Have Kids, Will Travel: Little Rock, Arkansas!

Little Rock, Arkansas.

Located center state, Little Rock is known for being the home of former President Bill Clinton. It is also well known the Little Rock Nine.

Prior to our Spring Break trip, we had never been to Little Rock. (For a complete list travel tips during this time, please check out the article I did for Zulily here!)

We were excited to visit Arkansas, the Natural State, this year, and get to know one of Texas' neighbor states to the east.

Little Rock is about five hours from Arlington by car directly east on I 30. Little Rock has a population of about 200,000 people and is located on the south bank of the Arkansas River.

Little Rock, Arkalsas

Little Rock with Kids: Why Little Rock?

Little Rock has a surprising amount of activities for kids! The parks in the area are gorgeous and truly a ton of fun for the under 12 set. There are a variety of fun outdoor activities. Little Rock is a quick drive from DFW and there were plenty of hotels that were far less than $100 per night with a pool and breakfast included! Hot Springs is an hour away, meaning you can check out activities there, too, on your weekend away.

Little Rock with Kids: Things to Do

Little Rock Zoo: Honestly, this might be one of my favorite zoos for littles. There are three separate play areas that my kids loved, plus a fun mini train. The zoo felt very open and uncrowded. However, because of Covid, there was only a small food truck onsite, so we recommend checking on this before you go. My girls noted that there were no giraffes, but otherwise, we loved the zoo! It's inexpensive and a great way to spend an afternoon.

Gorgeous day for Little Rock Zoo!

Heifer International: Heifer International is a global organization based in Little Rock that is working to end poverty. In Little Rock, you can explore Heifer Village with hands-on experiences that teach kids about global experiences. Right now, the urban farm and village are closed, but we were still able to meet and interact with the animals for free! They alpacas were darling, as were the goats. The cow was super friendly. Even if it isn't reopened during your visit, Heifer International is worth a stop. Visit the gift shop, too- it has lots of unique goodies!

We loved seeing animals at Heifer International.

Central High School: In 1957, Central High School in Little Rock was at the center of the Civil Rights Movement when nine black students began attending the school, which had formerly been all white. Today, it is a National Historic Site with lots to see and learn. The high school itself is still an active high school with a diverse student body, so, if you wish to tour inside, you need to make a reservation ahead of time. However, you can walk the perimeter, visit the gas station that was the headquarters for media and visit the building across the street, which houses a small museum dedicated to Central High School and the Little Rock Nine. 

Julius Breckling Riverfront Park & Junction Bridge: This might be one of the coolest parks we have ever been to. This park, which, in warm months, also features a splash pad, is built into natural rock formations to truly be one-of-a-kind. The girls loved climbing through all the tunnels and playing on the monkey bars placed on the underside of a large rock. We also walked Junction Bridge, which gave us gorgeous views of the Arkansas River and downtown. The adjacent Riverfront Market also often has live events, so check the schedule to optimize your time here!

Playing at Riverfront Park

Big Dam Bridge: The Big Dam Bridge is a pedestrian and bikes only bridge that lights up at night. We walked along the bridge at dusk and loved it! The views are stunning, the breeze felt incredible and there were lots of people around, making it feel very safe. It was an enjoyable evening stroll. There were dozens of spiders on the bridge, as well, and we loved trying to find ones bigger than quarters... I made the girls stop counting when they hit 20 because that was 20 too many for me!

Burns Park: This North Little Rock Park has lots to do for all ages! We loved the playground onsite, next to the disc golf area. There is also a small amusement park in the park, perfect for kids younger than 10. You can camp at this park, as well as golf and more. It is definitely worth a visit!

The play area we loved at Burns Park.

The Old Mill: Honestly, this is a place to stop just for magical pictures. We went on St. Patrick's Day and spent an hour roaming around this magical-feeling spot that was featured in the opening scenes of the classic Gone With The Wind. It is a recreation of an 1880's water-powered grist mill and it is a neat place to visit on your Little Rock vacation! 

Other places on our list we didn't make it to this trip:

William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum: This is closed currently because of Covid. 

