A Big Getaway for a Big Family

Posted on May 9, 2012 by SJanawan

When trying to plan a getaway for my family along with my husband’s two brothers and their families, I was faced with quite a challenge in finding a nice place to stay on Cape Cod that would make everyone happy. We all had certain criteria for the “ideal” getaway.

First and most importantly, we needed someplace that would sleep 6 adults and 4 children ages 4 to 10. In addition to that, I wanted to stay someplace where I could have some serious fun with my children – I felt like I had been working so much, I really wanted to reconnect with my kids. My sister-in-law wanted a little time for herself to escape the chaos. My husband didn’t want to have to eat out every night, he wanted to be able to cook dinner a few times during our vacation. His brother, however, wanted to be somewhere really nice that would pamper us – he didn’t want to rent a whole house that he would have to take care of the whole time and his wife wanted to stay somewhere close to the attractions and shopping in the area.

Well, I thought this task was next to impossible until I discovered a gold mine at the Cape Codder Residence Club! I can’t believe I actually found a place that would make each one of us happy. The luxurious condo-like accommodations were amazing – there were 3 bedrooms – 2 with king beds and 1 with 2 queens, plus the living room had a pull-out sofa. The kids all slept in the room with the two beds and each couple got a little privacy in their own space. My husband loved the beautiful kitchen and took it upon himself to make us all dinner a few times. I need to get him to make his Chicken Tortellini at home sometime! But, when he didn’t cook, there were two restaurants (Hearth ‘n Kettle and Grand Cru) right at the resort, and they were both delicious.

There was fun to be had wherever we turned at the resort. We all had a blast in the indoor wave pool – I loved racing the kids down the water slides! They even enjoyed relaxing in the sauna with me (there was one for adults and kids). My favorite was the gorgeous outdoor pool. It was a little chilly out, but the pool was nice and toasty. And, it was salt-water purified – very nice!

My sister-in-law cherished every moment of her time in the spa. She had what she called “the best massage ever” and she even took her daughter back with her to get mother-daughter manis and pedis!

When we eventually did get out and explore, we found that we were in the heart of it all on Cape Cod. We were just down the street from the Cape Cod Mall and several other shopping areas, a few minutes from the quaint Main Street of Hyannis and Hyannis Harbor where we went on a wonderful Hy-line Harbor Cruise and there were beaches whichever way we turned. The location was simply perfect.

All of us adults loved the unique decorating touches in the condo and the fact that we didn’t have to clean. Our wonderful housekeeper came every day to tidy up and make the beds. Oh, and I almost forgot, my children did run low on clean clothes, but I didn’t need to worry – we had a washer and dryer right in our condo. So convenient!

Needless to say, we had the time of our lives. It is certainly more expensive than a regular hotel room, but it was worth every penny. Plus, split between the three families, it wasn’t too bad. I would highly recommend the Cape Codder Residence Club option to anyone needing more than just a simple hotel room on Cape Cod!

 

 

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How Family Vacations Create Family Memories to Last a Lifetime

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Luisa

Every time I periodically go back to Martha’s Vineyard, MA, where I vacationed with my parents and siblings as kids every summer for 18 years, certain family stories are immediately conjured in my mind.

Creating Family Memories on Cape CodWhy? Because family travel is the stuff out of which family traditions are created. While one rarely looks back fondly at all the hours we or our parents worked while at home, it’s a natural to go to the happy places when we reminisce. And for most of us, our fondest childhood memories are from family vacations.

The Importance of Family Lore
As one matures, the importance of family memories becomes more evident especially once we hit retirement age and have more time to look back over our life. However, family stories are equally as important to children and young adults as they are to older adults. Family lore creates an anchor for children, teenagers and parents aike. Even when families separate due to divorce, relocation, or death, the positive family stories still remain alive in everyone’s mind.

I have found that my family tradition – both from my childhood as well as that of my children today – centers greatly around family vacations. I can still go to Edgartown
Harbor in Martha’s Vineyard and immediately conjure up a comical family scene from my
youth. This particular one story involves my Dad uncharacteristically throwing the bathing suit bag impulsively to my sister, who missed it. Instead it fell into the water by the pier and his bathing suit started sinking. Next thing we knew there was a whole crowd around trying to fish my Dad’s bathing suit out of the busy harbor, to no avail!

Fun on the BeachThis penchant for family stories evolving around travel is also true for my children Alexandra and Ethan. The majority of their stories center around our annual two week family vacations in Cape Cod. My kids and their cousins who vacation at the same time as us on Cape Cod love to reminisce about the times they had mock “sumo wrestling” competitions on the beach when crowds thinned out. What they loved best was that one of the parents got involved in the competition much to their surprise! It was all good fun and will live on in their minds forever.

