August 2-14, 2021
OK, so our son JJ loves roller coasters and Joe and I love to travel. We decided to celebrate J's completion of his Arkansas real estate license and take a family road trip - with something for everyone!
J and I planned out a 2500 mile trip, visiting 9 states and 6 amusement parks - staying in 9 hotels/motels for a total of 12 nights and 13 glorious days!
In planning this trip we kept several goals in mind:
Driving time 3-4 hours daily maximum
Stay 2 nights at same hotel 3 times to spend more time in special places and spend less time packing and unpacking the car - which sucks!
We figured out how J could do more parks while we were sightseeing and /or napping!
We booked all hotel/motels in advance but paid the small extra charge to allow cancellation without penalty - you never know!
We checked on park hours, closures etc. in advance and booked on line discounts/friends and family tickets and thoroughly checked into what J could get for free with his seasonal pass from Cedar Fair such as parking - that really adds up. Dollywood was closed the day we planned to go - so we rerouted and made the correction before we left home.
We each researched what we would like to see and do in the cities we were visiting as well as along the way.
Weather happens so we enjoy it! - period!
If you want to or need to stop - say so! It is as important to stop and smell the roses or take a picture or pee as it is to leave home in the first place. Chill and enjoy - who knows if you will ever pass this way again!!!
Hope you enjoy taking this trip with our family as much as we did taking it and will enjoy reliving it through our posts!
THE DAWSONS
Monday, August 2
We got an early start - grabbing our pillows, toothbrushes and chargers - checking the lights, trash, a/c settings etc...one last time-and enjoyed the 4 hour drive to St. Louis, Missouri. We went directly to Six Flags and got the trip off right!!!
We stayed right downtown at the Hilton with a view of the Arch. The splurge was absolutely worth it - great location for an evening walk over to see the Arch, the great Mississippi and to meet Grayson, JJ's best childhood friend, the next morning for breakfast and a walk while we caught up. Gray just took his bar exam and we are so proud of him!
There was a lot of construction going on downtown - seems to be a theme in large inner cities we visit since the pandemic started. We did, however, feel safe and welcome and would certainly go back to spend more time!
Gabi
