{"id":98889069,"date":"2017-03-31T13:27:10","date_gmt":"2017-03-31T17:27:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/?p=98889069"},"modified":"2024-04-04T14:58:40","modified_gmt":"2024-04-04T18:58:40","slug":"relive-your-childhood-with-these-10-trips-that-arent-disneyland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/relive-your-childhood-with-these-10-trips-that-arent-disneyland\/","title":{"rendered":"Be a Kid Again! Relive Your Childhood With These Nostalgic Trips"},"content":{"rendered":"

Navigating the complexities of adulthood (aka “adulting”) is hard sometimes. It often means embracing responsibilities, schedules, and the myriad challenges that come with them. Yet, amidst the bustle of grown-up life, the spirit of childhood never truly fades away. Across the globe, there are magical, whimsical destinations that beckon to grown-ups, parents, and grandparents alike, inviting them to step through a portal back to their days of youth.<\/p>\n

From the nostalgia of classic amusement parks and the awe-inspiring beauty of natural wonders to the immersive worlds created by beloved stories and characters, our selection of destinations is about more than just revisiting childhood memories. It’s about reigniting that spark of imagination and excitement that makes every experience richer and every moment more meaningful.<\/p>\n

The Strong National Museum of Play — Rochester, New York<\/h2>\n
\"Museum

Museum of Play, Rochester, New York<\/a> by picryl\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

The Strong National Museum of Play<\/a>, located in Rochester<\/a>, New York, USA, is an interactive homage to the universal experience of play. The museum houses the world’s most extensive collection of toys, dolls, board games, and electronic games, and offers a journey through the cultural and historical contexts of play. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to engage directly with exhibits, rekindling the sheer joy and curiosity of childhood exploration.<\/p>\n

Beyond mere entertainment, the museum provides a hands-on exploration of the evolution of play and its integral role in human development and creativity. Each exhibit, from classic board games to the latest in virtual reality, serves as a testament to the myriad ways play shapes our lives. It’s an interactive experience designed to inspire and delight, proving that play knows no age limit.<\/p>\n

Dinosaur Provincial Park — Alberta, Canada<\/h2>\n
\"Bones

Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Dinosaur Provincial Park<\/a> in Alberta, Canada<\/a>, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its significant contributions to paleontology. It’s one of the planet’s most abundant sources of dinosaur fossils. And what kid — or former kid — doesn’t love dinosaurs? This park captivates not just with its scientific value but with the raw beauty of its badlands landscape, which has remained relatively unchanged since the time dinosaurs roamed its grounds.<\/p>\n

Visitors receive rare opportunity to engage directly with the park’s prehistoric legacy through guided tours and hands-on fossil digs. These activities are not only educational but deeply immersive, allowing guests to touch the very fabric of Earth’s distant past. For anyone who grew up with a fascination for dinosaurs, the park offers a tangible connection to those childhood dreams of discovery and exploration.<\/p>\n

Anne of Green Gables Museum — Prince Edward Island, Canada<\/h2>\n
\"Anne

Anne of Green Gables Museum, Prince Edward Island, Canada<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

The Anne of Green Gables Museum<\/a> in Prince Edward Island, Canada, offers a tangible connection to the world immortalized by L.M. Montgomery’s cherished novel. Set against the picturesque landscape that inspired the setting of Anne Shirley’s adventures, this museum invites visitors into the very heart of Avonlea.<\/p>\n

Walking through Green Gables, the historic site itself, guests can step directly into the pages of Montgomery’s narrative, exploring the rooms where Anne’s vivid imagination turned ordinary life into extraordinary tales. The museum also offers insight into the Montgomery’s life and the era that shaped both her and her characters. With walking trails echoing the paths Anne might have roamed in her quest for kindred spirits, the experience is both reflective and immersive.<\/p>\n

Ghibli Museum & Hibli Park — Japan<\/h2>\n
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Ghibli Museum<\/a> by Oliver Bruchez<\/a> licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

In Japan<\/a>, two remarkable destinations celebrate the legacy of Studio Ghibli, renowned for its captivating animated films, like My Neighbor Totoro<\/em> and Spirited Away<\/em>. The Ghibli Museum<\/a>, located in Tokyo, serves as a gateway into the whimsical worlds created by the studio. It is designed to embody the essence of Ghibli’s storytelling, featuring life-sized characters and interactive exhibits that invite visitors to engage directly with their favorite stories. This museum showcases the art and animation of Ghibli films and rekindles the sense of wonder and imagination inherent in the studio’s creations.<\/p>\n

About 200 miles to the west, in Nagakute, the newly inaugurated Ghibli Park<\/a> offers a complementary yet distinct experience. Here, guests can literally step into the settings of their beloved Ghibli films. The park meticulously recreates scenes and environments from the studio’s oeuvre, providing an unparalleled immersive experience. Visitors can wander through the fantastical landscapes and buildings, each corner and pathway revealing another layer of storytelling magic crafted by Hayao Miyazaki and his team.<\/p>\n

Ben & Jerry\u2019s Ice Cream\u00a0Factory<\/h2>\n
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Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, Waterbury, Vermont<\/a> by Watts<\/a> licensed under CC BY 2.0 DEED<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

When you were a kid, did you have an obsession with ice cream? Silly question: Who didn’t? The Ben & Jerry’s<\/a>, located in Waterbury, Vermont, is a dream destination for ice cream lovers of all ages. This factory isn’t just any ice cream production facility; it’s the original site where Ben & Jerry’s began its journey into creating innovative and delightful flavors.<\/p>\n

