Landa Park Aquatics Complex ~ New Braunfels, Texas

A very unique and cool place to be this summer is in the spring-fed waters at the Landa Park Aquatics Complex in New Braunfels, Texas. As a child, heading to Landa Park was always a treat - mainly because of this amazing pool.  Built in the early 1900s, it is one of the oldest and most historic bathing pools in Texas. It is springfed by the Comal Springs and remains a wonderful 72 degrees year round.

When we visited back in June, we were amazed at all the fun things there are to do here! Kid after kid came zooming down this zip line, cheerfully dropping into the middle of the pool. There is also an overhead cargo net to climb and a rope swing.

On the other end of the pool, there is a shallow end with a 10-foot tall slide and a mushroom fountain.

But the true highlight of this pool and what really got my kids excited was this 2 story tall Wet Willie slide. Both kids went nuts over this slide.

Having a 3 year old, I love pools that can excite the older 2 and keep the little one entertained.  On one side of the pool, under beautiful oak trees is this amazing playscape.  When my little guy tired of the pool, he was happy to play on this.

And if you didn't want to swim in the (sometimes) cold spring fed pool, there are the zero-depth pool and Olympic pool at the top of the hill.

I loved this pool as the water was incredibly refreshing and was shaded so very well.  The "toys" made it a ton of fun for older kids and adults alike.  You can bring in your coolers and chairs and set up camp for the day.

Landa Park is the perfect place to spend the day - have a picnic lunch in the park, take a paddle boat ride around the lake and a train ride around the park - all before spending a few hours at the pool!

Other great things to check out in New Braunfels:

Top 10 Reasons to Go to Schlitterbahn

Yes! You Can Take a Toddler to Schlitterbahn

Natural Bridge Caverns

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural Bridge Caverns Canopy Challenge & Zip Line

McKenna Children's Museum

Snake Farm

The Gristmill

Texas Travel Facts for Landa Park Aquatic Complex:

Location: 350 Aquatic Circle, New Braunfels, Texas

Hours: Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday: 12 pm - 7 pm (some pools are closed on certain days)

             Special hours for lap swim/parent & tot swim

Admission: Adults (13-59): $4.00                    

                    Children (3-12): $3.00

                    Children (0-2): free

Recommended Time: 2 -3 hours 

Good to know: Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult who is 18 years or older; outside food & drink allowed (no glass bottles); vending machines available

Website:http://www.nbtexas.org/index.aspx?NID=192

Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium ~ Grapevine, Texas

There is a NEW aquarium in town...and it's fantastic!!  The Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium brings new experiences in aquatic life to the Dallas/Fort Worth area.  With over 5,000 creatures in 30 unique displays, my family was amazed at all it had to offer!

We really liked the fact that each room was set up so differently to display all the sea creatures.  Such as this huge tank that housed huge stingrays. You could walk around the tank, climb up a set of stairs and peer down into the tank, or climb into one of these side bubbles and get "in" the tank.

My little guy really loved the bubble until a stingray swam right up on him.  He hopped out of that bubble as quickly as he could!

Another tank allowed you to peer "up" into the tank and get a 360-degree view of the fish swimming by.

But our absolute favorite was the 360 degree Ocean Tunnel.  We stood in there for what seemed hours watching the shark, turtles, and more swim lazily by.

One of the newest displays, the Octopus Garden, hosts a few of these amazing creatures.  It was incredible to see them so up close, gracefully stretching out their tentacles.

My kids also really enjoyed participating in the Quiz Trail - a fun scratch-off game that tests your ocean knowledge throughout the tour. It got my kids into reading the amazing facts that were scattered throughout the aquarium.

The tour ends with the Rockpool Experience, where you can touch a starfish or pick up a crab.  We really enjoyed seeing exactly how soft and cold these creatures are.

The Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium also has a fun submarine-themed Kids' Play Zone and a Dive Discovery Cinema with a conservation movie.  It was a wonderful aquarium and a great place to escape the heat, take your time meandering around and learn about some new sea creatures.  Also, check out the feeding times online before you go and plan to experience this as well.

Online prices are better than buying tickets when you get there.  Also, plan on visiting LEGOLAND Discovery Center, which is right next door.  You can purchase combo tickets online and get a great deal.

