This charming old-fashioned amusement park, Kiddie Park, was established in 1925 in San Antonio and underwent renovations in 2009. Retaining its original 1920s rides, it boasts modernized facilities like restrooms, a snack bar, office, and a grand entrance. We reveled in its nostalgic atmosphere, relishing rides like the Ferris wheel and the renowned hand-carved Herschell Spillman Carousel. The park maintained impeccable cleanliness, and the staff were exceptionally friendly. Learning about the carousel's history was a highlight, reminding us of our visit to the Ohio Carousel Museum, where we witnessed these magnificent carousels being brought to life.
Looking back on that trip to San Antonio, it’s not just the historical landmarks or the fun at Kiddie Park that stand out, but the combination of everything that made the journey special. The RV trips across the country became a time capsule of sorts for our family. While it wasn’t always easy to pack up our lives into a mobile home, the freedom and flexibility of RV travel made every moment an adventure. There were days where the open road stretched ahead of us, with no concrete plans, just the promise of discovery. And other days were meticulously planned, making sure to hit all the iconic sites that dotted our route.
One thing I truly treasure about RV travel with children is how it reshaped their learning experiences. Each stop, from amusement parks to historical landmarks, added layers to their understanding of the world. They didn’t just read about American history—they walked through it at the Alamo. They didn’t just watch animals on television—they engaged with them at zoos and conservation parks. The tactile, real-world experiences embedded knowledge in a way that classroom learning alone couldn’t provide.
As our journey continued, we found more opportunities to blend fun with education. One unexpected surprise was a visit to the Natural Bridge Caverns, a short drive from San Antonio. These stunning limestone caves took us deep underground, where we were able to witness the natural beauty that exists beneath the surface of the earth. It was awe-inspiring for both adults and children alike. The guided tour we took was filled with fascinating geological facts, and as we descended into the cavern’s depths, I could see my children’s faces light up with wonder. These were the moments I cherished most—when curiosity sparked and learning became a natural part of their excitement.
From the dark, cool chambers of the caverns, we eventually found ourselves back on the road, this time heading toward the Gulf Coast. Texas’ varied landscapes provided endless learning opportunities, and the coastal towns we visited offered a change of pace from the bustling cities. Our stop at Corpus Christi allowed us to dip our toes into the Gulf of Mexico, explore the USS Lexington, and learn about naval history. It’s this diversity in experiences that made our RV journey so enriching.
By the time our six-year RV journey came to a close, my children were no longer the wide-eyed youngsters who first boarded the RV with excitement. They had grown in ways I couldn’t have imagined, shaped not only by the places we visited but by the experiences and lessons they encountered along the way. They learned to appreciate the rich tapestry of history that makes up our country, and they gained a greater respect for the natural world. But most importantly, they learned to approach life with curiosity and an open mind, always ready for the next adventure.
Even now, years later, as we look back on those times, the memories of places like Kiddie Park hold a special place in our hearts. It wasn’t just the destination but the journey that truly mattered. Traveling as a family brought us closer, taught us invaluable lessons, and left us with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a quaint old amusement park, a historic landmark, or a breathtaking natural wonder, every place we visited added to the rich tapestry of our RV adventure, one that we will continue to cherish for many years to come.
