The Family Vacationer

Episode 203: Christmas in Rockford, Illinois

Guest: Kristen Paul, Director of Marketing and Public Affairs, Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Host: Rob Jones

Episode Summary

If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, festive markets, and that perfect small-town holiday charm, you’ll love this stop in our Christmas in the U.S. series. In this episode, Rob heads to Rockford, Illinois, a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas in a big way — with dazzling light displays, heartwarming traditions, and a community that truly embraces the season.

Rob chats with Kristen Paul from the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau about what makes this Northern Illinois destination a must-see during the holidays. From the magical Stroll on State celebration to breathtaking attractions like Anderson Japanese Gardens: Illuminated, Festival of Lights, and All Aglow along the Rock River, Kristen shares how Rockford shines bright with festive fun for the whole family.

You’ll also discover where to shop for locally made gifts, can’t-miss holiday eats (yes, brunch lovers, this one’s for you!), and how Rockford celebrates its quirky and creative history with nods to Cheap Trick, the Rockford Peaches, and even the original sock monkey.

Whether you’re looking for a new holiday getaway or just a little Christmas inspiration, this episode captures the heart, community, and magic that make Rockford feel like a Hallmark movie come to life.

In This Episode

• Why Rockford’s Stroll on State is one of the Midwest’s best free holiday events
• The story behind the city’s beloved sock monkey and how it became a local icon
• Family-friendly attractions including Festival of Lights, Anderson Gardens Illuminated, and All Aglow
• Where to find the best holiday brunch (hint: try Abrio’s biscuits and gravy or shrimp and grits!)
• Tips for visiting with kids and grandparents — including easy walkability and hotel recommendations
• How Rockford celebrates its musical and sports heritage through Cheap Trick and the Rockford Peaches

Featured Guest

Kristen Paul

Director of Marketing and Public Affairs

Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Learn more and start planning your trip at GoRockford.com

Resources Mentioned

• GoRockford.com – Official visitor information, events, and itineraries
• Anderson Japanese Gardens – “Illuminated” holiday event details
• Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – “All Aglow” light displays
• Festival of Lights – Rockford’s iconic drive-thru holiday tradition

Connect with Rob

• 📘 The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel — Available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
• 🌐 thefamilyvacationer.live
• 📸 Instagram: @thefamilyvacationerpodcast

Closing Thought:

Rockford, Illinois, captures everything we love about the holidays — connection, creativity, and community. It’s proof that some of the best Christmas destinations aren’t the biggest cities, but the ones filled with heart.

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

Episode 202: Christmas Magic and History in Natchitoches, Louisiana with Paige Alost

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, we continue our Christmas in the U.S. series with a visit to Natchitoches, Louisiana (pronounced Nack-a-tish). Known as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches blends French and Creole heritage, small-town charm, and one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions—the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, now in its 99th year.

Rob and Traci sit down with Paige Alost, Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, to uncover the rich history, cultural diversity, and holiday magic that make this town a must-visit destination. From historic architecture and Creole cuisine to Mardi Gras parades, Steel Magnolias filming locations, and the famous Natchitoches meat pie, this episode is full of inspiration for families looking to create unforgettable holiday memories.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The fascinating history of Natchitoches as the oldest city in Louisiana (even older than New Orleans!)
• How the town’s French, Spanish, Creole, and Native American influences come alive for visitors
• Why the Natchitoches Christmas Festival is one of the most magical holiday events in the U.S.
• The best times to visit during the six-week holiday season
• Unique year-round family attractions, from historic forts to Dark Woods Adventure Park
• Where to taste the town’s signature dish—the Natchitoches meat pie
• How to explore Steel Magnolias filming locations (and even stay in the famous house)
• A perfect 48-hour itinerary for families visiting Natchitoches

About Our Guest

Paige Alost is the Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is passionate about sharing the history, culture, and hospitality of Louisiana’s oldest city with visitors from near and far. Learn more and plan your trip at Natchitoches.com.

Resources & Links

• Plan your trip: Natchitoches.com
• Follow Visit Natchitoches on Facebook
• Connect with The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack

Don’t Miss

Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releases this December! Packed with stories, strategies, and tips, it’s designed to help families make the most of every trip together.

Episode 201: Christmas in Red Lodge, Montana

Looking for a holiday getaway that feels straight out of a postcard? This week on The Family Vacationer, we’re taking you to Red Lodge, Montana, a small-town winter wonderland where Christmas magic comes alive.

Red Lodge, once a bustling coal-mining town in the 1800s, is now best known as the gateway to the Beartooth Highway. But come December, it transforms into a festive haven filled with twinkling lights, family traditions, and a community spirit that makes the holidays unforgettable.