Visitors can witness the ice cream-making process up close — from the mixing of fresh ingredients to the freezing and packaging stages — culminating in the excitement of tasting the final product. What sets this experience apart are the exclusive flavors available only at this location, offering a taste of creativity that can’t be found elsewhere. At the end of the tour, guests are invited to indulge in free samples, trying out a range of flavors until they find their perfect match. For those whose sweet tooth remains ever eager, the Ben & Jerry\u2019s Factory Tour is an unforgettable adventure.<\/p>\n

Asterix Park — Plailly, France<\/h2>\n
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Parc Asterix<\/a> by dolanh<\/a> licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Nestled in Plailly, France, about 30 miles outside Paris<\/a>, Asterix Park<\/a> is a theme park that brings to life the vibrant world of the beloved French comic book series “Asterix.” Known for its humorous take on the life of Gauls and their interactions with Roman invaders, the park encapsulates the spirit of these tales through a mix of historical intrigue and playful adventure.<\/p>\n

The park features attractions and rides inspired by the adventures of Asterix, Obelix, and their fellow villagers, blending fast-paced excitement with the series’ trademark wit. From roller coasters that twist and turn through ancient landscapes to live shows that bring the characters’ antics to life, Asterix Park reflects the enduring appeal of these stories.<\/p>\n

The Georgia Aquarium<\/h2>\n

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The Georgia Aquarium<\/a>, situated in the heart of Atlanta<\/a>, Georgia, holds the title as the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, offering visitors an unparalleled window into the vast and varied underwater world. Home to tens of thousands of animals across hundreds of species, this aquatic wonderland brings the ocean’s mysteries to life for its guests.<\/p>\n

The aquarium features engaging sea lion shows that evoke the nostalgia of a first visit to the marina. It’s also one of the rare places where you can observe whale sharks in captivity. Alongside these gentle giants, the aquarium houses playful dolphins and graceful beluga whales, not to mention a wide array of interactive tanks, which allow guests to touch and interact with sturdy marine creatures, fostering a direct connection with the aquatic world.<\/p>\n

You May Also Like: Find Your Adventure! The Best Places to Travel in Your 20s<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Legoland — Billund, Denmark<\/h2>\n
\"Legoland

Legoland Billund<\/a> by bobbsled<\/a> licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Legoland in Billund, Denmark, holds the distinction of being the original park of its kind, situated in the very birthplace of the LEGO brand. This park is a vivid tableau crafted from millions of LEGO bricks, offering a kaleidoscope of color and creativity that captivates visitors of all ages. It’s a place where imagination takes physical form, ranging from miniature cities that buzz with intricate details to life-sized sculptures that defy expectations.<\/p>\n

The park also features attractions and rides, themed around the iconic LEGO sets, offering interactive experiences that blend adventure with the tactile joy of building. For adults, a visit to Legoland can be a trip back to childhood, when the simplest of bricks could build worlds.<\/p>\n

FAQs:\u00a0<\/em><\/h2>\n

Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance for these attractions?<\/strong>
\nA: Yes, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance for all attractions mentioned. This ensures entry on your preferred date and often allows you to skip long lines at ticket counters.<\/p>\n

Q: Are there any age restrictions for the attractions?<\/strong>
\nA: Some attractions, particularly rides at theme parks, may have age or height restrictions for safety reasons. It’s best to check the specific requirements of each attraction beforehand.<\/p>\n

Q: Can I find accommodation near these attractions?<\/strong>
\nA: Yes, most of these destinations have a range of accommodation options nearby, from hotels to themed resorts, ensuring you stay close to the action.<\/p>\n

Q: What is the best time of year to visit these attractions?<\/strong>
\nA: While most attractions are open year-round, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds compared to the peak summer months.<\/p>\n

Q: Are there facilities for visitors with disabilities?<\/strong>
\nA: Most attractions are equipped with facilities for visitors with disabilities, including accessible pathways, restrooms, and sometimes even free entry for caretakers. It’s advised to check directly with the attraction for specific accommodations.<\/p>\n

Q: Is there food available at these attractions?<\/strong>
\nA: Yes, you’ll find a variety of dining options within these attractions, ranging from quick snacks to full-service restaurants, often themed around the attraction itself.<\/p>\n

Q: What are the parking facilities like at these destinations?<\/strong>
\nA: Most attractions offer on-site parking. While some may offer free parking, others might charge a fee. It’s recommended to check the parking details and fees on the attraction’s official website before your visit.<\/p>\n

Did we miss your favorite place for childhood nostalgia? Is there a special place where you like to go and play pretend? Let us know what it is in the comments below!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Navigating the complexities of adulthood (aka “adulting”) is hard sometimes. It often means embracing responsibilities, schedules, and the myriad challenges that come with them. Yet, amidst the bustle of grown-up life, the spirit of childhood never truly fades away. Across the globe, there are magical, whimsical destinations that beckon to grown-ups, parents, and grandparents alike, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":26,"featured_media":98918160,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[141],"tags":[919,1357,1356],"class_list":["post-98889069","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-inspiration","tag-authentic-travel","tag-relive-your-childhood","tag-travel-inspiration"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98889069","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/26"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=98889069"}],"version-history":[{"count":39,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98889069\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":98918168,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98889069\/revisions\/98918168"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/98918160"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=98889069"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=98889069"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onetravel.com\/going-places\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=98889069"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}