Pack the Kids

This week on Pack the Kids , we’re talking all about unique places to stay when traveling with kids —because sometimes the hotel is part of the adventure. From glamping in a luxury dome in the Blue Ridge Mountains to staying in a converted train station hotel in Chattanooga , we’re sharing our real experiences with creative, family-friendly accommodations across the U.S. In this episode, we cover:...

This week on Pack the Kids , we’re diving into what we ate on our spring break trip through Blue Ridge, Georgia, Helen, Georgia, and Chattanooga, Tennessee —and let’s just say… this was NOT your average road trip food. From German food in a Bavarian-style town in Georgia to Appalachian-inspired fine dining , over-the-top brunch, and homemade meals while glamping, this episode covers the real-life...

In this episode, we recap our spring break focused entirely on activities , starting in Atlanta and moving into the Blue Ridge Mountains (Georgia) and Chattanooga, Tennessee. We share:  What surprised us (looking at you, Ruby Falls 👀)   First-time experiences (horseback riding)   Unexpected highlights (Gibbs Gardens + Rock City)   What the kids loved most   How everything tied together into one f...

This week we’re talking about bucket list trips — what they are, why they matter, and what’s actually on ours. We’re officially just two downloads away from 200 🎉 and we may or may not be keeping our spring break location a secret (we’re flying into Atlanta… but that’s all you’re getting for now). From Japan dreams and Pokémon-themed airplanes to jungle hotel fantasies with flamingos and hydrange...

In this week’s Pack the Kids , we’re back in New York City — Part 3 , and this time it’s all about how NYC feels for kids ! From the magic of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway , leaping in giant ball pits , sniffing walls and confetti disasters to scaling the Empire State Building , this episode is packed with playful chaos, family memories, and the truth about kid‑friendly city life....

🍕 This week, we hit Part 2 of our New York City food adventure — featuring famous frrrozen hot chocolate, a best pizza award, and a family debate that sparked controversy. Come with us back to NYC for who ate what and where and let us know what you would try! 📍 Places Mentioned   🍕 John’s of Bleecker Street Pizza 🍔 Sailor in Brooklyn   🍦 Serendipity 3 - Upper East Side Location /Times Square...

This week on Pack the Kids , we're diving into all the delicious stops we made on our recent New York City adventure—from the iconic to the quirky! 🍕🥯🍰 We’re sharing what it’s like eating your way through Manhattan with kids and without kids menus. Plus, you’ll hear which place totally surprised us, who ate the most candy, and the best way to get into NYC hotspots. 📍 Places Mentioned Here...

In this episode of Pack the Kids , Sarah, Nash, and Otis get ready for an upcoming trip to New York City by talking all things airport packing, flying with kids, and whether city trips or mountain camping are more fun. The boys share their best airport tips, debate city vs outdoor travel, and play a round of Truth or Trash about airport rules and Central Park wildlife. It’s a lighthearted conversa...

This week, we’re back in one of our favorite food cities—Chicago! 🍴 Otis and Nash join in (hot cocoa in hand) to share laughs, messy bites, and family memories from the Windy City. We dig into the real difference between a Chicago-style hot dog and every other dog on the planet, plus how to properly order an Italian beef sandwich (there’s a trick). Whether you’re all about mustard and sport peppe...

This week, we’re in Chicago — and it’s full of flavor, fun, and freezing wind. Join us as we: Sip homemade sparkling cherry soda with a DIY syrup recipe 🍒 Tour the Balloon Museum where air is art (yes, there’s a giant floating charcoal balloon) 🎈 Debate our NYE plans (spoiler: sushi wins over parties) 🍣 Drop kid-approved tips for crushing laser tag at Battle House Play Truth or Trash with surpr...

This week, Nash takes the lead as we explore Cleveland's tastiest treasures — From over-the-top desserts like bubble waffles and shark donuts to fancy eats at Award-Winning Cordelia, and don't forget classic Italian cookies in Little Italy — this episode is packed with flavor. We share our top picks for: Donuts (yes, there’s a debate) Ice cream spots with secret painted chameleons 🦎 Fan...

We’re in Wyoming , and it’s not just a square on the map—it’s where alpine lakes, mountain waffles, and unexpected weather compete for main character energy. In this episode of Pack the Kids , we reflect on our time in Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole with kid commentary on everything from huckleberry obsession to hiking highs and lows. From the peaceful vibes at the Laurance Rockefeller...

We're back in Moab, Utah with part 2! This week, we’re still in the desert — but ditch the hiking boots. We’re eating our way through Moab, Utah and adding a brand new segment: Nash Eats ! From surprisingly epic Italian food to donuts worth waking up for, the kids weigh in on their favorite eats. Plus, we visit a rock shop that's basically a museum, keep a positive attitude as Mom goes i...

We took the kids to the desert… in July . In this episode, we head to Moab, Utah , to explore Arches National Park during the peak of summer heat. We’ll share what it’s like to watch the sunrise from North Window, how we kept cool with cold cave hideouts and Camelbaks, and why Sand Dune Arch might be your new favorite sandbox. As always, Nash shares his favorite sights and hikes , Otis delivers so...

🎙️ Geysers, Zip Lines & Grown-Up Tips in Yellowstone In this steamy episode, we're exploring Yellowstone's most iconic sights — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs — plus zipping over the Montana treetops and soaking in a hot springs spa ). 🏞️🛁 As always, we’ve got: 🌋 Our must-see Yellowstone stops even if you're not PROFESH hikers 🌄 Grown-up tips and mi...

In this episode of Pack the Kids , we’re headed to Puerto Rico — where the beaches are wild, the rainforest is wet, and your kayak might come with a crab named Steve. We’re talking about: El Yunque rainforest hikes (with rope swings, waterfalls, and MUD) Night kayaking in glowing LED-bottom boats under the bridge in San Juan Hidden beaches, big waves , and one that nearly ate us What we learned ab...

“New Orleans Eats: Beignets, Gumbo & Grits (Plus Trivia & Where to go For Family Friendly Spots) This week, we’re talking food — and not just any food. We’re in New Orleans, where even the snacks have history. From powdered-sugar beignets to kid-approved gumbo and cheesy grits, we’re sharing 3 classic New Orleans dishes your kids might actually try — and where to find them. Otis and Nash w...

Join Sarah (the mom), Nash and Otis (the kids) for short weekly episodes about  Iocal and faraway adventures in hopes of growing a travel kid community that inspires each other to get out and experience!       BIG News! You can text us now! Follow Us on Instagram ! @MarnellFamilyRoadshow Watch us on You Tube @PackTheKidsPodcast Email us! packthekidspodcast@gmail.com We want to hear about your adve...