Episode 186: Traverse City, MI – Best Beach Towns in the US (Freshwater Edition)

Description:

We’re heading north to Michigan for this stop in our Best Beach Towns in the US series—and it’s one we’ve loved before! Rob welcomes back Mike Kent from Traverse City Tourism to dive into what makes this lakefront gem one of the best beach towns in the country. From sand dunes and sailboats to cherry pie and goat yoga (yes, really), Traverse City proves you don’t need an ocean to find the ultimate family beach getaway.

In This Episode:

1. The stunning freshwater setting of Grand Traverse Bay
2. A short modern history: from cherry capital to wine country
3. The unique microclimate, sandy soil, and how it supports both cherries and world-class wine
4. Sleeping Bear Dunes: 60 miles of shoreline and national acclaim
5. Family-friendly beach options, paddleboarding, kayaking, and yes—fishing!
6. Accessibility and inclusion: the first autism-certified travel destination in the Midwest
7. Traverse City’s booming food scene: from farm-to-table to food trucks and cherry pie flights
8. Summer festivals including the 100th National Cherry Festival that's coming in 2026
9. Why shoulder season might be your best time to visit
10. Mike’s favorite childhood summer memory—and how families can make their own
11. The #1 thing every first-time visitor should do before leaving town

Mentioned in the Episode:

• TraverseCity.com – Plan your trip and explore all the activities, trails, and events
• Traverse City Food & Wine – August culinary celebration
• Moomers Ice Cream, Cherry Republic, Farm Club, Right Brain Brewery
• Chateau Chantal's “Jazz at Sunset”
• National Cherry Festival – celebrating 100 years in 2025!
• Autism Certified Designation – commitment to sensory-friendly experiences

Follow Us!

➡️ Subscribe to The Family Vacationer wherever you get your podcasts

📸 Follow us on Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer

📬 Get more travel tips on our Substack

Rob’s Reminder:

"Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open."

Traci’s Tagline (even when off this week):

"Safe travels everyone."

The Family Vacationer - Episode 185

Destination: St. Augustine, Florida – Where History and Beaches Collide

Guest: Barbara Golden, Communications Manager, Florida’s Historic Coast

Heads up, eagle-eyed listeners! Yes, we also noticed we skipped Episode 185 last week... the person responsible has been politely but firmly relieved of their podcast-numbering duties. (Don't worry, we gave them a map to the Fountain of Youth as severance.)

If you’re looking for a family vacation spot that blends centuries of history with sandy toes and salt air, St. Augustine is calling your name. In this episode, Rob and Traci welcome back friend of the show Barbara Golden, who takes us on a virtual tour through America’s oldest city.

What You'll Learn:

• Why St. Augustine is more than just a beach town (spoiler: pirates AND archaeology!)
• The rich cultural tapestry behind the nation’s oldest continuously occupied European settlement
• How to mix sun, surf, and centuries of history into one epic family vacation
• The best interactive museums for kids (think: cannon fire, pirate ships, and animatronic schoolhouses)
• Top beaches, family-friendly activities, hidden gems, and unbeatable food spots (hello, fried shrimp and chocolate factory)

Local Flavor Highlights:

• Where to find legendary fried shrimp and fresh-caught grouper
• The scoop on must-visit dessert spots like Peace Pies and The Hyppo Gourmet Pops
• Best rooftop dining for ocean views (and maybe a grouper taco or two)

Can't-Miss Attractions:

• Castillo de San Marcos and its cannon demonstrations
• Anastasia State Park’s sugar-white beaches
• Pirate and Treasure Museum, Alligator Farm, and Colonial Quarter
• Historic trolley tours, kayak adventures, and beachcombing for shark teeth

Where to Stay:

• Beachfront family favorites like Embassy Suites Oceanfront and Guy Harvey Resort
• Charming historic inns downtown that welcome families
• Upscale golf resorts and glamping options nearby

Planning Tips:

• Best times to visit for weather, crowds, and festivals (like Nights of Lights ✨ and Sing Out Loud 🎶)
• Smart seasonal strategies (Hint: hit the beach in the morning, museums in the afternoon!)
• Must-know family travel tips from a local insider

One Perfect Day in St. Augustine? Start with a trolley tour, explore a hands-on museum, relax on the beach, eat something unforgettable, and top it off with a Peace Pie. (You’re welcome.)

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Florida’s Historic Coast
• Anastasia State Park
• Castillo de San Marcos

Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and follow us on Instagram @thefamilyvacationer and Substack for more family travel inspiration.

Rob's Reminder: "Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open."

Traci’s Sendoff: "Safe travels everyone."

Episode 184: Ocean City, Maryland – A Family Beach Classic

This week on The Family Vacationer, we're kicking off our new series, The Best Beach Towns in the U.S., and first up is one of the most beloved beach towns on the East Coast—Ocean City, Maryland! While we will eventually name one destination as The Family Vacationer's Best Beach Town, the truth is, whichever of these coastal gems you choose, you win.

