Ready Set Depart

Episode 38: San Juan Island: Orcas, Ferries, and the Pig War

Do you want to hear the story of how a pig almost started a war between the United States and Great Britain? This week, we’re heading to San Juan Island in Washington State to talk about ferries, whale watching, lavender fields, beachcombing, and the famous Pig War. In this episode, I’m sharing everything your family needs to know to plan a trip to one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific Northwest, including where to stay, what to do, how to spot orcas, and why the ferry ride is part of the adventure. If your family loves wildlife, history, tide pools, and slow-paced outdoor adventure, San Juan Island might just become one of your favorite family travel destinations.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2103369/support] Follow us on: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/readysetdepartpodcast?igsh=b3kyNTg5dGpnbm5m] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ready.set.depart] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/readysetdepart/]

Episode 37: Chincoteague Island: Wild Ponies and Coastal Magic on Virginia’s Eastern Shore

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing wild ponies running along the coast, this episode is for you. Today, we’re heading to Chincoteague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to talk about boat tours, beaches, wildlife, lighthouses, and of course, the world famous Chincoteague ponies that inspired Misty of Chincoteague. We share the best ways to see the ponies, family-friendly hikes in the Refuge, where to stay, what surprised us most about the beaches, and why this quiet island makes such a fun long weekend getaway for families. Plus, we’ll talk Junior Ranger programs, ice cream worth waiting in line for, and the one travel mistake we learned the hard way so you don’t have to.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2103369/support] Follow us on: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/readysetdepartpodcast?igsh=b3kyNTg5dGpnbm5m] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ready.set.depart] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/readysetdepart/]

Episode 36: Star Wars Nite at Disneyland: 10 Tips to Make the Most of Disney After Dark

If Star Wars Nite at Disneyland has been on your radar, this is the episode that will help you decide if it’s worth it… and how to make the most of it. We’re breaking down what Disney After Dark events are really like, from late-night park access and shorter ride lines to exclusive food, merch, and experiences you won’t find during the day. You’ll get our top 10 tips, including when to arrive, what to wear, how to plan your food orders, and why costumes can make or break your night. We’re also sharing what surprised us most after going multiple times and who this event is best suited for (especially when you’re traveling with kids). If you’re thinking about going, this will help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy every minute. Sound Effect by freesound_community [https://pixabay.com/users/freesound_community-46691455/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=94210] from Pixabay [https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=94210] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2103369/support] Follow us on: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/readysetdepartpodcast?igsh=b3kyNTg5dGpnbm5m] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ready.set.depart] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/readysetdepart/]

Episode 35: Lassen Volcanic National Park: Things to Do, Travel Tips, and Visiting with Kids

Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California is one of the most underrated national parks and in this episode, I’m sharing why it’s such a great destination for families. Located near Redding, this Park offers geothermal features similar to Yellowstone, but with far fewer crowds and a more manageable size for kids. I walk you through how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do, including scenic pull-offs, easy hikes like Devastation Trail, and must-see spots like Sulphur Works. I also share practical travel tips, from preparing kids for hydrothermal areas to making the most of the Junior Ranger program. If you’re looking for a family-friendly National Park that’s beautiful, unique, and off the beaten path, Lassen should be on your list. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2103369/support] Follow us on: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/readysetdepartpodcast?igsh=b3kyNTg5dGpnbm5m] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ready.set.depart] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/readysetdepart/]

Episode 34: Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC: Peak Bloom vs Festival + Tips for Visiting with Kids

You’ve probably heard people say they want to see the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, but did you know that visiting during the National Cherry Blossom Festival doesn’t always mean you’ll actually see the blooms? In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between peak bloom and the festival so you can plan your trip at the right time. I’ll walk you through when to go, where to stay, how to get around with kids, and what a realistic day might look like. Plus, I’m sharing what to do if you miss peak bloom (because your trip can still be amazing). If a spring trip to DC is on your list, this episode will help you feel prepared and excited to go. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2103369/support] Follow us on: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/readysetdepartpodcast?igsh=b3kyNTg5dGpnbm5m] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ready.set.depart] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/readysetdepart/]