How to Nurture it in Your Family
I can’t urge you enough to get out of town – even if it’s for a day – with your children to create family lore. While travel budgets vary per family, day hikes or trips to local amusement parks are a good first step in connecting with your children without the daily pressures of home and work life. For it’s when everyone is relaxed and having fun, that family stories are created.

Family time at the Cape CodderObviously, the longer you can go away, the better for nurturing family lore. Last summer we went to Cape Cod two days prior to the commencement of our home rental and enjoyed the Cape Codder Resort & Spa. Even though my children spent two action-packed weeks after that on Cape Cod, my 10-year-old son Ethan’s first comment whenever I mention Cape Cod is, “Are we going to the Cape Codder again?” He loved the indoor water park, outdoor heated pool, and many family activities held throughout the day.

But even more, Ethan and I sensed the family atmosphere of the resort. Because of the safe and comfortable atmosphere, I allowed Ethan and his 12- and 14-year-old cousins a bit of freedom while at the Cape Codder to independently enjoy non-water activities. In fact, this brief experience provided Ethan with the next step of family memories: lore revolving around what he and his cousins did independently of adults. This is a funny photo they asked someone to take while making their own family memories at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa.

How to Keep it Alive
Verbal communication is the best way to nurture and keep family reminiscences alive. It’s through re-telling the stories over and over again, that they take on a life of their own. They almost become larger than life because admittedly, many of us like to exaggerate stories when we tell them verbally. Before you know it, a fun recounting of something that happened to your family while traveling has turned into a captivating tall tale!

Fun in the Indoor Wave Pool at the Cape Codder ResortIn this day of digital and social media communication, many of the younger generation especially like to keep family stories alive via photographs and posting them on social media sites. I encourage this since looking through old photos (be they in print or on your computer) is a great way to get the “remember when” juices flowing.

The more positive excitement your kids generate from recounting family vacation lore, the easier it will be for you to get them to agree to your next family trip choice. So while your children’s repetitiveness of key family stories might illicit from you some thoughts such as, “Oh, no, not this story again,” they are actually helping you sell them on your next family trip.

Whether it’s a day trip or longer getaways, the most important part is to hit the road with your kids this summer. Before you know it, you’ll be back home hearing your kids fondly creating family lore which starts, “Remember when…”

What are some of your favorite stories created during family trips?

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Planning Your Next Family Vacation? Top 5 Things to Keep in Mind

Posted on March 29, 2012 by Luisa

Lighthouse mural at the Cape Codder ResortIf you’re the one who usually plans your family vacations, you are walking a fine line. Either you’ll be the one whom everyone congratulates for organizing such a great trip or you’ll be the one whom your family members blame for the headache that you called a family vacation.

In order to ensure your family travel experience is a win-win situation for all involved there are a few things to consider when planning your trip. While price is often at the top of the list, cost is a very personal matter and thus I will not address it in this article.

Instead I’ll focus on important nuances which are more critical when planning a family vacation with your kids than when planning an adults-only trip. This is because families generally come with a variety of ages and interests.

But have no fear – with some forethought, you can easily find, organize and book a family vacation that will make everyone happy.

1. Length:
Rainbow Falls heated outdoor pool at the Cape Codder Resort & SpaSeven days is optimum when traveling with kids in tow. Other than the fact that this length fits nicely into most people’s work schedules, week-long trips afford enough time for you to really get into the slower vacation pace yet aren’t too long that your kids will get bored.

Younger children especially take time to acclimate to new surroundings and teens sometime need time to warm up to spending so much time with their family on a daily basis. However, any time away with family is perfect for helping you connect with your kids and teens in a relaxed setting.

2. If babies and teens aren’t happy, no one is happy:
After hundreds of trips with my children, I’ve found that it’s best to consider the likes, dislikes and needs of the baby, tot or the teenager in your family since they tend to be the most demanding.

For example, when my children were tots, we generally avoided prolonged city sightseeing trips because the pace was a bit challenging with a little one in a carriage. Instead we focused on
beach vacations at resorts or cruises, whereby it was easy for one parent to stay with the baby during nap time while the other continued to explore with the older child. My kids’ favorite family destination – when they were toddlers, grade-school children and teens – was and still is Cape Cod, MA.

3. Pace desired:
Indoor Wave Pool at the Cape Codder Resort & SpaWhat kind of pace does your family operate at? Mine is pretty active so I take this into consideration when planning our family vacation. For example, our stay at Cape Codder Resort in Cape Cod last summer was a great fit – we got to relax on beautiful Cape Cod beaches which were minutes away yet also participated in fun, lively activities at this family-oriented resort. This included an indoor water park, outdoor pool, family-oriented D.J./deck party at night, bonfire, family movies and more.

