March 2026 Cincinnati Family Magazine

MARCH 2026

YOUR #1 HOMETOWN RESOURCE

Family Vacation for Your Family College Prep: 101

The Great Summer Getaway

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CONT ENT S March 2026

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The Mama Files

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Community Things To Do Things We Love

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features

Parenting: The College Years Just because your child is in college doesn’t mean parenting stops. Dig into how you can let go a little while also managing to stay close. 12 College Readiness Roadmap Investigate the unspoken things young adults need to learn before heading off into the world on their own. 14 New Ways to Wander Consider what the best vacation for your family may be and plan a trip that goes beyond the beach! 16 18 Best Travel Destinations in the USA Broken down by age and interest, explore top cities for families to explore together.

Photos byJeremy Daniel, freepik.com, SERVATii, Mark Dumont

what’s on the web

BOCKFEST FOR FAMILIES Discover all of the free fun happening at Bockfest. THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF THE WIZ Get to know a cast member with a fun Q+A.

CELEBRATE PI DAY With this roundup of tasty local pies.

MEET CZBG’S CHEETAHS Get to know some cool cats from the Cincinnati Zoo.

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THE Mama FILES

MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN

PUBLISHER EDITORIAL

AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN PRODUCTION MANAGER KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH

The Season of Letting Go I t’s hard to believe I’m about to let my old- est spread her wings and leave the nest. Is she ready? My honest answer is no. Do I feel like she’s been taught everything she needs to survive on her own? Again…no. Somewhere around the transition to high school, I look back and wonder if I started to miss the mark. I always wanted to be a great mother—but also someone she would still talk to. Somewhere along the way, I may have leaned a little too far into “friend” and not enough into “push her harder.”That balance is tricky, and no one hands you a manual when they hand you a newborn.

MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MORGAN ESPENAN DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR SARAH MILLER CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER SABRINA SMITH BREE WRAY CLIENT SUCCESS SPECIALIST JILLIAN NORMAN PRODUCTION INTERN ADVERTISING/MARKETING

want these kids to grow into independent adults. But research shows the teenage brain isn’t fully developed until the mid-to-late twenties (around age 25 on average). So expecting 15-, 16-, or 17-year-olds to make life-altering decisions without consistent parental involvement feels… ambitious. Needless to say, I’ve learned a few things I hope can help other parents navigate this season. First: Get access to your child’s email and Common App account. Better yet, create a new, professional email address with their name in it. Use the same email and password across platforms (write it down somewhere safe). This has been a lifesaver. I can track deadlines, spot scholarship opportunities, and gently remind her before the clock runs out. And speaking of scholarships—apply for all of them. You truly can’t apply for too many. The worst that happens? You don’t get them all. The best? You do. My one regret? Not doing more college tours. Maybe we’ll still squeeze a few in. As much as I want her to stay close to home (where I can “accidentally” drop off groceries), there’s a big world out there, and I want her to explore it. I want her to become the independent, fierce young woman she’s already becoming. My mini-me—just a little smarter, a little sassier, with bigger goals…and the same big heart that loves big.

ASHLEY ZANDERS SALES OPERATIONS CRYSTAL BARRETT

ANTOINE COURTNEY KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN

JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ELISABETH BARRETT

Is she a bad kid? Absolutely not.

MARKETING COORDINATOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LAURIE ACOSTA DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS GAYLE GAUTHREAUX DIRECTOR OF FINANCE ALEXIS ALEXANDER SENIOR EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816

She has the biggest heart. She’s compas- sionate. She loves children. She stands up to bullies and fiercely protects the people she cares about. Sometimes she loves too much, trusts too easily, and gives her heart away when it isn’t always deserved. As we close out her high school years and step into the college chapter, it’s bitter- sweet—heavy on the sweet, if I’m being honest. It’s been a learning experience for both of us. I’m incredibly grateful her school provides a college counselor to guide students through the process. My only frustration? Parents are largely cut out. We receive the same reminder emails the students do, but unless you’re having regular conversations at home, things get missed. I understand the intention—they

And maybe that means I didn’t do such a bad job after all.

Amy L. Foreman Publisher

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CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FRG publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.

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MOST MEMORABLE VACATIONS

BY AMANDA CIANI PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

L ooking back on childhood, many adults may recount tales of their friend group’s shenanigans, family traditions from holidays, and yes, their most memorable vacations! With trip-planning on the itinerary, it got us to thinking: Are “best vacations” based on locations, activities, or something different altogether. So we asked, and you answered.

“My favorite vacation was taking my son to Houston, Texas, because it was his first airplane trip, and we got to visit NASA, and we were there for opening weekend for their Holocaust museum, and we were able to listen to a survivor give his talk.” -Theresa A. “Family vacations to Siesta Key, Florida are always so much fun!!! Great memories!!” -Pam J. “Our last big family trip with my dad before he passed. It was nice to spend so much time with him and my kids. We went to Florida, but that isn’t what made it so special.” -Sarah P. “My favorite was when we went to Florida celebrating our 25th anniversary.” -Paula B. “Gatlinburg and riding the mountain coaster with my son and niece.” -D.B. M. “Family staycations to amusement parks and the lake beaches…just being together.” -Allison G. “We went to Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, and loved our stay. It feels like a whole differ- ent world there where everything is under one roof. We didn’t leave, we just stayed on the premises and explored everything there was to explore. My kids loved the scavenger hunt and feeling like they could go off on their own a little bit when they were 10 and 12.” -Ashley T. What was your favorite vacation, and what made it so special and memorable?!

