amara blake author at My Family Travels
Article
The Hidden Cost Of Camping on Florida’s Protected Beaches

Curious about pitching a tent on Florida’s wild shores? Protected beaches look like easy escapes, yet the rules, logistics, and natural realities can catch travelers off guard....

Read More    4 min read

Article
The Georgia Steakhouse Foodies Say Is The Real Deal

Kevin Rathbun Steak in Atlanta remains one of Georgia’s top dining spots in 2025, drawing locals and travelers for its mix of quality, comfort, and service. Created by chef Kevin...

Read More    4 min read

Article
6 Georgia Steakhouses Serving Comfort Food That Locals Love

Georgia’s steakhouse scene blends Southern comfort with classic flavor. Across the state, locals flock to spots that serve hearty cuts, warm sides, and true hospitality. From...

Read More    5 min read

Article
New York Neighborhoods Locals Abandoned After Tourists Took Over The Nightlife

New York City's vibrant nightlife has always been a defining feature of the Big Apple, drawing locals to its diverse scenes across different neighborhoods. But in recent years,...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Why Texas Lake Towns Lost Their Charm When Tourists Made Them Party Destinations

Texas lake towns once offered peaceful retreats where families could enjoy fishing, boating, and simple country living away from city life. These hidden gems featured crystal-clear...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Fall Outdoor Concerts In Ohio

As autumn leaves transform Ohio's landscape into a colorful canvas, the state's music scene heats up with amazing outdoor concerts. These fall performances blend crisp air, gorgeous...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Galveston’s Must See Fall Events This October

Fall brings a magical transformation to Galveston Island, with cooler breezes replacing summer heat and exciting seasonal events popping up across town. October fills the historic...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Hidden Colorado Destinations That Lost Their Magic Because Of Visitors

Colorado's breathtaking landscapes once harbored secret spots known only to locals and adventurous souls. These hidden gems offered peaceful escapes from the hustle of everyday...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Over The Top All You Can Eat Buffets In Kentucky That Shock First Time Visitors

Kentucky isn't just famous for horse racing and bourbon – it's also home to some truly jaw-dropping buffet experiences. From massive Asian food selections to down-home country...

Read More    5 min read

Article
The Best Brunch Cafes In Manhattan And Brooklyn You Absolutely Can’t Miss

Brunch in New York City isn't just a meal - it's practically a weekend religion. From fluffy pancake stacks to perfect eggs benedict, the brunch scene across Manhattan and Brooklyn...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Beginner Friendly Camping Areas In Alaska

Alaska's breathtaking wilderness calls to adventure seekers, but can seem overwhelming for camping beginners. The vast, untamed landscapes might look intimidating at first glance....

Read More    3 min read

Article
Oregon Trails Locals Say Were Better Before Tourists

Oregon's breathtaking wilderness has long been a treasure for locals who cherish the peace and natural beauty of their hiking trails. In recent years, social media and travel blogs...

Read More    3 min read

Article
California National Parks That Lost Their Magic To Crowds

California's stunning national parks once offered peaceful escapes into nature's embrace. Sadly, many of these treasured spaces have become victims of their own beauty, drawing...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Why Flying Out Of Texas Once Felt Like Attending A Fashion Show

Back in the mid-20th century, Texas airports weren't just transportation hubs - they were runways of a different kind. Passengers dressed to impress in their finest attire, treating...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Why Mount Dora Is The Perfect Florida Weekend Escape

Nestled in Central Florida just 40 minutes northwest of Orlando sits a charming small town that feels worlds away from the tourist bustle. Mount Dora offers visitors a refreshing...

Read More    3 min read

Article
The Best Prime Rib In Indiana Comes From This Unexpected Place

Indiana has plenty of great steakhouses, but when it comes to prime rib, one place stands head and shoulders above the rest. Hidden in a tiny town that most folks drive right past...

Read More    3 min read

Article
The Perfect Weather For Tourists Hits West Central Florida This Season

West Central Florida is a top destination this season thanks to ideal weather conditions. After months of intense summer heat and oppressive humidity, the region is finally transitioning...

Read More    3 min read

Article
This Pennsylvania Drive In Will Make You Feel Like It’s The ’50s Again

Remember when watching movies meant piling into the family car with blankets and homemade popcorn? The Dependable Drive-In in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, keeps that magical experience...

Read More    3 min read

Article
6 Secret Lakefront Restaurants In Washington Perfect For A Weekend Escape

Washington's lakes offer more than just breathtaking views – they're home to some incredible dining spots that locals try to keep secret. These hidden restaurants combine delicious...

Read More    4 min read

Article
9 Juice Bars In Michigan Perfect For A Refreshing Break

Michigan's juice scene is bursting with vibrant flavors and healthy options for those seeking a refreshing break from the everyday grind. Whether you're looking to boost your immune...

Read More    5 min read

Article
Storm Floods Shut Down Two Major California Highways Creating Dangerous Traveling Conditions

Heavy thunderstorms have wreaked havoc across California, causing severe flooding that has forced the closure of two major highways. Highways 395 and 14 are currently shut down...

Read More    2 min read

Article
10 Interactive Farms In New York For The Whole Family

Looking for a hands-on adventure that'll delight everyone from toddlers to grandparents? New York's interactive farms offer unforgettable experiences where families can milk cows,...

Read More    5 min read

Article
9 Sandwich Shops In Chicago That Are Local Legends

Chicago's food scene goes way beyond deep dish pizza and hot dogs. The Windy City's sandwich shops have been stuffing bread with delicious fillings for generations, creating cult...

Read More    5 min read

Article
9 Pumpkin Patches In Texas That Are Worth The Drive

Fall in Texas brings cooler temperatures, football season, and the exciting hunt for the perfect pumpkin! Nothing says autumn quite like a trip to a pumpkin patch where hayrides,...

Read More    5 min read

Article
9 Tennessee Ghost Tours That Locals Say Are Actually Scary

Ever felt a chill run down your spine that wasn't from the Tennessee night air? I've been hunting down the spookiest ghost tours in the Volunteer State, and boy, have I found some...

Read More    5 min read

Article
Colonie Welcomes Walworld International In Place Of Shuttered Price Chopper

Hey there, fellow shoppers! Have you heard the exciting news buzzing around our neighborhood? The old Price Chopper that sat empty for months in Colonie is finally getting a fresh...

Read More    3 min read

Article
10 Pumpkin Flavored Drinks In Las Vegas You Need To Try This Year

Fall has officially hit the Las Vegas strip, and nothing says autumn quite like pumpkin-flavored everything! While Nevada's desert heat might still be lingering, coffee shops across...

Read More    5 min read

Article
10 Hidden Florida Restaurants Locals Rush To Without a Single Ad

Some of Florida's best dining experiences aren't the ones you'll see in glossy ads or on billboards. They're the low-key gems, run on word-of-mouth and beloved by locals who know...

Read More    4 min read

Young girl dresssedf in pink on a bumpber car. Photo c. Magic Mountain Fun Center.
Article
Columbus Ohio Attractions

The state's capital and largest city, Columbus, Ohio has affordable, entertaining attractions that make family travelers very happy. My family should know, after so many visits...

Read More    4 min read

Sleep in Luxe TeePee Comfort at Westgate River Ranch & Rodeo
Article
Giddyup for Upscale, Cowboy Living at Westgate River Ranch Rodeo

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo will change everything you thought you knew about central Florida. The self-proclaimed "largest dude ranch East of the Mississippi" is the...

Read More    5 min read

Vintage photo of guests enjoying the Tiki Bar on the sand outside the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort. Photo c. Hilton
Article
3 Great Florida Beach Towns to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

A family vacation for a Florida New Year's can be a low-cost, beachside adventure. Enjoy hiking, biking and plenty of outdoor attractions by day and join holiday festivities at...

Read More    6 min read

The Freemont Street Christmas tree in downtown Las Vegas. Photo by Bill Hughes/Las Vegas News Bureau
Article
Las Vegas Christmas: A Big Party In Las Vegas For The Whole Family

Did Santa pack a Las Vegas Christmas vacation for your family this year? If you've been saving up for a family getaway, keep in mind that Vegas makes for an affordable winter break...

Read More    7 min read

Panama City attractions
Article
Year-Round Fun in Panama City Attractions: Explore the Best

Known for its sugary white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Panama City Beach has rapidly grown from a quiet beachside military town to spring break partyland and, finally,...

Read More    10 min read

Teens and group leader
Article
How To Volunteer On Vacation

Choosing to volunteer on vacation with so many options available can be a daunting task. This is especially true for families and teens...

Read More    3 min read

People enjoying a free yoga class at Woodruff Park in Atlanta.
Article
No Cost Fun In Atlanta, Georgia

Enjoy big city thrills, world-class culture and a no cost fun family vacation with my guide to Atlanta, Georgia. No cost is an unbeatable offer when other

Read More    6 min read

Article
How to Go to Disney for Free and Score Deep Discounts

According to Walt Disney World's website, there's no such thing...

Read More    3 min read

headboards at Sirata Beach Resort.
Article
Relaxing in 361 Days of Sunshine at Sirata Beach Resort

"You picked a fantastic weekend to come down, though there's really no bad time around here," our driver told us on the way from the Tampa Airport to St. Petersburg's family-friendly Sirata Beach Resort. "We...

Read More    7 min read

Article
No-Cost Fun In Indianapolis, Indiana

Head to Indy for concerts, museums, history, transportation and endless fun throughout spring, summer and fall (winter's cold!) The best things in life are still free, at least in Indiana's capitol of...

Read More    6 min read

Article
10 Family-Friendly Ways to Spend the Holidays in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for it's over-the-top live shows, casinos and adult-sized fun. But there's plenty for kids and families to do, especially during the holidays. From multiple Santa sightings to light...

Read More    4 min read

Article
A Branson Christmas for the Whole Family

If your hometown has been letting you down in the Christmas jollies department, a trip to Branson, Missouri can’t help but get you in the mood to make merry. ...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Jacksonville’s Great Outdoors (And Beyond)

As we packed up the car and double checked our contraband (sugar-free suckers, charged up kindles, books, and markers), my daughter asked again what the place was called we were going. "Jacksonville!...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Gathering The Clan, Reunions At Florida’s Disney World Resort

There's no easier way to plan a togethering vacation -- what small family reunions are sometimes called -- than at a Disney theme park with grandparents in tow. Let's look at some recent stats. 

Read More    8 min read

Article
The Lotz House in Tennessee

Nashville is more than music, riverfront, and great food. Its surrounding area also has a rich history dating back to the Civil War era. My family and I recently took a trip to the city and explored...

Read More    5 min read

Article
Legoland Florida Resort: Is the Hotel or Beach Retreat Better?

When we opened up the door to the LEGOLAND Florida Hotel room, I knew whoever had designed it must have had children of their own. The...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Spend Three-Days in Florida’s State Parks

Give me 72 hours and I'll show you a side of Florida you never imagined. Planning a Florida family vacation usually involves rushing from theme park to theme park to hop on the latest ride and pose...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Illuminates the Imagination

I have a confession to make. I had never been to Disney’s Animal Kingdom until I stepped through the park gates as dusk approached to check-out their new evening initiatives. I was expecting a pleasant...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Rainy Day Activities in Orlando

Hitting the Orlando theme parks may conjure up images of sunshine and blue skies, but especially in summer, families often encounter an overcast and damp day. You can still enjoy everything from Disney...

Read More    3 min read

Article
Live Like a Local on Vacation

Going on vacation doesn’t have to resemble living out of a suitcase while your kids run wild. Vacation homes and condos make for a comfortable and relaxing...

Read More    2 min read

Article
Celebrating Oktoberfest in Florida

Oktoberfest has always been a reason to celebrate whether you're traveling with family or reveling in the fun and sampling German "Bier" without the kids. You can find an Oktoberfest festivity in just...

Read More    2 min read

Article
10 Best Kid Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas

Las Vegas hotel deals conjure up images of glittering high rise casinos, high-rollers and high-end luxury. But the City of Lights has plenty to offer families from outdoor fun to indoor amusement parks....

Read More    4 min read

Article
My Kind of Beach at Playa del Carmen

Situated on Mexico's Caribbean coast, Playa del Carmen is a waterfront refuge that attracts domestic and international tourists to its thriving main...

Read More    9 min read

Article
Summers In Telluride And Mountain Village, Colorado

Telluride, Colorado boasts summer festivals, hiking, mountain climbing, and nature walks. Together, they make for a warm-weather getaway that's even more popular than its ski season.

Read More    9 min read

Article
Canada’s Quebec Province Celebrates Diversity as a Gay-Friendly Destination

As same-sex marriage gains a legal foothold, more gay families are looking for the perfect honeymoon combining romance and family-friendly fun.With the recent expansion of same-sex marriage laws...

Read More    7 min read

Article
Disney Simplifies Generational Travel

Stepping out to curbside with suitcases, car seat, toddler and travel crib in tow, I was already overwhelmed. Disney was still a few hours away and we had to get through the busiest airport in the world,...

Read More    8 min read

Article
Why Beaches Turks and Caicos Is A Favorite Family All-Inclusive

While there are plenty of resorts and accommodations to choose from, Beaches Turks & Caicos paves the way for the most family-friendly, all-inclusive beach resort...

Read More    8 min read

Article
Ghost Towns of the American West

Up for a bit of a scare blended with historical haunts on your next vacation; discover the ghost towns of the Southwest in Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, California, and Utah. Learn about the history...

Read More    4 min read

Article
Six Easy Safety Tips For Theme Parks

Keep your family safe during your next theme park adventure with these six easy tips.Trips to the theme park are usually on the top of every child's wish list.  But when kids make a beeline...

Read More    2 min read

Article
Top Cheap European Hotel Chain: Premier Inn

The Premier Inn chain based in the United Kingdom is a winner of FTF's Top 10 (Cheap) Getaways For Family Travelers 2008 award. Here is a look at the chain today. Booking budget hotels for the...

Read More    2 min read

Article
Top Cheap Campground Getaway: Eurocamp

Eurocamp in Europe is a winner of FTF's Top 10 (Cheap) Getaways For Family Travelers 2008 award, and here is a look at the chain today. Camping always seems like a good idea for families. It's...

Read More    3 min read

Article
The Bahia Resort Hotel, San Diego, California

The Bahia Resort in San Diego has all the advantages of its mid-century vintage -– a pick-of-the-litter location on Mission Bay, its own private beach, and lush, mature tropical landscaping that gives...

Read More    3 min read