For those families who prefer not to have any itinerary whe traveling, beach stays are a great option. If your family would like a mix of chill time and action, family cruises fit the bill.

4. Mode of transportation:
While transportation is dependent on your budget and the location of where you’d like to travel with your kids, if you do have an option, there are a few things to think about before making your decision:

  • Do your kids fight a lot? If so, long family car
    rides might be a recipe for disaster.
  • Can your kids sit quietly? If so, plane rides or
    road trips should work well.
  • Do your children get motion sickness easily? If
    so, cruises might not be a great idea.

5. Age Appropriateness of Activities:
So your toddler wants to go to Sesame Place, PA to see Big Bird and your teen wants to go white water rafting. Obviously neither is a great choice for BOTH the tot and tween age group, so as the official trip planner, you have to come up with a solution that all ages will enjoy.

As mentioned in point two above, it’s best to cater most to tots and teens. Some of the favored spots that little ones and teens both enjoy are beaches and theme parks. Just make sure the theme/amusement park has kiddie rides for your toddler and that the beach has water sports available for your teen. These will help dispel any potential tears or “baditude” on behalf of your tot or teen, respectively.

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Top 10 Activities for February Vacation

Posted on February 15, 2012 by Michelle

at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa

Plus….if you can pull yourself away, a few things close-by too!

 

10.     Stuffed Animal Workshop – Kids can bring their very own cuddly pal to life! They get to select the animal, stuff it and dress it (additional charge). Available 2/18 – 2/25, times vary.

9.       The Fun Zone – A giant game room, full of fun and excitement! A small moon walk for children and tons of video games and even a prize counter! (additional charges for video games). Available 2/18 – 2/25, 9am – 11pm.

8.       Crafts & Face Painting – Get creative and make a something special to bring home. 2/18 – 2/25, 1pm-3pm

7.       Magic Dave Dinner Theater – His show is full of high energy, witty comedy and mind-blowing miracles! We are offering a special children’s dinner theater rate of $25 (adults $59.99 each). Or, opt to come for just the show — $15 for children, $25 for adults. 2/17 at 7:30pm

6.       Peek-a-Zoo Show – Meet some her exotic animals friends from the ZooQuarium. A 45-minute interactive presentation. 2/19, 2/21 and 2/23, 6pm-6:45pm

5.       Nightly Bonfires – Grab your sticks and marshmallows at the H ‘n K and join us in the beach sand area for a cozy (weather permitting). 7:30pm-10pm

4.       Marcus the Magician and the Amazing Richard – A laugh-packed show full of amazing magic, wonderful audience interaction, visual humor, and magical surprises. 2/20, 2/22 and 2/24 at 7pm

3.       The Secret World of Bubbles – From encasing a dinosaur and then a kid in a bubble to crafting a glistening fog-filled Eiffel Tower, this show will have kids and adults alike in awe! 2/21 at 7pm

2.       Daily/Nightly Movies – slip into your jammies and join us for a family-friendly movie. 2pm, 7pm and 8:30pm

1.       Mikey Maestro’s Dance Party – entertaining kids and kids at heart with his family-friendly dance party. 2/19 and 2/23, 7pm-9:30pm

 

Top 5 Resort Amenities for Families

5.       Rainbow Falls Heated Outdoor Pool – our gorgeous new outdoor pool features waterfall, Jacuzzi and nightly light show…the weather may be cold, but the pool is HEATED!

4.       Hearth ‘n Kettle – regroup with the family at our H ‘n K – featuring wholesome food, thoughtfully prepared…it’s H ‘n K Approved! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily from 7am

3.       Dinner Theater –
2/18 – Psychic Mindblowing Comedy Show with Jon Stetson – Jon’s gifts as mentalist, mindreader and humorist will mesmerize you!

2/25 – Comedy on the Road – featuring hilarious stand-up comedians to keep you laughing all night long!

2.       Beach Plum Spa – relax your mind, body and soul in our full-service spa; pampering Women, Men and Children! Bring in your little one for a Strawberry Ice Cream Manicure, Chocolate Milkshake Pedicure and more!

and the #1 thing to do at the Cape Codder, of course the…

1.       Indoor Wave Pool – 2-foot waves, 80- and 50-foot water slides (great for racing!), waterfalls, water umbrella, oversized adult Jacuzzi, saunas….need we say more?

 

And, if you can pull yourself away from ALL there is to do right at the resort, there’s even more going on close by such as:

  1. Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee is featuring a Celestial Cosmic Quest all week long
  2. The Cape Cod Maritime Museum in Hyannis is offer some special kid’s activities including Pirate Navigation Kit, Racing Yacht Extravaganza, Fishing Fun, Scrimshaw and Shell Sailor’s Valentines and more.
  3. Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Cummaquid has some exciting interactive nature events such as the Which Nest is Best? and What Makes a Snake?