Last year’s summer vacation to New York, Boston and Salem will be hard to beat for me. It had a little bit of something for each member of the family, and it felt like a big adventure because we hopped from town to town every couple of days.” -Amanda C., Cincinnati Family Magazine “My favorite vacation was my aunt and uncle taking me on a Caribbean cruise! It was special because it was my first ever cruise and I got to go to so many fun places that I had never been to and do so many fun things I had never done!” -Emilia J. “The best vacation ever for me was to Anna Maria Island—all the family there and walk- ing distance to the beach! Pancakes on the beach and snorkeling—so fun!” -Kathy R. “Any vacation where I am not working and I am spending time with my kids and wife is the best vacation.” -Mike L. “Our family visits Hilton Head every summer, and having a home away from home where we can soak up some sun really makes every trip the best trip.” -Laura R. “A road trip out west to Yellowstone Nation- al Park with my family. It was wonderful to explore the beauty of Yellowstone with my loved ones.” -Mary S.

when I was in the middle of chemo. We went to the beach with the permission of my on- cologist. I was bald and not feeling so good, but she made me feel great by renting us chairs on the beach so I could have cover and be as close as possible. She brought food, got me drinks from a little beverage place close by and always made sure I had plenty of water. She also told me I was beautiful and God promised not to leave me. She got a mug that said ‘Don’t forget God’s promise’ with a rainbow, and one of the days, we saw a rainbow on the beach. It was an amazing trip.” -Sharon W. “My favorite vacation was getting to take my daughter to the beach for the first time and watching her experience the ocean and sand for her first time when she was three.” -Rachel P. “I love taking my family to our lake house down in Kentucky. We get to spend time in nature, and I get to teach them what my dad taught me.” -Chad M. “My favorite vacation was to Banff National Park and the surrounding area. It was just so beautiful.” -Charla S. “My favorite vacation thus far was our family trip to Disney World when our daughter was five. She was fully immersed in the magic and we were in it with her! She got to visit the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and her excitement was palpable. It was such a joy experiencing it all with her.” -Kelly M.

“My favorite vacation was with my friend Gina

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community

Local Students Attend Atlanta’s Junior Theatre Festival

Local students, representing The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT), attended the 2026 Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta, Georgia earlier this year. This weekend-long festival celebrates student-driven musical theater programs, with 141 groups from 31 states, Australia, England, France, Malta, New Zealand, Scotland, and Wales, were all in attendance. The singing, dancing, acting, and learning resulted in amazing accolades for students who attend TCT, including an Excellence in Dance Award, All-Star status for Levi Baum and Josalyn Davidson, and Josalyn Da- vidson also making it for a call-back to a yet-to-be announced special project promoting musical theater in schools. Congratulations to all who attended! Learn more at thechildrenstheatre.com.

Broadway in Cincinnati Announces 26/27 Season Theatre lovers, rejoice! The 2026–2027 season of Broadway in Cincinnati productions have been announced with many family-favorites rounding out the 11 shows. Check out the amazing lineup of Broadway in Cincinnati:

Buc-ee’s Coming to Ohio

Ohioans rejoice! The first ever Buc-ee’s in the buckeye state will be opening on April 6, 2026 at 6 a.m. in Huber Heights. With 120 gas pumps and 700 parking spaces, plenty of families will have the opportunity to fill their tanks and their shopping carts, too. For families who have not experienced the excitement of Buc-ee’s, expect a sensory overload of busy sights, smells, and sounds! After acclimating to the wonder that is Buc-ee’s, check out fan-favorites like Beaver Nuggets, an assortment of jerky, homemade sweets, a wall of sodas, coffee fixin’s galore, and seriously tasty slow-cooked meats. Beyond food, families can find merch, decor, and truly so much more. Lucky visitors may also get a chance to meet the mascot, Buc-ee, too—a friendly beaver donning a red ball- cap. Visit buc-ees.com to see what all the buzz is about.

Disney’s Beauty and The Beast | February 16–28, 2027 The Outsiders | March 16–28, 2027 Harry Potter and The Cursed Child | April 13–25, 2027 Hadestown | May 14–16, 2027 Buena Vista Social Club™ | June 1–13, 2027 Season tickets are now available for the upcoming 26/27 season at BroadwayInCincinnati.com.

Inaugural Catch the WAVE Virtual 5K

Run with a purpose! The first Catch the Wave Virtual 5K is up and running, and participants have until June 1st to complete their race. The Virtual 5K funds will foster WAVE Foundation’s mission to inspire and foster environmental stewards of aquatic life through education, conser- vation, and volunteerism. Registration is only $25 per participant which includes a race medal and a WAVE Foundation sticker. Sign-up for the virtual 5k at wavefoundation.org

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Nurf Battlez Now Open

Cheetah 5K Returns!

Families will definitely have a “blast” at the newly opened Nurf battle arena in Erlanger, Kentucky. Featuring walk-in open play, public and private parties, and Nurf Battlez play- ers, ages five years old and up can face off against one an- other during heated challenges and exhilarating games led by a game master. Game play, which is only $15 for 1 hour, $20 for 90 minutes, and $24 for 2 hours, also includes blaster rental. There are a variety of blaster options available, with upgraded blasters available at an additional cost. Discover some foam flingin’ fun with the family—visit nurfbattlez.com for more details.

