January 28, 2007

A swashbuckling tour for the whole family

When you think of Salem, you typically think of witches and the notorious trials from early American history. In this Massachusetts town there is no shortage of witchy attractions and museums, however one of the best tours in town is actually at the New England Pirate Museum. During the 30-minute indoor tour, the lively tourguides regale visitors with tales of notorious swashbucklers who frequented the waters around Boston's North Shore in the 17th and 18th centuries. Explore a pirate ship and look for hidden treasure as the pirates of yore come to life in this entertaining look at a little-known piece of history.

Admission:
Adult - $6
Children (4-13) - $4

Hours:
10am - 5pm daily (May - Oct & weekends in Nov)
also open some nights during Haunted Happenings

http://www.piratemuseum.com/pirate.htm

January 15, 2007

Travel Cat hits the web

Although I was never one to get excited about going to see Mickey Mouse, I have many fond memories from my childhood of cross-country family car trips as well as daytrips to museums and the like. As an adult I've traveled all over the US as well as abroad and I love to find interesting activities every place I visit. So I guess it was inevitable that I blog about fun family travel activities.

I hope you find my entries helpful in planning your own trips. Enjoy...

The "other" water attraction in San Diego

For my first post, I want to focus on a favorite of mine: the Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

A short drive north of San Diego in La Jolla, CA, the Birch Aquarium has a small but worthwhile collection. Due to its location, it tends to be less crowded (and cheaper) than Sea World. Highlights include dive shows and animal feedings in the 2-story 70,000 gallon tank. Don't miss the tide pools outside (along with a great view of the coast) where you can touch sea stars, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers and more with help from the aquarium's knowledgable staff.

Admission:
Adult - $11
Youth (3-17) - $7.50
2 yrs. & under - Free

Hours:
9am-5pm daily
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years

http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/