Author: Tamela Rich

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Two Mountain Festivals for Memorial Day 2018

Here's the low-down on two family-friendly events: Gallabrae and The White Squirrel Festival

Make Legroom on Your Next Road Trip

Choose the right things to pack, the best luggage for a crowded car, and learn when rubber bands come in handy!

Three Road Trip Destinations for Holiday Cheer

It's easy to get swept away in the consumerism of the holiday season. Instead, make lasting holiday memories in the North Carolina mountains or South Carolina coast at these attractions

Tips for Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park During Elk Rutting Season

Headed to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during elk rutting season? Here's what to watch and listen for, and how to do it safely

Fall Camping is the BEST!

Even if you don't own camping equipment, there are plenty of ways to camp in the Carolinas. Here are tips and a free download to get you started

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Thomas Jefferson's Monticello Helps Us Understand Charlottesville's Tragedy

In the wake of the recent civil unrest in Charlottesville, Virginia, and President Trump calling out Jefferson as a slaveholder, it's to put a visit to Monticello on your family's calendar.

Here's Why to View The Solar Eclipse at Gorges State Park

Gorges State Park is in the "path of totality" and there will be no competing "light pollution" to distract you from Nature's big show.

Share the Beach and Rivers with Birds

Tips for being mindful of your potential impact on birds and their habitats, especially during nesting season when birds and chicks are most vulnerable.

Memorial Day Festivals Kids and Parents Will Love

From music and dancing to white water rafting and balloon racing, there's something for everyone at these festivals

Think You Know Fireflies? Think Again!

The short window of activity for these fascinating creatures is Mid May to Mid June. See them at the Firefly Festival on Saturday, May 27, 2017

Four Mobile Apps for Finding Vacation Stops

Mobile apps can help you find everything from destinations and cheap gas, to camping and lodging. These four are my favorites.

Junior Ranger Day at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Kids of all ages, learn how to "explore, learn, and protect" your national park and become an official Junior Ranger!

Spring Break in West Virginia

New River Gorge, Summersville Lake, and Lewisburg are three destinations your family will love

North Carolina Music Trails

The Blue Ridge Music Trails and African American Music Trails celebrate our rich musical heritage

3 South Carolina Destinations for Black History Month

These coastal venues offer families programming that celebrates the contributions of African-Americans.

Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Holiday Road Trip

Before you hit the road check out these tips, and download a free guide with checklists

Dazzling Holiday Lights in the Carolinas

Here are four holiday lights displays in three Carolina towns to enjoy with the family in 2016

Tips for Helping Kids Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Questions to ask before leaving, and tips for enjoying the great outdoors with kids

“Music of the Mountains” at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The two-day event will be held on the Tennessee side of the park, and yes, "On Top of Old Smoky" will be played!

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Labor Day Destinations in Asheville

Four family-centered destinations to enjoy this Labor Day Weekend

Escape to New York's Finger Lakes

From NASCAR, to glass arts and gliding, New York's Finger Lake district is the perfect summer vacation for families

How to Travel with Kids on Meds

Whether your child is on a prescription, dietary supplements or a special diet, these tips will keep them on their program—so everyone can enjoy the vacation!

Backyard Camping for the Great American Campout

Stay in your backyard to enjoy the Great American Campout June 25.

Congaree National Park Invites Kids To Join the Butterfly Count Program

The public is invited to learn more about butterflies and help count them as part of a special citizen science program June 11.

South Carolina's Cornbread Festival

There's plenty more to do at the SC Cornbread Festival besides eating your way through 20 different cornbread recipes

5 Fun Car Activities for a Summer Road Trip

These activities will not only keep the peace, they'll also help you make great memories together.

3 Must-Visit National Parks Within A Day's Drive

As the National Park Service celebrates its centennial, now's the time to visit a nearby national park.

Foodie Families: Where To Go in Appalachia

New website helps families discover local food, farms and flavor on an interactive Appalachian food map.

Spring Break Road Trip: Four Days in NC

This itinerary highlights destinations from Charlotte to Raleigh and back with a seasonal theme. Free or reasonably priced!

Solo Travel: Gateway to Better Parenting?

Now there's research to back up what I've known for years: solo travel is a great way to get your mojo back

Three Must-Visit National Parks Near Charlotte

These national parks are conveniently located two, three, and four hours from Charlotte. Get outside!

Use This Winter Car Maintenance Checklist Before You Hit The Road

A simple checklist to be sure you arrive safely at your winter destinations.

Take a Trip to Birmingham for Martin Luther King Day

The six-hour road trip is the perfect time to open important conversations about fundamental human rights.

Holiday Travel Tip: Ship Items Ahead

Leave some legroom for the family when you ship bulky items ahead.

Back Seat Activities for Kids on a Holiday Road Trip

Affordable and easy ways to keep the kids entertained without screen time

Headed Through Virginia for Thanksgiving?

Stage a family photo by "LOVE" at the I-77 Virginia Welcome Center

Four Thanksgiving Travel Planning Tips

The "right" stops will extend the drive (maybe just a bit), as well as the laughs and memories.

3 Eye-Popping Destinations for a NC Mountain Getaway

Three itineraries sure to please, combining beautiful autumn colors with waterfalls in the North Carolina mountains.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Free Planning Guide

The Blue Ridge Parkway covers 469 miles. This free guide will save you hours of web surfing as you plan your excursion

Labor Day 2015: Blue Ridge Parkway Getaways

Five great places to spend Labor Day Weekend along the Blue Ridge Parkway. (VIDEO)

Refill and Reuse Your Own Water Bottle, Even on Vacation

Kids are oriented to altruism and "saving the world," and the "No Bottled Water Challenge" gives them a chance to make a real impact.

Get a Digital Vacation in Pocahontas County, West Virginia

The National Radio Quiet Zone might be the best thing that happened to your family on vacation.

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Myrtle Beach: What ELSE to do?

Don't miss these lesser known attractions just south of the Grand Strand.

Healthy Eating on Vacation: Try a Farmers Market

Introducing regional foods to the kids makes your family vacation memorable on a whole new level. And fresh food is much healthier than fast-food fare.