Practical itineraries for meaningful family adventures

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Hi! I’m Dana. For the past 20 years, the titles on my business card have included Event Planner, Park Planner, and Urban Planner. But the planning I love most doesn’t happen at work – it’s planning memorable trips for my family and friends.

If you enjoy discovering thoughtfully planned itineraries that make travel easier and more meaningful, I hope you’ll subscribe and follow along as I share our favorite adventures.

My passion for trip planning really took off after the pandemic, when we were simply eager to get out of the house and explore. We discovered that some of our best family memories didn’t come from expensive vacations. They came from scenic drives, time outdoors, putting our screens away, and saying yes to new experiences close to home.

As our travels expanded to school breaks and longer adventures, I found myself drawn to destinations that balance nature, local culture, and a sense of discovery. Whether it’s witnessing the incredible sandhill crane migration in Nebraska, hiking among the red rock formations of Utah, or listening to a bluegrass band on a summer evening in Virginia, I’ve learned that unforgettable experiences don’t have to come with a luxury price tag or a long flight.

Every itinerary I create is designed to spend time making memories together. My goal is to share practical, well-paced trips that inspire you to explore, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

We’re based in Alexandria, Virginia, so many of the itineraries you’ll find here are designed for families traveling from the Mid-Atlantic. Our destinations are also inspired by my personal goal of visiting all 50 states before I turn 50. I’m getting close (both in age and in adding pins to my map) and I can’t wait to share what we discover along the way.