A revolutionary family experience in Virginia

With Independence Day nearly upon us, what better way to celebrate our country’s freedom than a visit to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia? Featuring hundreds of restored and reconstructed buildings, this 18th century colonial city is the world’s largest living history museum. Wander through the Governor’s palace or watch a silversmith at work. Help work in the gardens or see the militia prepare for battle. Costumed interpreters tell the stories of the people living and working in colonial times and encourage you to ask questions. It's not unusual to see many of these people wandering around the town. You can even rent period costumes at the Visitor Center to get your children in the colonial spirit. Besides the guided tours through the different buildings, there is also “Revolutionary City” - daily re-enactments of our country during the fight for our freedom. Be sure to check out the official website which contains a lot of valuable information for planning your trip. There is also a great Kids section that has a Summer Program Calendar with family activities for each day of the week. Prior to visiting Williamsburg, your kids can meet the various people living during that time period and click through an interactive map of the town.

Also of note is the nearby Jamestown settlement. Celebrating its 400th anniversary this year, it’s definitely worth a side trip.

Admission:
$29-$79 adult
$15-$39 youth
(various packages available from 1-Day Passes to Full Year)

Hours:
9am-5pm daily
(see website for specific building/museum hours)

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/

San Francisco's 3-alarm tour

Visitors and locals alike rave about the Fire Engine Tours & Adventures in San Francisco. What better way to see the city than to zoom around in a classic red 1955 Mack fire engine? Run by a husband and wife team, the 75-minute tour starts from Fisherman’s Wharf and includes Sausalito, Ft. Point, the Presidio, Union St. and a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge. Although you get fire jackets to wear (which makes for a great photo-op), it’s best to dress warmly since the engine is open air and it can get quite chilly going across the bridge. Riders of all ages are welcome aboard however the drivers’ comedy is geared more towards young kids. Reservations are highly recommended as the seating is limited.

Admission:
Adults - $45
Teens (13-17) - $30
Children (12 & under) - $25

Hours:
1pm daily (except Tuesday)
Tours at 11am, 3pm & 5pm are added certain days – call for details

http://www.fireenginetours.com

A walk through Revolutionary War-era Boston

With warmer days upon us, it's a great time to get outside and enjoy a guided tour by Boston by Little Feet. Operated by Boston by Foot, this 60-minute tour is geared especially for 6 to 12 year olds. Knowledgable guides lead children (and their families) on a walking tour of Boston's Freedom Trail...a collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, and historical markers that tell the story of the Revolutionary War. Learn about the architecture and stories behind some of the country's most historically significant sites.

Admission:
General - $8
(Children must be accompanied by adult)

Hours:
Mon & Sat - 10am
Sun - 2pm
May 1-Oct 31

http://www.bostonbyfoot.com/

Cure your family's spring training fever

Celebrate the countdown to opening day by taking a trip to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory in Louisville, KY. Here you can swing replica bats of famous baseball greats and learn about the history of America’s favorite pastime. The highlight is a guided tour to see how the famous wood baseball bats are made from start to finish and everyone gets a miniature bat at the end of the 30-minute tour. Not only do professional players get their custom bats made here, but you can also purchase your own personalized bat to bring home with you!

Admission:
$9 Adults (13-59)
$8 Seniors (60+)
$4 Kids (6-12)
Kids 5 and younger are free

Hours:
Please check the website for seasonal information regarding hours and bat production.

http://www.sluggermuseum.org

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