So, what are you waiting for? Get to the Cape Codder Resort & Spa today and see how many of the Tops you can fit in! And, if you find anything else (we’re sure there’s more!) – be sure to like us on Facebook and post it so everyone can see!

 

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A Winter Weekend Getaway

Posted on January 25, 2012 by Joyce

by Ellie B.

Winter on Cape Cod can be notoriously hum-drum for us year-round residents – after the Holidays, it’s tempting to hunker down at home and lay low until the daylight hours once again outlast the average work day.  That used to be just fine with me, but now that we have a baby in the family ‘veging’ out at home every night isn’t going to cut it.

This winter we gladly welcomed out-of-town family members anxious to share in Baby’s first birthday. It was going to be far too crowded in our little ‘salt box’ house, so naturally we offered to reserve hotel rooms for our visitors.  It would have been easy to book a local hotel/motel near our home in Falmouth, but the Cape Codder Resort & Spa in Hyannis seemed like an ideal option.

As Cape residents, we are certainly familiar with the Cape Codder – we attended a wedding there; have been to a few business luncheons and dinner events in the Ballroom; I’ve been to the Beach Plum Spa a few times; most recently I went with some girlfriends to see Jon Stetson there, and brought the baby to see Santa and the Enchanted Village, but we had never stayed overnight.  So we decided to reserve a room for ourselves as well as our family members and make a little get-away out of it!

While checking online for room rates, we noticed that there happened to be a “Not-So-Polar Plunge” package…this first-time event was a fundraiser for Housing Assistance Corporation on Cape Cod and involved a plunge into the Cape Codder’s new heated outdoor pool. Bonus!

We were very impressed with the cleanliness and quality of every part of our stay.  The rooms are super spacious with plenty of room for a port-a-crib, and the in-room refrigerator was so convenient for traveling with a little one.  The staff in the Hearth & Kettle were extremely accommodating of our 1 year-old and even sang their own rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ to him and my Aunt at dinner on Saturday – complete with a cupcake!  After dinner, we stopped in the Grand Cru for a few minutes to check out the live band – the place was hoppin’!  Turns out lots of other Cape Codders already know about this great place and all it has to offer in the winter months.

On Sunday morning, we went down to the outdoor pool for the Not-So-Polar Plunge. What a fun event!  A few of the plungers were even dressed up in silly costumes.  The pool, which is actually salt water, was about 85 degrees and felt fantastic – I didn’t want to get out! As if that isn’t awesome enough, there is also a hot tub…ahhhh! It felt great to take a dip outside in January and to know we were helping support such a great local organization.

The Not=so Polar Plunge

All in all, it really did feel like we had a weekend get-away even though we only live a couple of towns away.  Next year we’re thinking of inviting more friends and family and having Baby’s 2nd birthday party at the Cape Codder Resort!  As for the rest of this winter, we’ll be sure to catch a Dinner Theater show (World Gone Crazy Comedy Band!) and maybe even stay another night for just the two of us.

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It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Posted on December 6, 2011 by Joyce

The holiday season is both a time of beauty and of bustling activity here on Cape Cod. Anyone who thinks the Cape is sleepy this time of year should hop into their car and come experience the magic! The Cape has wrapped herself in millions of lights, the sounds of festively costumed Carolers waft in the air over multiple locations and old-fashioned strolls are a common sight on almost every town’s main street. In fact there are so many things to do and see your family may have to make some difficult choices! Here are just a few of the upcoming events:

LIGHTS, LIGHTS and MORE LIGHTS!

Gardens Aglow
Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich
Through December 19, 5-9pm
Tis the season to be jolly! Don’t miss Heritage Museums & Gardens annual celebration of lights that illuminates the grounds and makes the buildings sparkle with festive lights. Stroll the grounds, toast marshmallows at Magnolia Cafe, take a spin on the carousel, and enjoy holiday music and performances. Old St. Nick will also be visiting for pictures in a Ford Model T. For more info: www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org

10th Annual Cape Cod Enchanted Village
Cape Codder Resort & Spa, Hyannis
Through January 2, 2012
Each night at dusk the courtyard at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa is illuminated by the glow of more than 100,000 lights. Topiary animals and snowmen greet visitors as they make their way past Santa’s Reindeer stall to Santa’s Village– all reminiscent of an old fashioned Enchanted Village. Musical Christmas trees keep the beat as children toast marshmallows by the bonfire. On Friday, Saturdays and Sunday evenings strolling carolers walk among the visitors, spreading holiday spirit through song while Santa takes some time out of his busy schedule to hear children’s holiday wishes. Guests to the Enchanted Village are encouraged to bring NEW, unwrapped gifts or Gift Cards to place under the tree. All donations will be given to Independence House in Hyannis.
For more info: http://www.capecodderresort.com/enchanted-village.php

