Popular destinations
Older children appreciate educational trips to places their friends have talked about or they have studied in school. One of our favorite getaways was to Williamsburg and Washington DC over spring break with our granddaughter, Dana, when she was 12. Williamsburg is lovely and historic. Passes can be purchased for all the sites along the walking tour: blacksmith, silversmith, newspaper, Governor’s palace, and also for the historic reenactments, with truly believable portrayals of Martha Washington, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Jefferson. Tickets can also be arranged ahead on the Internet for a simulated witch trial in the old courthouse. When we went, Dana served on the jury. Also on the Internet, reservations can be made ahead for restaurants where waitresses and entertainers dress in colonial costume. As a lovely young lady, Dana was a delight to dine out with, especially when it ended with a gooey chocolate dessert.

Karen Russo is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer who travels often with her five grandchildren.