The Family Vacationer

NOV 21, 2025

The Family Vacationer Episode 203: Christmas in Rockford, Illinois Guest: Kristen Paul, Executive Vice President, GoRockford Host: Rob Jones Episode Summary If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, festive markets, and that perfect small-town holiday charm, you’ll love this stop in our Christmas in the U.S. series. In this episode, Rob heads to Rockford, Illinois, a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas in a big way — with dazzling light displays, heartwarming traditions, and a community that truly embraces the season. Rob chats with Kristen Paul, Executive Vice President, GoRockford about what makes this Northern Illinois destination a must-see during the holidays. From the magical Stroll on State celebration to breathtaking attractions like Anderson Japanese Gardens: Illuminated, Festival of Lights, and All Aglow along the Rock River, Kristen shares how Rockford shines bright with festive fun for the whole family. You’ll also discover where to shop for locally made gifts, can’t-miss holiday eats (yes, brunch lovers, this one’s for you!), and how Rockford celebrates its quirky and creative history with nods to Cheap Trick, the Rockford Peaches, and even the original sock monkey. Whether you’re looking for a new holiday getaway or just a little Christmas inspiration, this episode captures the heart, community, and magic that make Rockford feel like a Hallmark movie come to life. In This Episode <ul><li>Why Rockford’s Stroll on State is one of the Midwest’s best free holiday events</li><li>The story behind the city’s beloved sock monkey and how it became a local icon</li><li>Family-friendly attractions including Festival of Lights, Anderson Gardens Illuminated, and All Aglow</li><li>Where to find the best holiday brunch (hint: try Abrio’s biscuits and gravy or shrimp and grits!)</li><li>Tips for visiting with kids and grandparents — including easy walkability and hotel recommendations</li><li>How Rockford celebrates its musical and sports heritage through Cheap Trick and the Rockford Peaches</li></ul> Featured Guest Kristen Paul Executive Vice President, GoRockford Learn more and start planning your trip at GoRockford.com Resources Mentioned <ul><li>GoRockford.com – Official visitor information, events, and itineraries</li><li>Anderson Japanese Gardens – “Illuminated” holiday event details</li><li>Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – “All Aglow” light displays</li><li>Festival of Lights – Rockford’s iconic drive-thru holiday tradition</li></ul> Connect with Rob <ul><li>📘 The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel — Available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble</li><li>🌐 thefamilyvacationer.live</li><li>📸 Instagram: @thefamilyvacationerpodcast</li></ul> Closing Thought: Rockford, Illinois, captures everything we love about the holidays — connection, creativity, and community. It’s proof that some of the best Christmas destinations aren’t the biggest cities, but the ones filled with heart. “Remember, folks, keep your passports and your hearts open. Safe travels, everyone.”

28 MIN

NOV 14, 2025

Natchitoches, LA

Episode 202: Christmas Magic and History in Natchitoches, Louisiana with Paige Alost In this episode of The Family Vacationer, we continue our Christmas in the U.S. series with a visit to Natchitoches, Louisiana (pronounced Nack-a-tish). Known as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches blends French and Creole heritage, small-town charm, and one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions—the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, now in its 99th year. Rob and Traci sit down with Paige Alost, Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, to uncover the rich history, cultural diversity, and holiday magic that make this town a must-visit destination. From historic architecture and Creole cuisine to Mardi Gras parades, Steel Magnolias filming locations, and the famous Natchitoches meat pie, this episode is full of inspiration for families looking to create unforgettable holiday memories. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: <ul><li>The fascinating history of Natchitoches as the oldest city in Louisiana (even older than New Orleans!)</li><li>How the town’s French, Spanish, Creole, and Native American influences come alive for visitors</li><li>Why the Natchitoches Christmas Festival is one of the most magical holiday events in the U.S.</li><li>The best times to visit during the six-week holiday season</li><li>Unique year-round family attractions, from historic forts to Dark Woods Adventure Park</li><li>Where to taste the town’s signature dish—the Natchitoches meat pie</li><li>How to explore Steel Magnolias filming locations (and even stay in the famous house)</li><li>A perfect 48-hour itinerary for families visiting Natchitoches</li></ul> About Our Guest Paige Alost is the Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is passionate about sharing the history, culture, and hospitality of Louisiana’s oldest city with visitors from near and far. Learn more and plan your trip at Natchitoches.com. Resources & Links <ul><li>Plan your trip: Natchitoches.com</li><li>Follow Visit Natchitoches on <a href="#" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li><li>Connect with The Family Vacationer on <a href="#" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="#" target="_blank">Substack</a></li></ul> Don’t Miss Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releases this December! Packed with stories, strategies, and tips, it’s designed to help families make the most of every trip together.

