Conference moira::parenting

    I want to know about people's experiences with Water Country in
    Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
    
    How much can my 20-month old daughter participate?  (She walks, likes
    the water, enjoys physical adventures, and has earned the nickname
    Mighty Mouse!)  What age/size restrictions does this theme park have? 
    Are there many things she could enjoy?
    
    Also - how do you secure your wallet and car keys?  
    
    To respond, send mail to TNPUBS::STEINHART.
    
    Thanks,
    L

    After much discussion, the moderators have decided to open this
    note for responses, even though their interest is limited by
    geography.  The information is of sufficient general interest to be
    worthwhile.

    To keep things clear, please specify your location (e.g.
    city or town) in the title of your reply, whether you are asking for
    information or providing information.
    
    L
    co-mod
    

Well, .1 didn't get much of a response, but....

I'm heading up to Maine for the July 4th weekend.  I was thinking of taking my
3.5 year old (who is addicted to water) to either Water Country in Portsmouth, NH
or the park that is next to Funtown in Saco, ME.  I would appreciate opinions
as to whether either of these places are appropriate for someone my son's age.
Also, if anyone has been to both places, which one did you prefer?

Thanks.

Ken

We just spent a day at Water Country with kids as young as almost-5.  Last
year we had the same kids, so that's close to your son's age.  The kids had
great time (and we did too), but it's very expensive for what you're getting,
unless there are enough of you for you to get to go on the bigger-people 
rides that you'll be paying for!

Cost for adults is about $18 each at the door, $13 if you go through DEC
Employee Activities.  Kids are $10 or so, if they're under 4 ft tall.

We go with another family and take turns with one or two of us watching the
younger kids while the others do the big stuff.  There are some things that
you can do with your son on your lap in an inner tube, him in a (free) 
lifejacket: a river ride and the wave pool. 

Other than that, there are two great kids areas where he can splash, run
under fountains, and go down little waterslides.

    If you're in the southern NH area, and you'd like the kids to have
    a day trip but you can't take them (or would like to get some time
    to yourself) -- Gymnastics Village in Amherst NH is putting on
    several day trips this summer.  Steven's going on several of them. 
    
    They're doing a variety of things.  Today is a beach day at Plum
    Island, next week is the Tall Ships, there's a trip to the Science
    Museum at Squam Lake, a couple of hikes, and I don't remember what
    all else.  
    
    They vary widely in expense -- from $8 for the trip to Plum Island
    to $38 for the Tall Ships excursion next week.
    
    --bonnie

    
    Hi

    I'm looking for vacation ideas.  We have a week off in August and
    haven't made any plans yet. Our daughter is 3 1/2 years old.

    Any Ideas!

    Thanks

    Sue

    A great place to take a 3 1/2 year old is Sesame Place near 
    Philadelphia,PA.  We stopped there on our way back from S.C. in May
    and planned on spending a few hours there to break up our trip.  We
    arrived at 10 A.M. and ended up staying at the park until closing
    at 6 P.M.  My children are 2 and 4.  Both of them loved it!  My husband
    and I had a great time too.  
    
    It is not an amusement park - it's more of an activity park.  There are
    no rides (carousels, etc), but all kinds of creative activites and
    shows for the kids to take part in.  There is a 'Sesame Street' and
    several of the characters walking around (always willing to pose for a
    picture with your child).  There are several water type activites,
    even for toddlers, which we did not do since it was a little on the
    cool side when we were there.  There is a restaurant and several snack
    bars and of course a store.
    
    It is very clean and very well maintained.  The employees really seem
    into their jobs and are great with kids.  The cost is 18.95 for
    children 3 - 13, 16.95 for adults and free for 2 and under.  Digital
    offers a 10% discount card.  I think it is well worth the price.
    
    Jill
    
    

    
    I will have a 6 year old (and his parents :-) visiting us for this
    weekend.  We plan on going to the computer museum via the T, as Eric
    has been told about them and is looking forward to it.  Does anyone
    have last minute suggestions about what a 6 year old would like to do
    around Boston?
    
    Amy
    

    We have recently spent parts of two days in Boston with AJ (5.5).
    
    Next door to the computer museum is the Boston Children's museum, great
    for 2 to 3 hours of entertainment.  There is a lot of adult/child
    interaction, plus the staff puts on various "shorts" in many spots in
    the building.  "Look for the colored mat", is what you'll be told.  
    
    Check with your town's library, many times they have passes for both
    the children's and computer museums, plus other places like the
    Aquarium, which is relatively close to the museums.
    
    There is a McDonalds right in the building with the museums.
    
    Quincy Market is near the museums, usually some sort of sidewalk
    entertainment like mimes, puppeteers, musicians and such.
    
    We also drove cross-town to the Boston Public Gardens to ride the
    swanboats. We've always been lucky enough to find a meter to park at,
    it's something like 25cents per quarter hour, or there is the garage
    under the common.  Cost is minor, .75 for kids, $1.25 for adults.  Do take
    something to feed the ducks, and other critters such as peanuts or
    animal crackers etc.  The kids just love it!
    
    Have fun, and hope for a sunny day.
    
    
    Lyn

The Aquamarine is not to far from the Computer and Children's Museums. 
Kevin loves going there.  They have dolphin and sea loin shows scheduled during
the day.  We end up going several times a year and never tire of it.

Have a great time whatever you end up doing!

Pat K.

    > They have dolphin and sea loin shows scheduled
    				^^^^
    
    Wow...that would be something to see! Would that be 'R'-rated?  ;^)
    
    Actually, its called the New England Aquarium, as opposed to Boston
    Aquamarine...;^) ;^). Good suggestion, since it's within reasonable
    walking distance to the Childrens & Computer museums as well as Fanueil
    Hall(sp?)/Quincy Market.
    
    P.S. Does Digital still offer free passes to the Computer Museum?
    
    Thanks,
    
    Freddie

    Not sure about the DEC discounts, but our local town library
    has free admission passes.
    
    Patty, I hope you are using the ones that the Milford Library offers!!
    
        		Linda
    	

Re .12 
Linda,

I didn't realize Milford, Ma. Library had passes. We were at the library
this past Tuesday, too. Thanks for letting me know.
PS - I thought I saw you washing your car this past Friday afternoon when 
I driving home from work. I almost stopped to say "HI", but was afraid I
might have the wrong house.

RE -.11

You caught me. :-}  My mind is still in vacation mode.


Pat K.

    That *WAS* me, with my little helper.  Please stop by next time!
    
    Yes, the Milford Town Library has passes for the Aquarium,
    Children's Museum, Museum of Science, and some other museums
    too.  
    
    We always book way ahead of time since the passes are quite
    popular.
    
    Linda

    
    
    Hello, we are going to be going to a theme park this week, but we have
    not decided which one to go to as of yet.  Any advice you could provide
    would be most appreciated.  We live in Maryland and we are taking a 3
    year old and a 5 year old. 
    
    We are thinking about Sesame Place or Enchanted Forest or Kings Dominion.
    
    Thank you,
    
    Mike

    I haven't been to the Enchanted Forest or King's Dominion, but I can
    definitely recommend Sesame Place.  My nephew, Brian, and I went there
    last summer when he was 4, and we had a wonderful time.  You can read
    the synopsis of our trip in note 179 of Parenting3.  With a 3 and 5
    year old, it seems like a great choice.  Brian and I are headed back
    there next Thursday.  With all this rain, it's got to be sunny by then,
    right?
    
                                                  Tracy
     

    I would definately recommend Bush Gardens in Williamsburg, VA.  I've
    been to Kings Dominion lots of times and personally I think it's geared
    to older children.  Bush Gardens, Williamsburg (the old country) is
    great!  I've been there several times when I was growing up and just 
    couldn't get enough of the place!  Also, while your there, you can
    visit and tour the colonial homes of Williamsburg as well as
    Williamsburg pottery.
    

    I have heard that there is a petting zoo in Northboro, MA.  Does anyone
    know anything about it (e.g., does one really exist, location, hours,
    etc.)?
    
    Thanks a lot,
    
    Leslie

    Tougas Farm in Northboro, MA has a petting farm.  You can also pick
    your own apples, etc. there.  They're located near the Northboro/Church
    Street exit of Route 290, but I can't remember exactly how to get
    there.  You'd do best calling them for directions.  The number is
    508-393-6406.  (I just tried calling and it's busy.)  They also have
    hayrides.
    
    My son's daycare took the kids there and parents went along.  We
    enjoyed it.  They have a small petting area; the animals are small
    enough for toddlers to enjoy.
    
    Have fun,
    
    Sheryl

    Does anyone know anything about the Kidsfest that is being held this
    weekend (10/3&4) at Mt. Wachusett in Princeton, MA?  I saw an ad for it
    but it did not give much information.  I know that they have been
    held in previous years - has anyone ever gone?  Would it be fun for
    a 3 year old?
    
    Ginny

    Has anybody heard of Kidsfest?  It is supposed to be going on this
    weekend at Mt. Wachusets (SP).  A friend of my husbands has asked us to
    go this weekend with them, but I don'r really know what it is all
    about.  Anybody have any information.
    
    Robin

    Hi,
    
    I don't have a lot of information about it, but we are going.  My
    brother and his family went last year and said it was really fun for
    the kids.  I guess they all types of activities and booths set up.
    We have a 14 month old, so I thought she would enjoy the fresh air
    and watching all of the kids.
    
    They did say that last year it rained all day, so everything was
    inside and it was very crowded, but still fun. I figure if it was 
    that much fun on a rainy day, if the weather is nice and a lot of 
    the activities are outside, between the fresh and foliage it should 
    be great.
    
    I'm anxious to hear more details from others as well.
    
    Have fun!
    
    

    Where is is? And, how does one get there? And, perhaps, a little
    more info as to what takes place!!  :)  
    
    Thanks,
    Jennifer

    I know there was a note like this in v3.  Should we start another one
    in this version for more up to date things?  Mods, if you don't think
    so, please delete.
    
    My husband and I have the week between XMAS and New Year's off.  We're 
    looking for some things that we can do in the New England area  (we're 
    closest to Boston) with an 8 month old.  We prefer day trips.
    
    Thanks,
 
    Susan

    Any suggestions for February School Vacation?  For that matter, April
    Vacation as well.
    
    We're considering taking all or at least a portion of the week off, as
    a family.  Obviously we can't move the trailer this time of year, but
    we do have two fairly dependable vehicles.   Oh yes we've got a VERY
    ACTIVE just turned 6 year old son.  Any suggestions, and on a
    shoestring budget at that!
    
    Lyn

    The Public Service of NH (PSNH) Visitors Center at the Amoskeag
    Fishways in Manchester, NH will open be to the public from April 27 to
    June 13.  Hours are weekdays from noon to 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    weekends.  There is no admission charge.
    
    A large viewing window which allows visitors to see fish moving
    upstream is the prime attraction at the center.  Migrating fish pass
    through the fish ladders this time each year.  You can also watch the
    fish jumping in the water from a viewing area above the ladder.
    
    The center also features an AV program, exhibits (including some
    charming miniature villages that my daughter liked), and information on
    the Merrimack River, its resources and uses.  This year the center
    features a new exhibit of Native American life along the Merrimack
    River.  Last year we also viewed the dam's power station through large
    glass windows.  Hopefully, that will still be available.
    
    I highly recommend this outing.  When lots of fish go through, it is
    exciting.   You can't always expect to see many fish.  Their timing
    varies.  Last year, there were more fish toward mid-May.  They often
    cage in a couple of fish (still in the waterway, except unable to
    continue migration) for a short period of time so you can at least see
    something.
    
    To get there take Exit 6 from Route I-293, Amoskeag Bridge.  Take a
    right at the light before the bridge.  Parking is available and the
    facility is accessible to the handicapped. 
    
    To arrange group tours, call 1-603-626-FISH.
    
    Laura

    Does anyone have the opening day and hours of the Friendly Farm?  I
    think it is out near Keene, NH.
    
    Thanks,
    Laura

Hi,

        I'm looking for a place to take small children (2-6 years) for
        a hike/nature walk.  I'd like the place to also have a picnic
        area with facilities.  It would also be nice if it were less
        than 45 minutes from Nashua.

        Has anyone ever been to Mt. Monadnock?  What do you think?

thanks--------MM
[End of file]
    

>        Has anyone ever been to Mt. Monadnock?  What do you think?

Mt. Monadanock is pretty big.  For small children Pack Monadanock
would be better.  You can either park at the bottom and walk up
or drive up.  They have a fire tower at the top that you can climb
and see everything around for miles.   They have a bathroom and
picnic tables at the top also.

.....................beth

    Yes, pack Monadnock is great - there is a path that goes around the
    mountain that could be a great walk - especially for young one or first
    timers.  My kids really enjoyed it last summer. 
    
    -sandy
    

    Does anyone have directions to Pack Monadnock?  I'd be coming from
    pepperell, Mass.
    
    Thanks, 
    Priscilla
    

The easiest way from Pepperell is to take the unnumbered highway north from
the traffic circle in Pepperell that becomes NH 122 when you cross the
border into Hollis.  Take 122 north all the way to NH 101A.  Turn left onto
101A, and within about 1/2 mile you turn left again onto NH 101 west (the
entrance ramp *after* you go under the highway).  Just stay on NH 101
through Milford, Wilton, and Temple.  Miller State Park (the state park on
Pack Monadnock) is on your right, just a few yards over the crest of the pass
between Temple and Peterborough.

If you know your local roads fairly well, you can save some time by taking 
Brookline Road northwest out of Pepperell.  It will hit NH 130 in a couple
miles east of downtown Brookline.  Go west on NH 130 to where it dead ends
into NH 13, just west of Brookline; turn right onto NH 13, and continue
north until you reach NH 101 just south of Milford; turn left onto 101 west,
and continue as above.

	-Neil

    We are planning a trip to Whalom Park at Lunenburg, MA. this Saturday,
    does anyone have suggestings, commands about this park?  We will take
    kids of 3, 7, 10 years old.  What is the price?
    
    Ginger

    I disagree with the previous noter...we went last year for an all day
    excursion and had a great time.  It isn't Canobie, by any means, but we
    still had fun.  You can picnic there, all rides are included in the one
    price (call - they are celebrating their 100th year - the prices may
    have changed accordingly, I don't know).  There are lots of rides for
    this kids.   And mini-golf if you care....a neat little train ride when
    they get tired.
    
    -sandy
    

    I have a 20 month old and my husband and I are at a loss as to what to
    do for vacation that would be enjoyable to the whole family.  We have 
    been to:
    
    	- All Boston Parks & Attractions
    	- Southwicks wild animal farm
    	- Roger Williams Park (Great great place...but we been a zillion
          times)
        - Story land, six gun city
    
    Does anyone know of anything fun for the family within 2-3 hours of the
    Marlboro area.
    
    We keep putting off vacation because we just can decide what to do &
    where to go.  
    
    I was so sad when they closed Benson Wild Animal Farm (NH), because
    some place like that would be perfect.
    
    Going to some place for a 3-4 days would be ideal, but day trips aren't
    ruled out. 
    
    This notes file was so long........I simply didn't know where to put
    this note.  I apologize if I'm in the wrong spot.
    
    All inputs greatly appreciated.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Robin Bonina
    DTN 297-8324 
    BUSY::BONINA

    Personally I get worn out trekking to places with small kids - what
    I've found relaxing for all of us (I have 2 sons - almost 5, and almos
    2) is at the Cape. We spend afternoons at either Cliff Pond or Flax
    Pond in Nickerson State Park, in Brewster (mid Cape). The water is
    warm, shallow and clean and I can sit at the edge while the kids play.
    There are also trees so there is shade available.
    
    There are motels nearby, or camping is available in the State Park.
    
    

    Lynn took the words right out of my mouth! We have a 23-month-old,
    and she loves nothing more than fooling around at the edge of a 
    body of water. Her brother was the same way at her age, and still
    is. We like the Bay side of the Cape or a clean pond anywhere.
    
    Lucy 

      I'd suggest the NH lakes region and the white mountains area.  There
      are lots of family things to do in that area.  

      Karen

I'd like to append to  my previous suggestion about NH Lakes and Mountains...

I was in the MRO1 cafeteria and they have several pamplets for things to do
in NH (and MA too).  I'll be taking vacation myself this summer in the
Lakes Region (I grew up there) so I was collecting pamplets for adult things
to do.  But there are lots of kid things to do.  

I know you've been to Story Land and Six Gun City but there is also 
Santa's Village... it has shows and rides where "you'll meet Santa and 
his elves" (and reindeer too)!  Admission is $12 for unlimited 
rides and shows.  3 and under free.  This is in Jefferson NH.

This NH/Whitemountains Map and Guide I have lists several other attractions:

       Attitash Mountain... water slides
       Clarks Trading Post... museum and grounds
       Conway Scenic Railroad
       Heritage New Hampshire
       Lost River
       Mt Washington Auto Road
       Polar Caves... Glacial Cave tours, museum, nature trails, etc.
       The Whales Tale Water Park
       Mt Washingon Cruises on Lake Winn.
       The Flume
       Loon Mountain Park
       Cannon Mtn Aerial Tranway
       Mt Washington Cog Railway
       Story Land
       Six Gun City

Some of the above are more suited for adults but you get the idea as per
the number of attractions available!  If you want to just spend your days
at the beach, the Cape would be fine but I don't believe there is much
more to do than that with children.  With kids, you can do something
every day in NH!

So, have I sold you yet?  Of coure, I grew up there so I might be
biased.  Actually, much of the attractions are new in the past 10 or
so years and I haven't been to any of them except the Mt Washington
(cruises and auto road) and the Flume.  The rest is all new to me!

Karen

    Thanks for all the great ideas.  Very much appreciated.

    We're going to Lincoln, NH this year, with 4 kids in tow.  We're going
    for 4 days, 3 nights.  We've rented a cabin w/ full kitchen, that's
    right in the middle of all the attractions we plan to visit.  It's
    $85.00/night for the cabin (including taxes), which sleeps 6.  
    
    Clark's Trading Post is our PRIME place to visit.  They have live bear
    shows, a train ride, water-bumper cars, small museums, lots of music
    and refreshments, and I'm sure I'm leaving out a few things.  The kids
    *LOVE* the bears and the train ride (watch out for the WolfMan that
    rides along the side of the train (-:), and in general it's a GREAT day
    for everyone.  The youngest that we're bringing will be 23 months when
    we go, so we're planning to go to Clark's in the morning, come back to
    the cabin for lunch and for him to have a nap (and maybe let the other
    kids swim at the heated pool there), rest for a while, and then go back
    in the afternoon.  You get "stamped" for the day.  The whole thing is
    pretty cheap - I think the prices were $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for
    children 6-12, and $1.00 or free (or something silly) for kids under 6.
    
    We're also planning to go on the Loon Mtn. Gondola ride.  At the top of
    the mountain there's a snack bar, a fire tower, trails and some pretty
    AMAZING caves to climb through!!!  We went last year, and the kids
    couldn't get enough of it.  DO be careful, because there are some tight
    squeezes (-:  
    
    There's also Echo Lake near by, which is a state park/lake, which I'm
    told is absolutely beautiful, large lake.  Bring those shovels and
    pails!
    
    If you're into train rides, there's the Hobo RailRoad, which is about
    an hour ride through the woods, on an open train.  They have a LARGE
    asst of different "meal plans" that you can eat on the train, and also
    have a very fancy (EXPENSIVE!) dining car for their later ride.  We got
    pizza and drinks last time, and had a great time with the kids.  A
    2-year old might be a little young to sit still that long.  It's very
    peaceful for adults, but may be "boring" to your little one.  
    
    There really is *TONS* of stuff to do in the White Mountains, and even
    the things that are geared for children are really enjoyable for adults
    as well.
    
    Another great one (for when he's OLDER!) is the Polar Caves.  I
    wouldn't want to bring anyone through there that's under 5-6, as it can
    be very slippery, and is dark/steep in spots, but *WOW*!!  The Flume is
    nice as well, but there's just boardwalks going up alongside the river
    and falls, and we were cautioned against a real little one - if he
    likes loud water and will hold on, it may be worth it for you.
    
    Get the NH vacation guide, which will also include "places to stay",
    and MAKE RESERVATIONS!!!!!  Unless you're will to spend 100+/evening at
    a hotel, you may not find a place to stay.
    
    Have fun!!
    Patty

    Hi,
    
    We're looking for daytrip ideas near Clinton, MA; we'd like to stay
    within a 2-hour radius.  We're particularly interested in finding a nice 
    zoo.  We've been to Drumlin Farm and other petting zoos; we'd like to 
    visit something on a larger scale with elephants, monkeys, etc.
    
    We're not interested in going into Boston or the cape, and we've done the 
    Lincoln, NH route, so we'd appreciate any other ideas.  (BTW, our kids
    are 4 years old and 15 months old; and we'll be taking vacation the
    week of July 5th.)
    
    Also, re: .36, Robin, what is the Roger Williams Park, and where is it?
    
    
    Thanks,
    
    Sheryl
                    

    Sheryl,
    
    Try Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, MA.  probably about 45 minutes
    south of Clinton.  We've been to both Roger Williams Zoo
    and Southwicks, I think both are good, my husband prefers
    Southwicks.
    
    They have lots of monkeys and a brand new baby Giraffe too.
    They have a Deer forest and a petting area. They also put on a daily
     animal shows.
    
    Roger Williams Zoo is just outside of Providence RI
    (it may actually be listed as Providence)
    
    	Linda

    Could somebody please post driving directions to Southwick's from Rt.
    495?
    
    Also, what are their hours, admission fees, any other details?
    
    thx,
    L

From 495 that the route 16 exit in Milford.  Head west on Route sixteen.  You
will go through Milford, a small stretch of Hopedale, and then Mendon.  The
trip on 16 is about 4 miles.  Southwick animal farm is on your left.  Look for
the large sign for the entrance (on the left).

Michael

    Southwick's is open daily from 10 - 5 and the admission for adults is
    $7.50.  Kids 2 and under are free, not sure about older kids.
    
    Kathy

    Roger Williams Park / Zoo
    
    	DIRECTIONS:  (coming from Marlboro)  495 South to 95 South to Exit
    		     17.  Left off the highway (you'll see signs at this
                     point directing you into the park
    
    
     	PHONE:	     401-785-9450
    
    	COST/HOURS:  For Zoo  - $3.50 for Adults & $1.50 for Children 3-12
    		     Monday-Friday   9:00-5:00
    		     Saturday-Sunday 9:00-6:00
    
    		     The park itself is free
    
    		     On the park grounds there are:
                           Gardens to walk
    			   Ducks to feed
                           Paddle boats
                           Swings
                           Merry-go-round (discounts if you buy a zoo ticket)
    			   Baseball field	
    
    My husband & I have been going to Roger Williams for 10 years and we just
    love it.
    
    The Zoo's not the biggest but because it has a very large park and
    other activities it's always made a great all around day trip.  
    
    Roger Williams has a snack bars, but we alway prefer making a big picnic 
    lunch.
    
    The parking can be crazy because you park on the curbing that
    surrounds the whole park........just drive around and you'll find a
    spot.........we've never had a problem.
    
    
    
    
    
    		

    We are planning on a two day trip to Glen, New Hamphshire to take the
    kids to Storyland.
    
    Does anyone know of a motel that would be OK to bring a 3 year old and
    a one year old to, and is reasonably priced.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Mark
    

    
    Last time we went to the white mountains we stayed at the Twin Mountain 
    Motor Court. They are all 1 or 2 bedroom cottages some with
    kitchenettes.  The price was reasonable at $75.00 per night with a
    kitchen the other cabins are cheaper without kitchens.  They have a
    complete playground in the middle of the motel grounds with all Little
    Tykes toys like slide,seesaw,merrygo round, swings etc...
    
    They also have a built in pool outside and laundry facilities in a seperate
    cabin. We have stayed there twice and the kids 6 and 1yr old (at the time)
    loved it and so did we, that's why we keep going back. It is roughly a
    1/2 hr away from storyland.
    
    If you would like the telephone number I can probably dig it up for
    you.
     
    
    Sandy

    re .48 - how long a ride is it from marlboro to roger williams park ??
    (exit 17)...is this in Rhode Island ??
    

Marlboro to Roger Williams is about an hour.

/mtb

    Last year the P&W (Providence and Worcester) railroad offered a day
    trip to Roger Williams on the train.  Maybe the park is a repeat
    excursion, but the train ride will enliven interest?  I don't have any
    details, but you could call the P&W in Worcester and inquire about this
    year.
    Sarah

.54>    Last year the P&W (Providence and Worcester) railroad offered a day
.54>    trip to Roger Williams on the train.  Maybe the park is a repeat
.54>    excursion, but the train ride will enliven interest?  I don't have any
.54>    details, but you could call the P&W in Worcester and inquire about this
.54>    year.

I called the P&W railroad just last weekend to find out about this trip.
Unfortunately, "due to extensive repairs" they won't be offering this
trip this summer.  I was disappointed -- it sounded like a great day trip.

                                               Tracy

    re .52
    
    
    >re .48 - how long a ride is it from marlboro to roger williams park ??
    >    (exit 17)...is this in Rhode Island ??
                                               
    The exit 17 that I was referencing is a Franklin exit on 495 - MASS.
    (I use to live in Franklin)
    
    I've never driven to Roger Williams from Marlboro, but I would guess
    you could get there in close to 1 hour.

    re.55
    Oh rats!  I was really looking forward to doing that this year! mumble,
    mumble, grumble, grumble. Back to the drawing board...
    Oh, by the way, we were in western Mass. last weekend, and went to a
    lovely park called "Look Park" in , hmmm, Leeds or Northampton or
    Florence (all those towns run together for me).  It's huge, has lots of
    playing fields, and picnic areas.  You have to get a permit to picnic,
    and you are assigned a picnic area.  There were numerous families
    having giant barbeques, and there are literally hundreds of picnic
    slots.  Bike paths, small zoo (actually a couple of sheep, bald eagles,
    owls, peacocks), cute little train to give you a little ride around the
    park, swings and slides. No swimming (they closed the pool this year). 
    Admission is $2 per car on weekends, $1 on weekdays. Train ride is $1
    for adults, .75 for kids over 2, free for 2 and under. Rest rooms and
    snack bars. Tennis courts. Volleyball courts. Basketball courts.  Very 
    clean and well kept place. Approximately 1 hour from Worcester.   The
    place was too big to walk the whole thing with my 3.5 year old, so I
    didn't get to see it all.  They also have concerts in the evenings at
    the bandstand.
    Sarah

    Although I don't have the full details I heard on the radio this
    morning there will be a carnival, with a petting zoo and other "kid
    activities" this weekend, July 29, 30 & 31 at Green Hill Park in
    Worcester.  I think I heard admission was a flat $5. per person and
    kids under a certain age are free.  admission includes the rides.
    
    Sounds like a great weekend escape, if anyone has further details feel
    free to fill in the gaps.  It seems to me there are directions to Green
    HIll park in Worcester either early on in this note or the previous
    version of Parenting.
    
    Lyn

    
    Lyn,
    	I just went through all the previous replies and there are no
    directions to Green Hill Park in Worcester. Could somebody please
    provide them??? Thanks. Also, are the dates July 29,30,31??? Cause
    this equates to Thurs,Fri,Sat, but no Sunday. Just wanted to make
    sure.
    
    Patty

    Directions will be coming....
    
    I heard more this morning, it's called the Worcester County Fair, and
    the radio said it started today. (interesting it starts mid week).
    
    I will call for directions.  What I remember is that it is a right turn
    off of Oak Ave, behind Memorial Hospital (off Belmont St.) and up this
    very rough road, which is extremely steep.
    
    If anyone went to the Car Show during the fourth of July weekend, it is
    the same place.
    
    

    Also, I heard that Gordon from Sesame Street will be there for two
    show's on Saturday.  Not sure of the times.   I think it is there on Sunday
    too.  It was in the datebook section of the Sunday paper.  I will check
    for more details at home if I think of it.
    
    Cheryl

    
    Lynn,
    	do you have those direction yets??? I would really like to go, but
    have no idea where Oak St or Memorial Hospital is. Sorry if I sound
    anxious, but my sister is coming to visit and I want to do something
    besides just sit around the house.
    
    Thanks, Patty

    Memorial is on Belmont Street, which is Route 9.  If you are heading
    west, you will see a giant cow where you should turn off (before you
    get to Memorial).  For specific directions to Green Hill Park, you can 
    put a request in the Massachusetts notes files (12DOT2::MASSACHUSETTS).  
    Note 784 is for directions to places in Mass.
    
    -Tracy
                    

    Directions to Greenhill Park 
    
    From Marlboro
    From 290 take the Route 9 Lincoln Square exit.  At the end of the ramp
    go right (the ramp forks).  Go to your left lane and go straight
    throughthe first set of lights.  At the second set of lights take a
    left.  
    
    **This wil be route 9/Belmont street.  Go straight through the set
    of lights and head up the hill - Memorial hospital wil be on your left. 
    Keep going up this very long hill.  right after the peak of the hill
    there is a set of lights - take a left (the 12 foot bull wil be on your
    right) - you are now headed for Greenhill Park
    
    From Oxford/Auburn
    
    Take 290 to Route 9/Belmont street exit.  At end of ramp take a right. 
    This is Belmont/route 9 follow driections from **
    
    Good luck and have fun!
    
    Joyce

    
    Joyce,
    	Thanks so much for the directions!!!! I know exactly where I'm
    going now. Hopefully the weather holds out tomorrow so we'll get a good
    day.
    
    Patty

    I checked the paper last night.  The Fair is Wed. 7/28 - Sun. 8/1.
    
    Note: Correction on Gordon, he will be there today (Friday) for a 
    4 p.m., and 7 p.m. show.  
    
    The attractions are: A carnival, barnyard animals, agricultural and
    education exhibits, and clowns.  
    
    The opening times are Friday, at 2 p.m., Sat. and Sun. at noon.
    
    It sounds like a pretty good deal for only $5.00 a person.  I'm not
    sure what the age limit is to get in for free.  But the admission price
    goes to some type of charity, so it is worth it.  
    
    
    Cheryl 
    

    More to .66
    
    There will also be carnival type rides there and the one flat admission
    fare covers all rides and attractions for as long as you stay there.
    
    Also clearification the admission price - A *Portion* of the admission
    will go towards the upkeep of the Greenhill Park Petting Zoo (a
    non-profit)
    
    Weather is supposed to be good most of the day tomorrow but
    thundershowers are predicted for evening hours.
    
    Joyce

    To Patty, and everyone else...
    
    My apologies for not getting back in to post directions.  Friday
    afternoon turned out to be one "fire drill" after another.  At 5:30 on
    Friday I was having doubts about *ever* getting out of here!
    
    Thanks too, for posting the great directions for me!  
    
    So did anyone go?  How was it?
    
    Our weekend adventure was a family birthday/pool party Saturday, and
    none of the three of us ventured past our own backyard (3 feet deep)
    pool yesterday.  (yes the three of us are a "little" pink today!...
    OUCH thank you!)  I really regret missing the Carnival.
    
    Lyn

    Lynn and others,
         I went to the carnival Sunday and was disappointed and probably 
    would have enjoyed your 3 foot pool more.  I go to the little town of 
    Bolton fair each year and exspected the big town of Worcester to 
    have something similar if not bigger.  However I found it to be less 
    then what the town of Marlboro puts on????? 
         The admission was five dollars and covered all rides but there 
    wasn't much more to do????
          Directions were great but I never saw the 12 foot bull??? maybe 
    I was in the wrong place. 8.)
    
    lori

    
    I too went, but I on the other hand was not disappointed that much.
    I live in Townsend and our annual festival costs $8 for 12 tickets
    and all the kiddie rides are 2 tickets, so it's very expensive.
    It cost us $15 to get in and between all the rides Anna went on and
    the couple that my sister and I did (with Anna) we got 21 rides in
    for the $15, so I find that to be a good deal. Anna loved the area
    with the animals and even got to see a baby chick hatching and she
    held (with Mom's help) a baby duck. I too thought there would be
    more besides just the carnival. I was maybe expecting more agricutural
    stuff, like prize tomatoes and jellys or stuff, but I wasn't
    disappointed at all. Anna had a great time, Auntie Denise was exhausted
    (as was I) and I probably got a little dehydrated, but I held up well.
    We never even made it into the Green Hill Park "Zoo", so I want to go
    back someday for a picnic and do that part. My daughter could spend all
    day looking at and talking to animals.
    
    Patty

    Just an FYI, the Green Hill Zoo is FREE!  But the days they are open
    seem strange, I do definitely remember that Friday, Saturday and Sunday
    are the OPEN days.  Plus parking if FREE too!
    
    I just saw on VTX that the Eastern States Expo dates are announced and
    that DEC is offering discount tickets.  A real nice educational thing.
    BUT... plan to arrive early, like by 9:00 and take a stroller there is
    a LOT of walking for anyone, especially little legs.  Our tip is to cal
    ahead to find out when "changeover" day is. that's the day that animals
    are packing up and leaving and a new group are arriving.  It's a day
    when you don't really see too many animals close up, they leave early
    in the day, and the new ones usually don't settle in until late in the
    day.  Usually it's a mid week thing like Tuesday or Thursday.
    
    (West Springfield MA, for those not familiar, parking is ample on the
    grounds, for a price of course)
    
    Lyn

    Has anyone been to the Statue of Liberty in New York within recent
    years? I'd like to take my 5 and 8 year old there and don't know how to
    get there, or what is the best time of day to go or whatever.
    
    Does anyone have any advice?
    
    Thanks.
    
    Gale

    Please see discussions on this topic in the following locations:
    
    SULACO::NEW_JERSEY 	Note 81
    
    SUBWAY::NEWYORK	Note 328
    			Note 440
    
    Laura

    Where can I find a nice, clean, large farm that will allow children
    to visit?  I am in the NH area and am looking for something 'special'
    to do with the kids this weekend (4 and almost 2)...
    
    If you have any good ideas, plese send mail to STAR::AWHITNEY or give
    me a call at DTN 381-1343...
    
                              

You might send mail to the author of 38.27 to see what she is talkign about.

Also, Drumlin Farm, on route 117 in Lincoln MA is a working farm run by the 
Massachusetts Audubon Society.  There's lots to see in addition to the farm.

Clay

    I have to put this in here..I have received a ton of replies and
    ALL of them have referenced the Friendly Farm!  Must be a great
    place!  However, it is closed for the season (they are going
    into hibernation) and will re-open late April.
    
    I will be trying some of the other farms that have also been brought
    to my attention and will DEFINATELY get to the Friendly Farm next
    Summer!

	How about visiting the Anheuser Busch brewery in Merrimack, NH?  They
have a very clean barn that houses the Clydsdales.  They don't let you pet them
but my son found the place and tour facinating when he was 2.5 yrs old.

			..............Karen

The Clydesdales "winter" in the mid-Atlantic somewhere -
Virginia I think.  Better call first....


Pat

    But they're in the Merrimack Christmas Parade every year so some must
    stay around!

I ran across something last weekend that might be of interest with the long
winter months stretching ahead...  

I took my nephews (3 & 6 years old) bowling this weekend, and discovered 
"Bumper Bowling".  Long tubes filled with air are put in the gutters of a 
candlepin bowling lane so that the balls bounce off and still head toward 
the pins.  No more frustrating "gutter balls" for the little ones!  Brian 
and Neil loved it.

I found it at Thunderbird Bowl which is on Southbridge Street in Auburn, MA
(just over the Worcester/Auburn line), but I imagine it could be found
other places as well.  

At Thunderbird Bowl, they have Bumper Bowling on Saturdays and Sundays and 
they recommend that you call to reserve one of these lanes because they are 
popular.  But, we just showed up at about 4:00 on Sunday and there were 
several empty ones.  One more positive for this place; my image of a 
smoke-filled bowling alley was (happily) shattered when I realized that I 
only saw one person in the whole place smoking while we were there.  We
could bowl and breathe!

                                               Tracy

     they had these things at the bowling alley we went to a couple weekends
     ago as well - it was great, as it was a birthday party and many of the
     kids thought it was just SUPER to be able to knock the pins down !!!!!
     The bowling alley was on Route 110 just off of Route 2 heading toward
     Ayer - small place but it was a great time, a nice party and not real
     expense for the mom.  Don't know if they have these all the time or not
     tho'
 
     Debbi 

    Acton Bowladrome does this too -- birthday parties are about $7.50 per
    kid [6 kid minimum] -- 1 hr bowling, e token [i.e. quarters] for game
    room, pizza/hamburg, cake, ice cream, drink, and balloon (i think
    that's all now included).
    
    We've gone there lots of times and never had to wait more than 30
    minutes at the most busy times.  They've also got a very friendly
    parrot, who sometimes can be coerced into "singing"

    Looking for factories in New England area that do tours that would
    be interesting for children.  
    
    We remember going to a Fanny Farmer factory (about 35 yrs ago!) in
    the general Boston area....watching them do the chocolates was quite
    memorable. I want to do this with my 6 year old....
    
    Ones that I know of are:
    Harbor Sweets (Salem MA?)
    Anheuser Busch (Merrimack NH)
    NECCO (Cambridge, MA) ...not sure of this...
    Stoney(something) Yogurt (NH ?)0
    
    Any others known would be appreciated.
    
    Thanks.

    There's a yoghurt factory (Sunnyfield?) with tours in Londonderry
    or thereabouts.  Sorry I'm not more specific, but a trip to the 
    grocery or some phone work would probably find it.
    
    		-John Bishop

It's Stonyfield.

    You can also take a ride down the Cape and tour the Cape Cod Potato
    chip factory.  We do this every year when we go down, it is interesting
    to see them make the chips.  The only problem is that you have to look
    through windows casue they won't let you into the room where the chips
    are made due to germs.  They like to keep the place nice and clean.
    
    
    

    Ocean Spray (the cranberry place) has a nice walk-through tour of 
    their plant in Plymouth, MA.  Because it's a walk-through you don't
    have to hang around and wait for a "tour" to start, you can go at
    your leisure.
    
    Conni

Ben and Jerry's in Vermont.

re: .88

I believe Ben and Jerry's is in Waterbury, VT.

Parker's Maple Barn, Mason New Hampshire, during sugaring season (March); 
short tour of maple syrup making operation; also a family style restaurant 
nearby.

Clay

    
    Hallamore Clydesdales in Lakeville, MA
    
    

It's not a working factory, but the National Historical Park in Lowell has
mill tours that are supposed to be fascinating.  They even have canal boat
rides in the summer.

    
    How about some colorado ideas?  (...I wish we had a Ben & Jerry'sto
    tour!!)
    
    JAmd

    Okay,
    
    How about the train museum in Golden CO?  This is something that should
    be planned for warm weather as these are actual full-sized cars and
    engines, outside in various stages of restoration.  There is also the
    Coors brewery and a new saki bresery in Golden as well.  
    
    The children's museum in Denver which is also close to the Forney
    transportation museum off Speer and I-25 are probably good choices for
    winter, as is the Natural History Museum in Denver.
    
    Closer to home, there is the Pioneer Museum off Nevada and Vermijo,
    which has a good history of Colorado Springs, the Children's Museum at
    the Citadel, (I can't vouch for it as we don't do malls), the nature
    centers at Bear Creek and Fountain Creek county parks.  
    
    If you like the idea of Teller county, there is the Ute Pass musemum in
    Woodland Park, the Criple Creek museum in Cripple Creek and during the
    summer there is also the small train ride in Cripple Creek.  You can
    avoid the gambling and go to Victor which has the Lowell Thomas museum
    and the Victor museum.  Victor doesn't NOT have gambling and is working
    toward gearing itself to family entertainment.  
    
    Meg  

    For Colorado ideas... get hold of the Boy Scouts.  WAY BACK in 1984 I
    did up a list of Free/Inexpensive/Costly day trip ideas for the Boy
    Scouts/Cub Scouts.  They should still have that list somewhere.  If I
    can find it I will either enter it here, or send it to anyone who wants
    it.  I'm not sure I still have it, but will look over this weekend.
    
    This was done for the College of Scouting, where I got my Masters
    Degree.
    
    M-L

    I searched for a note already existing, but couldn't find one.
    
    I saw on the local(channel 9) pre-news show last night a place called
    Furry Friends Petting Farm located in Candia, NH.  They had a Siberian
    Tiger baby on the show and talked about endangered species.  Part of 
    their goal is to make the public aware of endangered species.  I
    believe the woman said they have lions, as well as tigers and probably 
    bears  :-)  They didn't mention an admission price, but I'm sure there 
    is one.
    
    The phone number is 603-654-6092.   
    
    					Donna

    I'm looking for a brief family getaway, in New England, for the end of
    Februrary.  My kids are 6 and 8.
    
    Can you think of any place that would have a pool and/or some other
    non-skiing activities in the winter?  I'm only looking for 1-3 nights.
    
    We're starting from the Manchester, NH area.
    
    Thanks!
    
    Jane

    
    The Woodbound Inn in Jaffrey New Hampshire is where we take our
    2 1/2 and 11 year old.  Digital gets a 25% discount (children
    under 12 stay free.  If you enjoy outdoor acitivies, this place
    is great with very reasonable rates.  $105 per night includes
    dinner and breakfast for two adults; there is a nominal fee for
    the childrens dinner menus.  There is sledding & Ice skating (my
    kids have a ball) and cross country skiing if the kids are
    interested in trying it out.  
    
    CB
    

    re .96
    Try Cape Cod.  There are places open there that have heated
    pools.  Prices are generally reasonable this time of year.
    Look in the Boston Globe in the travel section for ads.
    

re: .96 New England Winter Getaways

If your kids are sports fans, there is the Hartford Civic Center 
(NHL Whalers Hockey, with an attached Sheraton Hotel that has a pool).

Somewhat farther are Meadowlands in New Jersey (NBA Nets basketball and NHL 
Devils hockey), with several nearby hotel, most having pools and many having 
weekend rates.

Tickets for the Whalers and Nets are relatively easy to come by.  I don't 
know about the Devils.

Clay

    We are tentatively planning on going to Freeport Maine this weekend. 
    (Isn't this the easiest way to exchange a Bean jacket right?)
    What else is up there that would interest our 7 year old, active son? 
    He adores finding out "what makes things tick", and loves animals.  At
    this point we havent' decided how many if any nights we'll spend there.
    Also if we do what's around for places to stay, B&B and Country Inns
    would be considered too.  I want to do the Dansk outlet near Beans, but
    I think a place that majors in glassware is not the place for an active
    boy.
    
    Years ago there was a "wives tour" when my husband was in Portland for
    a firefighter's gathering, they took us to an old fashion deli type
    place on the Main street, would anyone know what this place is?
    
    Lyn

    I've heard that the Children's Museum in Portland Maine is excellent. 
    It is attached to the art museum, downtown.  I think it's free on
    Friday evenings.
    
    

    
    A great Inn for families is the Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville, VT (just
    above St. Johnsbury). We just went this past weekend. It was wonderful.
    They have a petting barn, sleigh rides (wagon rides in the summer), a
    5pm dinner hour for families with little ones and a huge sledding hill.
    In the summer they have a pool and an outside play area. They also have
    a playroom with a loft, duplo like blocks, bumper pool, air hockey and
    a doll house. My boys (almost 3 and 19 months) had a great time.
    
    I forgot to bring in the number but will add that in a later note.
    
    If you want more details feel free to send me mail at RANGER::OBERTI.
    
    Janet

 Corporate Appreciation Day at Old Sturbridge Village set for April 9 + 10
 
         Old Sturbridge Village invites Digital employees and their 
   immediate family members to Corporate Appreciation Day, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
   on Saturday, April 9 and Sunday, April 10.
         Employees are admitted free with Digital badge.  Members of 
   employees' family members are $7.50 each; children under age 6 admitted
   free.  Lunch is on your own.  Employees must show their Digital badges
   in order to take advantage of Corporate Appreciation Day.
         Plan to dress comfortably and wear walking shoes, as pathways are 
   unpaved.
         Old Sturbridge Village is located in Sturbridge, Mass. on Route 
   20, one mile west of the junction of Exit 2, Interstate 84, and Exit 9 
   of the Massachusetts Turnpike, Interstate 90. 






































                       FOR DIGITAL INTERNAL USE ONLY
 

    HELP!!
    
    I am taking my 7 year old nephew and 8 year old niece for the weekend. 
    One of my thoughts was to head into Boston, do the Common and Gardens
    and Swanboats.
    
    Does anyone know if if the swanboats are operating yet??? (QUICKLY!)
    Or a number I can call to find out.
    
    these kids are very well behaved, are here from Florida only until the
    end of June.   what else can I cram into a "auntie can spoil you real
    quickly" weekend??  
    
    We will be starting in Central Ma, Northboro to Oxford and who knows
    where, probably Rocketland in Auburn, they adore this place, but what
    else can I spoil them with?
    
    Lyn

    Lyn,
    
    I was in class last week, and the swan boats were out in the common.  
    You could take them there, them mayby hop on the T over to Fanuel Hall
    and the aquarium.  Depending on where they are from, they might find
    ridding on the T blast.
    
    Hope this helps,
    
    marianne

Just to amplify .105, at that age my kids were very intrigued by the T (the 
MBTA -- the subway).  From central Mass, take Route 2 to the Alwife Station 
(near AD Little, just after you pass over the Cambridge city limits), and 
take the T in.  The T passes over the Charles River (above ground) and has a 
very nice view of the Charles River.  From where you are (MassPike, Route 9), 
there are more convenient connecting point for the T, but I'm not as 
familiar, and they're not imo, as fun.

You can connect to the part of the Common where the swan boats are, but it's 
easier to just get off at Park Street and walk.

Lots of other things to do there, limited only by time and $$.  The Aqaurium 
is nice, as well as the Children's Museum, all within a short walk or T ride.

Clay

    I picked up the kids,( and of course had AJ) and *drove* into Boston. 
    All the kids had a blast, they were fascinated by the building that are
    built over the turnpike.  I even explained I had stayed at the hotel
    once over the highway, which prompted a lot of conversation like did
    the building move, was it noisy, could  see the cars and trucks, did I
    Wave to the cars?  they were enchanted by it.
    
    We actually cirlced the block around the Boston Gardens only twice
    befoer finding a meter.  The kids loved "feeding" the meter (quarters)
    it was a quarter per 15 minutes.  the kids were enchanted by the
    reality of the brass ducks, from the story.  We read it as the bedtime
    story that night.  and then on to the reason for the trip, the
    Swanboats.  I had picked up a box of crackers, and the kids fed
    anything with legs (including themselves!).  We walked the shoreline
    near the swanboats, then back to the ducks, posed for some pictures,
    climbed a few trees, did typical kids things.  then we walked up one of
    the side streets and found an ice cream place which is like being in an
    old firestation.  The kids had a ball.
    
    From there we drove futher in andparked closer to the Hancock and
    Prudential towers.  We attempted to go to the Pru tower, but discovered
    it was closed for repairs (this after I had paid $5. for less than an
    hour parking).  But we talked about how the Boston Marathon had ended
    on the very spot we were standing.
    
    The kids commented on the "rude" boston drivers. I softened it by
    telling them that sometimes people "appear" to be rude when they really
    are just in a hurry. The kids had aball, we came home and had a cook
    out, bike riding, and one tired auntie and mom!
    
    Lyn

If they're here til june, try a whale watch from the aquarium. Caveats: you're
on a medium sized boat for about 5 hours, 90 minutes from land, if you get sick, 
you can't get off; even when it's hot in town, it's pretty chilly on the water, 
with a very stiff wind; and if you're *really* unlucky, you won't see any whales.
But we have been twice, and it's great. You get a great tour of the harbor
(you sneer derisively, but even a toxic industrial harbor like Boston is 
interesting from the water with a good guide) and a fun boat ride out to
Stellwagen Bank. Then seeing a whale is just incredible, especially if they
blow right next to the boat and go under it! Everyone becomes instant experts
in whale spotting and species identification, and every glint off the waves is 
a potential giant of the deep. It's a blast!

    Not sure where this would fit in so I thought I would add it here...
    
    I am looking for directions to the Friendly Farms Petting Zoo in New
    Hampshire.  I have heard wonderful things about this zoo and cannot
    seem to even locate the town it resides in.  
    
    Thanks!
    
    Toni
    

Easiest thing in the world.  It's in Dublin, NH, right on NH 101, about 1/4 mile
west of Dublin Pond.  (Dublin is about half way between Peterborough and Keene. 
Dublin Pond is the medium-sized pond on the south side of the road with the
spectacular view of Mt Monadnock.)

We've been visiting there since Elspeth was three.  She's twelve now, and still
likes to go a few times a year.

	-Neil

I am interested in any feedback, recommendation for duration for stay, hotels, 
car routes etc. to Hershey, PA.

They have a park and the chocolate factory tour etc.  My kids are 7 and 3.5 and
we thought it might make a nice vacation trip for this summer.

Thanks in advance for any input.

Mrudula

    Kathy and I have just managed to arrange for a long weekend this coming
    weekend, and would like to take the kids (almost 5 and almost 2) to the
    Mt.Washington Valley area of NH. Since it's short notice, we haven't
    had a chance to do much in the way of advance planning. Can anyone give
    any insights/answers to the following:
    
    	- where to stay for 1 or 2 nights? Location not too important,
    	except that it be less than 1 hr to the N.Conway/Glen area. Ideally, 
    	we'd like someplace that has enough activities on-site to keep the 
    	kids occupied in between the planned attractions. Swimming, fishing, 
    	playground would be a plus. Kitchen/kitchenette would be nice, but
    	not mandatory. Private rentals (condo/cottage) would be OK too!
    
    	- where to eat with 2 young kids, especially for breakfast (their
    	favorite meal of the day!)?
    
    	- what are your favorite attractions? We're trying to decide among
    	the following, and will likely pick 2 at most, since our main goal
    	is to relax!
    		- Story Land
    		- Santa's Village
    		- Six Gun City
    		- No.Conway Scenic Railroad
                - any other ideas/suggestions
    
    Although we're working on short notice, we'ld like to make reservations 
    before Thursday, so quick responses would be most excellent. Thanks in 
    advance for any and all pointers.
    
    Freddie
    	

	Hi,

	We went to Story Land a few weeks ago with Kristen who was 15months
	and some friends who had a 13month old and a 3 yr old.  I think
	at the age your children are they will enjoy it.  The 3yr old really
	had a blast, the two younger children had fun too, but I think they
	were a little young to really enjoy it.

	It's $14.00 for anyone over 4 (I think) Anyway, it will probably
	take pretty much the whole day.  I think they're open 9-6.
	We were there from 11:00 - 5:00 but we didn't do everything,
	they have rides for kids, a few animals and a playground area.
	Also you can bring you lunch and there are places to eat.

	Have fun!
	Karen T.

	A couple of years ago, my husband and I stayed at Waterville
	Valley Ski Resort for a weekend in August.

	Still a bit of a drive from N. Conway, but there are lots
	of things to do in the area, as well as right on the mountain.

	Jamie and I particularly enjoyed a horseback ride...

	Karen

	Freddie,

	Believe me, for what your looking for you want to stay at Nordic
	Village. They're condo's that the office rents for the owners.
	Fully furnished blah blah blah. It's across the street from Story
	Land on the Mt Washington road. It's minutes from downtown Conway,
	traffic permitting. Nordic Village has a pond with row boats that 
	you can take the kids out in, no charge. They have a bonfire at
	night with a story teller for the kids, nature walks, planned activi-
	ties every day for kids, indoor and out pools, jacuzzi's, all included
	in the rental price.  I don't recall what the price was, my wife took
	care of booking and it's been about 2 years. You won't be disappointed.

	P.S.

	In my opinion skip the Conway scenic railway, it's not worth the money.
	The train travels down a straight path past a few farms for a couple
	miles and then back. I would instead opt for the Cog railway that goes
	to the top of Mt. Washington.

	Have fun,
	Chester

    I second the vote for Nordic Village.  We stayed there a few
    years ago and will be going back in October.
    
    We've taken Steven (4.5) for the past 3 years and spend one day
    at Storyland and the next at Santa's Village.  That's plenty
    of entertainment for all of us.  
    
    	Enjoy!  Linda

    RE: last few
    
    Thanks for the advice...Kathy managed to get to AAA and got a NH Tourbook. 
    We looked thru the offerings, rated & ranked 6 or so locations and had 
    Nordic Village listed as our first choice. Unfortunately, they had nothing 
    available on such short notice, and we wound up settling for the 3rd 
    place on our list. I don't remember the name of the place where we're
    staying, but will post a review when we return.
    
    We plan to visit NV while we're there, since we're on vacation the
    week before Labor Day and have yet to decide on what to do. We may wind
    up there for some part of that week. 
    
    In the meantime, we've decided to do Storyland on Friday (less crowded 
    than Sat/Sun I hope...), and possibly Santa's Village on Saturday. Does 
    either of these parks have some sort of train ride? This would allow us 
    to skip the Conway Scenic RR, yet satisfy our 2 boys (who are just nuts 
    about trains...) Also, any highlights, lowlights, tips, etc. on either 
    park?
    
    Finally...any recommendations on places to eat? The boys are big
    breakfast fans, but could care less about dinner, so if we can find a
    good place for breakfast, we'll pack lunches for the park, and grab
    subs or such for dinner.
    
    Again, thanks for the tips, especially on such short notice!
    
    Freddie

    Re Storyland less crowded on weekdays:
    	I saw in one of the promotional blurbs that they're actually *less*
    crowded on weekends. We've had good luck getting there when they open,
    and travelling counter-clockwise. 
    
        Storyland has a small train that circles the park. It leaves from 
    two locations abour every 10 minutes.
    
         We didn't try it, but there's a train that goes around 
    Lake Winni for 1 or 2 hour trips. It leaves from Weirs Beach or
    Meredith. 
    
    Sue
    

    
    
    	My sisterinlaw and husband are coming down for Saturday and Sunday
    they live in rye NY and have three kids 9month, 3 years and 4 years. 
    
    	They won't be leaving there house until saturday morning so the
    won't get here (chelmsford) until 12:00 ish.. 
    
    	Any suggestions on what we can do for dinner? should we stay in or
    go out.. ?Maybe Chucky Cheese ?
    
    	I would really like to get a chance to talk with them but, three
    kids take up a lot of time and energy.. 

    Donna
    
    Any place you go, you will be distracted.  That is a fact of life with
    little ones.  The Ground Round offers great food and cartoons for
    little kids to watch while the adults can give attention to each other. 
    The other nice thing about Ground Round is that kids are
    allowed/expected to act like kids and people around you won't be
    snitting at them for being rowdy.
    
    The GR is in the Howard Johnson's plaza.  Then, after dinner they can
    run off some energy (after being penned up in the car all morning) at
    the mall (Baskin Robbins for dessert).
    
    -sandy
    

    
    .117
        There are discount coupons available to Storyland here in Shrewsbury.
        They drop the price from 14.00 to 12.00 each.  They put your
        name of them and you must have a dec badge and license when
        you get there.  Also, we went during the week one year and 
        it was packed; went the next year on Saturday, no crowd. You
        figure it!!   

    RE:  Storyland:
    
    Definitely pack a lunch for Storyland.  They have picnic tables.  
    
    Nice little train ride (as previously mentioned).
    
    Linda

	We went on a Thursday just a few weeks ago when we were on vacation.
	I didn't think it was too crowded.  We only had to wait about 10 -15
	minutes for the 2 water rides and they were the most crowded.
        We didn't really have to wait at all, maybe a few minutes for the
	other rides.
	However, it was a VERY HOT day (what day in July wasn't), it was
	probably 90-95 degrees, so maybe it wasn't as crowded for that
	reason - too hot??

	Have fun!!
	Karen T.

    re: Storyland
    
    Thanks for the tip. Kathy called them earlier today, and as mentioned
    in one or more of the earlier replies, they tend to be less crowded on
    weekends, since Sat/Sun are typically travel days for vacationers. This
    drop in attendance apparently more than offsets any increase in daytrippers 
    so we're planning on taking advantage of their post-3PM offer tomorrow,
    finishing up for free on Saturday. (BTW, the person on the phone said
    that their busiest days are typically Tue/Wed.)
    
    Glad to hear about the trains...I wasn't keen on spending an add'l
    $20-$30 to ride the Conway Scenic RR for 1-2 hrs, especially since 15-20
    minutes would be more than enough to satisfy them. 
    
    re: Picnic area in Storyland...are coolers allowed?
    
    Once again, thanks to everyone for the info. Hope I can return the
    favor at some point.
    
    Freddie

    
    The train is housed right in N. Conway center. If you can find out what
    time it goes to bed each night you can be there to see the train, watch
    as it changes track, goes into the house. I just happened to be there
    playing with some kids at the adjacent small playground. As I recall it
    was dusk/early evening and was pretty neat. 
    
    Kathy
                        

    Yes, you can bring coolers into Storyland.  We left ours in the car and
    my husband went out to get it at lunchtime.
    
    Linda

    RE: Storyland/Conway replies
    
    Thanks again for the responses. We arrived at the Villager Motel in
    Bartlett at noonish on Friday. Kids played in the pool for a while,
    and we hit Storyland just after 3PM. Kids had a blast...burned off a
    lot of energy on the more physical attractions (playground, storybook
    houses, pirate ship, etc.), we left at closing (6PM) and returned for
    free the next day. Stayed from 9:30-2:30, and finished off what we
    missed, plus hit the favorites for a 2nd/3rd time. What impressed me
    the most about the place was that it didn't feel like they had their
    hand in your wallet all the time...lunch for 4 (corn dogs, & tacos
    plus drinks) cost approx $6. Various drinks/snacks were $1 or less...
    Not in the class of Disneyworld, but it delivered a strong value for
    the money.
    
    Hiking and a visit to the Scenic RR & nearby toy train museum ended the
    trip on a high note.
    
    Freddie
    
    p.s. if you're ever in the area, we highly recommend the Berenhof (sp?)
    Inn in Bartlett for breakfast. It's a nice inn that has recently begun 
    offering breakfast to non-guests. Food was excellent, crowds didn't exist, 
    and prices ranged from normal to 'a bargain'. Breakfast for 4, with
    beverages and fresh-made muffins was <$20. Chef's special one day was
    a smoked ham & gouda cheese omellete for $3.95; the next day was french
    toast with peach filling & sliced ham, also $3.95. Outstanding!
          

    Any comments on the Villager Motel?  i.e. distance from Storyland?,
    indoor pool?, cost?, etc?
    
    Also, does anyone have a brochure from Storyland and could post the 
    phone number here?  Also the phone numbers for Twin Mt. Motor Court 
    and Nordic Village?
    
    We're planning on taking a weekend trip to Storyland Columbus Day wknd.
    It's still open in October, right?
    
    Thanks!
    
    Holly
    

    I was at Storyland on Friday.  We had a great time.  Don't forget - you
    get a corporate discount....see personnel ( I got mine from Patty Dyer
    in the Shrewsbury Plant SHR1).  
    
    Along with the discount letter Digital gives you must present your badge 
    and driver license to get the discount at the park.  The discount saved us
    $2 a piece plus you get free picture (which is $3.00 a piece for those 
    without a discount).  DEC also has discounts for Heritage NH which is 
    right next door to Storyland. . . but that wasn't our cup of tea.
    
    Per recommendation of the chamber of commerce we stayed at the Eastern
    Inn in North Conway.  I wanted North Conway because of the shopping and
    they usually have fairs on the weekend.  Also they have a Papa Gino,
    Friendly and Applebee's in town for the kids.
    
    I don't have the number with me today.  I got my Storyland brochure at
    the personnel office where there's usually a bunch of other brochures. 
    On the back of the Storyland brochure is the number for the chamber of
    commerce.
    
    The Eastern Inn is in my book a 2 star place, but ideal for familys. 
    The woman who runs the place booked us all kinds of other activities.
    If you stay there insist on the 2nd floor....you can hear everything on
    the 1st.
    		What they have:
    
    		--- Indoor Pool   (the reason we booked with them)
    		--- NonSmoking Room Available
    		--- Jacuzzi
    		--- Sauna
    		--- Game Room
    		--- Exercise Room
    		--- 2 Play Rooms
    		--- Small Playground on site
    --- Very large playground in North Conways Center (5 minutes away)
    		--- Coffee & Small Dounuts between 7:00-11:00 AM
    		--- We stayed in a kitchenette room which is a room
    		    with a living room, kitchen table, microwave, frig,
                    cable tv, phone, separate room with 2 double beds.
    		--- We paid $108.00 a night for our kitchenette....regular
                    rooms are around $80.00
    
    We had the best Italian (Family) Dinner at Mario....10 Minutes away...
    on the left hand side of the street after leaving the hotel and passing 
    thru North Conway Center.
    
    Storyland is 5-10 minutes aways from the Eastern Inn. 
    
    Have fun!!
    		    

    re: -.2
    
    Don't recall exactly...will check the Amex statement tonight, but I
    think the Villager was approx $75/night for a nicely decorated double room
    (2 queen beds), with a refrigerator and full bath. Outdoor pool (which
    wouldn't be much fun in October), and short walk thru the woods to the
    Saco river. Was located on Rt 302, approx 2 miles west of Attitash and
    approx 10 minutes west of Storyland. AAA rated them 2 stars. 
    
    If you elect to stay in or south of No. Conway, be aware that
    throughout the day, you will likely encounter bumper-to-bumper traffic
    along the length of Rt 16. Our typical trip thru town would hang us up
    for at least an additional 25-30 minutes. Expect such delays if your
    trip coincides with peak foliage season. There is a back road called West 
    Side Rd. which you can reach either from Conway off of Rt 16, or in No. 
    Conway at the Eastern Inn. This road parallels Rt 16 and will bring you 
    onto Rt 302, east of Attitash and slightly west of the Rt 16/302 junction
    for Storyland. If you don't have to stop in No.Conway, this will save
    you lots of time.
    
    Another place to consider would be Nordic Village, on Rt 16 north of
    Storyland. (See some of the earlier replies...). When we do it again,
    it'll be one of the first places we consider.
    
    Good luck.
    
    

    
    We recently took our kids to Storyland - it's a great place!
    
    We had reservations at the Linderhoff, it's right next to Storyland.
    I wouldn't recommend this place, it just didn't seem to be very clean.
    We ended up not staying there and going to the Best Western Storybook Inn. 
    This place was fantastic!  A bit more expensive but so much nicer.  It
    had an outdoor pool, indoor pool and jacuzzi, playground and
    restaurant.
    
    I would highly recommend it.
    
    Have a great time!
    
    Kirsten
      

    Do you have a phone number for the Storybook Inn or know what town it's
    in so I can call information?  What was the price?
    
    Thanks for the recommendation!
    
    Holly
        

    We also stayed at the Storybook Inn a couple of weeks ago.  We paid
    ~120.00 per night.  The resturant was very convenient and reasonable,
    breakfast was wonderful!
    
    I'll check for a phone #.
    
    -b

    
    Hi
    
    I believe the Storybook Inn is in Glenn.  There prices ranged from
    $99 to $129 a night.  We had a nice room with two queen beds and 
    balcony that looked out over a wooded area.  I believe we paid
    $120.  
    
    We wanted to spend one day at the pool and the other at Storyland.
    Both pools at the Inn were very nice - the kids loved the indoor
    one the best, and of course the jacuzzi was a big hit.
    
    Have a great time!
    
    Kirsten
    

    Has anyone gone to the Big E, State Fair, in Mass?  Would you recommend
    it for kids (ages: 5 & 1).
    
    Thanks,
    Deb

    Have never been to the Big E, but I would definitely recommend the
    Bolton Fair this weekend.  There's an exhibit area where there are all
    kinds of animals there for them to pet.  Of course, there's also a lot
    for the adults as well, like crafts, good food booths, entertainment,
    etc.  there's also a medway with lots of kiddy rides.
    
    It's this saturday and sunday at the emerson school in Bolton. It's a
    BIG fair, that extends all the way from Bolton office park to the big
    field on waddaquadock hill road (the blinking light after the school
    coming from 495).
    
    Holly
    

    the Big E is sort of the 'all NewEngland State Fair'.
    It is very big.  It usually is VERY crowded.

    It is basically like most of the other fairs but carried
    WAY to the extreme.  It has a LOT of carnival rides.
    Excellent rides for little kids.  For example, large swimming
    pools where kids can drive little boats like little bumper cars
    around in the pool.  Helpers wearing waders are in the pool helping
    push the boats around.  My kids LOVED this 'ride'.  Also, all
    the usual 'kiddy' type rides.

    There are LOTS of animals.  It has 'major' animal shows.  I used
    to show my sheep at the Big E...people come from all over the
    country to compete at these big fairs.  Truly beautiful animals.
    Most people dont appreciate the quality of these purebreds.
    The animals are there for much of the duration of the show...like
    over a week.  I've seen calves BORN at the big E.  The cows that are
    there have to be milked everday.  Very interesting.

    My kids love the 'egg hatching' exhibit....lots of eggs with chicks
    hatching out of thier shell.  the kids will watch for 1/2 hour
    watching ONE EGG as the chick emerges. Also lots of animals to pet.

    I like the state buildings....like the Mass building, Rhode Island
    building, etc.  Often lots of vendors have intersting displays,
    have free samples (cranberries, maple sugar, cod fish cakes, etc.).
    There are BIG shows (like Peggy Lee or other 'name' entertainers)
    and things like circus acts.  Often there are horse competitions
    (jumping, dressage, etc.)  There are little shows....puppets, etc
    for the kids.

    But expect it to be CROWDED....bring a stroller for real little
    guys.

    If you like going to the fairs....you'll love the Big E.
    bob

Holly, thanks for mentioning the Bolton fair. I just started going to this
a couple of years ago. I hadn't seen any adversiting for it and the group that
I go with, was starting to wonder if it was being held this year.

Norma

    Yes, thanks Holly.  I'm glad I'm not the only one to whom the dates are
    a mystery year after year after year.  Guess they don't need the
    business (after all, when I do manage to get the dates before it's over
    and I actually have time to go, they're always jammed) enough to
    advertise.
    
    Leslie

	Any more details on the Bolton Fair ?  Is it one day or two ?
	Starting times, best bets for arrival/parking ??

	Karen

    The Bolton Fair will be held on Saturday and Sunday, Sept 24-25, from
    9:00 to 6:00. The Midway where all the rides are will be open on
    Thursday and Friday nights as well.

Yes, please support the Bolton Fair this weekend. It is a great country
fair that has been going on for 100+ years now. Unfortunately, they usually
lose money if there is rain...and there has been rain on at least one of the
days for the past 4-5 years. They are beginning to wonder if they can
keep it going. Given the current weather forecast for the weekend, it doesn't
sound promising.

The admission is $6. Children under some age are free (6?). There may be
a discount for ages 6-12 but I'm not sure about that.

Saturday and Sunday 9-6.

						Mark

    The Durham Fair, Durham, Connecticut is this weekend (9/23-25).
    
    This is a large country fair and includes farm animals, events such
    as a tractor pull, canning/sewing/knitting/photography/etc.
    competition, entertainment, a flea market, crafts, loads of food,
    and large midway of rides.
    
    Directions from MA are:  Route 84 West to Route 91 South (in Hartford)
    91 South to exit 15 (Yalesville/Durham).  Turn left towards Durham 
    and follow the traffic jam to the fair.  It's off of route 68 in the
    center of town.

    As far as the date for the Bolton Fair, it's always the last weekend of
    September.  Easy way to remember when it is.
    
    As for parking .. there's no REAL good place to park.  At the Bolton
    Office park is at one end of the fair, where the horse show is (where
    I'll be all day on Saturday).  The other end, at waddaquaddock hill
    road, is where the medway is.  In between is all kinds of crafters.  If
    you can find a place to park on the street, that's best.  But that will
    be very tough to do unless you arrive very early.  There are a few
    fields near the Bolton Office Park where they have parking.  That's
    probably best.
    
    Any other information you need, let me know.
    
    Holly
    

    
    I noticed an ad in the Parents Paper for The Country Inn at Bartlett.
    This is in Bartlett, NH, on Rt. 302, which is a 5-10 minute drive from 
    Storyland. The ad says they are a bed and breakfast where families and 
    friends feel welcome and kids under 12 stay free.  Their phone number
    is 1-800-292-2353.
    
    I've never stayed there and know nothing about them.
    
    Kathy

    Anybody know if there is a minumum age for "Spooky World" in Berlin,
    MA?  My son desperately wants to go, but I seem to recall a 12-years
    and up limit.  Anybody know for sure?
    Sarah

    
    
    There was all ages there last year when I was there.
    
    /Kathy
    

    Does any one have any recommendations for things to do in the Falmouth
    area for the 3rd week of Feb?  There will be 2 adults and 2 children,
    both girls ages 6 and 8.
    
    Thanks is advance.....
    
    Roberta

	Does anyone know if York's Wild Animal Kingdom is open
	at this time of year ?

	Cost ?

	Karen

I drove by last Sunday and it looks closed to me.

daryll

Hi,

We are going to be in the NJ area (near Dover, north NJ) this memorial day
weekend.  We are going to be staying there sat night...and would ideally like to
go somewhere that my 2 yr old daughter can have fun.  We did consider going to
Sesame place..but that would take us further south for a couple of hours..and
make the ride back home to NH that much more longer!  Any recommendations for
the NJ area?

--CR.

    
    
    		If its warm enough you could possibly try Action Park
    	in the Great Gorge Vernon vally area.  Its one of those water
    	theme parks, slides, wave pool, etc...  Its been many years
    	since I visited so I'm not sure whats available for a toddler,
    	but I've heard since that its been expanded and upgraded over
    	the years.  Try giving them a call.
    
    
    						Mark
    

    I am taking my girls to Jiminy Peak in Hancock Mass the third week in
    June any one have any suggestions for day trips that would be easily
    accessible from that location?
    
    Thanks,
    Roberta

    Wondering if anyone out there has some good ideas of things to do
    in the Shrewsbury area for a little 2 year old.
    
    I'll be on vacation in July with my little one and her daddy has to
    work, so I was trying to think of different things she and I could
    do during the day.
    
    Any thoughts....
    
    Thx
    Sue

Here are a few things to do in Shrewsbury:

  1) Spring Street School has 'Kids Kingdom'.  It's one of those big wooden
     playground structures with slides, bridges, lots of climbing etc.

  2) Dean Park has some fun playground stuff plus tennis, basketball, 
     baseball games to watch.  Or you can just go to the park with a
     ball, bubble stuff, a kite, sandbox toys, etc. and hang out and play.

  3) Weagles Farm (on route 140, south of the center of town) has re-opened
     and has great ice cream.

  4) Shrewsbury Sand and Gravel company.  My nephews liked to be taken 
     down there to watch the trucks and cranes working.

  5) The Shrewsbury Public Library has a pretty good children's room.
     You could go pick out some books or tapes to borrow.  Or you can
     read and play there to get into some air-conditioning for a while.

  6) I don't know if it's still open or not, but when I was a kid there
     was a little beach at Jordan Pond for swimming.

  7) If you want to go inside, there's the new Discovery Zone down on
     route 9 just west of Spags.

If you're willing to travel out of town a bit, here are some other nearby
things to do:

  1) Whalon Park in Lunenburg has an okay kids section and I don't think
     it's too crowded or expensive during the week.

  2) Green Hill Park in Worcester has a little petting zoo.

  3) There's some sort of petting zoo/hayride sort of place out near
     Clinton.  In Sterling maybe?  I know my mom has taken my nephew
     there a few times and he's really liked it.  I'll try to find out
     what it's called and exactly where it is.

That's all I can think of off the top of my head.  Have a great week off!

						Tracy

It's a while since my daughter was two - nearly eght years ago.

What we did do a lot though was to go to the library (we are in Westborough) 
and borrow tickets for places like Boston Aquirium and the New England Science 
Centre (in Worcester). I assume Shrewsbury library will have similar tickets.

The Childrens' Museum on rt 27 in Acton might be worth the trip.

Have a great week,
Peter.

    RE: .156 You are refering to the Petting Zoo in Sterling.  We have a
    season pass there and I take my daughter all the time.  she loves it.
    There are alot of animals to pet, a small playground and a hayride.
    There are also pony rides ($1)   The people that work there are very
    helpful.  They are open Thursday through Sunday. 
    Admission is $3.95.  a family pass is about $47, a single pass is about
    $15.
    Since we live about 10 minutes away, we don't do day trips there but
    plenty of people bring coolers and picnic lunches and spend the entire
    day.  
    They also have party tents for kid's birthday parties. 
    Nancy
    
   

    
    
    Does anyone have any information on the Canada Mills Petting Zoo in
    Holden?  If so, can you post what they have there and what age group
    would be best and any other opinions.  Thanks

    re .156  Maybe Green Hill Park has better fences or different
    livestock now, but around 5 years ago they had a MEAN pony who gave my
    daughter a painful nip (didn't break the skin, though).
    
    Leslie

    
    We're vacationing like usual on Lake Winnepesaukee (Wolfeboro NH)
    this year.  We'd like to take in one of the childrens attractions
    one day but are not sure which would be best for a 19 month old.
    
    Do you suggest Storyland, Santas Village, Clark Trading Post, or
    Six Gun City.  I think she would like one with lots of animals, 
    musical shows, and characters.  Rides are not all that important
    and any rides she goes on, we would have to ride with her.
    
    Since we are only doing one (they are all 1.5 hours from Wolfeboro)
    we want to pick the best one for her age.
    
    Thanks for any info!
    
    Karen 

    Karen,
    
    we went to Clarks' and to Storyland last year with Chris, who was then
    21 or 22 mos old. Without a doubt, he enjoyed Storyland better than
    Clarks. Much more for a toddler to do and see, much more interactive.
    The highlight of Clarks is the bear show, of course, and Chris was sort
    of squirmy throughout, so it was sort of wasted on him. (his 4-yr-old
    brother enjoyed it, though, so it wasn't a total loss.) Haven't been to
    the others, so can't comment.
    
    Having said that, in hindsight he would have clearly preferred an
    additional day at the lake-front beach than either attraction....
    
    Best of luck...
    

    Another vote for StoryLand.  We usually visit both Story Land
    and Santa's Village each fall and I think Lauren would enjoy
    Story Land more, in fact we're skipping Santa's Village this year.
    
    At the beginning of Story Land there is the 3 Bears House to visit, Peter
    Pumpkin Eater's Pumpkin to climb through and the Old Woman's Shoe 
    (and probably others that I forgot).  They have animals (3 Billy
    Goats Gruff, 3 Little Pigs and a few others).  There are alot of
    rides that you can easily go on with her...Dutch Shoes, Hot-Air
    Balloon Ferris Wheel (it's not very high) to name a few.  
    
    Steven was just under 2 the first year we went and he had a blast.
    They've been adding new rides each year, the Flume is good and fairly
    new.
    
    Katie will be 16 mos. when we go and I know she'll enjoy it.
    
    BTW, if Lauren loves animals, try the (local) Southwick Zoo in Mendon, MA.
    if you haven't been already.  
    
    				Linda

    
    re: 162
    
    Lauren will have plenty of days at the lake!  My parents house is
    right on Winnepesaukee.  Lauren loves the water!
    
    re: Linda
    
    Thanks for the comparison!  We'll take your advice and do Storyland.
    
    As far as Southwicks... its on the agenda too sometime this summer.
    
    Does anybody know how long Santas village and Storyland have been
    around?  I can't recall them from when I was growing up (I'm 31).
    
    Karen

    Karen,
    
    I just turned 37 this weekend (Happy B-day to me!) and know we went
    to Storyland when I was small.  It could have been fairly new then,
    I don't know.  I have images of my younger sister being about 2 or
    3 and she is now 31.
    
    We never went to Santa's village to my knowledge.  It was probably
    around, but we had the Polar Caves, Clarkes, Storyland, and ....
    the name of the forest now eludes me... to go to.   
    
    The forest was great for petting all types of animals, but it is gone
    now.  It's some kind of small race car-type place across from the
    Funspot in Meredith.
    
    							cj *->

Both Santa's Village and Story Land have been around for a *long* time.  I'm
33 and we have movies/pictures of my sisters and I emerging from Cinderella's
Coach at Story Land, and sitting in the hand of the big snowman at Santa's
Village.  It's fun to get shots of my nephews in the same places...

					Tracy

    
    re: the last two...
    
    I'm gonna have a talk with my parents...  I was a deprived child  ;-)
    
    I guess they figured that with the lake as our front yard, we didn't
    need any thing else.  Can't say that I blame them!
    
    Karen

    Just got back from Glen, NH and a trip to the Parks with a 4 year old.
    
    Storyland gets my vote, too. Staff (although very young) have the right 
    attitude about service; I thought food prices were better than
    expected; best thing is the park appealed to my daughter's
    imagination...not an amusement park where she could ride around but a
    park where she could play and talk to Heidi's grandfather. They've
    carried the theme into the space ride by making it a dream ride rahter
    than some sort of thrills and chills adventure ride.
    
    Santa's village...an hour from Glen...was pleasant. The staff was
    curteous. I found it difficult to get into the "spirit" in August but
    my daughter liked seeing Santa and going on the swings and slides. She
    was less interested in ferris wheels, etc. but they were there.
    
    Six Gun City was another story. We found it to be very disappointing.
    The staff we saw were not in to their jobs as in the other parks. We
    observed a lack of service orientation and a lack of enthusiasm. We
    left after 15 minutes and could not get a refund.

Re: -1

We went to Heritage on Sunday (next to Storyland).
The best thing about Heritage is that it is indoors. My ten year old enjoyed
it. Sunday it was raining - hard. It's not Disney but it's better than getting
wet. We saw a lot of poncho's in Storyland as we left ;-)


We did Six Gun City last year - I think it was raining then too. Anyway Rowena
loved it. She was nine then. I thought it was run down and hokey. Rowena really
enjoyed being deputised and chasing the bad guys. Of course the kids want six
guns so they can join in with the gun play and of course they sell them.

We revisited Clarks earlier this year and will go back again.

We were going to go to Polar caves on Sunday but it was raining. Rowena is keen
to go back.

    Can anyone critique/compare the Friendly Farm, Dublin NH, with
    the Furry Friends in Candia, NH?  
    
    I called the Friendly Farm, got a recording, and found this weekend
    is their last weekend open.  I'd like to go to one or the other on
    Saturday and want to make the right choice. 
    
    					Thanks
    					  cj

    re.-1
    
    When making the comparison, I don't know if this has any weight
    at all, but I'm going with a 13month old
    
    					thanks
    					  cj

    And I'll reply to myself here.  After making numerous phone
    calls to almost every petting zoo listed in this topic, the
    Friendly Farm in Dublin, NH seems to be the only one still
    open for the season, and this weekend is it's last.
    
    Boy, I timed this just right!  The last weekend opened and
    the weather will be great!   I'm not doing too bad at this
    Mommy-job  8-)
    
    						cj *->

    
    Cj,
    	I'm not sure where you live, but just so you know, Davis' Farmland
    Petting Zoo in Sterling, MA will be open until the end of the month.
    Admission is $3.75 (I think) and under 1 year old is free. The pony
    rides are another $1.00 and the hayride is free, except for October
    when Thursday and Friday it's free but on Sat and Sun it's $3.00
    cause they have a haunted hay ride. Half of the $3.00 hayride fee
    goes to some children's charity, I forget which. I love this place,
    but can't compare to the other places as I've never been to them.
    I'll be going before the end of the month (our 4th (5th??)) visit
    this year. Last time we were there (mid-late Sept) they had just gotten
    a new pig that was pregnant. She was due in 1-2 weeks so I want to take
    the kids back to see the piglets.
    
    Have fun at Friendly Farm. I keep meaning to get there, but I guess
    not this year.
    
    Patty

    Patty,
    
    Where is STerling?  One of the other zoos in NH recommended the
    Davis Farmland to me.  It's great they're open later.  I can go
    ahead to NH tomorrow and go again to Davis later.  
    
    Maybe we can even plan a same day thing!
    
    						cj *->

    
    I'll give you the directions I know:
    
    	Take Rt190 South from Rt2 in Fitchburg.
    	Take the exit for Rt12 (Exit 6 I think).
    	At the end of the ramp take a left.
    	Follow for maybe a couple of miles to the intersection of Rt12
    	  	and Rt62. This is a horrendous intersection...be careful.
    	Take a left onto Rt62.
    	Take your first left onto Redd Hill Farm Rd (or something like
    		that), there's a sign for the petting zoo at the street.
    	Just keep following this road (maybe 1-2 miles) and the zoo will
    		be on your left.
    
    I was thinking of going on Sunday, but it might be a little wet. If
    I don't go I'll let you know and we can go another weekend.
    
    Patty

re .175

This way is a bit quicker and avoids the "Crazy Corners" intersection:

- Exit 6 (Rte. 12) from I-190, left off the ramp
- take the first left (not counting the turn onto 190N) onto Chocksett Rd. (the 
  turn is opposite the used book store)
- follow to the end and go left onto Rte. 62
- take the first right onto Wiles Rd. (just before the Sterling Ice Cream Bar)
- follow to the end and go left on Redstone Hill Rd.

Farmland Petting Zoo will be on your left.

Jamie

    Can anyone give me ideas to take my 2 year old son to in the Greater
    Maynard Area for some day trips in early February?  I'm going to have
    to take a couple of days off while the sitter is vacationing and most
    of these ideas are for the summer/spring/fall.
    
    I have heard wonderful things about the Discovery Museum in Acton.  Any
    more info available?
    
    What about a movie?  Would he be able to sit through Toy Story that is
    only 1.5 hours?  I'm not sure.
    
    Thanks..
    cj

The first place I thought of on reading your note was the Children's
Discovery museum. It is ideal for kids upto 4-5 yrs of age. Call them
for the timings.

Another indoor idea is the indoor gyms for little kids - Gymboree and
Kids in Motion. Both are on Great Road (rt 2A) in Acton. They normally
have scheduled classes but do have open times for other kids. You'd
have to call them to find out what's possible.

-Pradnya

	I haven't been to them, but a friend told me they were a good activity.
	The Acton and Westford libraries.  I guess the have a children's
	section with not only books, but a play area too.  They probably
	have a story time too.  I was going to call the Westford library
	today and see when story time is.  My daughter is 2yrs 9months and
	I thought we'd try it and see how it goes.

	Have fun!
	Karen T.

   Speaking of libraries, check out the Hudson (MA) Public Library.  They
   have a children's library/room and they have scheduled story time and
   craft activities nearly every week.   The kids section is physically
   separated from the main library (downstairs) and they have their own
   staffing, which means you don't have some stuffy librarian from the
   reference section giving you dirty looks because your kids are having
   fun!  :-)
   
   Regards,
   
   - Tom
   

The Acton Discovery Museum has 2 parts.  The front building is good for babies
(mostly toddlers) up to at least age 6.  My 7 year old loves the ball room 
and the ship/ocean room (third floor; easy to miss).

The back building is a science museum.  It has stuff for mostly ages 7 and up,
though there was lots of stuff that my 3 year old liked to do, too.  Well, um,
*ahem, there was lots of stuff *I* liked to do, too.  I enjoyed it more than
the Boston Science Museum.  :-}  At that museum, you can play with magnets,
bouncing balls, tornado mist, water (hydrolics, etc), tuning forks, hair dryers
and ping pong balls, and much more. 

If you have just child(ren) under 5, I'd suggest the first building only,
and go to the Science Museum when the child(ren) is older.

        Carol

    
    My 2 yr old sat through Toy Story, without a peep (and that was after
    missing his nap too!).  Loved it!
    
    The bowling alley has those bumper pads - the little guy would probably
    have a blast!!  You (of course) have to help him push the balls down.
    What 2-yr old doesn't love knocking things over?!
    
    And don't assume you need to go out .... buzz over to k-mart and pick
    up a bag of balloons, blow them up, and you'll have fun batting them
    all over the house.  Get a bottle of bubbles, they love popping them!
    
    o Share a bubble bath
    o Make playdough - let him pour the ingredients.  Use an oversized
    bowl, and let him 'stir' it.
    o Create your own bowling pins, using paper cups.  Tape them together
    at the open parts - looks like candle pins.  And easily replaceable
    (and not so loud!).
    o Make a fort, and eat a snack or take a nap inside.
    o Rent/buy a kids musical video and dance and sing
    o Play chase around the house
    o dump ALL the pillows and soft cushy things you can find, onto the
    floor and jump/fall on them.
    o talk into toilet paper tubes (Jonathan thinks this is a riot!)
    o Color -- they have placemats that are similar to greaseboards.  You
    can write on them with washable markers.  They work GREAT!!!
    
    Also, check out if there's a pool in the area - might be nice to go
    take a swim, or at least splash in the puddles!!
    
    He'll love just BEING with you - it's not so critical what oyu're doing
    when they're this young!
    

    Just a couple of questions with regards to Storyland?
    
    Do you know when it opens (month)?  And does anyone have a number to call to
    get some information/brochures on hotels?
    
    Thx,
                                     
    Sue

    
    I believe Storyland opens on June 8th.  
    
    -Ellen.
    

    I just HAPPEN to have a pamphlet here which says;
    
    Storyland is open daily 9am to 6pm mid-June to Labor Day, then 10am-5pm
    weekends only, Labro Day through Columbus Day.  The last ticket is sold
    45 minutes before closing.
    
    Pay-one admission price includes unlimited rides, shows, parking and a
    whole lot of other activities the entire family can enjoy together. 
    Children under 4 are free.
    
    Pan a minimum of 6 hours.  If you come in after 3pm, another day,
    during that season, is free.
    
    Bring a stroller if convenient, but they have a limited number of
    strollers available to use, for free.  First-come, first-served.  They
    have a pet kennel too (no mention of cost).
    
    For lodging reservations, call 1-800-367-3364.
    
    For more info on StoryLand, call the Storyland WelcomeLine 24 hours a
    day for a pre-recorded message, including rates, directions and special
    events.  (603)383-4186. <MC/VISA accepted>
    
    Have fun!

    
    I think they usually open on fathers day weekend....
    
    It's a great place, we've been going every year for past 4 years.
    
    Kirsten
    

    
    I called ...
    
    They open on June 8th, and admission is $16.00 per person, children
    under 4 (meaning 3 and under) are free.
    
    We'll be going .... (-:

    
    Just an fyi, but if you go to Storyland between June 8th and 
    June 21st, admission is only $10.00 per person instead of their
    usual price of $16.00 per person.
    
    -Ellen.

Also, during the early weeks, I think folks from New Hampshire 
(evidenced by drivers license, I think), get a discount....Anyone
know for sure?

    I'm not sure where I found this name, maybe in this note but anyways...
    I have found a B&B/Inn in the White Mountains that is designed
    specifically for families.  Yes, CHILDREN AT A B&B!!!
    
    The name is this place is called Mt. Cranmore Lodge and its a farmhouse
    with the typical B&B but they also have a barn which has more
    modernized rooms with private baths, cctv and a/c.  Their grounds sound
    lovely.  They have a farm with animals (5 year old Jersey cow Sarah,
    and the sheep are Joe, Queenie and Oakie, Cheddar the Rabbit). They
    have a trout pond, a outdoor hottub, inground heated pool, basketball
    and tennis courts and a few rec rooms with games and tv's for movies
    and late night pizza parties.
    
    When I called for availability in early June a nice man asked me about
    our child and how old he was so he would make sure that he put us in
    room that was fitting to his age.  Then, he wrote to me over the web
    and asked whether our child was a boy or girl and told me the names of
    the animals so he would know about them before actually coming up.  He
    also has his own web page.  Address is:  
    
    http://www.journeysnorth.com/mwv/cranmt.html
    
    We got a room with two double beds and full country breakfast for
    $85.00 a night.
    
    cj

    Last night I heard an add for a something or other in Topsfield, MA
    this weekend that has to do with Native Americans.  It sounded like it
    was a kids oriented event.  Does anyone know anything about it?  Or
    where in Topsfield it might be?

    Thanks
    Debby

    
    I've heard on the radio about a Disney Children's Concert being put
    on for free Sunday (14-Jul) at 6:30pm at Institute Park in Worcester.
    I really want to take the kids and don't want to get lost. Is Institute
    Park the one with the pond with the wooden bridge going over it??
    It's at the end of Highland Street??? Thanks for any help in
    directions.
    
    Patty

    
    The concert sounds interesting.  Can you tell me more about it?  Who
    is performing?
    
    Thanks.
    
    -Ellen.

    Institute Park is at the corner of Park Ave. and Salisbury St.  The one
    with the bridge is Elm Park, up the street as ways.  Coming from rte
    290W, get off at the Lincoln St. Exit (first exit after the I190
    connection).  Go right off the ramp, turn right. Go past Worcester Voke
    school (on your right and left).  Straight through the lights.  You are
    now on Salisbury St. Keep going straight until you see the park up on
    your right.
    Sarah

    
    So Institute Park is the one across from WPI?? Thanks.
    
    For more info, you've got what I heard. I think it's the Central Mass
    Symphony Orchestra playing. Didn't hear anything about who's singing.
    Sorry I can't be of more help. Maybe a call to WXLO radio (their the
    ones running the ad) might get you some more info.
    
    Patty

    Easy to remember, since WPI = Worcester Polytechnic *Institute*
    
    Leslie

    
    Thanks Leslie...when going to school there everything was labeled by
    their proximity to something else...i.e., Institute Park is across from
    SAE (my boyfriend's frat house). Elm Park was the one by the grocery
    store...etc. 
    
    Now's here's hoping the weather holds out for the concert. Also, any
    ideas on parking for this place???
    
    Patty

    Has anyone can to the science muesum in Worcester, Ma? Is there
    anything that would interest a 16 month old or is she still too young?
    
    Does the children's muesum in Boston have anything interesting for a
    16 month old. I haven't been there is years?
    
    I have heard good things about the Discovery muesum in Acton, but we
    are going there next month.
    
                                               Alice
    

re:

>    Does the children's muesum in Boston have anything interesting for a
>    16 month old. I haven't been there is years?

   Definitely, they have an entire room that's geared for younger kids.
  My kids always really enjoyed it.  It's probably worth calling ahead
  to see what's going on.  They have a lot of special programs - crafts,
  music and movement ,etc.

  Elizabeth

    I'm planning to take my kids into Boston this week to visit the
    Aquarium. We plan to arrive mid-morning, so I was wondering if
    there was any place in or near the Aquarium for lunch or a snack?
    I'm a little hesitant to walk over to Quincy Market, but will if
    that's the closest.
    Thanks,
    Sue

The Aquarium has a cafeteria in the ship portion that we've been to.  They
sometimes have animal exhibits there, too.  It's not much, but it's pleasant
enough and there's lots of space.

						Brian

    re - aquarium
    
    Check with your local library for passes to the aquarium, which will
    let in a family of four for $1.00 a person.....
    
    Roberta