While you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area, here are more fun things to try:

Perot Museum of Science & Nature

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Grapevine Vintage Train

SEA LIFE Aquarium

Fort Worth Zoo

North Texas Factory Tours

Paradise Springs at The Gaylord Texan

The Gaylord Texan

Klyde Warren Park

Cowtown CattlePen Maze
Log Cabin Village

Medieval Times

Texas Travel Facts for Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium :

Location: Grapevine Mills, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, TX 76051

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 am - 9:30 pm (last admission at 7:30 pm)

             Sunday: 11 am - 7 pm (last admission at 5 pm)

Admission: Adults (13 & up): $19.00 ($16.25 online)

                    Children (3-12): $15.00 ($11.25 online)

                    Children (0-2): free

                     *Receive a 25% discount by purchasing online

Recommended Time: 2 -3 hours 

Good to know: Admission is good for all day; Adults must be accompanied with children; Children must be accompanied with an adult and supervised at all times; no outside food or beverages; stroller friendly; bring socks for play area

Website:http://www.visitsealife.com/Grapevine/

My family and I were invited to visit the aquarium and were provided admission. I was not financially compensated for this post.  All opinions of Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium  are strictly my own based on my experience. 

The Most Scenic Lakes in the United States

What do going to the beach, fishing, snorkeling, surfing, paddle boating, Jet Skiing, taking a cruise and ice skating all have in common? Each requires a body of water, or at least a man-made alternative. Think of how many of your recent vacations revolved around a body of water—you might be surprised at the number of leisure activities that require an ocean, lake or stream. The most obvious and most well-known nearby bodies of water are the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. But there are also less-well-known scenic lakes within the country’s borders that are worth a visit. Here are a few:

·       Great Salt Lake – Located in Utah, the Great Salt Lake is the largest salt lake in the western hemisphere. It’s a great place to take a vacation because there’s so much to do nearby. The lake itself is great for boating or swimming. The high salt content in the water will increase your natural buoyancy, which makes floating a breeze. Salt Lake City is located nearby and provides an urban experience with a gorgeous view of the Rocky Mountains. Drop by during the winter for world-class skiing on slopes just outside the city. 

·       Finger Lakes – Upstate New York is famous for its scenic landscapes and relaxing way of life. Nestled between Syracuse, Ithaca and Rochester, the 11 thin glacial Finger Lakes are visited by thousands of tourists every year. The picturesque region and scenic lakes are an inviting place for camping, canoeing, fishing or just getting away for a few days.

·       Great Lakes – The five Great Lakes were also dug by glaciers many years ago and make up the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world. Several major cities sprung up on the Great Lakes’ banks, including Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit and Cleveland. The Great Lakes region is large enough to offer whatever retreat you prefer. Take a camping trip on the bank of Lake Michigan in the Upper Peninsula, or spend a few days exploring the restaurants and museums of downtown Chicago.

·       Lake Pontchartrain – Located just inland from the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Pontchartrain is technically not a lake, but rather an estuary of the Gulf. New Orleans is situated on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain, and provides tourists almost limitless entertainment options. Cruise around the scenic lake on a boat, then head into the city for an experience unique to historic New Orleans.

If you’ve done the ocean beach vacation often and are looking for an alternative destination for your next trip, consider one of these scenic lakes. The atmosphere is generally less hectic than the oceanfront, and prices for hotels and recreational activities on the water are often cheaper. If you’re planning on driving to your next vacation spot, make sure your car maintenance and automobile insurance policies are up-to-date. Having a mechanic look over your vehicle can prevent a breakdown, and getting an auto insurance quote for roadside assistance can help make sure you’re taken care of if you’re stuck in a jam.

Sponsored content was created and provided by Nationwide Insurance.

Friday Daydreamin': Nostalgia

Happy Friday friends! Time for Friday Daydreamin'! My favorite day of the week as I get to armchair vacation through all of your lovely photos!!

We use got back from a 3 day trip down to one of my very favorite cities in Texas.  Anyone recognize this famous landmark?

I have been to the San Antonio Riverwalk countless times and the appeal never wears off on me.  

All your senses come alive on the Riverwalk.  It was 95 plus humidity when we walked the Riverwalk, yet with all the trees, the shade felt perfectly comfortable.  The brightly colored umbrellas welcome you to sit, smell the amazing Mexican food, taste the tangy margarita and zingy salsa.  The sounds of the Mariachi bands put a smile to your face as every kid gets up to dance.  I love this town!

Do you have a favorite place you like to visit?  Tell us all about it by posting a picture and linking up this week! Visit a few of these great blogs and discover some new and exciting places to visit!

Hungry for more travel photo adventures? Please visit Travel Photo Thursday from Budget Travelers Sandbox and Delicious Baby's Photo Friday.