Museum of Discovery: This was closed because of damage sustained during the February freeze.

Big Rock Fun Park: We left this for the last day of our trip and I didn't check the weather first. Whoops. Had some unhappy girls that day! 

Little Rock with Kids: Where to Eat

All Aboard Restaurant and Grill: If you bring kids to Little Rock, visit this restaurant! Not only to they have delicious burgers (I had a meatless burger and it was so yummy!), but they deliver your meal to your table on a train that circles above your head and then delivers your food on a tray that drops down to your table. It is every bit as cool as it sounds, and even my 11 year old, who is too tween-y for everything, said "That was so cool!" Great spot to dine with kids. 

Dinner at All Aboard Restaurant and Grill was so good!

Purple Cow: This old-timey diner has lots of food choices to please everyone in your dining party plus delicious milkshakes. You can even add alcohol to yours, if that's the kind of day you've had...

Loblolly Creamery: We actually stumbled upon this place accidentally, and I'm so glad that we did! I had the best Vegan ice cream I have ever had, hands down. You can't eat inside the store right now but there are benches out front. We even ordered macarons and devoured them, too. If you need a sweet treat, don't skip this spot! Next door is a cute urban market with lots of local food and drink to take back to Texas with you.

Overall, we recommend a trip to Little Rock! There is a Buc cee's on the way, and you can stop at Crater of Diamonds on the way back to Texas and dig for gems. At about five hours by car, you will enjoy your weekend away with the kids- and so will your wallet!

Have Kids, Will Travel: Hot Springs, Arkansas!

Before deciding to visit Hot Springs, Arkansas, for Spring Break, I knew nothing about Hot Springs.

I mean, I knew it was a quick drive from DFW. It took us about five hours by car to arrive in Hot Springs from Arlington. I knew the city had, well, Hot Springs. But aside from those two facts, I didn't know anything about the Hot Springs area of Arkansas.

Have Kids, Will Travel: Hot Springs, Arkansas!

So... Let me start this latest edition of Have Kids, Will Travel from the EA crew by giving you some information about Hot Springs!

Hot Springs with Kids: Facts

- Hot Springs is located in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and has a population of about 40,000 people.

- The center of Hot Springs is the oldest federal reserve, and this year Hot Springs National Park celebrates 100 years as a National Park.

- Hot Springs is famous for Bathhouse Row, a street lined with bathhouses that rose to notoriety in the 1920s as a place to go and soak up the ambiance from the natural hot springs that could, it was believed at the time, cure a number of ailments. These bathhouses were particularly popular with baseball players of the era, who tended to drink heavily and thought the hot springs could "boil" the bad out of them!

Bathhouse Row's history. 

Hot Springs with Kids: Things to Do

If you're headed to Hot Springs with kids, here are your best bets for activities with your kids in tow!

Mid-America Science Museum- This science museum is a fun spot for kids of all ages to spend an afternoon. There are lots of exhibits displaying rocks and gemstones that can be found in Arkansas. There is a play area for small kids and a fun water feature my kids enjoyed. The outside space is phenomenal... There is a dino hike and a climbing structure that had my kids running and jumping endlessly. The admission price is super reasonable but check your calendar before you go- this spot is closed Monday through Wednesday.

Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo- This spot is a MUST when you visit Hot Springs. Whether gators are your thing or not, your kids will thank you for letting them get up close with alligators! Pet goats, bunnies, alligators and more, as well as feed the alligators and small birds for an additional price. You need to plan an hour to an hour and half for this stop, but, seriously, if you are headed to Hot Springs with kids, don't skip this place! The staff is super friendly and personable and "holding an alligator" was my girls' favorite part of our trip.

Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo in Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

Bathhouse Row- Take a walk down memory lane when you stroll down Bathhouse Row! Read up on the history of these bathhouses before you wander down the street and look at the gorgeous buildings because the history is so interesting! The other side of the street is lined with yummy places to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. Lamar Bathhouse is now a place where you can stop and buy a few souvenirs, and Superior Bathhouse is now a brewery! 