In this episode, Rob is joined by Ocean City’s Mayor Richard Meehan in a first-ever mayoral interview for the podcast! Together, they dive deep into what makes Ocean City a multigenerational vacation haven. We explore:

• The modern history of Ocean City, from its roots as a fishing village to a booming beach resort
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• Why Ocean City’s nostalgic charm continues to attract families year after year
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• Free, family-friendly beach access and the iconic boardwalk experience
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• Must-see attractions like Trimper’s Rides and Jolly Roger Amusement Pier
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• Seasonal festivals from Springfest to Winterfest of Lights
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• Hidden local favorites like biking the boardwalk and bayside crabbing
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• Inclusive amenities for families with special needs
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• Family-friendly dining with playgrounds at restaurants like Fishtales and Ropewalk
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• Unique accommodations including the Carousel Hotel with an ice rink!
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• Efforts to retain Ocean City’s charm amidst modern growth
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• Exciting projects like a new bayfront park and a planned world-class sports complex

Whether you're planning your first visit or your fifteenth, Ocean City delivers smiles, sunrises, and memories to last a lifetime.

A special thank you to Lauren Davis, Government Relations Manager with the Mayor’s Office, for making this interview possible.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on Instagram and Substack for more family travel inspiration.

Thank you to Scott Carpenter for the new theme song! Make sure and listen all the way to the end for the world premiere of The Family Vacationer Theme Song! Thanks, Scottie!

Closing Reminder:

Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open.

Safe travels everyone!

🎧 Episode 182: Summer Safety Check – Tips for Road Trips, Beaches & Theme Parks

Summer is here, and before we dive into our brand-new series on the Best Beach Towns in the U.S., we're pressing pause for an important summer safety check! In this solo episode, Rob shares practical tips and real-life travel wisdom to help your family stay safe and stress-free—whether you're road-tripping, lounging on the sand, or spending the day at a theme park.

In this episode, Rob covers:

🚗 Road Trip Safety:

• Essential car prep before hitting the road
• Emergency kit must-haves
• Why rest stops matter (and how to plan them)
• Car seat safety tips that might surprise you
• Keeping long drives calm and kid-friendly

🏖️ Beach Safety:

• Sunscreen is just the start: sun protection layers that work
• What to know about rip currents and ocean swimming
• Hydration tips for hot, salty days
• Why sand safety and wildlife awareness are so important

🎢 Theme Park Safety:

• How to ID your kids and prevent separations
• Staying cool and hydrated on high-energy days
• Planning breaks to avoid overstimulation and meltdowns
• Budgeting for comfort that makes a big difference

Next Week:

We kick off our series on America's Best Beach Towns—places packed with nostalgia, family fun, and unforgettable memories. As Rob says, this might sound like a competition, but when it comes to these destinations, every choice is a win.

🎙️ Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and sign up for our Substack newsletter for behind-the-scenes stories and family travel inspiration.

👉 Subscribe, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen!

"Keep your passports and your hearts open." – Rob

"Safe travels, everyone."

Episode 182 – Ruthie Takes Over: Growing Up Traveling with Rob & Tracy

Show Notes:

In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, Rob and Traci hand the mic to their oldest daughter, Ruthie, for a personal reflection on growing up in a traveling family. From being the only child on her parents' Disney honeymoon to becoming the big sister and now a newlywed traveler herself, Ruthie shares her unique perspective on how travel has shaped her outlook and her future plans.

What You’ll Hear:

• Ruthie’s earliest travel memories (hint: lots of princess dresses!)
• The shift in family dynamics when her younger brothers arrived
• A near-death lazy river experience that still gets laughs
• How childhood travel routines have influenced her adult travel style
• Her most cherished family trips—and why she’d relive them in a heartbeat
• Ruthie’s vision for traveling with her husband and future family

Whether you’re a parent, a kid reflecting on your travel roots, or a newlywed figuring out your own journey, this episode is filled with relatable laughs, heartfelt stories, and some solid travel wisdom.

Don't Miss:

• Tips on making travel meaningful even when finances are tight
• The two hotel items you should always sanitize
• Why planning doesn’t kill spontaneity—it empowers it

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on Instagram @TheFamilyVacationer for behind-the-scenes fun. And don’t forget to check out our Substack for bonus content and travel tips.

Episode 181: Family Travel Unfiltered: Travel According to Chase

Description:

In this special episode, Rob and Traci hand over the mic to their 14-year-old son, Chase, to get the real scoop on what it’s like to travel as a teen with your family. From surprising emotional moments to brutally honest takes on shopping, alone time, and matching family shirts—Chase doesn't hold back. If you're planning a trip with teens (or are one), this episode is filled with laughs, insight, and a fresh perspective on family vacations.