After a six-year hiatus, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s fan-favorite race, the Cheetah Run 5K, is back! Special events manager Sydney Boudreaux notes, “This is clearly an event that people want… and we’re not just bringing it back, we’re making it even better!”The 3.1 mile run will start at 8 a.m. on March 22nd and will weave in and out of the Zoo, past cheetahs, lions, giraffes, bears, otters, zebras, and more! Along with the 5K race, there will also be a Cub Run for kids 12 and under. Of course, runners are welcomed to celebrate at the zoo after their races; both the Cheetah Run 5K ($49.95 total) and Cub Run ($13.75 total) registration include race day admission for Sunday, March 22nd. Register at cincinnatizoo.org.

MX4D Coming to Liberty B&B Theatre

A truly immersive experience in movies will soon be available for local film aficionados. MX4D makes going to the movies so much more than just seeing a movie, as film-goers also feel and smell the movie, too. Effects include seat rumbling, popping and tickling, air and water blasts, wind, snow, fog, rain, bubbles, snow, scents, and more. B&B Theatres at Liberty Township’s upgrades also include the addition of a screenPLAY theatre, which includes an in-theatre play area to encourage kids to get their wiggles out before the show starts! Renovations and upgrades are slated to be complete in the summer of 2026. Visit bbtheatres.com to stay in-the-know.

Celebrate Founder’s Weekend at Pyramid Hill The annual Founder’s Weekend will take place at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum this month. The two-day event on March 7th and 8th includes lots of fun worth celebrating, including free admission and free crafts for kids. A new outdoor collection sculpture by Barton Rubenstein will be unveiled and multiple new exhibitions will be on display! See the full weekend itinerary and discover more at pyramidhill.org.

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easy for their children and want to mitigate or fix challenges for them. We all make mistakes, and the important part of this is the learning that comes from these experi- ences. It might be uncomfortable for parents to let this happen, but it can create valuable lessons for the rest of life,” she says. Burton says another piece of advice is to have parents remember that your own college experience might not be the same as your child’s. She often hears parents comment that college was the best time of their lives, so why is their child struggling? According to Burton, when children hear this, they can internalize that they are wrong for struggling or not liking college. To help, lean in with curiosity to a child’s experience. Coping Tools A tool that can help parents adjust is inten- tional reflection. When parents get worried about how their child is doing, or even just missing their child, they tend to want to go into “fix mode.” But this can lead to broken boundaries and create more frustration. “I like to use reflection as a way to not nec- essarily fix the uncomfortable emotions, but rather learn to manage the discomfort when it comes up,” says Burton. Parents can reflect on their accomplishments with parenting (“I raised an intelligent/kind/capable child”), helpful qualities about their child (“My child is good at making friends and managing their time”), or any other pieces of information that can help them recognize that their child will be ok, she explains. The discomfort that can come with these transitions do not last forever. Burton’s one piece of reassurance to offer parents navigat- ing this stage is that it is temporary. “I like to compare it to the newborn stage, where the sleepless nights, crying, and overall transition to parenthood feels endless. Then one day, sleep starts coming more naturally, the crying seems to slow down, and you feel like you have the hang of caring for a child.” Colleges often have resources not only for students, but for parents making this transition as well. Some colleges may contain versions of “parent corners” on their web- sites that contain information about what is happening at the school and how they can support their child in the transition. Every parent has their own experience when it comes to this transition. You might feel different emotions than your spouse or friends, but just because you feel differently than someone else does not make you wrong or a bad parent, Burton assures. She says it is important to give yourself, and your student, grace throughout these changes.

Letting Go Without Checking Out: How Parenting Shifts During the College Years BY AMELIA ROESSLER

S ending a child off to college can be one of the most emotional milestones in parenting. As time flies, the days of changing diapers, helping with homework, dropping them off at school activities, and packing lunches fade into the rearview mir- ror. It’s time for them to go to college. As parents, you try to remain confident that the foundation you have built over the past 18 years will be able to accompany your child. But how do you navigate the transition as a parent? How do you navigate independence and set boundaries that benefit both you and your child? Mixed Emotions Marti Burton, MA, ALC, NCC, EMDR-T, and therapist at Empower Counseling & Coaching, says she sees a mix of emotions from parents when a child leaves for college. Many times she will see pride, fulfillment, and excitement at a child getting into college, receiving scholarships, or experiencing something new. But Burton says sometimes those emotions come with increased sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and role confusion. “Role confusion is a normal, but uncomfort- able, part of development that comes when parenting is no longer the main focus of an adult’s life. It can take some time to adjust to reducing emphasis on parenting duties and instead focusing on things that bring fulfill- ment to parents,” says Burton. She also explains that no emotion is wrong or inherently bad, and she prefers to use “favor- able” or “unfavorable” to describe emotions rather than positive or negative. This stage can feel harder than parents ex- pect, even with a successful transition. Burton says parents tend to focus on their child’s ex-

