Pack the Kids

This week on Pack the Kids, we’re talking all about unique places to stay when traveling with kids—because sometimes the hotel is part of the adventure.From glamping in a luxury dome in the Blue Ridge Mountains to staying in a converted train station hotel in Chattanooga, we’re sharing our real experiences with creative, family-friendly accommodations across the U.S.In this episode, we cover: What is glamping?! And how is it different to traditional camping Staying in a dome with mountain views, trails, and a tree net playground Sleeping in a train hotel with vintage railcars and a walkable entertainment area Why unique stays aren't always more expensive Future stays we’re planning (including a yacht, treehouse, and even a grain silo 👀) We also play a round of Truth or Trash featuring some of the wildest places you can stay around the world—including a giant potato and a giraffe hotel.If you’re looking for family travel ideas in Georgia, Chattanooga, or unique stays in the U.S., this episode will give you inspiration to think beyond the typical hotel.📍 Places Mentioned (With Links)🌄 Blue Ridge Mountains, GeorgiaGlamp Blue Ridge https://www.glampblueridge.com/we stayed at the "Terracotta Dome"  (Luxury dome glamping experience with trails, fire pits, and mountain views) 🚂 Chattanooga, TennesseeThe Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo (Boutique hotel in a historic train station with restored train car stays) 🚐 Previous Trip Mention Camper van stay (Yellowstone trip – referenced in earlier episode)BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week on Pack the Kids, we’re diving into what we ate on our spring break trip through Blue Ridge, Georgia, Helen, Georgia, and Chattanooga, Tennessee—and let’s just say… this was NOT your average road trip food.From German food in a Bavarian-style town in Georgia to Appalachian-inspired fine dining, over-the-top brunch, and homemade meals while glamping, this episode covers the real-life food experiences of traveling with kids in the U.S.We talk about: Trying schnitzel, spätzle, and German comfort food in Helen, Georgia  Ice cream chaos at a busy small-town creamery  Cooking our own burgers and brownies while glamping  A full Italian multi-course dining experience (with kids!) Ordering quail for the first time (and actually liking it)  A cozy Appalachian bistro with steak, oysters, and yucca fries  The BEST biscuits and chicken and waffles we’ve ever had We also play a round of Truth or Trash featuring food history—from Southern desserts to Appalachian cooking—and learn something along the way.If you’re planning a family trip to Chattanooga, Blue Ridge, or the Southeast U.S., or just want to know what kids will actually eat on vacation, this episode is packed with ideas, laughs, and real experiences.📍 Places Mentioned (With Links)🍽️ Chattanooga, TennesseeElsie’s Daughter https://www.thehotelchalet.com/dining/elsies-daughter (Appalachian-inspired bistro with French/Belgian influence) Click here to Stay at the Choo Choo Hotel - The Chalet, a remodeled Train Station with real trains to sleep in!Milk & Honey https://www.milkandhoneychattanooga.com/ (Brunch spot known for biscuits, chicken & waffles, and breakfast dishes)Alleia https://alleiarestaurant.com/ (hand crafted Italian Food Using Local Ingredients)🇩🇪 Helen, Georgia (German Food Experience)Bodensee Restaurant https://www.bodenseerestaurant.com/ (Traditional German food including schnitzel, wurst, and spätzle) 🍦 Blue Ridge, GeorgiaBlue Ridge Creamery https://www.blueridgecreamery.com/ (Popular ice cream shop in a walkable downtown area)BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