Festival of Lights (a little off-Cape but worth the trip!)
Edaville Railroad, Carver
Dec. 1st-4th, 7th-11th; Dec.14th-January 1st
(Closed Christmas Day) Weekdays 4pm-9pm; Weekends 2pm-9pm
During the Christmas season, Edaville is transformed into a winter wonderland. Passengers relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights. Kids of all ages can enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides and a visit with Santa in one of their indoor play areas.
For more info: www.Edaville.com

HOLIDAY THEATER & DANCE

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
The Academy of Performing Arts, Orleans
November 18 – December 11; Thurs.-Sat. 8pm • Sunday 2pm
December 21 & 22 8pm
Box Office: 508-255-1963
For more info: www.apacape.org

Nutcracker Gala 2011
Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center, Hyannis
December 10 & 11 at 2pm
The Atlantic Coast Academy of Dance performs this holiday classic
Box Office: 508-362-1411
For more info: www.nutcrackergala.org

Madeline’s Christmas, The Musical
Harwich Junior Theater, Harwich
December 2-31 (no performance Dec. 24 or 25).
Fridays 7:30 pm; Saturdays & Sundays 2pm
Based on the popular children’s book by Ludwig Bemelmans.
Box Office: 508-432-2002
For more info: www.hjtcapecod.org

A Winter’s Solstice Celebration
Cotuit Center For The Arts
December 1-18, Thursday-Saturday 7pm; Sunday 1pm.
Short medieval plays, madrigals, carols and dance set the tone for this unique family-oriented theater production. The audience is encouraged to bring their own dinner. The cast will supply mulled cider and sweets.
Box Office: 508-428-0669
www.ArtOnTheCape.org

PARADES & More

Falmouth Christmas Parade
Beginning at Falmouth Mall and following to Route 28 and then Main Street.
Sunday, December 10, Noon
Considered by some to be the largest holiday parade in southeastern New England drawing between 10,000 and 20,000 people per year. What you’ll see: bands, clowns, live animals, floats and people in costume. The theme this year celebrates the town’s 325th anniversary.
Info: 508-548-8500
www.falmouthchamber.com

First Night Chatham
Now in its 20th year, this is one of the best family-friendly events you can find. It’s loaded with teen and kids’ activities, a noise parade (this year led by American Idol finalist Siobhan Magnus), concerts and spectacular fireworks!
For full list of activities, visit www.firstnightchatham.com

What a way to end 2011 and to welcome 2012!

 

 

 

 

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Fun in Fall for the Whole Family

Posted on October 12, 2011 by Michelle

A walk on the beach is enjoyable no matter the season; but let’s face it, if they can’t go swimming, the kids would usually prefer to be somewhere else! Why not explore the awe-inspiring Autumn on Cape Cod…full of apples, pumpkins, ghosts and things that go bump in the night!

Hawk’s Wing Farm
41 Hawks Wing Road, Yarmouthport
You and your family will enjoy apple picking, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, caramel apples, face painting and fun in the barnyard and playground. The aroma of cinnamon and hot apple cider wafting from the kitchen and the cool crisp fall air only start to describe this all-organic farm in the fall. Dwarf apple tree tops are nearly always within an arms reach, with a majority of the fruit within a child’s grasp. A variety of organic selections are available to take home from the farm stand.

October is perfect for … APPLES!! Apple cider, apple pies, arugula, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, celery, collards, escarole, kale, leeks, lettuce, mustard greens, onions, parsley, potatoes, radicchio, radishes, chard, turnips, winter squashes, butternut squash..

Visit Hawk’s Wing Farm for more information and directions.

Cob Webb Farm
1525 Osterville Road, West Barnstable
A family-owned farm filled with old-fashioned charm. Enjoy…

  • PUMPKIN PICKING – Roam around the pumpkin field and find a small, or large, or extra large, round or tall but definitely orange, “just right for you” pumpkin!
  • HAY RIDES – Tour the grounds of this beautiful little farm while munching on some treats and looking for woodland creatures. The ride will take you around the pumpkin patch, through the woods, around a pond and back to the Farm Store.
  • HAY HOUSE – Sheltered under a round roof but still open to the fresh fall air, it’s a great place to jump & roll around in the hay while learning a bit about what creatures live on a farm!
  • FARM STORE – Bring home the freshest and finest fruits and vegetables of the season; try some delicious jellies and jams while picking up corn stalks, gourds and mums to decorate your home for the fall.

Visit Cob Webb Farm for more details and directions.