Bathhouse Row.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower- Hike 1.5 miles up the trails from Bathhouse Row to escape 216 feet into the air! The Hot Springs Mountain Tower will give you gorgeous views of the parks and water bodies in the surrounding area. 

Spots that are on our list to check out on our next visit:

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park; 

Lake Catherine 

Hot Springs with Kids: Grab a Bite (Where to Eat)

If the kids are hungry (aren't they always?!), grab a bite of one of these two spots right off Bathhouse Row. Both are local and super yummy! Then grab dessert or ice cream. Because dessert or ice cream!

Superior Bathhouse- Honestly, we ate here because this spot was a bathhouse and is now a brewery! It is the only brewery in the country that uses water from the surrounding hot springs. The food was super yummy, the beer was delicious and the building is really cool and old-timey.

Superior Bathhouse & Brewery

The Trough- This fun spot has inexpensive, great-tasting food and plenty of games (pool, shuffleboard) to keep your kids occupied until the food arrives. This spot also has a lot of live music to entertain you as you dine. 

Fat-Bottomed Girls Cupcakes- This spot has been featured on Food Network and sells cupcakes, ice cream and frosting shots! There is a fun attached gift shop with lots of sassy trinkets. I wish every cupcake shop sold frosting shots. Because honestly- frosting is the only reason I even eat cupcakes!

Sweet Treats from Fat-Bottomed Girls Cupcakes in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

What are you favorite spots in Hot Springs that we missed? I can't wait to go back!

Mother's Day Gifts for Mom: A Local Guide

Looking for a unique gift this Mother's Day?

I did a whole round-up on Zulily of unique gifts- some that don't cost a thing!

But if DIY gifts aren't your thing (I'm right there with you most years!), I've rounded up a few spots to shop for some unique treasures in the Arlington area that will allow you to find a unique gift for the mama in your life this Mother's Day!

Fun Shops to Find Unique Gifts in the Arlington Area

1. Anything Goes- Cute collegiate gifts, funky homewares, pretty jewelry- this Pantego shop has a wide variety of giftable items to choose from. 

2. Gracie Lane- This Cooper Street spot is actually a collection of shops that carry everything from clothes to dishes and candles to baby items. Support a variety of local vendors by shopping here!

3. Hank and Ellie- Hank and Ellie is another Pantego stop that features tons of fresh finds for every momma on your shopping list. Watch their Facebook page for specials and women's shopping nights.

4. Painted Tree Mansfield- Painted Tree is a spot where I've found lots of unique items. I bought a custom hall tree from this store, as well as multiple one-of-a-kind pictures to hang on my wall. I've also bought my fair share of clothing from here. I dare you to go in and NOT find something to buy!

5. Aria Grace Mansfield- Aria Grace is your spot if you've found an adorable shirt/bag/hat/etc. for Mom but want to go the extra mile and make it personal with embroidery or screenprinting! Add Mom's initials to a darling makeup bag or a fun hat for the beach this summer. Aria Grace also has tons of cute tshirts and trinkets in store. 

6. AndiMac Candy Shack- Got a mama with a sweet tooth (like this mama right here!)? Treat her to all kinds of sweet confections and delicious treats from AndiMac Candy Shack in downtown Mansfield. 

Does mom need a spa day? How about a gift card for a massage or other spa services at Sanford Inn & Spa? Or a gift certificate for a date night with her SO at Urban Alchemy for wine or coffee? 

Where are you shopping for treats for mom this Mother's Day?

Get Your Sweat On: Fun Spots to Workout in the Arlington Area!

I'm a runner.

Not a fast runner or a professional runner, but a runner. I love to log miles all over Arlington and beyond. I'm training for the Cowtown Half (I was *supposed* to run the full this year even though I swore I would never run another full... I think the Universe is sending me a message!), and I'm following Peloton's Road to 26.2 (and adapting it to the half). I love that the program integrates weight training into the plan.