perience and emotions, and forget that they also will experience change. “Parents help their children logistically prepare for college, help process the mixed emotions upcoming college students have, and even put their own experience to the side to support their child. When there is a successful transition, the parent doesn’t necessarily have to put as much emphasis on their child anymore, and are then faced with their emotions that have been placed to the side,” she says. Setting Boundaries An important first step for parents setting new boundaries is to have open and honest conversations between parent(s) and children, Burton explains. Exploring what the child wants and/or needs while being curious, but also realistic, as to what you as a parent can provide during this time helps set groundwork and expectations. Helpful topics can include how often visits can occur, how involved parents can be in academics and school life, and communication expectations. Most importantly, Burton says it’s important to remain flexible. One common boundary mistake Burton sees well-intended parents make is not listening to their child’s needs. An example can be when a parent either visits too often or expects their child to come home more than the child wants or needs. To reduce frustration and set some expectations, seek open commu- nication and feedback between parents and children. Remember, college is a great opportunity for children to learn indepen- dence and continue to grow into who they are as a person. Things to Remember Burton encourages parents to let their college-bound students make mistakes. “Well-meaning parents often want life to be

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What No One Tells You About College Planning BY AMANDA MILLER

W hen people hear “applying to col- lege,” they may think that it’s simply filling out some information about the student-to-be, writing a college essay (if even required), and clicking submit. In reality, it is much different. There are several unspo- ken steps that can cause plenty of stress, con- fusion, and forgetfulness. Luckily, we’re here to help. We have uncovered those hidden steps and stressors and are here to help make college planning easier to manage. ORGANIZED EMAILS Creating a “professional” email is important. While CoolKid101@hotmail.com was super cool as a kiddo and even better as a junk email address as a young adult, it’s not going to look great when keeping up with college applications and correspondence. College-bound students are encouraged to create a new email, preferably one that is some variation of their name (that will be

hard, we know). With the new email, it can be used to organize correspondence with each college. Many students will be applying to more than one college, so those color-coded tags and folders that Gmail provides will be extremely helpful. As a note, parents, we recommend having access to the email just to help make sure application confirmations, financial aid notices, scholarship deadlines, and future test reminders aren’t going unnoticed. It’s also great for added transparency without hovering over the student-to-be. UNEXPECTED COSTS These costs can be especially unexpected. Transcript requests, application fees, and any immunization records that have to be mailed can all add up quickly. Knowing about these expenses ahead of time helps families budget realistically, prevent delays when payments are required, and reduce frustration when

documentation is needed. High school coun- seling offices can provide a clear breakdown of transcript and record fees, while college admissions websites often list application costs upfront. Families can also explore dual enrollment or college-level courses while still in high school, which can save money and, in some cases, allow students to test out of certain college classes. Other smaller but important costs include sending ACT or SAT scores to colleges, joining honor societies such as the National Society of High School Scholars, and graduation-related items like caps, gowns, tassels, and honor cords. NEEDED DOCUMENTATION Speaking of documentation, having docu- ments on hand will save plenty of time and prevent headaches. Immunization records, transcripts, test scores, application fees, driv- er’s licenses, and Social Security numbers are often the most requested documents to have during the process. Compiling them will help

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avoid scrambling before deadlines, move the process along faster, and reduce stress when colleges request certain information. Where families can get documents: • Immunization records: Pediatrician’s office or state health department • Transcripts: High school counseling office •Test scores: College Board (SAT/AP) and MyACT • Birth certificate: State vital records office • Social Security card: Social Security Administration COLLEGE ESSAYS College essays aren’t just writing another school paper. They’re personal, reflective, and time-consuming. We recommend starting the writing process early. This will help give time for the student-to-be to really brainstorm what they want to express, sim- mer on it post-writing for a few days without feeling rushed to submit, and even share the essay with another person for feedback. This is especially great for when the prompts change for each college. Reviewing Common App essay prompts and college admissions guidance early can help students better understand what schools are looking for. Starting early, or pre-writing at the very least, gives parents a welcome reprieve from the added stress when their child seeks

out help because they “don’t know what to write about.”

application deadlines, and financial aid due dates can help everyone stay on the same page. HELPFUL APPS If this has taught anyone anything, it’s that there are a lot of pieces to this college plan- ning puzzle. There are multiple systems to keep up with, and each one serves a different purpose. Luckily, there’s an app (several, actu- ally) that will help bring everything together and keep it simple. Common App: Apply to hundreds of colleges easily. Simply fill out the application once and send directly to multiple schools. College Board: Organization is the name of the game with this app. Keep up with the SAT, AP exams, financial aid profiles, and schol- arship information. There are even college search tools. MyACT: Registration for the ACT is available through this app, and students can view scores, send scores to colleges, and manage test dates. Scholarships.com: Students can create a profile and get matched with scholarships based on grades, interests, backgrounds, etc. College prep isn’t just about getting into college; it’s also about reducing stress, building independence, and teaching life organization skills.