Aquarium of the Bay: Education Disguised as Family Fun

If you’re stuck in a house with bored kids, summer vacation can feel endless.  Knowing they are spending months sitting around playing video games, or watching TV, rather than expanding their minds is most moms’ nightmare. Thankfully, fun and educational attractions such as the Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco exist to entertain the kids, give mom a break and give the whole family a thorough education!

Aquarium of the Bay encompasses about 50,000 square foot of fun and learning: you start off in Discover the Bay, a room of eight exhibits that house over 1,000 aquatic animals and explain how the ecosystem of the Bay works. Kids are invited to view newly hatched juvenile fish from the Bay, get up close and personal with some of the Bay’s most colourful characters and learn about how the Bay’s fish survive.

Under the Bay does exactly what it says on the label, allowing families to stroll through over 300 feet of tunnels buried beneath the Bay itself. There are over 20,000 animal species to behold, from simple anemones, to giant sea bass, sharks and even moon jellies. Kids will shriek with delight to see these creatures up close, but they’ll also be listening to a guided tour and will get to see how these fish interact in their natural habitat.

If your little ones just can’t keep their hands to themselves, the Touch the Bay exhibit is practically made for them. These touch pools allow children to stroke sharks and rays, hold sea stars and participate in feeding time, where they’ll learn all about the feeding habits of these curious creatures.

Located on the historic Fisherman’s Wharf at Pier 39 in San Francisco, Aquarium of the Bay is proof that good things come in small packages and that aquariums are just as educational as they are fun: so much so you won’t be able to drag the kids away! The Aquarium is open 9am to 8am during the summer, allowing plenty of flexibility for organizing a visit around your life and even more for the kids to “go again”!

Brushy Creek Lake Park Splash Pad ~ Cedar Park, TX

 Whew! It is HOT out there!  I wanted to give y'all an idea of where you can go and cool down today...... take a trip out to the Brushy Creek Lake Park Splash Pad!

 I loved this splash pad when my son was young - there are not a ton of water jets to squirt little ones in the eyes, yet there is enough to allow them to start exploring water fun.

 Of course, it helps to have big brother & sister walk you into the jets.....  I also really like the fact that the ground was always cool and rough to avoid any slips and falls.

 I loved how the big kids find unique ways to make the splash pad fun for them as well.

And yes, there was the occasional water jet in the face, which made for some funny pictures (and a little bit of crankiness).

All in all, it is not the most exciting splash pad in the city to visit, but as I mentioned previously, it is a great one to take little ones who are toddling around to.  Especially in the morning, where the sun is not fully beating down, as there is no shade on the pad, and you are more likely to avoid the crowds.

Texas Travel Facts for Brushy Creek Lake Park Splash Pad:

Location: 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, Texas

Hours: May 1 - Labor Day from 9 am to 7 pm

             September weekends from 9 am to 7 pm

Admission: FREE

Recommended Time: 1 hour

Good to know: A few picnic tables are available; trees shade the areas surrounding the splash pad; great playscape close by; Brushy Creek Trail is right next to it if you want to take a quick run first

Website:http://www.cedarparktexas.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=708

Veteran's Memorial Pool ~ Cedar Park, Texas

 It's the middle of July and that means one thing - Find a POOL!!  We have been trying out a bunch of new pools and splash pads this summer in search of fun ways to cool off and last week we discovered an awesome one.

Have you been to Veteran's Memorial Pool in Cedar Park yet??  This is a fantastic pool for all ages - there is so much to do, it's reminiscent of a water park.

 The 8300 square foot pool has loads of water toys and activities for all ages - with 3 kids (3 yrs-11yrs), it can become difficult to entertain them easily at the same location.  No problem here.

 There are water playscapes, slides, and jets for the little ones to play around in.

 And if you're not careful, you can easily get soaked playing under here with your little one.  At least there was a little warning bell before this bucket would dump.

 My big kids loved the drop slide.....

 And the diving platform....

And the water basketball and cargo net log crossing challenge.  See? There was so much to do, my kids didn't want to leave.

The Veteran's Memorial Pool also has plenty of chairs, poolside pavilions, and umbrellas.  There were plenty of lifeguards present at all times, which gives me great comfort knowing I can let my two big kids play while I'm focused on the 3 year old.

I was also surprised that this pool is over 3 years old - it is in great condition and I thought it was brand new.  I really love having a pool like this that is affordable and provides enough entertainment that my kids don't get bored after an hour.  This is a great place to beat those tough July & August temperatures.