But I've decided to look into other workout options in the area. I love to run- but I need to add weights. I realize that weight training will make me a stronger and better runner. So I've rounded up some awesome workouts in the Arlington area that offer more than just cardio and weight machines!

Check out my article for Zulily here about ways to workout at home! 

Great spots in Arlington, Texas, to get your heart pumping!

Unique Workouts in the Arlington Area

 1. TexasFitt- This local spot offers onsite childcare during select hours as well as classes and personal training. There are yoga classes, classes just for women and a few just for seniors, as well as a Butt & Gut class that is calling my name...

2. Momentum Fitness- Momentum offers private training as well as small group sessions and boot camps. Yoga is also offered onsite. 

3. CrossFit Power Method- CrossFit is one of those workouts that totally intimidates me. It looks downright tough and exhausting, but I can only imagine how accomplished you must feel at the end of a grueling workout! One of these days...

4. PureBarre- Barre workouts are low-impact but so powerful! I tried a class here when they first opened and fell in love. If I didn't live 30 minutes from this spot I would absolutely have a membership. This workout is intense! 

5. The Epic Grand Prairie- I wish I lived closer to The Epic- you'd find me there every day for sure! Group fit classes, CrossFit, Aquatic workouts. This spot offers something to all fitness levels and has something for everyone. I love swimming laps- being near a pool like this would be great!

6. Fit4Mom Arlington/Mansfield- If you are a mom of young kids, you need to join Fit4Mom. Not only will you meet a bunch of awesome moms (like you!), you'll get in a great workout WITH your kids! Seriously. I loved this group when I was the mom of little ones. Workout and socialize with your kids!

7. Camp Gladiator- CG is an outdoor workout with friends. Bring your own yoga mat and free weights and your trainer will whip you into shape with an hour-long bootcamp workout. 

8. OrangeTheory Fitness- This spot in the Highlands puts you through an hour of HIIT (high intensity interval training) to get your heart pumping and blood flowing. This workout is aimed at getting your metabolism going!

9. HotWorx- Workout in an infrared sauna 24 hours a day. Do a 15-minute HIIT session solo or a 30-minute isometric session at this new Viridian-area spot.

10. Premier Yoga & Fitness- This Mansfield spot offers everything from Zumba to barre and yoga to HIIT. You won't get bored with workouts at this spot because the schedule has such a variety of activities to choose from! 

Have fun and get fit at these local workout hot spots.

Everything Arlington's Easter Guide 2021

We are super excited for Easter 2021.

We figure it has to be better than Easter 2020, right? Maybe I shouldn't count my chickens before they are hatched...

Anyway, grab your planner and pick out all the fun things you want to do with your kiddos this Easter in the Arlington area.

And if you need advice on what to put in your kiddo's Easter Basket, check out my article about how to make the perfect Easter Basket for Zulily here!

Easter Bunny Photos from 2019 at Reunion Tower in Dallas.

Easter 2021 Activities in the Arlington Area

Dalworthington Gardens Private Easter Egg Hunt- if you live in DWG and have kids 10 and younger, find details here on getting the city to deliver eggs right to your yard! 

Easter Bunny Photos & Easter Egg Hunt at 287 Nutrition- March 27, 287 Nutrition, 9:30 am. 

Snap a photo with the bunny and stay for an egg hunt at 1 pm. 

Easter Egg Hunt & Family Fun Event at Grace Covenant Church- March 27, Grace Covenant Church, 1 pm.

Easter Egg hunt for the kids and a special activity for families. 

Glow in the Dark Easter Egg Hunt with North Elevation Church- April 2, North Elevation Church, 7 pm.

Games, food and prizes. Plus coffee for the parents! Don't forget your Easter basket. For kids in grade 6 and younger. 

All Saints Lutheran Church Easter Extravaganza- April 3, All Saints Lutheran Church, 10 am.

Bunny hop egg hunt in the parking lot plus a petting zoo on the lawn. 

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt by Trinity Children's Ministry- April 3, starts at Trinity UMC, 10 am.

Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt! Gather goodies from your car. You will drive around collecting clues that lead you to a prize. 