32 MIN

NOV 7, 2025

Red Lodge, MT

Episode 201: Christmas in Red Lodge, Montana Looking for a holiday getaway that feels straight out of a postcard? This week on The Family Vacationer, we’re taking you to Red Lodge, Montana, a small-town winter wonderland where Christmas magic comes alive. Red Lodge, once a bustling coal-mining town in the 1800s, is now best known as the gateway to the Beartooth Highway. But come December, it transforms into a festive haven filled with twinkling lights, family traditions, and a community spirit that makes the holidays unforgettable. Joining us is Sherry Weimer, director of the Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce, who shares why families should plan a Christmas trip to this hidden gem. In this episode, you’ll hear about: <ul><li>The Red Lodge Christmas Stroll — a Hallmark-worthy tradition with parades, fire pits, caroling, and Santa’s grand entrance.</li><li> Family-friendly winter fun at Red Lodge Mountain, from skiing to skating in the town park.</li><li>The best cozy stops for cocoa, pastries, and kid-approved treats (don’t miss the monster ice cream sandwich!).</li><li>How local shops and restaurants keep the holiday spirit alive with decorated windows, late-night shopping, and tasty surprises.</li><li> Unique Red Lodge holiday experiences, like Santa skiing on Christmas Day.</li><li>Where to stay — from historic hotels to mom-and-pop motels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs.</li><li>Insider tips for planning your family’s first Christmas trip to Red Lodge.</li></ul> If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas in a storybook setting, Red Lodge might just be the perfect destination for your family. Plan your trip: <a href="https://www.redlodge.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">redlodge.com</a> Don’t forget — we’ll be circling back to our special Episode 200 in December! Plus, stay tuned for details on Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon.

18 MIN

NOV 5, 2025

Thanksgiving Trip Ideas

Episode 199: The Best Family Thanksgiving Getaways in the U.S. Hosts: Rob & Traci Release Date: November 2025 When you think Thanksgiving, you probably picture turkey, football, and the Macy’s Parade—but what if your family celebrated somewhere new? In Episode 199, Rob and Traci explore America’s best Thanksgiving destinations—from mountain towns and colonial villages to rivers lined with glowing holiday lights. Whether you want cozy, coastal, or full-on festive, this episode is stuffed with ideas for a holiday you’ll truly be thankful for (and yes, the dad jokes are fully baked). 🗺 Top Thanksgiving Destinations Plymouth, Massachusetts – Where it all began! Enjoy parades, concerts, and a hands-on history experience at the Plymouth Patuxet Museums, complete with a traditional feast served 17th-century style. Asheville, North Carolina – The Biltmore Estate sparkles with lights and decorations by Thanksgiving. Add Blue Ridge hikes and farm-to-table dining for the ultimate mountain holiday. Williamsburg, Virginia – Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg. Dine in historic taverns by candlelight, then head to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town for lights and thrills. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Cozy cabins, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, and mountain views for miles. Feast first, hike later! San Antonio, Texas – Celebrate along the River Walk under glowing lights. Try Tex-Mex twists on the holiday meal—like turkey enchiladas—and don’t miss the Ford Holiday River Parade. Santa Fe, New Mexico – Classic Thanksgiving meets Southwestern flair with green chile mashed potatoes and pumpkin empanadas. Explore art markets, museums, and the historic plaza. Charleston, South Carolina – History, charm, and Southern cooking at its best. Feast on sweet potato pie and stroll the Battery afterward for “gravy steps.” Mackinac Island, Michigan – No cars, just peace. Arrive by ferry, enjoy quiet island charm, and dine at historic inns before winter sets in. Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Ski if it’s snowing, hike if it’s not. Resorts serve full Thanksgiving dinners—perfect for families who love adventure and cozy evenings. Branson, Missouri – Silver Dollar City’s Christmas lights, live holiday shows, and hearty meals make Branson a cheerful, family-friendly choice. Bonus Picks: Stowe (VT) for a snowy New England vibe, Lancaster County (PA) for a slower pace, and St. Augustine (FL) for warm-weather lights. ✨ Thanksgiving Travel Tips <ul><li>Book early—popular spots fill fast.</li><li>Leave early if you’re driving.</li><li>Let someone else cook. Restaurant feasts taste better when you’re not washing dishes!</li><li>Kids won’t remember perfect stuffing—they’ll remember the laughter and stories.</li></ul> 💬 Favorite Quotes “Kids won’t remember if the stuffing was perfect. They’ll remember the trip, the laughter, and the stories.” — Rob “It’s Thanksgiving and a mountain retreat all in one—just watch out for bears. They’re not great at sharing dessert.” — Traci 📚 Announcements 🎉 Rob’s New Book: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel releases Nov. 11, 2025 — filled with stories and tips for travel that connects. Pre-orders open soon! 🎙 Episode 200 Live in Orlando! Join Rob & Traci at Caribe Royale, Dec. 13–15, 2025, for a live recording of The Family Vacationer’s 200th episode! 🌍 Connect Instagram & Facebook: <a href="https://instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer" target="_blank">@TheFamilyVacationer</a> Website: thefamilyvacationer.live Email: [email protected]

