Las Vegas Perfect for Family Fun!

Is Vegas for Kids? That is a Hot Topic! 

We Love Las Vegas with kids and here is why...

Plain and simple there is a lot to do for all ages. Big, small, young and old will all find something to do and love about Las Vegas.

Since the topic of, what is there for kids to do in Vegas, has come up so often lately in my social media groups I decided to refresh a list of some of our favorite things to do in and around Las Vegas that are family friendly.

Oh so much to do and see! What's your family into? Are they gamers? Outdoors type? Photo takers? Show lovers? Sight seeing?

Here are some of our faves... we visit Vegas between four and six times a year. Now with our 18 and 14 yo kids too.

* 2.5 hours or under... hoover dam, west rim grand canyon with overlook, valley of fire, red rock, Mt Charleston, the gorgeous w virgin river, Utah St George, death valley and more 

* hyper X arena at Luxor for gaming check their site for details it's so fun my kids do Mario kart when avaialble 

* also at luxor my kids love titanic exhibit and blue man group 

* neon museum, pinball museum, area 15, omega mart, mob museum, museum if illusions

* Allegiant stadium tour

* cosmopolitan secret pizza is delish 

* any F1 stuff left over or shops still on site 

* arcades - fun dungeon at Excalibur down by the medieval knight show, circus circus it's old but the midway is still fun, nyny,

* pools - mgm , the W and mandalay if still looking for places to stay with lazy river etc. 

* m&m store, coca cola store w fun around the world tasting trays, Hershey store, hello kitty truck and café, strip shopping at Ross and Burlington

* bellagio fountains and botanical garden

* Paris eiffle tower

* Caesars has hells kitchen fun for Gordon fans to check out, a huge mall w statues that move and the F1 arcade (i have a video posted of our recap on tiktok under OnTheGoOC)

* F1 arcade - my kids loved this our last visit a few weeks ago and want to return asap - two stories, simulator F1 racing and food options

* freemont street - do your research and see what's best for your comfort zone but there is a cool zip line there

* linQ has the huge ferris wheel style ride in its esplanade area with lots of food options too

* the sphere 

* tacos al pastor or tacos el Gordo (next to one another) 

I have so much more... let me know any specifics and I can update in better details to your suggestions and interests! 

Like there's also a cool new trading card and evaluation shop in the mini walkway mall from mandalay to Luxor owned by Tom Brady I believe...

Just lots of fun cool things to see and do for all ages! We just love Vegas I've been going since I was a kid in the 80s, now we go a lot for pay to play sports tournaments that ironically have your team required to stay in a tourney partnering hotel that is usually on the Strip... so if Vegas wasn't for kids they wouldn't participate in all the tournaments and comps for like all sports. Wink wink!

Viva las Vegas! Be there again in a few months!! Enjoy your time! 

Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips - From a First Time Cruiser on Quantum of the Seas

My first cruise ever was amazing! I love Royal Caribbean - Quantum of the Seas!!

The trio took the reality of the chat to the open ocean when we decided to take that girls trip we've been wanting to go on!

It's been years that my best friends Melodi and Jen have talked about cruises and how fun they are. We travel together often and cover events monthy, so we spend a lot of quality time together. And I love it. 

These ladies know me well and they have known for a while how I've wanted to try a cruise so very much. But... I've been nervous and my husband has been extra nervous so it just never happened.

A few months ago the girls said the trio is going on a Royal Caribbean cruise and it's not an option because it is happening. 

To say I am grateful they made the decision for us all including myself to go is an understatement. I am blessed and lucky to have these two in my life. We had the best time from the moment we boarded to the moment we docked back.

What is a really quick 2 night cruise felt like a wrek because of the company I was surrounded by and the impressive Quantum of the Seas in its entirety!

The staff and crew are beyond wonderful. All my nerves were called instantly and stayed at ease gaining relaxation with each minute I was on the ship! 

Our cabin was ready, with our luggage we checked and the timing was surprisingly earlier than expected. Our cabin attendant was magical, no really, we somehow had fresh ice every time we got back to our cabin! 

The trip was filled with memories of a lifetime, we even celebrated a birthday l, but I have a lot of tips to share to help other first time cruisers too!

Tips I hope help...

* parking at the port is crowded so go early if you need to park. It's $22 a day I believe. 

* the stewards to take your check in luggage are right across from parking as you enter the check in area of the ship. So easy and they are so helpful. 