St. Barnabas UMC Easter Egg Hunt- April 3, St. Barnabas UMC, 10 am. 

Snap a photo with the Easter Bunny, and kids in grades six and under can participate in an egg hunt broken up by age.

Pantego Easter Celebration- April 3, Bicentennial Park, 2 pm. 

Craft tent, face painting, egg hunt, bunny photos and more!

Southeast Arlington Community Easter Egg Hunt- April 4, Vandergriff Park, 1 pm. 

Free Easter Egg Hunt. Hot dogs will be served and there will be prizes given away.

Looking for professional pictures with the Easter Bunny? 

Parks Mall has you covered! 

Drop-In Childcare and Babysitting Resources in Tarrant County

Sometimes Mom & Dad just need a break! Here are your best bets to find a sitter or drop-in play care in Tarrant County.

This one is 7 going on 17. She *thinks* she's old enough to be home alone, but we aren't quite there yet.

Good childcare can be hard to come by. Especially if you are new to the area or simply don't know anyone with older kids who can come watch the kids while you run errands or take a well-deserved break. 

I agonized for a long time, wondering when my kids were going to be old enough to leave home alone. While Texas doesn't have a law, per se, about the age at which you can leave a child home alone, there are opinions floating out there about an appropriate age (generally, its around 10 or 11). 

Read my full article for Zulily about when kids can stay home alone!

If you need time without the kids, you have options!

Babysitting Agencies that Serve Tarrant County

Want to hire a sitter or nanny to come to your home but you don't know where to start? Here are a few great resources!

Sitting Made Simple: Hire someone for a summer or for a single day. You have options here!

College Nannies & Sitters: If you are in north Tarrant County and need a night away, here is a great spot to find a trust sitter for your kids. 

Babysitters of Dallas: This service providers caregivers to fit all of your needs. 

Drop-in Playcare Spots in Tarrant County

If you need to run errands but don't want the kids with you but the kids need out of the house, too, then drop in playcare is for you! Think of playcare as dropping your kids at an indoor playground with childminders on site. They get to play and have fun and you get to be kid-free for a bit!

KidsPark Arlington: Drop your kids at this spot in the Highlands and then go catch a movie, grab a bite to eat, shop or just relax! Your kids will have so much fun they won't have time to miss you!

PlaySpace Fort Worth:  This Fort Worth spot is the perfect place for you to send the kids so you can shop at Kendra Scott, Lululemon, the Apple Store and more in University Park Village. Fun for them and fun for you!

Adventure Kids Playcare: With locations in Southlake and north Fort Worth, Adventure Kids in the place my kids beg to go. Our friends own the Flower Mound location, and my girls hang out their sometimes. I'll get a pedicure or shop at Market Street or Central Market and they are happy and crafting or playing. Now if they will just open an Arlington location...

Standing out side Adventure Kids in Southlake.

5 Fun Places to Camp Near DFW!

Looking for a fun weekend getaway in Texas? These 5 spots within a few hours' drive of DFW will let you relax and unwind!

My husband loves to camp. I... love to glamp! A few years ago, we spent a few nights in a yurt in Stone Mountain, Georgia, and it was actually a lot of fun. While I could have done without trekking back and forth to the communal bathroom, I did love the gorgeous yurt right on a small lake. I really have zero interest in popping up a tent and truly roughing it... But I suppose I could be convinced!

I put together an entire article on what to pack for camping for Zulily, so, I suppose to I should now, well, go camping! I've cabin camped several times at Possum Kingdom Lake with my Girl Scouts and love the lake there! I am more a hotel mama, though, so I asked around and did some research to come up with five awesome spots to camp that aren't too far for a quick weekend getaway.

Fishing at Possum Kingdom Lake

Weekend Camping Getaways

Mineral Wells State Park: 

This spot is only about an hour straight west of Arlington, making it ideal for a quick weekend trip. Here you can rock climb, geocache, fish, swim (there are no lifeguards), bike, hike and more. You can stay at a screened shelter or rent a campsite and bring your own tent. 