 

A.D. Makepeace Cranberry Tour
158 Tihonet Road, Wareham
The Makepeace business has been growing cranberries since the 1800s. Abel D. Makepeace established hundreds of acres of bog across southeastern Massachusetts and became known as “The Cranberry King.” Today, the company farms approximately 1,750 acres of bog in the towns of Carver, Middleborough, Plymouth, Rochester and Wareham. A.D. Makepeace is the largest grower-owner of Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., and the largest cranberry grower in the world. With more than 400 growers producing nearly 25 percent of the nation’s cranberry supply, cranberries are the number one food crop in Massachusetts, having a crop value of $50 million.

Makepeace blends state-of-the-art technology with centuries-old growing techniques. Take some time to explore, tour and learn about this fascinating industry. Individual tours are available, advance reservations are required

Visit A. D. Makepeace for more information and reservations, or call (508) 295-1000.

 

Barnstable Village’s Haunted & History Walking Tour
Barnstable Village
Are you looking for something out of the ordinary to fill your evening? Discover this unique walking tour of the historic and haunted “Old Kings Highway” in Barnstable Village. You will hear stories of the conflict between the Loyalists and the American Whigs (Patriots) and how England had a stronghold on this small quaint town. There are over ten stops on the tour and eight have ghost stories. Visit Cobb’s Hill Cemetery where many strange and unusual things have taken place, and the Barnstable Tavern & Restaurant where a mischievous specter lurks in the dining room. The tour finale ends with the “Old Jail” built in the 1690’s by order of Massachusetts Bay Colony Courts, which is actively haunted.

ADVISORY: we have not personally participated in this tour. Please use discretion with children. You may wish to call the tour company to inquire about age appropriateness – (508) 771-2725.

Visit Barnstable Village’s Haunted & History Walking Tour for more information and to view other tours.

 

Cape Cod Central Railroad
252 Main Street, Hyannis
All Aboard For Fun on the Narrated Scenic Train! Climb aboard one of the Cape Cod Central’s climate-controlled passenger cars and feel the thrill as the whistle blows and your fun-filled adventure begins. The rhythm of the train and the spirit of the crew will whisk you away on an exhilarating two-hour journey by rail. You’ll pass beautiful cranberry bogs, natural woodlands, lush marshes and more as you make your way between Hyannis and the Cape Cod Canal.

Advance reservations suggested. (508) 771-3800, or toll free at (888) 797-RAIL.

Visit Cape Cod Central Railroad for more information, departure times and reservations.


 Haunted Hotel Package
At Cape Codder Resort & Spa
This isn’t a trick – it’s a true TREAT all the way! The festivities include an all-new Ghostly Halloween Musical Light Show in the courtyard, trick-or-treating in the safety of the hotel, a Halloween Dance party with prizes and giveaways, a Halloween movie (under the stars if weather permits) and storytelling around the bonfire, plus much more! The evenings activities include:

  • Early Check In
  • Face Painting from 3 – 6 with the fun factory
  • Trick or Treating in the hotel from 4 – 6
  • Ghoulish Ballooning
  • Halloween Dance Party with best costume awards
  • Halloween movie on the deck
  • Bonfire Story Telling

Visit Cape Codder’s Haunted Hotel page for more information and  reservations.

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Looking for a way to bond with your daughter?

Posted on September 28, 2011 by Luisa

Try a Mother/Daughter Spa Getaway

Luisa and AlexThey grow up so quickly, don’t they? I just sent my daughter Alex off to her freshman year at Boston College and it seems like only yesterday it was her first day of kindergarten!

During the past few months leading up to Alex’s college departure from our New Jersey home, she and I – as well as her godmother Kathy with whom she’s very close – made a point to make time for a few activities that nurtured bonding. That way when she left we had a good fuzzy feeling regarding our relationship.

For example, Kathy took Alex out the week prior to her college departgure for pedicures, manicures and dinner. Years ago Kathy started this tradition as Alex’s brithday present. Since then, these spa days have grown into a very special event that they’ve enjoyed many times a year, be it for Alex’s formal dances or just an an excurse for them to bond in a mother/daughter fashion, which they did each time.

Kathy and AlexSince Catania Hospitality has built its resort, spa and restaurant business on the foundation of strong family values, they specifically offer mother/daughter spa treatments at their three resorts — Cape Codder Resort & Spa; Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa; John Carver Inn & Spa – as a way to foster familial bonding. These mother/daughter spa days can be an integral part an off-season weekend getaway to the Cape Codder, Dan’l Webster or John Carver Inn.

Depending on your child’s or teen’s age, there are a wide variety of spa treatments to choose from at all three Beach Plum Spas. Some of the most popular parent/child treatments are massages, facials, manicures and pedicures.