(We tipped cash often even if it was a few dollars because of how kind and accommodating everyone is to make you feel at ease.)

* pack magnetic hooks, decorations for your walls etc to help with space and make it fun

* over the door organizer comes in handy for space too as well as using the space under the beds!!

* keep anything you may need in your carry-on like a bathing suit or any medicine needed. I used a tote style duffle that was approved size. You also have to take any alcohol/water/soda on your person during boarding... not in your check in!

* download the app prior to your cruise aboard few weeks ahead of time

* if you plan on paying for any extras do so beforehand for best pricing like the drink package or excursions, the price goes up a day or two before the cruise 

* watch the app and load daily activities you are interested in. 

Examples from our cruise - roller skating and north star 15 min experience but they filled up fast 

* reserve dining slot at 6ish so that you can sit down or if you miss you can do the buffet or other free dining.

* it's a short 2 nights with a lot offered that you want to try to get to... remembersleep is for the weak.. im just kidding... kind of.. so if ulyou are doing same cruise, Long Beach to Ensenada and Back, look for little samples in the app. Remember roller skating is reservation only and 30min sessions but fills fast and reserves in app. Also the north star experience above ship is sign up & goes fast too for the 15 min free sessions also in app.

* casino is fun - use your room card for everything including if you play in the adult arcade for points! 

* kids clubs looked cool with a lot to do in each age appropriate area but we didnt have kids w us this time. (Yes mine are jealous and want to go on a cruise!) 

* get up early for the gym or walk around track on the ship for a magnificent sunrise and get breakfast early to make most of day and time off in Ensenada or on ship while others are off doing their thing and it's less crowded in all the popular areas

* you can have continental breakfast sent to room for free just order with door hanger hung night before. 

* indoor pool the Solarium is adults only and lovely for evening wind down jacuzzi time but can get busy, but everyone is so nice, others made room for us.  

* waterplay outsude is heated but still cool in winter months. I did see kiddos having rhe nest time splashing around!

* this ship primarily cruises Alaska so most activities are indoor like IFly indoor skydiving, bumper cars, while rock climbing is outdoors with partial coverage.

* also there are a variety of cool shows.. sign up if needed in the app, if there's no sign up, arrive a little early for seating because they do fill up and are super entertaining!

* check themes of your cruise ahead of time in the app so you know if you need to bring... outfits etc like we did for decades night, so fun you guys

* instant coffee and tea ate in room as well as a hot water pot so don't bring things you don't need or aren't allowed

* fill out email that will come pre cruise to ask for anything needed in room in advance etc like turn king beds into two beds etc 

Also theres basic toiletries in the cabins but bring full size as needed of whatever if you don't need to go through TSA!! Local bonus for us in socal and within traveling distance to the port!

Basic coffee is free as well as lemonade, ice tea and hot tea. You can get it all over the ship at the included places to snack and or eat at. 

Tips for traveling at sea with a funny tummy... if needed bring some tums, dramamine, and amything else that may help that is allowed.

Not a big drinker but still want go celebrate? You can bring one bottle of wine per adult over 21yo. Allowed per cabin are 12 waters or soda total so bring a mix to have on hand like water bottles and ginger ale or sprite.

Check app for jewlery freebies.. we lined up one night for a free charm bracelet then bought some charms we liked and it's a cute souvineer!!

Here is a fun vlog recap of our cruise. Let me know if you have questions I can try to answer as I convince my very nervous husband to go on a cruise since the kids are now begging to try one!

Happy sailing! 

Winter Fest OC is Back & We're Here for it!!!

SoCal’s largest winter festival returning to the OC Fair & Event Center November 28, 2025 - January 4, 2026!!

We are so excited! This is my families favorite holiday event. My son loves that Winter Fest OC extends into January because we do a return visit for his birthday!

So let's gets into the details... so that you can plan ahead some family fun. Tis the Season!

Winter Fest OC returns with expanded attractions, immersive experiences, and flexible ticketing options. Guests can experience the magic of the holiday season with dazzling lights, fresh snow, thrilling attractions, live entertainment, and festive activities for families, couples, and holiday lovers of all ages. 

Here's a few clips of last years fun! 

Winter Attractions

Experience the thrills of winter with ice skating under the stars, tubing down the 150-foot Snowflake Summit ice slide, and playing in fresh snow with the expanded Snow Play zone. Snow Play now features more snow, more slides, and more interactive fun for all ages, including a new falling snow area.