Daingerfield State Park:

Located near Texarkana, a little less than three hours from Arlington, this state park has an 80-acre lake you can explore by boat- bring your own or rent one there. Go geocaching or fishing, and enjoy karaoke at the main pavilion on some weekend nights. There are historic cabins for rent and plenty of East Texas fun to be had!

Colorado Bend State Park:

This gorgeous park keeps showing up in my Instagram feed by Texas influencers, and for good reason! You can go on cave tours, check out Gorman Falls, cool off in the Colorado River, and bike or hike as much as you like. This spot is a little more than three hours southwest of Arlington.

Inks Lake State Park:

Inks Lake State Park is about three hours from Arlington, not far from Killeen, Texas. It offers a swimming hole called Devil's Waterhole and has a small canyon for hiking. There are nearly 200 campsites available and some cabins, as well. This spot offers some playgrounds for kids as well as volleyball, paddle boats and more.

Krause Springs: 

Krause Springs, in Spicewood, Texas, is another gorgeous spot near Austin that keeps showing up on my Instagram feed. This 115-acre area is privately owned and boasts 32 springs. There are swimming holes (both natural and manmade) and a butterfly garden. There ae RV spots and camping spots. This is truly a spot where you can unwind and connect with nature. 

Where are your favorite spots to camp in Texas?

Further proof that I have camped!

Spring Break 2021: The Ultimate Guide to Spring Break in DFW!

It's been a year. 

Spring Break 2021 is less than a week away, and my kids are ready for FUN!

While this Spring Break might not look like Spring Breaks in years past, there is still lots of fun to be found all over the Metroplex for adventure seekers! Whether you want to stay in Tarrant County or venture to Dallas and Collin Counties, I've got a list of activities for you that will keep your kids happy and entertained (and out from under foot!). 

If you are traveling for Spring Break, head over to Zulily to check out my article on packing tips! 

Spring Break 2021 in DFW- Must Visit Spots

Play Street Museum (multiple locations: try Fort Worth, Keller or Irving for close options!):

This spot is great indoor fun for littles. Let them learn, explore and play in a safe environment. Be sure to check the website for operational hours at each location. EA recommends this spot for ages 6 and younger.

Sweet & Sassy Southlake: 

Your girly girls (and tomboys!) will thank you for making a trip to this sweet spot. Girls can get manicures, pedicures, haircuts and more at this hot makeover spot. Check out their camp offerings. My girls can't get enough of this place! EA recommends this spot for ages 12 and younger. (Bonus: it's across the street from Central Market and Yogurtland!)

Epic Waters: 

Get your swim on at this indoor waterpark. Littles can play in the splash area and older kids can try out the awesome (and slightly terrifying!) slides that will leave them breathless. Enjoy the lazy river and try out the indoor surf challenge. EA recommends this spot for all ages, but book online before you go to guarantee your spot!

Main Event Grand Prairie: 

Your one-shop stop for fun, this place has something for everyone. Grab lunch or dinner, go bowling, play arcade games, play on the sky course, try out the virtual reality gear. Main Event will entertain your kids for ages. Although this spot is fun for all ages, some activities have height restrictions. EA recommends if for all ages but especially for ages 6 and up.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!: 

If you've never been to Ripley's, be prepared to be weirded out. Tons of unusual artifacts and interesting exhibits will enchant (and possibly nauseate) guests. I loved this place as a kid! As an adult, well, the jury is still out. EA recommends this spot for ages 7 and older. 

Crayola Experience Plano

Kids will love this colorful place to play and create. Mold melted wax into fun shapes, make a crayon with your name on it, create colorful works of art and so much more. EA recommends this spot for ages 10 and younger. 

Peppa Pig World of Play Grapevine 

Y'all, this is truly the spot I wish had opened so many years before it did. I love Peppa Pig. I love everything about Peppa Pig. And the World of Play at Grapevine Mills is absolutely charming and so fun for little kids. It's a safe, bright area for young ones to explore and learn. I can't say enough good things about this spot, even if you don't have Peppa fans at home (although try to not fall in love with Peppa after you visit here- I dare you!). EA recommends this spot for ages 6 and younger.

