Tips for Traveling with Kids

Tanglewood Hideaway partners with different affiliate platforms to generate commissions. When you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. It’s just one way you can support my small business. I am also a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and may earn from qualifying purchases made there. You can see my Privacy Policy for more information.

Notes from Tanglewood Hideaway: Brown County Highlights – This is a weekly email I send sharing things to do, local updates, and ideas for everyday life in Brown County. 👉 [Join the newsletter here]

Sunset over rolling hills in Brown County with silhouetted trees and glowing clouds. Text reads Notes from Tanglewood Hideaway Brown County Highlights.

We could’ve just stayed in the driveway… And a reminder that kids will keep you on your toes.

One summer when my kids were little—about 1.5 and 3.5 years old—we went camping with my parents in Wisconsin. It was a solid 5.5-hour drive from where we lived at the time (which, let’s be real, probably took a whole lot longer with two toddlers in the car).

While we were there, we did all the things. They splashed in the lake, ate too much ice cream, went to a circus…it was everything you’d want in a classic summer getaway.

So when we got home, I asked them, “What was your favorite part?”

And you want to know what they said?

Eating Cheetos Puffs and watching their tablets in my parents’ RV.

Of course. 😂

At first, I was like—SERIOUSLY? We could’ve just parked the RV in our driveway and saved ourselves the entire road trip! But then I remembered: That’s just how kids are, and they’ll always surprise you.

And the good news? We still had fun making memories as a family and now I never forget that traveling with kids doesn’t have to be complicated for them to enjoy it.

That’s exactly why I love recommending Brown County for family trips. There’s plenty to do to keep everyone entertained, but it’s all pretty simple—no over-the-top planning required.

Kids are just as happy wandering the nooks and crannies of downtown Nashville as they are doing a big, planned activity. Add in a little adventure—stop into one of the magic shops, walk the Salt Creek Trail, grab an ice cream and hop on the trolley—and you’ve already got a day full of magic.

Want a few other easy ways to make a trip to Brown County extra fun with kids?

✨ Make exploring into a game. My Nashville Scavenger Hunt (which you can grab for free here!) is a great way to keep kids engaged while walking through town.

🎨 Get creative. Stop by Our Little World Studio for a hands-on art project where kids can make their own candles, paint pottery, or create a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

🚂 Hop on the Nashville Express. This open-air trolley is a huge hit with little ones and a fun way to see the town while giving everyone’s legs a break (Seasonal and weather dependent).

🎲 Pack a travel-friendly game to play while waiting for dinner (or at the cabin in the evenings). Check out all my kid’s travel essentials and favorite travel games here.

🔥 Upgrade your s’mores. Swap classic chocolate for Reese’s cups or use fudge round cookies instead of graham crackers—instant gourmet s’mores with zero effort.

That’s just the start. There’s so much more to explore in Brown County, and I rounded up my top family-friendly recommendations in this post.

If you’re planning a Spring Break trip (or just looking for a simple weekend getaway), Brown County is an easy, driveable destination filled with relaxed, family-friendly fun.

Happy trip planning! And if you’ve ever had a moment like my Cheetos + tablet one, hit reply and tell me—because I know I’m not alone in this. 😆

And remember, you don’t have to go far to get away.

Kara

P.S. If you’re still looking for somewhere for Spring Break, Brown County is a great option!

March and April availability is still open at the Barn Burner, including individual unit rentals if you’re not traveling with a big group.

Looking for something else? Some other great family cabins with upcoming availability include:

Blessings Farmhouse – Indoor playground + game room = instant kid-approved fun
Goat Conspiracy Cabin – Stay on a working goat farm! Kids (and adults) LOVE it
8 Does A Dancin’ – Cozy wooded retreat on 23 private acres with a game room and hot tub.
Abe Martin Lodge – Located inside Brown County State Park + access to their indoor water park!
Plus a list of even more of the best family-friendly cabins here.

Oh, and one more thing: March events are picking up in Brown County, including the return of weekend magic shows at Denny’s Magic Showroom 🎩✨ and more! Check out the full March Events Calendar here.