Travel – Cortney Fries

10 reasons Detroit rocks for family vacations

Posted on August 27, 2016February 25, 2017 by Cortney Fries

Published by Chicago Parent- August 2016

Despite the unfavorable impression some may have in their minds about Detroit, it is a city making a big comeback. Honestly, everyone I told that we were headed to the D wrinkled their nose and asked why. I’ll tell you why–because it seriously rocks. We had so much fun–learning, sampling, seeing and exploring–we left loving it and wanting to go back for more. Here’s our list of ten reasons why you should visit the Motor City with your family.

Cruise in a Model T and experience history firsthand

Greenfield Village is an outdoor museum focused on innovation that literally brings history to life. This vast village, assembled by Henry Ford, contains historic structures, like the first house Thomas Edison wired for light and the home where Noah Webster wrote the first dictionary, as a hobby in his retirement! You can ride various versions of Model T cars, an old steam engine and a 1919 carousel that is famous for animals wearing human clothes. There are workshops, crafts and demonstrations hosted by excellent guides and an inventive playground. You’ll want to spend all day there.

Check out tons of cool cars, planes and trains

The Henry Ford isn’t just for automobile lovers. While this gorgeous museum houses countless vintage cars, it’s also stocked with airplanes, trains, farming equipment and many other things that will move you. Inspired to learn more, my kids and I even bought books on Henry Ford and the Wright brothers there. Dining options are also fun, with an adorable diner and an American Hot Dog House with a Weinermobile parked nearby. My kids couldn’t leave without the Weinermobile wax mold.

Feel the excitement in an extraordinary stadium

Comerica Park is a beautiful, modern ballpark with many kid-friendly amenities, including the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel (shaped like baseballs) and the Comerica Carousel, featuring tigers, of course. You can feel the buzz of energy inside the stadium while enjoying skyline views of Detroit. A must-see when you visit the D. If it’s not baseball season when you visit, catch a Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings orDetroit Pistons game. Detroit is city with several impressive sports teams.

Try square pizza, Coney Island hot dogs and delicious barbecue

Detroit-style pizza is square with a crispy crust. They call it deep-dish but, being a Chicagoan, it seems more like pan pizza to me; however, it without a doubt won my heart. Taste the originalBuddy’s Pizza, now celebrating its 70th anniversary.

You can’t visit Detroit without trying a Coney Island hot dog, slathered with chili, yellow mustard and piled with onions. We visited Lafayette Coney Island. My son got a huge kick out of the waiter, who shouted our order, whistled louder than we’ve ever heard, tossed crackers and balanced plates piled with food all the way up his arm. It’s a no-frills diner, but worth the experience.

If you love barbecue, Slows Bar BQ is not to be missed. Mouthwatering meats are slow cooked and drenched in delicious sauces. This restaurant is on many foodies’ lists.

Taste some lip-smacking treats

Desserts that do good? That’s the model behind Detroit Water Ice Factory, the tasty treat shop started by author Mitch Albom. Like Italian ice but creamier, these frosty favorites were developed with the sole goal of helping others. One hundred percent of the profits go toward Detroit’s neediest citizens.

A classic Michigan candy company started in 1875, Sanders & Morley Candy Makers offers free tours on weekdays. Schedule a time for your family to enjoy some free chocolates. Who can turn that down?

Get up close and personal with a penguin

The Detroit Zoo has many natural, open exhibits across its widespread acres; but the penguins are what really steal the show. These charismatic creatures come right up to the window of their sensational snow and ice habitat to interact with guests. My kids were nose to beak with several, and absolutely mesmerized. The new Polk Penguin Conservation Center is extraordinary with its 4-D Antarctic expedition entry experience, underwater viewing gallery with two tunnels and charmingly curious penguins. You could watch them waddle, swim and play for hours.

Pick from plentiful fresh produce

If you’re looking for colorful fruits and veggies and other Michigan-made goodies, you don’t have to look far in Detroit. The Eastern Market is one of the oldest and largest year-round markets in the country. Open every Saturday (and some other days too), you can find tasty local produce and handmade items. The honeybees and clever Detroit T-shirts enamored my kids. We didn’t leave without blueberries and cider.

If you’d like to pick your own produce, several orchards are close to the city limits. Westview Orchards is a cider mill and adventure farm that offers family fun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Check the calendar for what’s being harvested June through October. You can pick strawberries, peaches, cherries, apples and pumpkins.

Look south to see Canada

Detroit is the only U.S. city where you can gaze south to catch sight of Canada. Get a good view from Rivard Plaza on the Detroit RiverWalk or Belle Isle Park. The Rivard Plaza features a carousel, children’s playground, café and bike rental shop all on the serene waterfront. Belle Isle Park is on an island between Detroit and Canada that requires passes to visit, but is a tranquil retreat. Soak up the scenic views, enjoy the beautiful fountain and interact with nature at the conservatory.