ACT VS. SAT These tests can send people into a tailspin at times, but they’re oftentimes a major component of the college application process. Utilizing apps such as College Board and MyACT (more on that in a moment) helps choose the right test for the student, avoid duplicate or unnecessary registrations, track scores, and even send them directly. If possible, signing up for a tutoring class can help improve scores, and students can take the ACT multiple times. Be aware though that each attempt comes with a fee. TEAMWORK There are a lot of websites to log in to for applications, including that Gmail account we already advised to create. However, teaming up to navigate through all the chaos is what will make the process run smoothly. That means parents teaming up with their kiddos! When parents understand what their child is experiencing, conversations will shift from “Did you do this yet?” to “What’s next on the list?” It’s collaborative instead of confron- tational, which makes this already stressful process a lot easier. High school counselors and college admissions offices can also serve as helpful partners throughout the process. Keeping a shared calendar of testing dates,

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8 Vacation Themes that Go Beyond the Beach! Choosing the Right Vacation for Your Family BY AMANDA CIANI C incinnati and NKY parents planning a family vacation are known to season- ally migrate to a handful of beloved the America the Beautiful passes!

you travel. Many memberships participate in reciprocal networks, meaning when you travel to other museums, aquariums, and zoos, you can flash your membership and re- ceive hefty discounts or even free admission. So not only can families see cool children’s museums, science centers, history museums, aquariums, and zoos in their hometown, but all across the country—and in a fund-friendly manner, too! Sports Stops Avid fans of athletics have tons of awesome options when it comes to travel. Consider a challenge to see the most games in MLB stadiums in one summer (there are 29 in the U.S. and 1 in Canada, too!), play golf on a new course, or honor the best of the best and plan a trip to see the Baseball Hall of Fame (Coo- perstown, NY), the Pro Football Hall of Fame (Canton, OH), or the Basketball Hall of Fame (Springfield, MA). Another amazing opportu- nity for families is to check out a motorsport race at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama or at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500! National Parks Tour From sea to shining sea, there are so many amazing landscapes to explore on our continent! Within the United State’s impres- sive 63 National Parks, families can explore alpine landscapes, deserts, canyons, volcanic landscapes, forests, wetlands, swamps and bayous, coastal landscapes, arctic areas, grasslands, prairies and badlands, and glaciers, too. Have a 4th grader at home? They can receive a free Every Kids Outdoors 4th Grade pass which is valid through the duration of a student’s 4th grade school year through the following summer (September– August). Head to recreation.gov for details on

Theme Park Travel Fans of adrenaline rushes would adore a theme park themed travel experience! And there is an assortment of parks to choose from, with an estimated 900+ theme parks located in the US. Herschend does a wonderful job with parks that boast hospitality and heart, including: Dollywood (TN), Silver Dollar City (MO), Ken- tucky Kingdom (KY), Dutch Wonderland (PA), Kennywood (PA) and more. Six Flags features exhilarating rides at their many parks, including: Six Flags Great Adventure (NJ), Magic Mountain (CA), Over Texas and Fiesta Texas (TX), St. Louis (MO), Kings Island and Cedar Point (OH), Carowinds (NC), Great Escape (NY), and more. Universal has several claims to fame including their Islands of Adventure in Florida, a Hollywood destination, and new this summer! Universal Kids Resort will open in Frisco, Texas. Of course, this list would not be complete without mentioning Disney World in Florida and California’s Disneyland, too. Foodie Road Trip The best way to some families’ hearts is through their stomachs. And every major city offers their own unique take on breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts. Some ideas to indulge in include a tour of a city’s top tacos, their take on barbeque, how they do pizza, and more. Plus, in many popular locations, food is the destination! Make a map of must-try foods, and hit the road. From cheesesteaks in

travel destinations. Like our parents did before us, many families habitually rotate annual beach trips to Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Panama City Beach, and of course, there is also the grand pilgrimage to Orlando, Florida with little excursions to Daytona or Cocoa Beach. It is part cyclical, part genera- tional and perhaps part tradition… days spent in the sun and sand, eating sandwiches (with chips on them), relaxing to the max—but what happens when the kids are not “beach-people” or if you just have an itch to explore more. Consider breaking out of the norm, reflecting on your family’s interests and checking out something new with your crew… Travel Through Time The United States of America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year! Every state across the grand U-S-of-A has unique historical sites, including some living history attractions with fun reenactors! Families interested in history can choose an era or theme, such as Ameri- ca’s Founding (Boston, Philadelphia, Colo- nial Williamsburg, Jamestown), Westward Expansion (St. Louis + Independence, MO, Chimney Rock, NE), the Civil War (Gettysburg, Richmond), or Indigenous History (Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, South Dakota, North Carolina, Alaska), and plan away. Museum Mosey + Zoo Hop The majority of major cities have majorly fun museums, aquariums, and zoos. A trip to explore other cities’ offerings is both educa- tional, and oh-so fun! Reminder: If you have a membership to your local museum, aquar- ium, or zoo, be sure to keep it handy when

