Spring Break 2018

For the kids' Spring Break this year, we took an idea Jeff had and expanded to include an idea I've been wanting to do with the kids.  We spent 4 days visiting Niagara Falls (Canada) and Pittsburgh.  If it's not obvious, Niagara Falls was my idea; Pittsburgh was Jeff's.

I love getting to show the kids new places and new experiences.  And as long as we can keep costs reasonable (drive, not fly!), Jeff is up for an adventure too.  Niagara Falls did not disappoint, despite it being a bit off-season and the biggest draw, the Maid of the Mist boat tour was not running yet.  The weather was gorgeous; sunny and in the 30's-40's.  This was perfect for walking around.   We made the most of our time and hit the highlights - Skylon Tower, Niagara's Fury, IMAX film, The making of Niagara Falls, Journey Behind the Falls, The Butterfly Conservatory, Clifton Hill, and of course, The Hershey Store.

After Niagara, we drove to Pittsburgh and spent 2 days seeing the sights.  Jeff had heard how awesome the Carnegie Science Center was and had been eager to take the kids there for some time.  While it was very well done, we all agreed the kids are near the end of the age range on getting the maximum enjoyment.  We also went to the Andy Warhol Museum and rode the Incline - which was cool and gave us a great view of the city and the 3 rivers.  And I can't forget to include eating at Primanti Brothers or our visit to the Fort Pitt Museum.  Jeff loves a good revolutionary war point of interest.

The biggest hit in Pittsburgh?  None other than The Milkshake Factory we could walk to from our downtown hotel.  This was another of Jeff's finds and the kids could not be more thrilled.  What a sweet way to end our day!

The Skylon Tower

The Butterfly Conservatory -- my favorite place in Niagara Falls

The view of Pittsburgh from the Incline

Bananas Foster milkshake!

Video - Surprising the kids with The Milkshake Factory.