12 MIN

OCT 24, 2025

Family Travel Reset

Episode 198: The Family Travel Reset Episode Overview If your family vacations have started to feel a little too predictable — the same beach, the same rental, the same “are we even relaxed?” feeling when you get home — it might be time for a reset. In Episode 198, Rob shares how to press pause on autopilot travel and rediscover the why behind your family’s adventures. It’s not about the next destination — it’s about what you hope to bring home: connection, laughter, and stories worth retelling. Inspired by his upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel (coming November 11, 2025), Rob introduces the concept of The Family Travel Reset — a simple, practical way to make travel more intentional, more joyful, and a whole lot less stressful. What You’ll Learn in This Episode <ul><li>Why families fall into “autopilot travel” — and how to break free</li><li>The one question to ask before planning your next vacation: What do we really want from this trip?</li><li>How to balance structure and spontaneity to create real connection</li><li>The three easiest ways to reset your family’s travel mindset</li><li>A personal story from Disney that changed how Rob plans trips forever</li><li>A simple “Family Travel Check-In” you can do this week to reconnect and reset</li></ul> Three Easy Ways to Start Your Family Travel Reset <ol><li>Involve your kids in the planning.</li><li> Ask them what they want out of the trip — more pool time, less rushing, more freedom. When kids feel heard, everyone’s happier on the road.</li><li>Build in slow mornings.</li><li> Vacations shouldn’t feel like a race. Linger over breakfast, explore without an agenda, and let curiosity lead the day.</li><li>Redefine success.</li><li> Instead of asking, “Did we check everything off?” try “Did we laugh together today?” Because that’s what really matters.</li></ol> Favorite Quote from This Episode “Meaningful travel isn’t about doing more — it’s about feeling more.” — Rob Jones From Rob’s Upcoming Book This episode pulls from several chapters of Rob’s forthcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releasing November 11, 2025. The book is filled with stories, practical strategies, and gentle encouragement for parents who want travel to be less about logistics and more about connection. Preorder information coming soon! This Week Comes with Homework! Do a quick Family Travel Check-In: <ul><li>Ask everyone: What’s your favorite travel memory we’ve ever made together?</li><li>Then ask: What would make our next trip even better?</li></ul> Their answers might surprise you — and might be the key to your own Family Travel Reset. Connect with The Family Vacationer <ul><li>Instagram & Facebook: <a href="https://instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer" target="_blank">@TheFamilyVacationer</a></li><li>Website: thefamilyvacationer.live</li><li>Email: [email protected]</li></ul> Upcoming Events Rob’s Book Launch: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel — coming November 11, 2025 200th Episode Celebration: Join Rob & Traci for a live recording in Orlando on December 15, 2025 — details and tickets available soon!

8 MIN

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