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Philly, lobster rolls in Maine, Chicago dogs in… Chicago, bagels in NY, clam chowder in Boston, sourdough bread in San Fran, gumbo and jambalaya in Louisiana, Nashville Hot Chicken, pralines in Georgia, cheese curds in Wisconsin, there are so many staples to taste! While exploring the nation’s flavors, also con- sider investigating fabulous food markets and food halls like Seattle’s Pike Place, Boston’s Quincy Market, Philly’s Reading Terminal market, NY’s Chelsea Market, NOLA’s French Market, Cincinnati’s Findlay Market and more! Focus on Films Movie aficionados would love traveling to filmed-in locations that immediately look familiar. The top US cities with filmed-in locations would include Los Angeles, CA; New York City, NY, and Atlanta, GA. LA boasts many behind-the-scenes studio tours and iconic filming spots that may be recognized like the Hollywood Boulevard and Griffith Observa- tory. NYC’s Central Park, Times Square, and downtown skyline can be seen in many pop- ular shows and movies! And Atlanta, GA is a popular tourist destination for fans of popular Marvel films, and shows like The Walking Dead and Stranger Things ! Eerie Adventures Families that are fans of oddities and spooky things have a host of haunts to explore across the US! With witchy streets to wander, quaint stores galore, and familiar sights from Hocus Pocus , Salem, Massachusetts is a mecca, of course! Beyond that, some of the most re- ported haunted hotels are located in unique cities, worth travelling to for fans of ghosts, or not! The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado inspired Stephen King’s The Shining, and still has regular reports of the paranormal. The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a former hospital and “cancer cure” facility, which still offers nightly ghosts tours (and spa services, for a more relaxing, less scream-in- ducing time), and The Emily Morgan Hotel in San Antonio, Texas has frequent reports of ap- parition sightings, perhaps from past surgery patients of the medical-building-turned-ho- tel. Another great idea for out-there families would be a trip to Nevada to explore the perimeter of Area 51, where lots of roadside attractions are located, or check out the city of Point Pleasant, West Virginia to see if you can find Mothman! No matter where you go, the best part of vacation is spending time with your people. So make those plans and enjoy that time-off from the everyday mundane during a fabu- lous fam vacay!

Wishing you a summer full of fun, A beach mom raising anti-beach boys

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Best Places to Travel in the U.S. as a Family (By Age + Interests)

BY JULIANNA STEEN

M any of my favorite childhood mem- ories come from trips my family took as I grew up. Travel can be extremely advantageous in expanding your children’s horizons (and palates!). Who says you have to have a passport to experience a different culture? Our country has so many amazing natural wonders and historic, fun- filled cities, you could plan trips for years and never leave the US. Determine Your Priorities: Before you commit to any trip, it is essential that you decide what kind of trip you want to go on. Factors like your kids’ ages, your family’s interests, and your budget will help you decide where you go. Here are some questions about “types” of trip categories to consider: Are you hoping for a “vacation” (chill and relax- ing) or a “trip” (go-go-go sightseeing)? Does your family prefer adventuring outdoors or exploring a new city? What can your kids handle when it comes to logistics like car time, flying, and excursions? What excites your kids (and you too)? Do your kids prefer theme parks to historical sites, build- ing a sandcastle to hiking a mountain, or small town charm to the big city? Go West in the Great Outdoors There is something awe-inspiring about seeing God’s beautiful creation in full dis- play. Whether it’s the giant Red Rocks, the

dramatically steep Rockies, a grazing wild bison, or a rushing waterfall, the nature of the Great West never fails to take my breath away. Depending on your family’s preferenc- es, you can do a “big roadtrip” (think: driving thousands of miles RV-style), or you can go “one-home-base” style. Do what’s best for you. (My family prefers to fly in, stay in one centrally located Airbnb, and drive no more than four hours/day roundtrip.) Utah National Parks: Zion, Bryce, Arches (iconic + doable in a road trip loop) Colorado: Rocky Mountain NP + Estes Park, Boulder (great for non-desert mountain vibes!) California State & National Parks: Yosemite, Sequoia, Muir Woods South Dakota: Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park Montana : Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Jackson Hole, Bozeman Arizona: Sedona, Red Rocks, Scottsdale, Goldfield Ghost Town Best for: Late Elementary, Tweens, and Teens (easily tiring) Great if your family wants: hiking, animal spottings, outdoor adventures, stargazing, ATVing, horseback riding, ziplining, white water rafting Don’t miss: Be sure to try local foods like huckleberry jam, bison burgers, or cactus. Good to know: Highly recommend going in

“off season” (fall) for cheaper prices if you’re not planning to ski. This is the secret sauce: Fly into a city (like Phoenix, Denver, or Las Vegas) and spend a little time there, and then go explore nature. The City Life The great thing about the city is there are always things to do for every age. My family typically plans a combination of city sight- seeing and nature excursions. These are a few things to do in popular cities across the country. New York City, NY: Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Broadway plays, Twin Towers Memo- rial, Empire State Building, afternoon tea at the Plaza, Central Park, The High Line, Chelsea Market, FAO Schwarz, Rockefeller Center San Francisco, CA: Golden Gate Bridge, Paint- ed Ladies, Cable Car Ride, Ferry Building Mar- ketplace, Palace of Fine Arts, Pier 39 (see the seals!), Alcatraz, Ghiradelli Sq., Napa Valley Dallas, TX: Fortworth Stockyard, Dallas World Aquarium, Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington), Day trip to Waco (Magnolia Silos) Nashville, TN: Country Music Hall of Fame, The Parthenon in Centennial Park, Adventure Science Center, Gaylord Opryland Hotel + Mall, 12th South (plus, easy to drive to in the South!) Washington, DC: Smithsonian (free!), Nation- al Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum, National Zoo (also free!), Lincoln