In this episode, we recap our spring break focused entirely on activities, starting in Atlanta and moving into the Blue Ridge Mountains (Georgia) and Chattanooga, Tennessee.We share: What surprised us (looking at you, Ruby Falls 👀)  First-time experiences (horseback riding)  Unexpected highlights (Gibbs Gardens + Rock City)  What the kids loved most  How everything tied together into one full, multi-stop trip 📍 Places Mentioned (With Links)🌸 Georgia / Blue Ridge AreaGibbs Gardens https://gibbsgardens.com/ (Massive garden known for millions of daffodils and seasonal blooms) Cowgirl Up Stables https://www.cowgirlupstables.com/ (Horseback riding experience in the mountains) Brasstown Bald https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/conf/recarea/?recid=10458 (Highest point in Georgia with optional shuttle to the top) Helen (Bavarian-style mountain town) Georgia Mountain Coaster https://georgiamountaincoaster.com/ (Alpine coaster where riders control speed) 🌄 Chattanooga / Lookout MountainRock City https://www.seerockcity.com/ (Gnome-filled trails, caves, and “See 7 States” viewpoint) Ruby Falls https://www.rubyfalls.com/ (Underground waterfall discovered in 1928) Lookout Mountain Incline Railway https://ridetheincline.com/ (One of the steepest passenger railways in the world) Tennessee Aquarium https://tnaqua.org/ (Two-building aquarium with freshwater + ocean exhibits) Walnut Street Bridge (mentioned) (Pedestrian-only bridge—closed during our visit)BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week we’re talking about bucket list trips — what they are, why they matter, and what’s actually on ours.We’re officially just two downloads away from 200 🎉 and we may or may not be keeping our spring break location a secret (we’re flying into Atlanta… but that’s all you’re getting for now).From Japan dreams and Pokémon-themed airplanes to jungle hotel fantasies with flamingos and hydrangeas, this episode is full of imagination, goals, and figuring out how to actually make dream trips happen.We talk about:What a bucket list really is (and why Mom feels bad she doesn’t have one 😅)Why having travel goals helps you work toward something excitingJapan, Kyoto, Italy, and Pokémon Air ✈️How “point hacking” might get us thereSmall, doable adventures like backyard camping and fishing tripsWhat we’d do with $100 A Truth or Trash game featuring Japan, Paris, and the MaldivesPlus: Otis' "would you rather" gets weird.)Parents: It doesn’t have to be expensive to count. Kids: Dream big. Then make a plan.And as always — don’t forget to pack the kids.BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

In this week’s Pack the Kids, we’re back in New York City — Part 3, and this time it’s all about how NYC feels for kids! From the magic of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway, leaping in giant ball pits, sniffing walls and confetti disasters to scaling the Empire State Building, this episode is packed with playful chaos, family memories, and the truth about kid‑friendly city life.We also hit:🪄 Broadway merch, Patronus AR magic, and jelly bean taste tests🎨 Immersive exhibits like Color Factory and the Lego store fun🧱 FAO Schwarz nostalgia, sensory art rooms, and Lego taxis🏙️ Empire State Building with wind, views, and interactive exhibits🎲 Truth or Trash NYC trivia you didn’t know you needed🐯 A dramatic Would You Rather (mountain lion vs chihuahua)Whether you’re planning a NYC trip with kids or just curious if a big city can keep little people entertained, this one’s for you!📍 Places Mentioned 🎭 Shows & EntertainmentHarry Potter and the Cursed Child (Broadway) 🎟️ https://harrypottertheplay.com/🏙️ NYC Attractions & ExperiencesEmpire State Building — Iconic observatory with history & views ⭐ https://www.esbnyc.com/Color Factory NYC — Interactive multi‑sensory art experience 🎨 https://www.colorfactory.co/new-york/🧸 Stores & Kid StopsLego Store (Rockefeller Center) — Giant Lego figures & Lego tree 🧱 https://www.lego.com/en-us/stores/rockefeller-centerFAO Schwarz (Rockefeller Center) — Iconic toy store & giant piano 🎹 https://www.faoschwarz.com/BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

🍕 This week, we hit Part 2 of our New York City food adventure — featuring famous frrrozen hot chocolate, a best pizza award, and a family debate that sparked controversy.Come with us back to NYC for who ate what and where and let us know what you would try!📍Places Mentioned 🍕 John’s of Bleecker Street Pizza🍔 Sailor in Brooklyn 🍦 Serendipity 3 - Upper East Side Location /Times Square🍞 Balthazar Bakery – SoHoBIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week on Pack the Kids, we're diving into all the delicious stops we made on our recent New York City adventure—from the iconic to the quirky! 🍕🥯🍰We’re sharing what it’s like eating your way through Manhattan with kids and without kids menus. Plus, you’ll hear which place totally surprised us, who ate the most candy, and the best way to get into NYC hotspots.📍Places MentionedHere’s a full roundup of our NYC eats—with links so you can plan your own tasty trip:🍕 Filaga Pizza at Chelsea Market – Sicilian-style slices in a fun food hall🍣 TAO Uptown – Fancy family sushi dinner in a nightclub-like setting🧁 Dylan’s Candy Bar at Hudson Yards – Over-the-top sweets🍝 Eataly NYC Flatiron – Fresh pasta, Italian eats, and groceries🐓 Coqodaq – Korean fried chicken and caviar nuggets BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

