fully excavated. Each of the elevated areas is a fossil or footprint!

Here we could touch the volcanic ash!

Finding Fossils

$A sign over a fossil children\'s fossil dig pit at Ashfall Fossil Beds.$

Kids will enjoy digging for fossils in 2 areas!

Nearby Ashfall Fossil Beds

While there, be sure to visit these locations that are near Ashfall Fossil Beds!

Make it a weekend trip, and visit the beautiful Lewis and Clark lake (about 1.5 hours from Ashfall Fossil Beds), with Yankton, South Dakota, nearby.

Visit the Gavins Point Dam for picturesque views. Tours are available.

It was recommended to us to be sure to stop at the Verdigre Bakery for a Kolache – it was delicious!

The beautiful Niobrara State Park offers picturesque views and a variety or recreational activities.

Helpful Omaha Resources:

Offutt AFB Air & Space Show 2018: Helpful Tips for Visiting!

August 6, 2018

One of my favorite events of the summer is the Offutt AFB Air & Space Show! This FREE event will be held August 11 & 12, 2018. Gates open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

I love hearing the sound of the aircraft overhead, walking through various amazing aircraft on the ground, and watching my children’s amazement and joy while sitting in a huge helicopter!

PLEASE NOTE: Details are subject to change. Please check with the the Offutt AFB Air & Space Show website and Facebook page for latest updates. security guidelines, and parking information.

Offutt Air Show Schedule

This FREE event will be held August 11 & 12, 2018. Gates open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Each day includes Static Display Viewing, USAF Raptor Band performances, and a Military Working Dog Demo.

Click here for Schedule and Order of Flying Acts (Flying Acts beginning around Noon until 4 p.m. (approximately)).

Follow the Offutt AFB Open House and Air Show Facebook page for updates.

Highlights at the Offutt Air Show

Visitors can walk through awesome Static Displays like the EA-18 Growler and some of the Fightin’ Fifty-Fifth’s fleet and many more, and visit with Airforce personnel.

Enjoy amazing Aerial Demonstrations each day from 12 – 4 p.m. (approx) including Rifle Airshows, Gregory W Colyer/Ace Maker Airshows, and the U.S. Air Force F-35 Heritage Flight Team. The headliners this year are the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II demo teams!

UPDATE: Additionally, the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber will appear as a flying display both days!

Additionally, visit with several Exhibitors (click on Exhibitors tab).

Offutt Air Show Parking

Visitors are strongly encouraged to use the FREE & convenient shuttle services that are available in various locations in Bellevue (click on ‘Off Base Parking and Shuttle info’) including:

Southroads Mall
Bellevue East High School
Bellevue West High School
Bellevue University
& more

** Be aware of security restrictions/prohibited items prior to boarding bus. Nothing can remain on buses and patrons are subject to search upon entering installation.**

Please be patient, as there can be long lines during peak hours or at the conclusion of the day’s events.

There also is limited parking available at the base (Click on ‘On Base Parking’). Be prepared to walk a bit to the gate, or ride a shuttle which is also available from the parking areas to the gates starting at 10 a.m. Limited Handicapped parking will be available close to Air Show ramp entrance (follow signs).

Find Directions here.

Security

The security requirements in place at the Air Show are for our safety. All individuals and vehicles entering the base are subject to search. Please be patient as it might take a little longer during peak hours. You may leave and re-enter as needed, but you will have to go through the security checkpoint again.

No Coolers, Backpacks (including camelbak water sources), tote bags, large camera bags, large purses, weapons, Unmanned Aerial Systems, or Scissors.

Pets are NOT allowed on the Air Show grounds and cannot be left in vehicles in any of the Air Show parking lots. The heat generated from the cement tarmac is unsuitable for pets. Please plan accordingly.

This is subject to change. Please refer to this page for up-to-date Security information (click on Security Rules).

What To Bring

Visitors can bring transparent water bottles and Chairs (may carry them in the case they come in but will be asked to take it out for inspection upon entry).

Good walking shoes are recommended. For little ones, many people have also brought headphones since it can be loud.

Small purses and Diaper/Breast Feeding Bags are allowed, but are subject to approval and search by gate security. [Backpacks or other large bags and coolers of any size are NOT allowed.]

With typical August weather, it can feel very hot on the tarmac. Remember sunscreen, hat or sunglasses for you and your kids, and personal umbrellas.

Food and souvenirs are available for purchase at many Vendors (click on Food).

More FAQ

See answers to more Frequently Asked Questions here.

Looking forward to another Amazing Air Show!

Omaha Helpful Resources

Living History Experiences in Nebraska and Iowa

June 8, 2018

Living History Experiences offer a unique look into the past, with a variety of fun activities for families. Enjoy several in Nebraska and Iowa!