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Good to know: Walkable cities are ideal, but many also have great public transportation. This is the secret sauce: Know your family. If you’re not museum people, don’t plan to go to five museums. If you’re big foodies, make a few reservations or do some research on local foods/popular food joints. Want to see a show? Get tickets ahead of time. Beyond the Beach If you’re a beach fam, that’s fabulous— gotta love a classic trip to Gulf Shores, AL or Destin, FL. But consider spicing up your beach trip by trying a new location that also offers other attractions outside of the beach. San Diego, CA: See the seals, day trip to Carlsbad (tulips), LEGOLAND California, San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, Old Town San Diego Florida Keys: Key West Shipwreck Muse- um (pirate-y), Turtle Hospital, Robbie’s of Islamorada (feed the tarpon), The Overseas Highway, Dolphin Research Center Outer Banks, NC: The Lost Colony/Roanoke history, Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kitty Hawk), Aquarium on Roanoke Island, jeep tour of wild horses in Corolla Miami, FL: Brickell/downtown Miami, Bayside Marketplace, Little Havana, Everglades air- boat tour, Wynwood Walls Charleston, SC: Walk the Historic District, Charleston City Market, King Street, The Battery, White Point Garden, Magnolia

Memorial + MLK Memorial walk, Library of Congress, Capitol tour, Georgetown, the White House, Monuments at night (so underrated) Boston, MA: Freedom Trail, Boston Children’s Museum, Duck Boat Tour, Boston Tea Party Museum, Public Library, Harvard, Public Gar- dens, Fenway Park, Quincy Market, Beacon Hill Seattle, WA: Pike Place Market (watch the fish toss), Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle Aquarium, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Ferry to Bainbridge Island (cheap “mini adventure”), Woodland Park Zoo, Discovery Park Las Vegas, NV: Bellagio Fountains + Conser- vatory, stroll the Strip, Shark Reef Aquarium (Mandalay Bay), Tournament of Kings (Me- dieval Times energy), Area15, Valley of Fire, Grand Canyon West, Red Rock Canyon Los Angeles, CA: Griffith Observatory (free!), Hollywood sign, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach boardwalk, Warner Bros Studio Tour, Disneyland, Hollywood Blvd., The Grove, the Farmers Market, Universal CityWalk/ Universal Studios Best for: You can easily adapt your trip to accommodate all ages and interests. Great if your family wants: Easy stroller days, museums, variety of food options, cityscapes Don’t miss: Cities are always hosting cool events, whether it’s festivals or concerts. Check ahead of time to see what will be happening when you’ll be visiting!

Plantation & Gardens Hawaii: The upgrade of a lifetime! Volcanoes, Pearl Harbor, luaus, waterfalls, jungle, fruit stands Best for: Whether your teen is hoping for more than just beach time or you’re wanting stroller-friendly activities, these beach-city combos work for most everyone. Great if your family wants: beach, but also shopping, museums, cultural experiences Don’t miss: Even if you’re not “beach people,” some of the best moments come from being by the water. Try a boat ride, a peer over the pier, or a Highway 1-esque drive for good views. Good to know: You can typically find several epic free activities no matter where you go— you don’t have to break the bank in order to have a good time. This is the secret sauce: Breaking up your beach days will help you to enjoy them even more! Whether you’re planning an extensive 10- day trip or a spur-of-the-moment weekend getaway, you won’t regret exploring these incredible sights across the US with your kids. I can testify: Those memories will last a lifetime and will bond you closer together as a family.

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Things to Do MARCH

The Musical 1

Diary of a Wimpy Kid:

Avoid getting the cheese touch by checking out the musical adaptation of Jim Kinney’s beloved books.

The Emery Theatre, showtimes on March 1, 7 and 8. Tickets starting at $12.96. thechildrenstheatre.com Photo by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

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Bockfest 3

2 Lions, and tigers, and bears—oh my! Families will have a blast seeing this funk-infused retelling of The Wizard of Oz. Procter & Gamble Hall, March 2-15. $47.25+. cincinnatiarts.org The Wiz

Get ready for three full days of fun including the Pretzel Prince & Princess Parade, and the amazing goat-crying competition. Cincinnati, March 6-8. bockfest.com

Family Workshop 4

Learn how to create bold, vibrant prints—no printing press or prior experience needed. This hands-on session encourages experimentation with texture, color and pattern. Taft Museum of Art, March 7:10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Free-$25. taftmuseum.org

Pucks N Pups

Who let the dogs out? The Cyclones fans did! Don’t miss this hockey game that is truly for the dogs. Heritage Bank Center, March 7: 7:30 p.m. $25.60+. cycloneshockey.com

HEADS UP!

Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information.

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6 Little

Sliders Club Young ones 7 and under can enjoy some adrenaline-pumping time going down slides or exploring the junior area. Slick City Adven- ture Park, March 8: 9-10:30 a.m. $14.99 per child. slickcity.com

7 Wee Wonder

This colorful nature program features education stations that will be wonderful for wee ones! Sharon Woods, March 19: 10-11 a.m. Free. greatparks.org About Rainbows

Root, root, root for the home team! Reds players and mascots will par- ticipate in a pre-game parade and there will be plenty of fun in-game entertainment to make the day extra fun. Great American Ball Park, March 28: 4:10 p.m. $23+. mlb.com/reds Kids Opening Day

Telescope Fest 9 Presented by Dean Regas and fellow stargazers, families can get up- close-and-personal with

telescopes to see the moon and stars! Ault Park, March 28: 7-9 p.m. Free. astrodean.com

The Easter Bunny Express

All aboard! Grab somebunny special and take a train ride to spot the first signs of spring and meet up with the Easter Bunny, too! LM&M Railroad, March 28-29, April 3-4. $30-35. lebanonrr.com

CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | MARCH 2026 23

taking home $50 and an Adam Sandler candle. Hosted by Last Call Trivia. Barleycorn’s Brewhouse, 7 p.m. Free. barleycornsbrewhouse.com

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BOCKFEST Celebrate spring in Cincinnati, and Over-the-Rhine’s brewing heritage. There will be a parade, live music, and tons of fun entertainment at the Bockfest Halls! Moerlein Lager House, Northern Row Brewery & Distillery, Rhinegeist Brewery, Rosedale OTR and Arnold’s Bar and Grill, March 6-8. bockfest.com BRAHMS AND SCHUMANN The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performs masterworks by Brahms and Schumann in this morning concert. Cincinnati Music Hall, 11 a.m. or March 7, 7:30 p.m. $15+. cincinnatisymphony.org OTHELLO Shakespeare’s powerful tragedy of jealousy and betrayal comes to the stage in this compelling theatrical production. The Otto M. Budig Theater, 7:30 p.m., show runs through March 29. $14-78. cincyshakes.com STORYTIME ON THE FARM This weekly storytime will put the spotlight on a new nature story, followed by activities based on the week’s book! Winton Woods, 10:30- 11:15 a.m. Free. greatparks.org

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FULL MOON HIKE Search for nocturnal wildlife, gaze at the stars and bask in the light of the full moon. Woodland Mound, 6-7 p.m. Free. greatparks.org MRS. CHRISTIE This suspenseful stage production brings Agatha Christie–inspired mystery and intrigue to life. Recommended for ages 13 and up. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 7:30 p.m., show runs through March 29. $35+. cincinnatiplayhouse.org THE WIZ The Tony Award–winning musical reimagines The Wizard of Oz with soul, gospel, and funk-infused songs and dazzling choreography. Procter & Gamble Hall, 7:30 p.m., show runs through March 15. $47.25+. cincinnatiarts.org

Finley’s Enchanted Money Adventure Mar. 8

Photo by Emily Lupton Photography

to do today

Beware of the cheese touch! Jeff Kinney’s beloved children’s book is jumping off the pages and onto the stage with the most iconic characters and some outstanding original illustrations. This 60-min- ute family-focused production will be both hilarious and heartfelt. The Emery Theater, 7 p.m., show runs through March 8. $12.96+. thechildredstheatre.com MAMMAL MADNESS It’s March (Mammal) Madness! Learn all about the tradition, research this year’s animal competitors, meet their local counterparts and fill out a bracket. Woodland Mound, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. greatparks.org RAPTOR RAMPAGE Learn how to identify birds of prey during this outdoor, hands- on nature program for all ages. Clingman Park, 2-3 p.m. Free. clermontparks.org TREASURES FROM THE ATTIC: 250 YEARS OF FASHION & FURNITURE This immersive exhibition explores everyday history through clothing and furniture spanning two and a half centuries. Behringer-Crawford Museum, 1-5 p.m. $5-9. bcmuseum.org

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ANYTHING GOES This classic Broadway musical comedy features romance, mis- taken identities, and toe-tapping songs, with mild adult themes. The Carnegie, 3 p.m. $18-45. thecarnegie.com BABA MARTA FESTIVAL Celebrate the arrival of spring with the Cincinnati Bulgarian Society through traditional crafts, culture, and festivities. Krohn Conservatory, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free-$10. cincinnati-oh.gov BEETHOVEN & RAVEL The Cincinnati Symphony Orches- tra performs works by Beethoven and Ravel in an evening of classical music favorites. Music Hall, 2 p.m. $15+. cincinnatisymphony.org CYCLONES VS. WINGS Get to this matinee matchup early for a mascot keychain giveaway. Heritage Bank Center, 3-6 p.m. $25.60+. cycloneshockey.com DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE MUSICAL

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sat 7

REC READS Toddlers and pre-schoolers will love this morning of art-themed fun including books, sensory activities, and scavenger hunts. Cincinnati Art Museum, 11:30 a.m.- 12:15 p.m. Free. cincinnatiartmuseum.org ZUMBINI AT LILYPAD! Sing, dance, and make music with your little one in this interactive class designed for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers, with glob- al-inspired songs and movement. LilyPad Cincinnati, 9:45-10:30 a.m., available on Wednesdays in March. $18 single class. queencityzbini.com

AUDREE’S ART CLASS: YOUTH-FOCUSED EXPRESSION This“Art and Mindfulness”work- shop encourages youth ages 10-16 to explore emotions and self-expression through hands-on art projects in a supportive setting. Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center, 10-11:30 a.m. Free. bakerhunt.org CAM KIDS DAY: DAYDREAMING This full day of art-making encourages children to lean into their whimsical sides. Cincinnati Art Museum, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free.

cincinnatiartmuseum.org CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

This 4th annual festival features visits with the Easter Bunny, a candy hunt, character visits, lazer tag, a mini golf course, carnival games, family resources, and so much more. Mason Elementary School, noon-3 p.m. Free-$14. eventbrite.com CLASSICAL HEROES The Butler Philharmonic presents an evening of powerful orchestral works celebrating classical music’s

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THURSDAY ART PLAY: FUN WITH CLAY

VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Young artists can experiment and create with clay. Contemporary Arts Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free- $5. contemporaryartscenter.org

ADAM SANDLER TRIVIA + LOOK ALIKE CONTEST

Stop looking at me, Swan! Fun for all ages, with the trivia winner

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