Joining us is Sherry Weimer, director of the Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce, who shares why families should plan a Christmas trip to this hidden gem.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The Red Lodge Christmas Stroll — a Hallmark-worthy tradition with parades, fire pits, caroling, and Santa’s grand entrance.
• Family-friendly winter fun at Red Lodge Mountain, from skiing to skating in the town park.
• The best cozy stops for cocoa, pastries, and kid-approved treats (don’t miss the monster ice cream sandwich!).
• How local shops and restaurants keep the holiday spirit alive with decorated windows, late-night shopping, and tasty surprises.
• Unique Red Lodge holiday experiences, like Santa skiing on Christmas Day.
• Where to stay — from historic hotels to mom-and-pop motels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs.
• Insider tips for planning your family’s first Christmas trip to Red Lodge.

If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas in a storybook setting, Red Lodge might just be the perfect destination for your family.

Plan your trip: redlodge.com

Don’t forget — we’ll be circling back to our special Episode 200 in December!

Plus, stay tuned for details on Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon.

Episode 199: The Best Family Thanksgiving Getaways in the U.S.

Hosts: Rob & Traci

Release Date: November 2025

When you think Thanksgiving, you probably picture turkey, football, and the Macy’s Parade—but what if your family celebrated somewhere new?

In Episode 199, Rob and Traci explore America’s best Thanksgiving destinations—from mountain towns and colonial villages to rivers lined with glowing holiday lights. Whether you want cozy, coastal, or full-on festive, this episode is stuffed with ideas for a holiday you’ll truly be thankful for (and yes, the dad jokes are fully baked).

🗺 Top Thanksgiving Destinations

Plymouth, Massachusetts – Where it all began! Enjoy parades, concerts, and a hands-on history experience at the Plymouth Patuxet Museums, complete with a traditional feast served 17th-century style.

Asheville, North Carolina – The Biltmore Estate sparkles with lights and decorations by Thanksgiving. Add Blue Ridge hikes and farm-to-table dining for the ultimate mountain holiday.

Williamsburg, Virginia – Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg. Dine in historic taverns by candlelight, then head to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town for lights and thrills.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Cozy cabins, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, and mountain views for miles. Feast first, hike later!

San Antonio, Texas – Celebrate along the River Walk under glowing lights. Try Tex-Mex twists on the holiday meal—like turkey enchiladas—and don’t miss the Ford Holiday River Parade.

Santa Fe, New Mexico – Classic Thanksgiving meets Southwestern flair with green chile mashed potatoes and pumpkin empanadas. Explore art markets, museums, and the historic plaza.

Charleston, South Carolina – History, charm, and Southern cooking at its best. Feast on sweet potato pie and stroll the Battery afterward for “gravy steps.”

Mackinac Island, Michigan – No cars, just peace. Arrive by ferry, enjoy quiet island charm, and dine at historic inns before winter sets in.

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Ski if it’s snowing, hike if it’s not. Resorts serve full Thanksgiving dinners—perfect for families who love adventure and cozy evenings.

Branson, Missouri – Silver Dollar City’s Christmas lights, live holiday shows, and hearty meals make Branson a cheerful, family-friendly choice.

Bonus Picks: Stowe (VT) for a snowy New England vibe, Lancaster County (PA) for a slower pace, and St. Augustine (FL) for warm-weather lights.

✨ Thanksgiving Travel Tips

• Book early—popular spots fill fast.
• Leave early if you’re driving.
• Let someone else cook. Restaurant feasts taste better when you’re not washing dishes!
• Kids won’t remember perfect stuffing—they’ll remember the laughter and stories.

💬 Favorite Quotes

“Kids won’t remember if the stuffing was perfect. They’ll remember the trip, the laughter, and the stories.” — Rob

“It’s Thanksgiving and a mountain retreat all in one—just watch out for bears. They’re not great at sharing dessert.” — Traci

📚 Announcements

🎉 Rob’s New Book: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel releases Nov. 11, 2025 — filled with stories and tips for travel that connects. Pre-orders open soon!

🎙 Episode 200 Live in Orlando!

Join Rob & Traci at Caribe Royale, Dec. 13–15, 2025, for a live recording of The Family Vacationer’s 200th episode!

🌍 Connect

Instagram & Facebook: @TheFamilyVacationer

Website: thefamilyvacationer.live

Email: thefamilyvacationerpodcast@gmail.com

Episode 198: The Family Travel Reset

Episode Overview

If your family vacations have started to feel a little too predictable — the same beach, the same rental, the same “are we even relaxed?” feeling when you get home — it might be time for a reset.

In Episode 198, Rob shares how to press pause on autopilot travel and rediscover the why behind your family’s adventures. It’s not about the next destination — it’s about what you hope to bring home: connection, laughter, and stories worth retelling.