Texas Travel Facts for Veteran's Memorial Pool:

Location: 2525 W. New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, Texas

Hours: Summer Hours: Monday - Saturday: 12 pm - 7 pm

                                       Sunday: 12 pm - 6 pm

Admission: Adults (18 & up): $5.00

                    Students (9-17): $4.00                    

                    Children (4-8): $2.00

                    Children (0-3): free

Recommended Time: 2 -3 hours 

Good to know: Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult who is 16 years or older; outside food & drink allowed (no glass bottles); vending machines available

Website:http://www.cedarparktexas.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=708

LEGOLAND Discovery Center ~ Grapevine, Texas

A theme park built entirely around LEGO?  There was no hesitation when I asked my kids if they wanted to go to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth in Grapevine, Texas.  Moms, this place is not just for boys....every child (and a few dads..) of every age will have a blast here. Located in Grapevine Mills in Grapevine, Texas, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is very easy to get to.

Your adventure at LEGOLAND Discovery Center begins with a tour of the LEGO Fun Factory with Professor Brick-a-Brack.  With some help from the "little workers", we all created a few LEGO bricks to take home.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center has some fun LEGO-themed rides. Battle evil skeletons and giant trolls from within your LEGO chariot in Kingdom Quest.  Conjure magic by peddling around in Merlin's Apprentice.  And drive your own off-road vehicle in LEGO CITY: Forest Pursuit.  We also enjoyed a fun 4D LEGO movie.  It was my 3 year old's first experience with 3D glasses, so I got a kick out of watching him grab at the objects coming toward him!

My 9-year old's favorite attraction was the LEGO Racers: Build & Test.  He patiently built and tweaked his car to race on the various ramps.  He honestly could have spent all day there if we would have let him.  Truth be told, several Dads enjoyed this attraction too.

I am always amazed at what can be built out of LEGO Bricks.  As a mom of boys, my LEGO creations never exceed more than a tower.  LEGOLAND Discovery Center has some amazing LEGO Brick creations - a cement truck, a giraffe, and Dirk Nowitzki!  But the most impressive display is seen in MINILAND.  Every memorable landmark within the Dallas/Fort Worth area is created out of LEGO bricks.

This is where I wanted to stay - DFW International Airport, Texas Stadium, American Airlines Center, the beautiful skyline of Dallas - all seen in day time & night time modes.  But the most impressive??  Southfork Ranch - cause you know it wouldn't be complete without a nod to the famed TV show, Dallas.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center has two fun play areas for the kids - DUPLO Village for little ones and LEGO City for big kids - so make sure to bring a pair of socks to play here. And for the girls, Princess Palace is full of pink & purple bricks - perfect to make that fairytale castle.  It also has a karaoke machine to rock out! And if you are hungry, there is a great Cafe featuring snacks and meals.

The only exit is out the LEGO Store - it's a perfect place to grab a souvenir.  We love the LEGO keychains - Harry Potter, Batman, Star Wars....pick your favorite character and chances are they have it.

We really enjoyed our time at LEGOLAND Discovery Center.  If we lived closer, it would make a lot of sense to purchase the LDC Unlimited Pass.  If not, make sure to grab your tickets online, as you can get a much better deal.

And while you are there, make sure to visit the Grapevine SEA LIFE Aquarium right next door.  Makes for a really fun day!

While you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area, here are more fun things to try:

Perot Museum of Science & Nature

Klyde Warren Park

LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Grapevine Vintage Train

SEA LIFE Aquarium

Fort Worth Zoo

North Texas Factory Tours

Paradise Springs at The Gaylord Texan

The Gaylord Texan

Dallas World Aquarium

Cowtown CattlePen Maze

Log Cabin Village

Medieval Times

Texas Travel Facts for LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth:

Location: Grapevine Mills, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, TX 76051

Hours: Monday-Friday: 10 am - 8 pm (last admission at 6pm)

             Saturday: 10 am - 9 pm (last admission at 7pm)

             Sunday: 11 am - 6 pm (last admission at 4pm)

Admission: Adults (13 & up): $19.00

                    Children (3-12): $15.00

                    Children (0-2): free

                     *Receive a 25% discount by purchasing online

Recommended Time: 2 -3 hours 

Good to know: Admission is good for all day; Adults must be accompanied with children; Children must be accompanied with an adult and supervised at all times; no outside food or beverages; stroller friendly; bring socks for some exhibits

Website:http://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/dallasfw/

My family and I were invited to visit the center and were provided admission. I was not financially compensated for this post.  All opinions of LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth are strictly my own based on my experience.