In this episode of Pack the Kids, Sarah, Nash, and Otis get ready for an upcoming trip to New York City by talking all things airport packing, flying with kids, and whether city trips or mountain camping are more fun.The boys share their best airport tips, debate city vs outdoor travel, and play a round of Truth or Trash about airport rules and Central Park wildlife.It’s a lighthearted conversation about independence, early flights, family travel routines, and why letting kids pack their own bags might actually be the secret to smoother trips.If you want to go see Harry Potter on Broadway, and yes, it's in the SPLURGE category, here's the link! BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week, we’re back in one of our favorite food cities—Chicago! 🍴 Otis and Nash join in (hot cocoa in hand) to share laughs, messy bites, and family memories from the Windy City. We dig into the real difference between a Chicago-style hot dog and every other dog on the planet, plus how to properly order an Italian beef sandwich (there’s a trick). Whether you’re all about mustard and sport peppers or just here for the drippy meat napkin vibes, we’ve got you.You’ll hear: 🌭 What it means when a hot dog is “dragged through the garden” 🥖 Why “dipped” matters when ordering Italian beef 😂 Nash’s sushi food review…  🧼 Otis pranks Dad📍 Chicago Suburbs Food & Restaurant Links🍕 Lou Malnati’s PizzeriaYou can order deep‑dish pizzas to your house   Website: https://www.loumalnatis.com/ 🍔 Portillo’s Restaurantslegendary chocolate cake (often made into a chocolate cake shake by blending cake right into the milkshake). https://www.portillos.com/order/ 🍣 Bistro Wasabi (Lake in the Hills / Hoffman Estates, IL) Website: https://thebistrowasabi.com/ BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week, we’re in Chicago — and it’s full of flavor, fun, and freezing wind.Join us as we:Sip homemade sparkling cherry soda with a DIY syrup recipe 🍒Tour the Balloon Museum where air is art (yes, there’s a giant floating charcoal balloon) 🎈Debate our NYE plans (spoiler: sushi wins over parties) 🍣Drop kid-approved tips for crushing laser tag at Battle HousePlay Truth or Trash with surprising Chicago facts (why IS it called the "Windy City?")This episode is part party-prep, part city adventure — perfect for anyone ringing in the new year with snacks and style.🍒 Cherry Sparkle Syrup Recipe DIY Cherry Soda Syrup1 cup frozen cherries½ cup sugar1 cup waterBoil together until soft, blend with immersion blender, and simmer until thick like syrup. Cool and taste. Spoon 2–4 tsp into sparkling water or soda. Add more for sweeter!➤ Makes NYE sparkle without the champagne.📍Places Mentioned🎈 Balloon Museum Chicago – “Air Is Art” exhibit with charcoal balloon, ball pit, and immersive light rooms 🎯 Battle House Laser Tag – where Nash says to move a lot and wear dark colors 🍒 Your Kitchen – for cherry soda adventures and “Would You Rather” debatesBIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

This week, Nash takes the lead as we explore Cleveland's tastiest treasures — From over-the-top desserts like bubble waffles and shark donuts to fancy eats at Award-Winning Cordelia, and don't forget classic Italian cookies in Little Italy — this episode is packed with flavor.We share our top picks for:Donuts (yes, there’s a debate)Ice cream spots with secret painted chameleons 🦎Fancy meals for foodies in trainingKid-friendly table games to pass the time (no iPads needed!)A Truth or Trash game featuring Cleveland food myths 🍩Plus a would-you-rather involving pizza hats and donut clothes… obviously.Cleveland might not have invented the donut, but it definitely knows how to decorate one.🧁 Grown-up tip: Make your dinner reservations early! 🍕 Kid tip: Be ready with weird games while you wait. 💌 Listener shoutout: Hi Australia!📍Places Mentioned🍩 DonutsBrew Nuts Taylor Swift Donuts anyone?Stan’s Bakery (Northfield) Peace, Love and Little Donuts🍨 Desserts/Ice CreamBATTR (Bubble waffles + chaos!)Mitchell’s Ice Cream – Ohio City & Van AkenRood Food and Pie🍝 RestaurantsMia Bella Restaurant – Little ItalyPresti’s Bakery – Little ItalyCordelia (Cool chef alert!)BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

We’re in Wyoming, and it’s not just a square on the map—it’s where alpine lakes, mountain waffles, and unexpected weather compete for main character energy.In this episode of Pack the Kids, we reflect on our time in Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole with kid commentary on everything from huckleberry obsession to hiking highs and lows. From the peaceful vibes at the Laurance Rockefeller Preserve to the literal highs at Corbet’s Cabin (waffles, anyone?), this was one for the books.We talk about:Renting bear sprayOtis' "Woud you Rather" about good eats vs better eatsSinging ridiculous songs to get through longer hikesThe "good" RV ParkThis episode is for the families who want their kids to remember the feel of a trail under their feet, not just another day on a screen. Warning: may inspire spontaneous road trip planning.—📍 Places MentionedGrand Teton National ParkJackson Hole, WYJackson Drug Restaurant (Huckleberry Yummy)Jenny LakeCorbet’s Cabin (Top of the World Waffles)Laurance S. Rockefeller PreserveTeton Village / Tram Ride / Mangy Moose RestaurantAlpine Valley RV Park - great bathrooms and kid approved playground. decent wifi BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

We're back in Moab, Utah with part 2!This week, we’re still in the desert — but ditch the hiking boots. We’re eating our way through Moab, Utah and adding a brand new segment: Nash Eats! From surprisingly epic Italian food to donuts worth waking up for, the kids weigh in on their favorite eats. Plus, we visit a rock shop that's basically a museum, keep a positive attitude as Mom goes into every home store, and debate some prehistoric highways and dirt boba. Pack your appetite — and the kids!Plus:🎒 Tips on how to keep cool 🧠 Truth or Trash: Dinosaur Highways and Gemstone Mining🧁 Food truck sprayers and donut diplomacy📍Eats Mentioned:Pasta JaysMoab Food Truck Park Doughbird DoughnutsStay and Do:Moab Rock ShopDriving Potash RoadShopping all along Main StreetStay at the Hyatt Place Moab Whether you’re planning your own Moab trip or just wishing it were summer, this one’s for you. Grab some water, and Pack the Kids!BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

We took the kids to the desert… in July. In this episode, we head to Moab, Utah, to explore Arches National Park during the peak of summer heat. We’ll share what it’s like to watch the sunrise from North Window, how we kept cool with cold cave hideouts and Camelbaks, and why Sand Dune Arch might be your new favorite sandbox.As always, Nash shares his favorite sights and hikes , Otis delivers some truly spiky Would You Rathers, and we uncover the real reason we ditched the camper van for a hotel.Plus:🎒 Our must-have desert hiking gear🥾 The "Easy" Hikes when it's over 100 degrees🧠 Truth or Trash: Arches, animals, and Indiana Jones📍Places Mentioned:Hikes we did:Turret Arch TrailSkyline Arch TrailDouble Arch TrailSand Dune ArchWindows Loop- North Window (for the sunrise)- Windows Primitive Trail -definitely download your "All Trails" Map (also an app) and keep it close because it's easy to go off trail.Park Avenue TrailStay with a pool: Stay at the Hyatt Place Moab Whether you’re planning your own Moab trip or just wishing it were summer, this one’s for you. Grab some water, and Pack the Kids!BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