Inspired by his upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel (coming November 11, 2025), Rob introduces the concept of The Family Travel Reset — a simple, practical way to make travel more intentional, more joyful, and a whole lot less stressful.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why families fall into “autopilot travel” — and how to break free
• The one question to ask before planning your next vacation: What do we really want from this trip?
• How to balance structure and spontaneity to create real connection
• The three easiest ways to reset your family’s travel mindset
• A personal story from Disney that changed how Rob plans trips forever
• A simple “Family Travel Check-In” you can do this week to reconnect and reset

Three Easy Ways to Start Your Family Travel Reset

1. Involve your kids in the planning.
2. Ask them what they want out of the trip — more pool time, less rushing, more freedom. When kids feel heard, everyone’s happier on the road.
3. Build in slow mornings.
4. Vacations shouldn’t feel like a race. Linger over breakfast, explore without an agenda, and let curiosity lead the day.
5. Redefine success.
6. Instead of asking, “Did we check everything off?” try “Did we laugh together today?” Because that’s what really matters.

Favorite Quote from This Episode

“Meaningful travel isn’t about doing more — it’s about feeling more.” — Rob Jones

From Rob’s Upcoming Book

This episode pulls from several chapters of Rob’s forthcoming book,

The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel,

releasing November 11, 2025.

The book is filled with stories, practical strategies, and gentle encouragement for parents who want travel to be less about logistics and more about connection.

Preorder information coming soon!

This Week Comes with Homework!

Do a quick Family Travel Check-In:

• Ask everyone: What’s your favorite travel memory we’ve ever made together?
• Then ask: What would make our next trip even better?

Their answers might surprise you — and might be the key to your own Family Travel Reset.

Connect with The Family Vacationer

• Instagram & Facebook: @TheFamilyVacationer
• Website: thefamilyvacationer.live
• Email: thefamilyvacationerpodcast@gmail.com

Upcoming Events

Rob’s Book Launch: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel — coming November 11, 2025

200th Episode Celebration: Join Rob & Traci for a live recording in Orlando on December 15, 2025 — details and tickets available soon!

Episode 196: Smart Money Moves for Family Vacations with Skyler Fleming

For most families, the biggest obstacle to taking that dream trip isn’t time—it’s money. The good news? With a little planning and some smart financial strategies, you can make vacations happen without draining your savings or piling on debt.

In this episode, Rob talks with Skyler Fleming, Certified Financial Planner and host of the Money Talks podcast. Skyler shares practical tips to help families budget, save, and plan so travel dreams can become travel memories. From avoiding credit card traps to involving kids in the budgeting process, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for making travel financially doable—and fun.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why “splurging comfortably” is possible with the right budget
• The first steps families should take when creating a vacation budget
• Common costs families forget to plan for (and how to avoid surprise expenses)
• How far in advance you should start saving for a big trip
• Simple savings strategies that won’t eat into everyday essentials
• The truth about credit card rewards—and how to use them wisely
• Fun ways to involve kids in vacation budgeting and decision-making
• Why planning ahead reduces pressure and makes vacations more enjoyable

About Our Guest

Skyler Fleming is a Certified Financial Planner and the host of the Money Talks podcast, where he helps people build strong money habits. His practical, down-to-earth approach helps families think differently about budgeting and saving so they can enjoy life—and travel—without financial stress. Learn more at MoneyTalk.show.

Resources & Links

• Visit Skyler’s website: MoneyTalk.show
• Listen to the Money Talks podcast on your favorite platform
• Follow The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack

Don’t Miss

Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, is on the way! Filled with stories and tips to help you make your trips more meaningful, it’s coming soon—stay tuned for details.

Episode Description

Rob and Traci share the very first chapter of Rob’s new book The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel. In this special episode, hear the heart behind the book, why family vacations are more important than ever, and how travel creates memories that last a lifetime. Plus, details on the podcast’s upcoming 200th episode celebration at Caribe Royale in Orlando this December.

Show Notes

What if your next family trip could be more than just a vacation? What if it could be truly meaningful?

In this episode of The Family Vacationer Podcast, Rob and Traci pull back the curtain on Rob’s brand-new book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming this December. Rob reads the opening chapter, setting the stage for why family vacations matter more than ever in today’s busy, screen-filled world.

You’ll hear:

• The personal story behind why Rob wrote this book.
• How family vacations act as “time capsules” of connection and memory.
• Why it’s not about perfect trips but about being intentional.
• A glimpse at the practical tools, stories, and strategies parents will find in the book.
• Insights from past podcast guests, including Dr. Steven Johnson (Ep. 151), whose family road trip was designed to preserve powerful “sight memories” for his son.

Rob and Traci also share details about the podcast’s upcoming 200th episode celebration happening at Caribe Royale in Orlando this December. If you’re in the area, they’d love to connect with you!

Family travel is messy, unpredictable, and imperfect—but it’s also where some of the most lasting memories are made. This sneak peek will inspire you to see family vacations in a whole new light.

Links & Resources

• Pre-order details for The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel coming soon.
• Listen to Episode 151: A Race Against Blindness with Dr. Steven Johnson for more on meaningful memory-making.
• Join us for our 200th episode celebration at Caribe Royale Orlando the second weekend in December!

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes—and updates on the book launch!