Families can find plenty of things to do and ways to stay active in Stowe, VT, whether visiting when it’s a sparkling winter wonderland, when it’s lush and green in the summertime, or when the leaves are at their peak in the fall. The area includes the 200-year-old town of Stowe, arguably the most charming village in Vermont, the Trapp Family Lodge (of Sound of Music fame), and Mt Mansfield, the highest peak in the state. From hiking, swimming and biking in summer to skiing, snowshoeing and skating in winter, Stowe is a year-round destination. Read on for things to do in Stowe, VT winter, spring, summer and fall.

Newport, Rhode Island has a reputation as a summer playground for the elite, but in truth it makes for a great family vacation.  Yes, you will see fabulous Gilded Age mansions and expensive sailing yachts in the harbor. But coastal Newport is an egalitarian town that can even be a bargain during the off-season.  In summer there are lots of low-cost public boating opportunities, free beaches, a rich line up of outdoor concerts and easy hikes that exploit the area’s natural beauty.  In winter months the public skating rink, free holiday festivities and the annual Winter Festival provide cold weather fun.  There are casual restaurants and hotels that cater to families.  Newport’s manageable size makes it a wonderful walking town, so if you don’t have a car, keep this in mind. 

Here's what to do, where to eat and stay in Newport for families:

Cleveland, Ohio is a bustling, energy-infused city that makes for a fun family getaway.  This city is full of kid-friendly activities, from interactive museums to great sports teams to bargain-priced restaurants.  It is a city with a compact center, so you can leave the car in the hotel parking lot and explore on foot. You can also take Amtrak to Cleveland, a 9-hour ride from NYC, and kids 2-15 travel at half-fare. 

Cleveland stays close to its working class roots by promoting family fun without a big price tag. Here are 20 reasons to check out Cleveland with the kids, including places to eat and where to stay.