🎙️ Geysers, Zip Lines & Grown-Up Tips in YellowstoneIn this steamy episode, we're exploring Yellowstone's most iconic sights — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs — plus zipping over the Montana treetops and soaking in a hot springs spa ). 🏞️🛁As always, we’ve got:🌋 Our must-see Yellowstone stops even if you're not PROFESH hikers🌄 Grown-up tips and mistakes we almost made❓ Truth or Trash Trivia about Yellowstone🤔 Would You Rather: Geyser shower or bison roommate?📍Places MentionedMammoth Hot Spring -"looked like the moon"Old Faithful- don't worry about getting there early, there's a huge gift shop and a timer of when to go catch the next eruptionGrand Prismatic Spring- Take the hike to your left off the main path to view it from up above (as long as you're ok with walking uphill) Strollers were tough!Bozeman Hot Springs - The "Spa" Gardiner and Bozeman - Cute Towns to visit Gallatin Classic Zipline Tour- Operated by Montana Whitewater Whether you're planning a trip or just armchair-traveling, join us for the beginning of our 2 week Van Road Trip!🎧 Hit play, laugh with us, and Pack the Kids!BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

In this episode of Pack the Kids, we’re headed to Puerto Rico — where the beaches are wild, the rainforest is wet, and your kayak might come with a crab named Steve.We’re talking about:El Yunque rainforest hikes (with rope swings, waterfalls, and MUD)Night kayaking in glowing LED-bottom boats under the bridge in San JuanHidden beaches, big waves, and one that nearly ate usWhat we learned about bioluminescent bays — and why you probably need to book those way in advanceAs always play “Truth or Trash: Puerto Rico Edition" with Otis and Nash and see if Sarah Mom can stump you This episode is full of real talk, laugh-out-loud moments, and tropical chaos, so grab your sandals and...Pack the kids!📍Places Mentioned: El Yunque Rainforest and Waterfall Guided Tour: Tour Operator Bespoke Lifestyle Management- They pick up at hotels. If you don't go with this tour, just make sure the company you go with has you wearing helmets- mostly unnecessary, but my Otis is careless with his body and I was grateful for the noggin' protection on the waterslide. *Bring Water Shoes!* They had some for sale at the parking lot, but confirm with your tour guide just in case they changed that. I wore lightweight hiking shorts and a tank- a bathing suit felt weird. The boys wore bathing suit bottoms and rash guards. *kid discounts on the trip!* They took pictures for you and uploaded them asap so you don't have to worry about your phone getting wet. Escambron Beach (San Juan), Scuba Dogs - we didn't do a tour, we just bought snorkels for the boys. Beach Hoppin’ in Manatí  (Rent a Car) - car rented with Enterprise At Condado Plaza, San Juan, PR 00907Mar Chiquita- "The slippery limestone one" I would encourage you to look at how beautiful this beach is in pics. It might still be worth it. There was supposed to be a small pool for the kids to play in, but I guess I didn't see it. BRING WATER SHOES, the rocks are SHARPLa Poza de las Mujeres- the hidden gem beach! Tip the guy for your car, street parking can be sus, but you are rewarded for the beach. I would say don't bring valuables just in case. Look this place up on Tik Tok for how to get to the caves, but we didn't go because of high tide and I was nervous with the kids. Use your brain skills! Bring shade and there weren't bathrooms or concessions, it's a beach in the wild 🦀LED Kayak Night Glow Tour in Condado Lagoon - San JuanDistritio - The outdoor Party, Shopping, Food, Zipline, Arcade w/ Aerial Obstacle Course*friends! I signed up to be a Viator affiBIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

Join Sarah (the mom), Nash and Otis (the kids) for short weekly episodes about  Iocal and faraway adventures in hopes of growing a travel kid community that inspires each other to get out and experience!     BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!

“New Orleans Eats: Beignets, Gumbo & Grits (Plus Trivia & Where to go For Family Friendly Spots)This week, we’re talking food — and not just any food. We’re in New Orleans, where even the snacks have history. From powdered-sugar beignets to kid-approved gumbo and cheesy grits, we’re sharing 3 classic New Orleans dishes your kids might actually try — and where to find them.Otis and Nash weigh in on what was delicious, what was “meh,” and how many beignets are too many (answer: there is no limit).You’ll also hear:Family-friendly spots to grab iconic NOLA bitesTrying new foods A round of Truth or Trash: New Orleans food editionWhether you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy or just hungry for a good laugh — grab a snack and Pack the Kids!BIG News! You can text us now!Follow Us on Instagram! @MarnellFamilyRoadshowWatch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcastEmail us! [email protected] want to hear about your adventures too and will choose a few to shout out on the show!