24 Hours in Northern Kentucky | Family Travel

This summer, the girls and I returned to my home turf in Northern Kentucky for a little R&R. My childhood memories are chock full of moments at the farm, shaping my early years. I remember always being surrounded by family, always having places to roam, and never being plugged into a device. It wasn't until I was a tween that we even got central heat and air at my family's old farm house. These days, technology has caught up with the times, and the old farm house has gone to ruins. That sweet summer sunset still glows amber over the field of hay on the family farm though, and as long as it's possible, my girls will have the chance to taste the country summer. 

Northern Kentucky slides right up against Ohio, and Indiana creating a convenient tri-state area. Within a few hours drive there is plenty to get into. Here are a few adventures we sought out within 24 Hours in Kentucky.

Newport Aquarium
Newport, Kentucky

Where the Ohio and Licking rivers meet, sits Newport on the Levee, a development of restaurants and attractions. Transforming what was once a stoic industrial town into a hot spot for dining and entertainment, Newport on the Levee is home to the Newport Aquarium. During our visit we were treated to a behind the scenes tour of the Aquarium, learning everything there is to know about how they breed, feed, and introduce new species into the tanks. The icing on the cake was getting up close and personal with several of their penguins. During our penguin encounter we learned about their natural habitat, and the threats they face in the world today. We were entertained by their sassy personalities as their handlers showed us how to gently pet them with a non threatening two finger approach. After our encounter we explored the rest of the aquarium, observing sharks, seahorses, and (my favorite) jellyfish. The Newport Aquarium is the perfect day trip escape. You could spend all day enjoying the galleries, or walk around the Levee trying the multiple dining options, seeing a movie or gazing at the Cincinnati skyline. However you choose to spend your time, make sure to visit the Aquarium, it's a "must see".

The Newport Aquarium is a "Must See" attraction in Northern Kentucky

Enjoy a behind the scenes encounter with a few of the Aquariums famous penguins. 

Behind the scenses at the Newport Aquarium

Tom + Chee
Newport, Kentucky
(at Newport on the Levee)

Tom + Chee has attained local celebrity status. As seen on ABC's Shark Tank, it's easy to see why it's become such a phenomenon. Top quality ingredients come together to create one of childhood's most coveted comfort foods. Grilled cheese and tomato soup have never tasted so good. Try one of their multiple varieties of grilled cheese. You can even order half sandwiches and try one of each! I ordered several that piqued my interest but none compared to the Grilled Cheese Donut. It will literally change your life. 

The Grilled Cheese Donut will change your life

Tom + Chee a location right at Newport on the Levee just across from the Aquarium, but you will find them all throughout the region as well. 

Brianza Gardens and Winery 
Crittenden, Kentucky

Most of us have heard of Kentucky's famous Bourbon Trail, but did you know that now you can also follow the Kentucky Wine Trail? That's right, vineyards have been popping up in the tri state area for the last decade and the fruit has never tasted sweeter. We stopped at Brianza Gardens and Winery during our trip and enjoyed a tasty array of sweet and dry vintages. The Gardens are a stunning location for weddings and other events, and the site is also home to a Bed & Breakfast. Make sure to mark Brianza Gardens and Winery on your map and taste the Kentucky harvest. 

Photo by Crystal Pomer

Photo by Crystal Pomer

Kentucky is full of treasures for those on the hunt for new discoveries. Explore places untouched by time, little college towns full of hipsters, rural wonderlands, and urban cityscapes. One visit will have you rethinking everything you've ever heard about the blue grass state. I can't wait for you to experience for yourself my home state. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

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Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Marineland Dolphin Adventure | Swim With the Dolphins

On the southern stretch of St. Augustine's shoreline lies one of the historic coast's most iconic destinations. Marineland is steeped in nostalgia and cinematic lore, and it's Dolphin Adventures provide an intimate getaway for ocean lovers both young and old to experience the beauty and majesty of one of natures most intelligent creatures. The first Oceanarium to ever be built, I was surprised to learn that Marineland was the first place to both breed and train dolphins. Our family learned all this and more on our recent visit to this legendary destination.  

From Cinema to Conservation 

As the first Oceanarium of it's kind Marineland was originally conceived as an underwater movie studio named Marine Studios where camera men were able to capture revolutionary new footage of elusive marine life on film. It was the first place multiple species were placed in the same tank to coexist together. During our visit we learned that although the concept of Marineland was designed for filming, the purpose ultimately changed to one of education and conservation. For the first time the public saw ocean life up close and had the chance to gain knowledge on how to help protect them in the wild. 

Revenge of the Creature had scenes filmed at Marineland. This was one of several films shot on site. 

Evolving Through Time

Marineland originally opened in the 1930s and experienced a large public following for many decades. As time and technology advanced the programming at Marineland began turning towards a new era in it's existence. During an active hurricane season in the early 2000s, Marineland made the decision to close down temporarily, rebuild it's facility and restart it's dolphin program as one based more upon education and interactive experiences rather than dolphin shows. 

Today visitors can get up close and personal with the 14 Atlantic Bottle Nose dolphins that call Marineland home through a variety of experiences. Our family enjoyed the popular Touch and Feed experience where we got to feed and pet one of the gentle dolphins residing in the 1.3 million gallon facility. Guests could also be seen swimming with the dolphins in a total immersion program (totally envy worthy), as well as touring behind the scenes through historic memorabilia and Marineland's private aquarium collection. 

The Touch and Feed program allows guests to experience a dolphin up close and personal. 

During our visit we were able to connect with one of Marineland's dolphins in a magical moment we will always remember. 

The Future is Bright

The future is bright for Marineland as it's new mission is attracting young and old alike. In addition the Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta's famous downtown aquarium) acquired Marineland in 2011 ensuring future development and a larger network of support. Projects like Neptune park which houses their breeding tank of rare sharks, as well as several sea turtle tanks, will now continue to see future growth as an additional attraction on the grounds. 

After 20 plus years of living in North Florida I can't believe I had never visited Marineland. Our visit to this iconic destination was as eye opening as it was inspiring. We can't wait to return and swim with the dolphins next time!

Until then...

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Tips:

• Marineland is entirely outdoors. Plan for weather accordingly. It was a warm day when we went and I was grateful we scheduled our activities earlier in the day. 

• The facility is wheelchair and stroller friendly. 

• General admission gets you in to see the dolphins and Neptune Park where the sea turtle tanks and shark tanks are housed. More interactive experiences are available at a variety of price points. 
• Children must be over the age of 3 to participate in the touch and feed program.

* Special thanks to Marineland's Terran McGinnis for the hours she spent educating us on Mainland's rich history and present day efforts. 

We were guests of Marineland, however all opinions on the blog are completely my own.
Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © 201620162016 Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.