What You’ll Hear:

• Chase’s honest reaction to hearing “We’re going on a trip tomorrow”
• Why the car ride might be his favorite part of the trip
• His all-time favorite family vacation memory (hint: it involves Universal and a magical feeling)
• The teen truth about shopping on vacation (parents, take notes)
• What teens really want on trips (spoiler: space and snacks)
• The inside scoop on favorite parks, beach habits, and vacation speed rounds
• How ADHD impacts Chase’s travel experience—and how to help teens like him stay grounded
• Why bringing one friend can make a trip better, but more than one might be a recipe for drama

Episode Highlights:

• 🎢 Favorite rides and parks (Disney vs. Universal showdown!)
• 🌊 Beach vs. pool debates, and why go-karts never get old
• 🎧 Teens and unplugging—surprising takes from Chase
• 🧠 Real talk about anxiety, ADHD, and teen mental health while traveling

Subscribe & Connect:

Be sure to subscribe, follow us on Instagram and Substack, and share this episode with a parent trying to turn eye rolls into enthusiasm. Because yes, your teen is listening—even if they’ve got their headphones in.

Closing Notes:

"Remember folks, to keep your passports and your hearts open."

"Safe travels, everyone."

🎙️ Episode 180: A Kid’s-Eye View of Travel with Nash

In this special episode, Rob and Traci hand the mic over to their son Nash, who shares what travel looks like from a kid’s perspective. From theme parks to veggie straws, Nash covers it all in his own honest, hilarious, and heartwarming way.

Episode 180 starts now.

🧳 What We Talked About:

• Nash’s All-Time Favorite Trip
• Destin, Florida takes the crown for its mix of beach fun, ice cream, and family bonding—including cousins and grandparents!
• Disney World vs. Destin vs. Pigeon Forge
• Nash sets the record straight on sibling preferences, shares his love for Star Wars rides, and admits Tower of Terror might not be as scary as it looks.
• The Perfect Vacation Day (Nash-Style)
• Wake up at 6 AM. Hit Disneyland. Eat seafood. Sleep by 10 PM. No fireworks needed.
• Road Trip Hacks for Kids (By a Kid)
• 🎵 Blast music (until the grown-ups complain)
• 🎧 Bring headphones
• 🍿 Favorite snack? Veggie straws and gas station goodies
• Kid’s Travel Wisdom:
• Always pack headphones
• Pick a family meetup spot in case you get lost
• Don’t trust strangers—only go with someone who knows your secret family code
• Rapid-Fire Reviews:
• Disney World: Loves Star Wars and thrill rides, meh on food
• Destin: Swimming with cousins, Superman ice cream, hates the waves
• Pigeon Forge: Water parks are awesome, Titanic Museum? Not so much

🎧 Special Guest:

Nash – 9 years old, experienced family traveler, thrill ride connoisseur, and veggie straw enthusiast.

📣 Connect With Us!

Got a young traveler in your family with strong opinions like Nash? We’d love to hear from them!

Send a voice note or message on Instagram or Substack.

🔗 Follow us on Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer

📰 Subscribe on Substack: The Family Vacationer

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

👉 Remember to keep your hearts and your passports open. Safe travels, everyone.

🎙️ Episode 179: Wallace, Idaho – History, Adventure & The Center of the Universe

Show Notes:

Looking for your next unforgettable family getaway? In this episode of The Family Vacationer, Rob and Traci head to the historic and quirky town of Wallace, Idaho—a place where silver mining history meets outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and even a claim to being the "Center of the Universe."

Our guest, Shauna Hillman joins us to share what makes this mountain town a hidden gem for family travelers. From biking the famous Route of the Hiawatha, to hiking historic trails like the Pulaski Tunnel Trail, and discovering fascinating local museums, Wallace offers something for every age group.

Shauna gives us a full picture of Wallace’s evolution—from surviving a devastating downtown fire in 1972 and preserving its historic identity, to thriving today as a family-friendly destination surrounded by 600 miles of national forest.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• What makes Wallace a “teacup town” and why its mining roots are still central to the community
• Activities for younger kids, teens, and active families
• The story behind the town’s “Center of the Universe” status
• Must-do experiences like the Route of the Hiawatha bike trail and local festivals
• Unique food and lodging options, including huckleberry treats and historic hotels
• Tips for visiting in all seasons, including winter sports and snowshoeing
• Where to find more info and plan your trip

Featured Attractions:

• Route of the Hiawatha – A scenic, family-friendly bike trail through tunnels and over trestles
• Pulaski Tunnel Trail – A hike honoring heroic firefighting history from the 1910 Great Fire
• Wallace District Mining Museum & Sierra Silver Mine Tour
• Annual Events – Huckleberry Festival, antique car shows, Statehood Day Parade & more
• Local eats – Pizza, ice cream, huckleberry shakes, and family-friendly menus everywhere

Useful Links:

• Wallace Chamber of Commerce: www.wallaceid.fun
• Facebook: Wallace Idaho Chamber
• Sign up for the Wallace Wednesday newsletter at the Chamber site for updates and events.

Subscribe & Connect:

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer, leave us a review, and follow us on Instagram and Substack for even more family travel tips and destination inspiration.

“Remember to keep your hearts and your passports open. Safe travels, everyone!”