Living History in Nebraska

Fort Atkinson State Historial Park (pictured above) – 201 S 7th St., Fort Calhoun, NE

Living history demonstrations take place periodically throughout the summer and fall with reenactors portraying fur traders, coopers, blacksmiths, carpenters, tinsmiths, weavers and other period trades. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors.
Generally, these are held on the first weekend of each month during the Summer. Check schedule here under “Living History Demonstrations.”
Kids love interacting and learning how butter is made, visiting the blacksmith shop, hearing the cannon, and trying their hand at weaving. Occasionally they have a scavenger hunt for the kids.
The events are free. Visitors will need a daily or annual Nebraska State Park Permit.

Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer – Grand Island, NE

The Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer invites visitors to immerse themselves in a Living History Experience. Take a walk through Railroad Town and explore life as it was in 1897. Visit with costumed historians who are in the homes and businesses in town engaging in the activities of their day.
Admission charged.

Wessels Living History Farm – York, NE

The Wessels Living History Farm is a real, working farm, with chores to do every day and opportunities to do some hands-on learning. Farm life of the 1920’s is relived on fifteen acres, complete with a fully furnished farm house, country church, country school, post and beam barn, out house, granary and more.
Admission charged.

Indian Cave State Park – Shubert, NE

History buffs will enjoy the restored schoolhouse and general store from the old river town of St. Deroin, where old-time crafts are demonstrated during living history weekends throughout the summer and fall.
Visitors will need a daily or annual Nebraska State Park Permit.

Living History in Iowa

Living History Farms – Urbandale/Des Moines, IA

Living History Farms is an interactive outdoor museum which educates, entertains and connects people of all ages to Midwestern rural life experiences. Visit with many characters throughout the experience.
Admission charged.

Amana Colonies

The seven villages of the Amana Colonies offers visitors the opportunity to step back from today’s busy pace, meet artists, sample hearty foods, visit historical buildings, shop, and more.

Visiting Colorado Springs with Kids

June 2, 2018

Special thanks to Colorado Springs CVB for sponsoring this article to help us share all about the family fun in Colorado Springs! Many of the photos have been provided by the Colorado Springs CVB.

A few years ago, we took an amazing trip to Colorado Springs, Colorado, located about 8.5 hours from Omaha, and 1 hour South of Denver.

I remember going there as a child, and was so excited to take my own family and kids. It was even better than I remember, and is still considered one of our favorite family vacations!

Experience the magnificent beauty of the mountains together with a multitude of family-friendly things to do, and enjoy Colorado Springs as a perfect vacation destination for families!

Garden of the Gods

A must-see on any visit to Colorado Springs is Garden of the Gods. This beautiful park is filled with walking paths that take you right up close to the magnificent red rock formations. Both the park and Visitor & Nature Center are free and open to the public.

The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1 1/2 mile paved trail that is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Additionally, there are 15 miles of trails in the park to explore the beauty of this geological wonder. Love to hike? See 5 easy hikes for kids in Colorado Springs here!

Be sure to stop by the Visitor & Nature Center for a picturesque-view of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, and to pick up a free map with all of the hiking and biking trails in the area. While there, we asked which hikes would be best for our young children.

Rock climbing is permitted in the park (Guests must fill out the free registration form), and it was amazing to watch the climbers!

A perfectly-framed photo of Pikes Peak!

Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak offers a stunning backdrop to the city of Colorado Springs!

Reach the summit and experience the mountain up close by ascending the scenic Pikes Peak Highway, a spectacular (and occasionally intense) drive that winds its way up the mountain. Visitors can also try cycling or hiking to reach the top!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Built into the side of a mountain, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was another favorite stop on our trip to Colorado Springs. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and hand-feeding the giraffes. Families will enjoy seeing the wide variety of animals surrounded by a stunning view!

Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center

If you love the Olympics, be sure to visit the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center. They offer year-round 1-hour guided tours of the OTC facilities, with a video presentation followed by a walking tour of the Complex. It was fascinating to see the facilities and learn about the athletes, and even watch some of them train!

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

At Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, explore the caves and choose from 3 cave tours including a Lantern tour!

For a unique adventure, try the Wind Walker Challenge Course. Once harnessed, visitors will climb over steel beams, ropes and ladders, all over the Williams Canyon!

More to See in Colorado Springs

The U.S. Air Force Academy is free and open to visitors daily. Guests can visit several outlooks that include the Falcon Stadium, a beautiful chapel, and a museum honoring Air Force personnel.

Train lovers of all ages will enjoy the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, with a scenic and informative 45-minute trip.

Special thanks to Colorado Springs CVB for sponsoring this article to help us share all about the family fun in Colorado Springs! Many of the photos have been provided by the Colorado Springs CVB.

Find more Fun:

Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course at Mahoney State Park

May 4, 2018

Special thanks to Go Ape for providing passes for us to experience the Treetop Adventure Course. Some of the links are affiliate links, which means when you make a reservation using my link, I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you.

The NEW Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course is now open at Mahoney State Park!

Are you looking for an exciting adventure? Experience this High Ropes Adventure Course full of exciting challenges, fun obstacles, and thrilling ziplines!

Watch and get a taste of the Exciting Adventure awaiting you at Mahoney State Park!

Exciting FUN at Go Ape Mahoney State Park

Get ready to complete exciting challenges and relax and take in the beauty on the Zipline Rides!

The Go Ape Treetop Adventure course is divided into 6 sections. The first site is the training site, with one challenge and a small zipline, to help you practice using the equipment and learn about safety.

The other 5 sites have about 4-5 obstacles, each ending with a thrilling Zipline!

Being a little afraid of heights, I was not sure if I would be able to complete the course. Keeping my focus on the challenge ahead of me, and the next step I needed to take really helped ease my anxiety. I felt safe the entire time and my confidence grew with each challenge that I completed.

Once a staff member gets you started on each site, guests will go on the course independently and self-paced, with guidance from the staff below, if needed.

I loved this as I never felt rushed and was able to take my time to complete each obstacle. At some of the platforms, guests can choose between moderate and difficult challenges. Family and friends can also watch from the trail below!

Challenging Obstacles

The Treetop Adventure Course includes a variety of challenging obstacles – some are easier than others, but all involve traversing from one platform to the next.

I thought the Flying Carpet was the most challenging!

Looking back, some of the obstacles are scarier or more challenging than others, but the excitement and confidence you feel afterwards is amazing!

Training and Safety

Although we were high off of the ground, I felt safe the entire time!

The first half hour is spent getting everyone’s equipment on and secure, and showing you how to use it. Each person is attached to a cable the entire time you are on each site.

Water coolers are at the beginning of each course and so you do not need to worry about bringing water with you.

Go Ape does an excellent job of providing safety training and showing you how to maneuver the trolley and the carabiner. In Site 1 (which is low to the ground), each person practices using their equipment with the staff ready to help.

The entire staff was enthusiastic, happy to answer any questions that we had, and encouraging along the way!

Children and Participant Requirements

Children can participate as long as they meet the height requirement (4’7″). We had several children in our group, and were amazed at how great they did! Everyone goes on the main Treetop Adventure Course (we do not have a Treetop Junior in Nebraska.)

A Park Permit is required to enter Mahoney State Park.

Supervision Requirements: One participating adult (19+) is required to supervise up to four youths (ages 15 and under). Participating adults may not supervise from the ground. *** 16-18 year olds do not require a participating adult, but do require a waiver signed by their legal guardian.

Participant Requirements: Minimum Height is 4’7″, and Maximum Weight is 285 lbs.

Go Ape has 16 locations around the United States, with some offering a Treetop Junior course!

Helpful Tips: Wear closed toe shoes, dress in layers, and arrive with a little extra time to use the restroom and relax before your adventure begins. Gloves are also an excellent idea to help protect your hands.

I Want to Sign Up!

Ready for an exciting and challenging adventure?

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Where to Stay in St. Louis

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

2 Room Suite with 2 Queen Beds

Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Brentwood

2 Room Suite with 1 King Bed

Wonderful Extra Perks

For More Information on Visiting St. Louis:

Find More Omaha Fun:

Teddy Bear Weekend at the Omaha Zoo

Find More Omaha Fun:

See what the excitement is all about at Dinosaur UpROAR!

Experience Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens

Family Fun

Visit Lauritzen Gardens

Upcoming Special Events

Get a glimpse of the dinosaurs illuminated at night during Dino-Nights!

Dino-Nights – February 15-17, 22-24, March 1-3, 8-10, 2019 (5 to 8 p.m. each evening)

More Special Events

Giveaway: Enter to WIN a 4-pack to see Dinosaur UpROAR at Lauritzen Gardens! (Ended)

Wonderful Holiday Experience

Holiday Lights Everywhere

Charlie Brown Christmas Town

Decorate Cookies at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen

More Special Treats

Exciting Rides and Attractions

Taste of WinterFest

Enjoy WinterFest at Worlds of Fun

Plan Your Visit

Ashfall Fossil Beds Visitor Center

Hubbard Rhino Barn

Finding Fossils

Nearby Ashfall Fossil Beds

Helpful Omaha Resources:

Offutt Air Show Schedule

Highlights at the Offutt Air Show

Offutt Air Show Parking

Security

What To Bring

More FAQ

Omaha Helpful Resources

Living History in Nebraska

Fort Atkinson State Historial Park (pictured above) – 201 S 7th St., Fort Calhoun, NE

Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer – Grand Island, NE

Wessels Living History Farm – York, NE

Indian Cave State Park – Shubert, NE

Living History in Iowa

Living History Farms – Urbandale/Des Moines, IA

Garden of the Gods

Pikes Peak

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

More to See in Colorado Springs

Find more Fun:

Exciting FUN at Go Ape Mahoney State Park

Challenging Obstacles

Training and Safety

Children and Participant Requirements

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