Learn while having fun

I often try to sneak learning into everyday activities. That was super easy at the Michigan Science Center, new Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. My kids had just become aware that cars are crash tested while in the Motor City. The crash test dummy videos at the Michigan Science Center absolutely captivated them. They also loved the giant pendulum that demonstrates the Earth’s orbit, and games, like bopping soda cans and selecting a healthy breakfast, that helped emphasize the importance of good nutrition.

Sea Life Michigan Aquarium sends kids on a quest to answer questions about marine life. They earn a stamp for each question they answer and a “gold medal” for completing their mission. This extra interaction definitely increased my kids’ involvement and enthusiasm.

Legoland Discovery Center Michigan is very similar to the Schaumburg location. My kids can play at the Lego Racers: Build & Test stations forever. The steep ramps and endless supply of Legos let them test their engineering skills against other kids and creations. Both Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life are located in Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, Michigan’s largest indoor outlet mall.

Snuggle up in cozy accommodations

As with most big cities, Detroit boasts a wide variety of hotel offerings. The Inn on Ferry Street is a highly recommended boutique hotel that feels like a bed and breakfast. The four restored Victorian mansions and two carriage houses promise a memorable experience.

My family stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Detroit North in Troy because it is centrally located between the city and suburban attractions, has an indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, pullout couches and a very friendly staff. With all the options across the Detroit metro area, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodations for a comfortable stay.

NYC’s Sites to Behold

Posted on August 2, 2016February 25, 2017 by Cortney Fries

Published by Journal & Topics newspapers- August 1, 2016

When you think of New York City, several iconic destinations probably come to mind. While every place has a story, some are better known than others. These five NYC treasures are on most visitors’ itineraries. However, many may not know the juicy details below about each distinctive destination. Let these tidbits of history and insider tourist tips make your next visit to the Big Apple all the better.

A symbol of justice, freedom and opportunity, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most popular landmarks in the world. You probably know that it was a gift from France, celebrating our friendship on America’s centennial of independence. Did you know that Lady Liberty arrived in the U.S. in 214 wooden cases? “She was shipped by the French Navy,” says Barry Moreno of the National Park Service. “And had to be reconstructed on Liberty Island in time for her unveiling and dedication in October 1886.”

Famous names, such as Gustav Eiffel and Joseph Pulitzer, also contributed to Lady Liberty. Eiffel helped design the interior structure, while Pulitzer fundraised for the pedestal. Talk about the work of many great minds.

If a visit to the crown is on your bucket list, make sure to book a Crown Access ticket on statuecruises.com or call (201) 604-2800. A trip to the top can be a crowning joy, only if you plan two to six months in advance, because limited tickets sell out fast. Visitors must climb 354 narrow, spiraling steps; but the views of the Hudson River and Lower Manhattan are astonishing.

Statue Cruises runs ferries to Liberty Island, as well as Ellis Island, the nation’s main entry point for immigrants between 1892 and 1924. Do you have ancestors who traveled through Ellis Island? The American Family Immigration History Center holds 51 million arrival records and 900 ship pictures circa 1892–1957. Bring names, and any identifying details, like birthplace, date of entry or ship name. Start your search with as much or as little information as you have.

While you can access the same database at home at libertyellisfoundation.org, the staff on site is invaluable in assisting visitors.

“Because they are well versed in the intricacies of the historical notations on the manifest, as well as possible differences between the original name and the more familiar Americanized version, our staff can unlock a mystery that sometimes has the searcher stumped,” says Elizabeth Oravetz, with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc.

Another beauty you’ll want to behold is the Empire State Building. Its 86th floor open-air observatory is the highest in New York, and open 365 days a year — from 8 a.m. until 2 a.m. Indulge in exceptional 360-degree views of New York City and beyond both day and night if you use a CityPASS (citypass.com/new-york). Not only does CityPASS provide a 40% discount on the top six NYC attractions, plus the added benefit of shorter lines, but it also allows you same day reentry to the Empire State Building. Get a lay of the land in the hush of the morning, and then experience the intimate sparkle of the skyline late at night.

The Empire State Building has more to offer than the views below. It also boasts a sensational Art Deco interior. In 2009, 18 months were invested in restoring the building’s aesthetic to the original 1930s design (while it only took 13 months to build the entire building 85 years prior!). Murals of planets and stars in 24-karat gold, as well as that famous anemometer of the building itself with beams of light, make the interior so memorable, it earned a landmark designation. Of the 35,000 landmarks in New York City, only 117 are interiors, according to the Landmark Preservation Commission.

If a peppery pastrami is on your list of must-haves in NYC, check it off with a visit to legendary Katz’s Delicatessen. A fixture on the Lower East Side since 1888, this family-run deli has legions of loyal fans. While the cafeteria-style restaurant with wood-paneled dining room will probably be packed with lines that will test your patience, the reward of tender, juicy, hand-sliced meats will be worth savoring.