Spectacular Live Entertainment

At the center of Winter Fest OC is the 40-foot-tall Holiday Tree and the Holiday House, where guests can enjoy a nightly tree lighting celebration with lights and music. New for 2025 are themed entertainment zones featuring live music, character meet-and-greets, and surprise performances throughout the season. Additional live entertainment includes strolling performers, carolers, and stage shows to celebrate the holiday season.

Festive Photo Opportunities & Santa Visits

Winter Fest OC offers countless opportunities for festive photos with a variety of dazzling light installations and immersive holiday displays. Guests can also visit with Santa through December 24.

Flexible Ticket Options for Every Guest

Snow Pass: Ideal for one-day visitors looking to enjoy the best of winter fun. Includes access to all general attractions like the Snow Play with a snow pit, slide and snow carousel, 150-foot long 9 lane Snowflake Summit Ice Tubing slide, nightly tree lighting ceremony, dazzling light installations, nightly entertainment with character interactions, live bands, visits with Santa through December 24, and more. 

Snow Pass-Flex: Buy ahead and plan later. Snow Pass-Flex tickets include all Snow Pass attractions with the flexibility to attend any open date of your choice. 

Snow Pass Family 4-Pack: Bundle and save with this special package designed for families or groups with four Snow Passes at a discounted rate. 

Season Snow Pass: Make every day a snow day! This ticket grants unlimited entry for all 28 days of the festival run — perfect for locals and holiday enthusiasts. 

NEW for 2025: Platinum Pass – The Ultimate Winter Fest OC Experience

Platinum Pass: Introducing the all-new Platinum Pass, your all-access key to the full magic of Winter Fest OC! This top-tier ticket includes every attraction, including unlimited ice skating on Southern California’s largest outdoor rink, unlimited carnival rides, bounce pass, Snowflake Summit fast pass, and one round of Polar Putt-Putt mini golf. Quantities are limited and early purchase is strongly recommended.

Platinum Pass-Flex: Buy ahead and plan later. Includes all Platinum Pass attractions with the flexibility to attend any open date of your choice.

Upgrade Your Snow Pass with Magical Add-on Experiences

Make unforgettable holiday memories at Winter Fest OC with a variety of Snow Pass add-on experiences available at checkout:

Ice Skating: Lace up for more fun by adding a 45-minute session of ice skating under the stars on Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink to any admission ticket, perfect for creating unforgettable memories on the ice!

Bounce Pass: Add even more excitement with unlimited access to the kids’ inflatable zone! Children ages 3 to 12 can enjoy bouncing, climbing, obstacle courses, and sliding into nonstop fun and laughter.

Polar Putt-Putt: Enjoy a frosty twist on a classic favorite with the newly designed nine-hole Polar Putt Putt mini golf adventure! This ticket add-on includes one round per person—perfect for testing your aim, conquering tricky obstacles, and competing for that hole-in-one victory. 

Snowflake Upgrade: Upgrade your Snowflake Summit tubing experience with express access to the Ice Tube Slide! Breeze past the line, use the dedicated entrance and lanes, and get more runs in during your visit.

Fireside Igloos: Bring your friends and family for a night to remember at the Fireside Igloos. Enjoy plush seating for up to 10 people, a private fire pit, a private bar, a special menu with craft cocktails and roasting s’mores, plus a breathtaking view of the nightly holiday celebration.

Presents for all so soon? Yes! Right now, Winter Fest OC is offering Early Bird tickets starting at $21.99

Visit www.WinterFestOC.com for more information and follow @WinterFestOC on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube or search #WinterFestOC for the latest updates.

Have a wonderful Holiday!

Taste of Santa Ana Celebrates 10 Years of Local Eats, Drinks, Treats, Music and more! Tickets on Sale Now

Happy 10th Year to Taste of Santa Ana!

TOSA is one of my favorite family friendly yearly events to attend that really kicks off Fall in Orange County. 

Every year there is a festive theme. This year's event will make you want to kick up your boots and dance into the night Country style!

We are so excited! TOSA is perfect for date night or friends night out and you can make it extra special by going VIP.

Here is a clip from last years foodie line up and here is a clip to preview all things TOSA. 

Let's drill it down to the highlights and main details about the Taste of Santa Ana... tickets are on sale now and they do sell out!

* The 10th Annual Taste of Santa Ana will take place at MainPlace Mall on Saturday, October 11 from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. 

* Hosted by MainPlace Mall in partnership with Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and Power of One Foundation

* Tickets are on sale now, purchase online in advance: linked here

* In addition to General Admission 21+ VIP Admission tickets are available. With VIP tickets you can enjoy extra perks like early entry at 5pm and access to the exclusive VIP Tent, a full open bar, and premier seating near the live entertainment!

* The Taste of Santa Ana is a culinary celebration of Orange County’s diverse food scene. Purchasing a ticket gains admission to sample unlimited dishes from over 30 of the area’s top restaurants, food trucks, cafes, and breweries. 

* This year’s Taste of Santa Ana is going country! Enjoy a country-themed celebration complete with toe-tapping music, line dancing, a mechanical bull, and petting zoo for the kids.

* Wander through the event to sample the diverse range of cuisines available: unique chef creations, ethnic specialties, comfort foods, and more

* Quench your thirst by sampling spirits from local breweries and wineries!

* This is a family-friendly event with live music, kids activities, raffles and more! 

More information including a list of exhibitors can also be found here. 

See you at TOSA!!!

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood 2025 Details...

Halloween Horror Nights at USH is Coming in HOT! 

We are huge fans of HHN at USH and this year my college freshman wants to check it out. I hope shes brave enough to make it through all the gore, screams, scares and frightening sights....

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood adds even more torturous debauchery to the line-up with iconic horror film “Poltergeist,” fan favorite “Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse” and “The Purge: Dangerous Waters” fire-fueled stunt show, along with four sinister scare zones rounding out the 2025 popular event. The premier haunt event starts on Thursday, September 4 and continues select nights through Sunday, November 2.

Amazon MGM Studios’ supernatural cult horror classic Poltergeist will bring guests “into the light” only at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights event. Considered one of the “scariest films of all time” when it debuted in 1982, the haunted house will transport guests into nightmarish scenes with terrifying characters from the movie, including the iconic Freeling family home.

Located on the historic Universal backlot, “Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse” will enable visitors to disembark the Studio Tour tram and set off on foot to encounter some of the most iconic villains from Blumhouse’s popular horror franchises over the past 15 years, including The Grabber from The Black Phone, the possessed from The Exorcist: Believer, the diabolical M3GAN, the ruthless killers from The Purge franchise, Blissfield Butcher from Freaky and Babyface Killer from Happy Death Day, among others. Guests who elect to upgrade their Halloween Horror Nights experience by purchasing the R.I.P. Tour will have an exclusive opportunity to meet and scream with select characters featured on Terror Tram. General Admission guests will encounter a special photo op upon disembarking the tram.

“The Purge: Dangerous Waters” stunt show returns to the WaterWorld venue, taking guests on a fiery, rocket-fueled adventure while they fight to survive the night.

            Completing this year’s line-up, horror fans will encounter four petrifying scare zones throughout the event. As they begin their terrifying evening at Halloween Horror Nights, guests will need to dodge a troop of chainsaw killers in “Chainsaw Clownz” and escape a maniacal fun house in “Carnival of Carnage.” After surviving this year’s haunted house, “Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America,” guests will stumble upon a dimly lit street to brave the “Noche de Brujas” scare zone. The ever-popular “Murder of Crowz” flocks back to Halloween Horror Nights and will do anything to defend their nest.

            These exciting experiences join previously announced haunted houses, including Prime Video’s critically acclaimed series “Fallout,” Blumhouse’s hit movie “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” cult classic horror film franchise “Terrifier,” WWE’s supernatural pro wrestling group “WWE Presents: The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks,” the infamous killer Jason Voorhees in “Jason Universe,” the original haunted house “Scarecrow: Music by Slash,” featuring a soundtrack by Grammy® Award-winning guitarist and songwriter SLASH, and “Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America,” the third installment in the Monstruos trilogy.

            Adding to the scares, guests also can experience select theme park attractions open during the event, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, “Jurassic World—The Ride,” “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™,” “Transformers™: The Ride-3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride” and “The Simpsons Ride™.”

A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options for Universal Studios Hollywood are available, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides entry to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7:00 p.m. event opening time, the R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood will run select nights from September 4 to November 2. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.

For a deeper dive into the scares, check out the Discover Universal Blog. For more information and to purchase tickets to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/Halloween