Kid's Corner at the Beach Plum SpaThe Beach Plum Spas offer Kids’ Corner spa treatments for children ages four to 13 years old. While you may have heard of couples’ massages before, you might not have heard of parent and child massages. The Beach Plum Spa offers them, including those which focus only on the back, neck and shoulder area. (Note that all spa treatments require children under 18 years old to have a parent/adult guardian in the room with them during the treatment.)

With creative names like “Strawberry Ice Cream” manicure and “Chocolate Milkshake” pedicure, the Beach Plum Spa Kids’ Corner appeals to children on all levels. For example, the Strawberry Ice Cream manicure starts with strawberry exfoliation and strawberry lotion and ends with a sweet treat…a lollipop! The Chocolate Milkshake pedicure is for chocoholics: while sipping hot chocolate, the youth’s feet are soaked in a chocolate milkshake bath, exfoliated with a chocolate scrub, and finished off with chocolate mousse lotion.

Since teens’ needs are different than adults and kids’, the Beach Plum Spa also offers acne facials. These treatments are for teenagers only and use a Beach Plum Spa skin care product designed to reduce inflammation.

End note:

Although my daughter’s pre-college manicure and pedicure with Kathy has certainly been chipped away due to two weeks of hitting the college books, one thing still remains: her positive thoughts of the quality time she spent with her godmother during their many spa days over the years.

For more details on Mother/Daughter and additional Spa Packages:

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Posted in Beach Plum Spa, Cape Cod, Girls Getaway, kids spa treatments | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

A Frenzy of Fall Festivals

Posted on September 21, 2011 by Michelle

Fall on Cape Cod is a simply glorious time of year, a true feast for the senses…from the smell of the crisp, salty ocean air to the sights of vibrant autumn colors, Cape Cod has it all, but without the crowds! To celebrate the season, the Cape comes alive in a frenzy of Fall Festivals. Escape and discover true hometown celebrations bursting with Art, Music, Food, Fun and much more!

Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival
September 17 & 18
Yes, it has already past this year, but it’s definitely worth making a note of for next year! The Harwich Cranberry Festival has earned a name for itself over the past three decades as one of the top festivals of its kind in America. Highlights include an enormous art and craft sale (and we mean enormous!) and live musical entertainment, a wide selection of food and cuisine and a spectacular fireworks display. Mom and Dad will love the arts and crafts tents, as well as the fantastic Trade and Home Show. The kids will find plenty of fun, and teenagers will no doubt love the sounds of some of the top musical bands and artists in the greater Cape Cod area.

Visit www.harwichcranberryfestival.org for more information.

42nd Annual Bourne Scallop Fest
September 23-25
An exciting weekend paying homage to the native, tasty Scallop. Yearly, over three tons of succulent Scallops are deep fried and served to over 55,000 visitors. But of course, there’s much more to the Bourne Scallop Fest! Featuring a juried craft show, food court tent with everything from herb roasted chicken dinners and lobster rolls to a raw bar and burgers, Midway of rides and games and non-stop entertainment.

A special performance this year will be held on Saturday, September 24. Cape Cod’s own Siobhan Magnus will be performing solo – hopefully with a sneak peak at songs from her first solo album, ‘Beatrice Dream’ which is expected to be released this fall.

Visit www.bournescallopfest.com for complete schedules and listings.

Cape Cod Cranberry Day at Green Briar
October 1
Green Briar celebrates the native berry with cooking demonstrations in the 1903 Jam Kitchen, special exhibits on the cranberry industry on Cape Cod and homemade baked cranberry goods, clam chowder and chili.

Visit www.thorntonburgess.org/SpecialEvents.htm for directions and information.

Harvest Festival at Barnstable County Fairgrounds
October 1 & 2
The festival will include live entertainment by local bands, a marketplace of local farmers and crafters, pony rides, hayrides and much more. Again this year, in the spirit of Oktoberfest, the Harvest Festival will feature a traditional wine and beer garden. Parents and kids can spend quality time together, enjoying kiddie rides, a haunted house, pumpkin painting and the 4-H horse drill team. There will be food vendors, gardening tips and soil testing as well. This year’s theme is “The Holidays Start Here” and will feature exhibitors selling wares and services that will make ideal gifts for year-end celebrations.

Visit www.barnstablecountyfair.org/harvestfest for more information.

25th Annual Oktoberfest
October 8
The 25th Annual Oktoberfest kicks off at the Mashpee Commons’ Village Green with a 10K Road Race and Fun Run, sponsored by New Balance Mashpee. The celebration continues throughout the day with authentic German music by The Vagabonds, Magic Show, K-9 Dog Show, Fiddlers, Irish Step Dancers and exhibits by local crafters and restaurants.