Dallas Zoo & Fort Worth Zoo: 

I often see people post online and ask which zoo they should visit or buy a membership to, Dallas or Fort Worth. I think both zoos offer so much to visitors and you can't go wrong either way. Cost is similar between the zoos and the drive time is about the same, as well. Here are pros and cons of both, from the EA mama:

Dallas: 

Pros: childrens' play area features a water play zone my kids can spend hours at, large open area in the middle of the zoo allows kids to run and play, plenty of space for a picnic.

Cons: on busy days, parking can be a nightmare.

Fort Worth:

Pros: lots of parking spaces/easy parking, indoor climbing structure for kids (although this is currently closed for construction, keep watching the website for details), fun swamp bridge for kids to run across.

Cons: Safari Splash is a fun splash park located in the zoo but it costs extra, even for members. Currently no real area for kids to roam and play.

EA's thoughts: Dallas if you want to kick back while the kids play, Fort Worth if you really want to engage with the animals. Make sure to buy tickets in advance online! 

Scheels The Colony:

Guys. It is killing me that we haven't visited this sporting goods store yet because I like to be first for everything- so someone go and tell me how it is! Ride the indoor Ferris Wheel for $1 per person, play a few arcade games, grab some coffee or candy, check out the aquarium and more! The Ferris Wheel alone would make it worth the drive for the EA crew!

Other ah-mazing spots to check out (there are just SO many here in DFW!): KidMania Fort Worth, KidZania Frisco, SeaLife Grapevine, SeaQuest Fort Worth, Legoland Grapevine, The Happy Lark Fort Worth, Celebrations Fort Worth, All Star Ninjas Mansfield, PlayStudio Fort Worth. 

Free Spring Break Fun (The BEST Parks in the Metroplex)

Looking for somewhere to take the kids to keep them entertained during Spring Break but want to go easy on your wallet? Try these fun spots to burn off some steam without breaking the bank!

PlayGrand Adventures Grand Prairie: 

This all-abilities playground will keep your little happy and occupied for hours! It just reopened March 1, so get head outside and enjoy this park!

Dream Park Fort Worth: 

This park is located right along the Trinity in Fort Worth and is sure to entertain kids of all ages. Plus, it has a fence around it so kids can't escape! This spot has so many fun features kids will beg to stay as long as you'll let them!

Bicentennial Park Southlake: 

This park has a zipline, large climbing structure and plenty of seating for parents. When the weather warms up, there is a splash pad in the center of the park that allows kids to cool off while playing. This spot is so fun your kids will want to stay for hours. 

What did I miss? Happy Spring Break, guys! 

Lone Star Park National Anthem Auditions To Be Held Tuesday, March 23

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas (Tuesday, March 2, 2021) -- Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie will hold its annual National Anthem auditions on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Auditions will be held outdoors (weather permitting). Soloists, duets, choirs, instrumentalists and groups are all invited to audition.

Anyone interested must audition in person (no exceptions) in order to perform the National Anthem during Lone Star Park’s 2021 Thoroughbred Season, which begins April 22 and continues through July 11. All auditions will be walk-up only (no reservations).

Auditions will be held in Lone Star Park winner’s circle and each performer will be recorded and shown on the track’s infield Daktronics screen. Also, as a reminder, expect to hear a half second delay in the sound system during your performance.

Hopefuls must perform the “The Star-Spangled Banner” – a cappella in two minutes or less. You must memorize the lyrics before the audition. Recorded performances will be reviewed and judged by Lone Star Park officials on a later date.

All participants will be notified via email by April 15, 2021 whether or not they were chosen to perform. If you are chosen to perform, the date and information will be included in your email notification. Each person selected to perform will receive four (4) reserved seats on their performance date.  

Lone Star Park is located one half-mile north on Belt Line Road off Interstate 30 at 1000 Lone Star Parkway in Grand Prairie – 12 miles west of Dallas and 20 miles east of Fort Worth.