Katz’s Delicatessen says their secret to mouthwatering meat is slow curing. According to their website, it takes up to 30 days to cure their meats, while commercially prepared corn beef, they claim, can be pressure-injected to cure in 36 hours. Trust me, you can taste the difference. Just be sure to bring a friend, because their monster sandwiches are bigger than most appetites can handle.

Katz’s Delicatessen is open all night Friday and 24 hours on Saturday, so if you’re not sleeping, it might be an interesting time to stop by. Want to ship some deliciousness to Chicago? You can order packages, platters and pickles at katzsdelicatessen.com.

Another marvel of design and engineering you should be certain to see is Grand Central Station. While there are countless delights for the eyes, like as the Glory of Commerce clock sculpture outside, and the intricately designed ceilings, the inside secret is for your ears. According to Anthony W. Robins (anthonywrobins.com), tour guide, lecturer and author of “Grand Central Terminal: 100 Years of a New York Landmark”, most visitors’ favorite spot is the Whispering Gallery.

Located outside the Oyster Bar & Restaurant in the basement, this unmarked archway provides for an awe-inspiring experience. By happy accident, the acoustics allow you to speak softly into one arch and your partner in the diagonal arch can hear every word as clearly as if you’re speaking directly to them. “I always end every tour there because everybody adores it,” says Robins. “Grown ups become children again.”

For more information on visiting New York City, visit nycgo.com or call 212-484-1200.

The Beach Town in Michigan You’ll Never Want to Leave

Posted on July 26, 2016 by Cortney Fries

Published by Chicago Parent magazine- Summer Going Places 2016

Summers spent in Michigan, both as a kid and now as a mom of two, are certainly some of my most cherished memories. There really is something to those Tim Allen “Pure Michigan” ads.

Time seems to slow down when you stroll on the beaches, relax in the sunshine and enjoy a boat cruise.

Saugatuck will forever be one of my favorite places on Earth, and I’m not alone in that opinion.

This colorful, lakeside art town has received numerous accolades, including #1 Best Summer Weekend Escape in 2014 and Best Small Coastal Town in 2016 by USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice.

Here are my family’s recommendations for a jaunt around this beautiful beach town and two neighboring destinations you shouldn’t miss.

Simple pleasures of Saugatuck

Saugatuck’s Oval Beach has been hailed as one of the top in the world and best in the Midwest. This serene shoreline nestled between sandy dunes is perfect for a sunny day of building sand castles or gallivanting in the gentle waves. Stay for sunset snuggles and you’ll cement some magnificent memories.

Take a hilly car ride to the beach, or even better, visit via hand-cranked ferry. The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, believed to be the only remaining one in the U.S., has been in use since 1838. For a small fee, you can cross the Kalamazoo River, hand-cranked on a chain, and experience a piece of history. Star of Saugatuck, a large paddle-wheel boat, and Harbor Duck Tours are also great ways to enjoy the water without getting wet.

Saugatuck has a delightful downtown, dotted with colorful boutiques and interesting art galleries. Stroll through the eclectic stores and stop to enjoy tasty treats. Parents will love Uncommon Coffee Roasters, where you can order a frothy cappuccino, then swing around the corner to the Teeny Tiny Toy Store. Just be warned, you should probably set a budget with the kids first, because, although the shop is small, it’s bursting with every toy you can imagine.

Saugatuck Drug Store and Soda Fountain is another place you should hit. Hop on a stool and enjoy a hand-creamed phosphate. This retro drug store is a blast from the past, turning out sodas and malts for more than 100 years. Kids will enjoy shopping for souvenirs; silly T-shirts, toys and colorful kites are just a few of the fun options.

Without a doubt, Saugatuck Dune Rides are my all-time favorite activity in the area. Jump aboard a dune buggy for a giggle-inducing, heart-pounding adventure for the whole family. It’s like a roller coaster ride in the sand dunes, full of quick jokes, fast turns and scenic outlooks. Call ahead to reserve tickets, because summer days sell out quick.

For lunch, you will love Lucy’s Little Kitchen. It’s a cute outdoor café that serves locally farmed foods and fresh seafood. Our kids couldn’t get enough of the sugarcane juice bar.

And make sure to catch the internationally acclaimed Village Puppeteers, who stage free public performances, for a comic romp sure to please your whole crew.

Douglas does a family good

Douglas, sister city to Saugatuck, has several family-friendly options. While Saugatuck can be a bed-and-breakfast town, my flock opted to stay at AmericInn Lodge & Suites due to its indoor swimming pool. That way, our early risers could get a dip in the pool and enjoy a free, hot breakfast before most people even got going for the day.

WayPoint Restaurant is where the locals go for hash brown omelets and super-friendly service. Cabbages & Kings is a delightful bookstore lined with precious children’s gifts.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner at a bowling alley? You just might be tempted to eat every meal at Alley’s Classic American Diner and Bowl. This cute, kitschy diner and bowling alley scored some of our best memories on our last visit.

Fennville is for farm-to-table and fun

Celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fabulous meal? Fennville, a small farm town a few miles from Saugatuck, is the place to go. Salt of the Earth, a modern farm-to-table restaurant, right next to the Forever Curious Children’s Museum, is a delicious way to reward yourself for a day of supervising play. The rustic, seasonal menu showcases ingredients from within a 50-mile radius of the restaurant. I dove into my pan-seared sea scallops and had to fight my 4-year-old daughter for the fresh bread. Our son devoured his wood-fired pizza, and we all enjoyed the live music.

Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery comes highly recommended, and for good reason. This fifth generation family fruit farm, famous for grandma’s fruit pies, now also serves wine and cider. Pie flights are a great way to try all the tempting flavors. Parents will enjoy sampling the small batch wines and ciders.

Feeling artistic? Stop by the Express Yourself Art Barn, a whimsical art studio for all ages. Soon you’ll be painting, stringing beads, throwing pottery or whatever your heart desires. The art you create will be a lasting treasure from your vacation time together.

Winter Escape to Yesteryear in Galena, Illinois

Posted on January 23, 2016 by Cortney Fries

Published by Make It Better- January 2016

Trade today’s stresses for the charms of yesteryear with a quick getaway to picturesque Galena, Illinios, a three-hour drive from Chicago. With 85 percent of this quaint, tiny town listed as a national historic district, visiting is like stepping back to a calmer time. While the eclectic shops, spas and wineries make for a fun girlfriends’ getaway, guys and couples will also be tempted to make a winter trip for the skiing, romantic suites and hip new distillery.

Blaum Bros. Distilling Company

Stop here on your way into town to warm up with some whiskey and set the pace for a relaxing retreat. This two-year-old distillery, owned by a pair of Chicago-area brothers, is modern, cozy and completely unpretentious. Take the 45-minute tour to learn about the difference between vodka and gin, the glory of white oak barrels, and why their copper kettle is called Chester (hint: the brothers are movie buffs). Or just sink into the leather sofas or belly up to the copper bar for cocktails with a kick. The New Belly Fitz is a refreshing mix of gin, lemon, simple syrup and lavender bitters. Blaum Bros. Hellfyre vodka is spicy — infused with jalapeños, habaneros and black peppercorns — yet fabulous in a hot chocolate, Bloody Mary or chocolate martini. If you can’t get enough of Blaum Bros.’ tipples, don’t distress. Their spirits are sold in the Chicago area at Binny’sand Whole Foods. To put your own mark on some bottles, participate in a “labeling party,” where volunteers spend an evening at the distillery labeling new bottles. 9380 U.S. Highway 20 W, Galena,815-777-1000

Photo courtesy of Blaum Bros. Distilling Company.

Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site

No visit to Galena is complete without a stop at the home of Civil War hero and 18th President of the United States, Ulysses. S. Grant. Tours of the handsome brick home with original furnishings, including Grant’s favorite green velvet chair, are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter. Entertaining guides bring history to life with quips like, “The South was easier to conquer than the in-laws.” 500 Bouthillier St., Galena, 815-777-3310

Photo by Cortney Fries.

Main Street

Much of your time in Galena will be spent strolling the charming downtown Main Street, popping into art galleries, antique shops, toy stores, boutiques, restaurants and drinking establishments. Indulge in a sweet treat at Stam Chocolate, where they boast their fine European chocolate is better than any you’ve ever tasted. For dinner, the intimate Perry Street Brasserie and Italian steakhouseFried Green Tomatoes garner great reviews. Perry Street Brasserie was even named one of the Top 100 Best Restaurants in America by OpenTable’s 2014 Diners’ Choice Awards. Make sure to request reservations in advance. After dinner, head to Galena Brewing Company to sample some of their 12 beers on tap. Live music lights up Friday and Saturday nights at 8 p.m.

Scenic Views

Take in the rolling hills and tri-state views at several scenic stops. Casper Bluff and Horseshoe Mound offer spectacular lookouts over Iowa, Wisconsin and the Mississippi River.

Chestnut Mountain Resort

This Illinois skiing and snowboarding paradise, with 19 trails for beginners to experts, sits high on the hills above the Mississippi River. The resort’s slope-side rooms with gorgeous views, two delicious dining options, and indoor pool, sauna and Jacuzzi make it the perfect escape to help you hit your refresh button. 8700 W. Chestnut Mountain Road, Galena, 800-798-0098

The view from Chestnut Mountain (Photo by Cortney Fries.)

Goldmoor Inn

If you’re hoping for special time with your sweetheart, the Goldmoor Inn is a beautiful bed and breakfast reminiscent of a castle in the countryside. Suites, cottages and log cabins all feature king-size beds, whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, perfect for cozying up after a cold, winter’s day. Savor a chef-prepared breakfast and sensational views of the Mississippi River in the dining room or in the comfort of your room. Relax and unwind in accommodations that have earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the past five years in a row. Special packages, such as the “Stay Three and Ski Free” and “Bald Eagle Winter Flight Package,” are available. 9001 W. Sand Hill Road, Galena,815-777-3925

Photo courtesy of Goldmoor Inn.

Otto’s Place

For brunch, you can’t go wrong with Otto’s Place, a café and lounge nestled next to the train tracks, blocks away from the bustle of Main Street. Their healthy home-cooked dishes, like sweet potato hash and flaky quiche, are great ways to start the day. As your meal is being prepared, read about the restaurant’s colorful history. While the original Otto was never able to open his own restaurant, the couple behind Otto’s Place has brought his dream to life with an inviting atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes in this lively little café. 100 Bouthillier St., Galena, 815-776-0240

Photo by Cortney Fries.

Mardi Gras Celebration

Visit Feb. 6 for a parade with beads galore, restaurants featuring Mardi Gras-inspired appetizers, ice and snow sculpting and a Masquerade Ball.

Banish winter blahs at Wisconsin Dells

Posted on January 23, 2016 by Cortney Fries

Published in Chicago Parent magazine- January 2016

Your family so needs a mini-escape and you’ve always wanted to check out the “The Waterpark Capital of the World,” but when it comes time to book that escape, the choices can become a tad overwhelming and you never make the reservation.

So we put together an insider’s guide to the warm waters, winter sports and fun indoor activities to keep your winter boredom at bay.

Where to stay

Wilderness Resort

511 E. Adams St., (800) 867-9453

Best for: Winter tanning

Wilderness boasts four indoor water parks, all accessible through inside walkways. Wild WaterDome’s transparent roof makes sunbathing possible even when there’s snow on the ground. Here you can ride the waves in America’s largest indoor wave pool. Or try the new slideboard experience, a surfboard ride that combines the thrill of water slides with the interactive skill of gaming, which opens in December. When your time in the water is done, have some fun at the new indoor attractions. Spin around the spiraling two-story go-kart trail, test your agility in the Lazer Maze or have a showdown in the Lazer Tag arena.

Kalahari Resort

1305 Kalahari Drive, (608) 254-5466

Best for: Family slides

Kalahari offers Disney-caliber comforts within an African-themed atmosphere. There’s fun for all bravery levels, from bodyboarding to tot slides. With rafts for up to three people, family water slides are great for getting little ones used to big rides or sharing group giggles. Kalahari’s indoor theme park features a six-story Ferris wheel, ropes courses for tykes and teens, bumper boats and even a pulse-pounding pendulum ride.

Great Wolf Lodge

1400 Great Wolf Drive; (608) 253-2222

Best for: Festive suites

Great Wolf’s warm indoor water park is sure to thrill your whole pack. With zero-depth entry pools and many mini water slides, even the tiniest tots will have a great time while the big kids swirl down the tornado slide. After splishing and splashing, snuggle up in your own winter wonderland. Snowland suites, decorated with holiday trees and snowflakes, are available for the first time this year. Plus you can enjoy holiday festivities throughout the resort–dine in a life-size gingerbread house or bask in the twinkling glow of indoor snowfall.

Where to play indoors

Rick Wilcox Magic Theater

1670 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy.; (608) 254-5511

Best for: Mesmerizing illusions

Want to add some wow to your Wis Dells getaway? Illusionists Rick and Suzan Wilcox keep audiences guessing, and laughing, in their Vegas-quality magic show. Kids will be captivated by the double levitation. Parents will appreciate that, even though it’s in Wisconsin, the show isn’t too cheesy. Audience members can volunteer to participate in the action and get a great prize. Check for tickets first–only a few 7 p.m performances are available in November and December.

Knuckleheads Trampoline Park * Rides * Bowling

150 N. Gasser Road, Lake Delton; (608) 254-7332

Best for: Giant trampolines

Got a few cooped-up kids? Knuckleheads is just the place to set those jumping beans free. Shoot hoops, play dodgeball, take a flying leap into the foam pit or bounce around the huge trampoline court. A 60-minute session is enough to wear anyone out. Little leapers will love the jumping pillow. Cool down at the 4D theater, bowling alley, arcade or indoor coaster.

Tommy Bartlett Exploratory

560 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy.; (608) 254-2525

Best for: Brain boosters

Examine the silly side of science in over 175 hands-on exhibits. Ever wonder what it’s like inside a thundercloud? Find out as your hair stands on end (an awesome photo opportunity). Tykes can tackle the Big Dig while bigger kids get a kick out of the interactive sports.

Where to explore outdoors

Bigfoot Zipline Tours

1550 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy.; (608) 254-5555

Best for: High-flying fun

Experience the cool exhilaration of zipping through the treetops over frozen waters. Bigfoot Ziplines is open year-round and thrill seekers ages 4 and up can glide across seven different ziplines, including the longest at almost 1,400 feet long.

Woodside Ranch

W4015 State Road 82, Mauston; (800) 626-4275

Best for: Horseback heaven

Take in a peaceful winter horseback ride at Woodside Ranch, a 15-minute drive from the Dells. With more than 1,000 wooded acres and 100 horses and ponies, no two trail rides will be the same. Wagon and sleigh rides also available.

Cascade Mountain

W10441 Cascade Mountain Road, Portage; (608) 742-5588

Best for: New skiers

Small children or anyone new to skiing will feel confident here. Try the Cascade Kids program, where kids 4-10 can learn the basics of skiing and snowboarding. Kids ski free with a paid adult.

Where to eat

MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop

208 Broadway; (608) 678-2300

Best for: Wisconsin cheesiness

There’s nothing like comfort food on a cold day, and MACS has mac n’ cheese down. Not only have they mastered the gooey goodness of the Original Mac, with bubbling cheddar and mozzarella cheeses atop noodles with crispy breadcrumbs, but their unique offerings hit the mark. Popeye Mac is perfect, with provolone, mozzarella, spinach, sautéed onions and mushrooms.

High Rock Cafe

232 Broadway; (608) 254-5677

Best for: Fresh favorites

Looking for fresh food in a contemporary setting? Sit on the second floor of High Rock Café and overlook the downtown Dells. The hearty, flavorful wraps and savory soups are sensational, and the garlic tator tot and broccoli salad sides are worth the upcharge. While this restaurant is slightly more upscale, it offers classic kids’ meal with quality ingredients. Plus, who wouldn’t go crazy for the High Rock Kit Kat or Dirt n’ Worms desserts?

Buffalo Phil’s Pizza & Grille

150 Gasser Road, Lake Delton; (608) 254-7300

Best for: Train-delivered food

Retrieving your meal from a model train is fun, especially when a rotating cast of stuffed animal characters accompanies it. Buffalo Phil’s offers Lil’ Buckaroo meals, tasty barbecue dishes with buckets of sweet and spicy sauce options and a new pizza, pasta, soup and salad lunch buffet. Plus it’s connected to Knuckleheads, so you don’t even have to put your coats on to continue the fun.

Amelia Island, One of the Top 10 Islands in America, is Just a 2 Hour Flight Away

Posted on January 23, 2016 by Cortney Fries

Published by Make It Better magazine- Jan/ Feb 2016 issue

Amelia Island is one of the best islands in the U.S., according to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards. This beautiful, history-filled family destination was also recommended by Travel Channel host Samantha Brown in Make It Better’s popular article on hot new vacation destinations. If you’ve been craving a warm-weather getaway that’s close to home, yet feels like yesteryear, choose Amelia Island as your next destination. Make It Better is here to help you experience the best of what this alluring island has to offer.

With 13 miles of pristine, uncrowded beaches, abundant sunshine and mild temperatures year-round, Amelia Island is perfect for a spring getaway or a warm winter respite. This beautiful barrier island on Florida’s Atlantic coast is a quick 30-minute drive from the Jacksonville International Airport, but a complete escape from the bustle of everyday life. Reconnect with friends, family, and even yourself in the relaxed atmosphere, lush landscapes and peaceful quiet of this island, where the roaming wildlife and colorful history are just as much of a draw as the world-class golf, luxurious spas and distinctive restaurants.

Named after Princess Amelia, daughter of King George II, Amelia Island is the only territory in the United States to have been ruled under eight different flags. Once a haven for pirates and nobles, Fernandina Beach is now a charming 50-block district of elegant Victorian mansions, quaint restaurants and eclectic shops.

What to Do

A golfer’s paradise, Amelia Island is home to 117 holes of award-winning golf. Omni Amelia Island Plantation offers 54 championship golf holes, including courses designed by Pete Dye and Bobby Weed, with spectacular views of the natural terrain.

If you’ve dreamed of a gentle horseback gallop along sand and surf, Amelia Island is the perfect place for a beachfront ride. Soak in the sunshine and sounds of the ocean as your feet graze warm waters and saltwater air sweeps through your hair. Horses have a way of calming the soul.

However, if history by horse-drawn carriage is more appealing to you, count on Amelia Carriage Tours. Enjoy tales of the island’s rich history as you cruise the downtown district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The clip-clop of horse hooves makes a soothing melody as you ride in a restored Victorian carriage pulled by “gentle giant” Belgian draft horses.

Photo courtesy of Amelia Carriage Tours.

Yet if you prefer more active, while still serene, activities, try Kayak Amelia. Informative and friendly guides assist with standup paddleboard yoga, kayak yoga or meditation paddles. If you can imagine doing yoga on a mat floating through crystal blue waters, you’ve captured the idea behind standup paddleboard yoga. Close encounters with herons, sea turtles and manatees may be included. Yoga on the sand or meditation under the full moon will rejuvenate your body and refresh your mind.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of Amelia Island or an amazing aerial adventure, check trike flying off your bucket list. Air Amelia offers this activity, also known as powered hang gliding. Fly effortlessly up to 2,000 feet while feeling the breeze on your skin and touching the clouds. The high will soar with you throughout the rest of your trip.

Perhaps you’re looking for a more low-key way to take in the sights and sounds on the water. On anAmelia river cruise, you’re likely to see wild horses, dolphins, sea turtles and manatees. Their Cumberland Island tour is highly recommended.

For nature lovers and history buffs, a visit to Fort Clinch State Park might be the ticket to a sensational vacation. Bike among Spanish moss-draped oaks, hike to the largest sand dunes in Florida or fish off the half-mile pier. Take a living history tour of the most well-preserved 19th century fort in the country or just enjoy the flora and fauna, including tortoises, bobcats and American alligators.

Where to Stay

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is a new addition to the island, combining the Ritz’s upscale ambiance with dashes of southern charm. Revel in stunning coastal views from every private balcony. Relax by the courtyard fire pit, cocktail in hand, or bury your toes in the sand of the dune-lined beaches. Young guests can snuggle up with a special tuck-in from Princess Amelia.

Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

The Omni Amelia Island Plantation recently underwent an $85 million re-imagination. This impressive 1,350-acre property is like a world unto itself, with luxurious beachfront accommodations, gorgeous pools, countless dining options and tons of family-friendly activities, including mini golf, biking and nature excursions, all seemingly effortlessly painted into the beautiful backdrop. They even offer a “Biggest Loser Resort” for people who want to take the first step toward getting fit.

Amelia-Island-Omni-Amelia-Island-Plantation-pool

Photo courtesy of Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Elizabeth Pointe Lodge is a charming oceanfront bed-and-breakfast with wide porches perfect for reading and reclining. Not only is their breakfast exceptional, but they also serve free wine and hors d’oeuvres every evening and complimentary cookies all day.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Pointe Lodge.

Many hotels on the island participate in a “Free Night Any Night” program, in which travelers can get their third or fourth night of qualifying stays at certain hotels for free.

Eating Well on the Island

Salt, Ritz-Carlton’s AAA Five Diamond Restaurant, serves artfully prepared dishes from land and sea, seasoned with salts from around the world. For a unique experience, try “Dine with the Chefs.” You’ll get a private seat in the kitchen with a customized menu and optional wine pairings.

Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

Joe’s 2nd Street Bistro features casual elegance in an environment similar to dining in a chef’s abode. Located in a restored 1900s home in the historic heart of Fernandina Beach, the ideal spot is under the quaint, covered porch out back. Their creative pasta, seafood and steak dishes are delectable, but the desserts are to die for.

Not only does Amelia Island dining include fabulous French finds, like Le Clos, and tempting tapas atEspaña Restaurant and Tapas, but also several casual cafés that feature quality dishes. Dine at Pi Infinite Combinations for tasty pizza served in a cozy courtyard. Toppings range from spicy pepperoni to fresh local shrimp and black truffle oil. See why Timoti’s Seafood Shak was named one of America’s Best Seafood Dives by Coastal Living magazine in 2013. Their wild-caught fish, clams and shrimp are served in baskets, tacos and wraps. You’ll soon become a part of their fiercely loyal following.

Treat Yourself

Luxurious spas on Amelia Island offer unique and indulgent ways to rejuvenate. The Salon & Spa at Omni Amelia Island Plantation features signature services like the “Seaside Sensory Journey,” a three-step exfoliation under restorative waters, as well as yoga classes and retreats in their Spa Treehouse.

Let stress melt away as you experience the exclusive “Heaven in a Hammock” treatment created byThe Ritz-Carlton Spa®, Amelia Island. Cocooned in an exquisitely crafted hammock, you’ll experience the sense of weightless floatation combined with intuitive touch. Restore your mind and body with complete relaxation.

Shop Under the Sun

Explore the eclectic collection of local shops and galleries in the quaint downtown shopping district. You’ll be sure to notice a line out the door of Fantastic Fudge. If the sweet aroma of fudge and freshly-baked waffle cones doesn’t draw you in, you’ve got stronger willpower than most. Delight in the different fudge flavors crafted throughout the day, the old-fashioned way, on a thick marble slab table. And nothing says vacation like an ice cream cone by the beach.

Next to Fantastic Fudge, you’ll find a reader’s treasure trove at The Book Loft. Immerse yourself in stacks of rare and signed books, as well as pirate and historic collections.

Join the Party

Amelia Island loves to celebrate. Two festivals worth going for are the Shrimp Festival at the end of April and Jazz Festival in October. The Annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival features pirates, parades, arts and entertainment and, of course, shrimp. Hosted in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry, it is one of the premier festivals in Southwest Florida.

Photo courtesy of Amelia Island Tourist Development Council.

World-renowned jazz artists, like Larry Coryell and Kevin Mahogany, headline the the Amelia Island Jazz Festival. Get jazzed by the energy and enthusiasm of this fabulous live music fest.

Everything You Need to Know About Taking a Family Trip to Austin

Posted on October 11, 2015 by Cortney Fries

Published in Chicago Parent Going Places magazine- Fall 2015

Dive into a natural springs pool, dance to a different beat and discover something unusual in Austin. The eclectic capital of Texas is bursting with natural beauty, mouth-watering barbecue and music around every corner. With nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, an average temperature of 70 degrees and a goal to “Keep Austin Weird,” there’s plenty of fun for your family.

Outdoor oasis

Austin is greener and more gorgeous than you might imagine. Zilker Park (2100 Barton Springs Road), an expansive 350-acre metropolitan park, borders the beautiful Lady Bird Lake. Run, bike, fly a kite or simply enjoy a picnic with the Austin skyline as your backdrop. Kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards can be rented from Zilker Park Boat Rentals. Kids will love the Zilker Zephyr, a miniature train that offers 25-minute rides around the park. Take a refreshing dip into the 68-70 degree Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre natural spring-fed pool open for swimming year-round. Deep Eddy is a shallower (and warmer) natural watering hole. Zero-depth entry is great for tots or lounging parents.

Live music everywhere

As the self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World, Austin jams from the minute you land in Bergstrom International Airport to when you go grocery shopping. The Texas-sized flagship of Whole Foods (525 N. Lamar Blvd.), along with more than 250 other Austin establishments, showcases live music. From blues to jazz, country to indie rock, you’re sure to find your beat.

The laidback outdoor atmosphere of Austin’s casual restaurants is perfect for families. Many feature playgrounds, backyard games and free concerts.

Enjoy the pecan tree-shaded patio of The Shady Grove (1624 Barton Springs Road), whose free Unplugged music series runs Thursday nights April-September. The lit-up, eclectic décor gets as many favorable reviews as the queso catfish and Hippie veggie sandwich.

Evangeline’s (8106 Brodie Lane) is a great spot for Cajun (fried pickles anyone?) and live bands. Craving Mexican? El Mercado (1302 S. 1st St.) is a winner for tunes and dinner.

BBQ, food trucks and more

Franklin Barbecue (900 E. 11th St.) might be the most famous BBQ place in Austin, but it plays hard to get. Since it’s only open for lunch Tuesdays through Sundays and available from 11 a.m. to whenever it’s sold out, you can wait in line for hours and still not score a bite. County Line (two locations: On the Hill and On the Lake) and The Salt Lick (18300 Farm to Market Road 1826, Driftwood) are more family-friendly options.

County Line’s all-you-can-eat barbecue is a great value. And, as their menu states, the famous homemade bread is worth the dough. The On the Hill location offers great views, while families enjoy feeding the ducks and turtles On the Lake. The Salt Lick is a short, scenic drive into the Texas Hill Country for sensational sunset views, savory sauce and a swing in a hammock.

Austin also offers hot and spicy chicken, breakfast 24/7 and creative ice cream flavors. You’ll love every bite of Gus’s Fried Chicken (117 San Jacinto Blvd.). Magnolia Café (2304 Lake Austin Blvd. and 1920 S. Congress Ave.) serves Tex Mex and breakfast night and day. Peruse the playful gift shop next door to the Congress Boulevard location while you wait for your table. Amy’s Ice Creams boasts many Austin locations and 350 unique rotating flavors, like Apple Jacks and Grasshopper.

Food trucks galore! You’ll notice these tasty trailers on countless corners. The Midway (1905 S. Capital of Texas Highway) is a circle of food trucks on the west side of Austin with a playground and live music in the middle. Thai Kitchen and Korean Komfort don’t disappoint.

Festivals, museums and batty creatures

Fun festivals featuring ice cream, bacon and beer, free yoga, barbecue and more are offered throughout the year. Check austintexas.org for details. Austin Kiddie Limits is the free festival for kids 10 and under within the famous Austin City Limits (Oct. 2-4 and 9-11). Kids can play the drums, learn to beatbox, paint a mural and punk out their hair.

Austin Zoo (10808 Rawhide Trail) is a rehab zoo, which offers close-up experiences with rescued animals. Feeding and reading about how each animal was rescued makes it feel more personal. Looking for a children’s museum that’s fun for kids up to 12? Explore science hands on with mom or dad or climb the robust playground outside The Thinkery.

Hundreds of people line up across Congress Avenue Bridge and picnic in the park below to see an unusual and fascinating attraction. The largest urban bat colony in North America swirls into the sky at dusk to capture their insect dinner. Just another funky reason your family will go batty over Austin.