Visit www.MashpeeCommons.com for more information

33rd Annual Yarmouth Seaside Festival
October 8 – 10
The Yarmouth Seaside Festival has grown into a gala event which boasts a craft fair of more than 125 crafters from all over the country, a giant parade, continual musical entertainment, high-quality children’s events, kayak and canoe race, 5K road race, greased pole contests, pie-eating contestsand fireworks display, to name just a few. Bringing together townspeople and tourists alike, this event captures a warm, fun-loving, and still FREE event for all to take part in and enjoy. A huge selection of varying crafts, and a dazzling fireworks display are what truly light up the Yarmouth Seaside Festival, but there’s plenty more to give it substance. A parade, New England cuisine, music, children’s rides, and various competitions help keep the party going all weekend long. Participate in or watch kayak and road races, and be sure to bring along a camera for the sand sculpture contest. The fantastic parade will include antique cars, marching bands, and special surprises for the children. The event itself is free, although you’ll want to bring along some money to enjoy the huge selection of food and other activities that may require a fee.

Visit www.yarmouthseasidefestival.com for more information.

Wellfleet OysterFest – family fun
October 15 – 16
A bit of a drive, but certainly worth it! This two-day street party celebrates the town’s famous oysters, clams and shellfishing traditions and brings together locals and visitors for a weekend full of hometown flavor and big time fun. The town center becomes a walking district that offers something for everyone: local cuisine, arts and crafts, children’s activities, educational exhibits, live music and the Oyster Shuck-Off competition. Satellite events away from the crowds, and many with the beautiful harbor as a backdrop, showcase all that the village has to offer: beachcombing and bird walks, a 5K road race and children’s fun run, cooking demonstrations, tasting seminars, book talks, and oyster grant tours. Kids will enjoy the moon bounce, pumpkin decorating, face painting, oyster jewelry making, a steel drum workshop, sing-a-longs and more.

Visit www.wellfleetoysterfest.org for more information.

Cape Cod Oyster Festival, Hyannis – more of an adult festival
October 15 – 16
Every Fall, Cape Cod showcases their world famous oysters to the many tourists that come to take part in the Annual Cape Cod Oyster Festival. Relax by the Hyannis Harbor, sampling the very finest of Cape Cod oysters and wine from across the world. All oyster lovers, and those simply needing a break, should make sure to get to Cape Cod this Fall. One price buys you admission to the event, which includes wine, food, and of course, oyster samples. This first-class event benefits the United Way, making it the ideal way to help others while enjoying one of Cape Cod’s most renowned commodities.

Fall for the Arts
Entire Month of October
Follow the Arts Trail throughout the month of October during the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod’s 4th Annual Fall for the Arts Festival, with 125+ special events awaiting you, including live performances by local musicians, special exhibits, arts activities for kids, readings and lectures, guided art and heritage walks, plein air painters and more.

Visit www.artsfoundation.org/fall-for-the-arts for the full line-up of Fall for the Arts events!

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Cape Codder Resort, family concerts, Family Fun, family movies, kids art instruction, kids theater, Outdoor Activities, science demonstrations | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Road Less Travelled

Posted on August 31, 2011 by Michelle

Route 6AIf you are interested in seeing  what Cape Cod looked like before tourists found it, take some time to discover a  road less travelled. Old King’s Highway, also known as scenic Route 6A, winds 34 miles though the villages of Bourne, Sandwich, West Barnstable, Barnstable, Yarmouthport, Dennis, Brewster, and Orleans along the northern side of Cape Cod.  America’s largest designated historic corridor, Route 6A is recognized as one of the most scenic byways in America by Smithsonian Magazine.

With  its origins as a Native American trail, Old King’s Highway later became the primary east-west cartway of early farmers and settlers of Cape Cod. In the 18th century, as the Cape’s maritime industry blossomed, sea captains homes, taverns (including our own Dan’l Webster Inn) and commerical businesses began to open along the popular passageway. Because many of the trees along 6A had been cut down to accommodate commerce, 19th century residents started to replant shade trees along the corridor which are now mature and add to the beauty of Old King’s Highway.

By the early 19th century, horse-drawn buggys were giving way to modern automobiles and tourism on Cape Cod was just starting to bustle, thus the dirt road needed to be paved. To this day, this captivating trail remains faithful to its historic origins. From green and blue marshes, scenic harbors and old general stores to local produce stands, stately sea captains homes and colorful artisan and antique shops, Old King’s Highway will transport you through centuries of Cape Cod history – a must-see for those wanting to explore the more traditional side of Cape Cod.

Get away for a few nights, stay with us at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa in Hyannis or Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa in Sandwich and take a drive along beautiful Route 6A….you may want to stop for a closer look at some of these nearby attractions:

Sandwich

Barnstable

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Posted in Cape Cod, Cape Cod Travel Tips, Family Fun, Indoor Activities, Outdoor Activities | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment