Upgraded Points Unveils the Most Kid-Friendly U.S. Airports

Upgraded Points, a leading provider of travel information and resources, has released a comprehensive guide detailing the most kid-friendly airports in the United States. The study analyzed a range of factors that affect travel with children, like family restrooms, play areas, average wait times, WiFi speeds, and more. Additionally, 800 parents were surveyed about their biggest travel woes and most important amenities for family travel.

"Traveling with children can be an exciting adventure for the whole family, but it also presents unique challenges," says Alex Miller, Founder of Upgraded Points. "A trip to the airport can be dampened by issues like finding a family restroom or not having WiFi for your kid's devices."

Analysis Methodology

To discover which airports are the best and worst for families traveling with kids, the study scored the 45 busiest U.S. airports across 15 ranking factors deemed most vital to smooth family travel.

The researchers collected information about features like play areas, nursing rooms, and Wi-Fi speeds at each airport. These factors were weighted according to kid-friendly travel importance. Each airport was given a score out of 100 to create the final ranking.

To gain more insight, they surveyed over 800 parents to learn about their experiences when traveling with kids, like which airport amenities matter most to them when it comes to family travel. Insights gathered from these responses were used to determine the factor weights in the ranking.

Kid-friendly travel is best at LAX—Florida airports fall behind

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is ranked the best U.S. airport for kid-friendly travel, offering three lounges with family rooms and a kids' play area. California shined in the study with three airports in the top 10.

In addition to LAX, LaGuardia Airport ranked No. two for kid-friendly travel, boasting over two nursing rooms per mile and the most accessible family-friendly restrooms. Boston's Logan was the third-best in the study.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) ranked lowest among airports analyzed, missing essential family amenities and offering slower Wi-Fi speeds. Denver International was also among the worst for family-friendly travel, lacking play areas and family restrooms.

Despite being a hub for family vacations, Florida airports fell behind. Orlando and Tampa International also ranked in the 10 worst for family travel.

With the lowest on-time flight percentage in the study at 60%, Chicago Midway ranked third-worst in the study. A high passenger density and a lack of kid-friendly entertainment options are also challenges at this airport.

Traveling With Children: Insights From 800 Parents

A whopping 49% of parents describe traveling with their kids as an overwhelming experience, highlighting the need for airports to prioritize family-friendly facilities and services.

Access to fast Wi-Fi and charging stations are the most important airport amenities for parents traveling with children, with 78% sharing this sentiment. Additionally, 56% of parents say lounges with family rooms are important when traveling with kids. Just 37% of parents say having plenty of play areas in an airport is essential when traveling with kids.

34% of parents have slightly reduced their travel frequency since becoming parents, and 25% travel much less. Despite this, nine in 10 parents consider their children to be "good" flyers.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that provides insider strategies on maximizing travel points and rewards. Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to give travelers, as well as those looking to travel, a real understanding of how to maximize their points and miles.

Disneyland Resort Announces Return of California Resident Ticket

Disneyland Resort is kicking off the summer season with a limited-time ticket offer for California residents who wish to visit again and again. With thrilling adventures, popular attractions, beloved characters and delightful treats, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the Disneyland Resort. As Disney marks its 100th anniversary this year, Disneyland Resort is celebrating this milestone with special experiences, entertainment and more.

For a limited time, California residents may visit the Disneyland Resort theme parks for as little as $83 per person, per day with this special ticket offer. These 3-Day, 1-Park per day tickets start at $249 for admission Mondays through Thursdays, or as low as $299 ($100 per day) for admission any day – including weekends – for eligible guests. Upgrades such as Park Hopper tickets or Disney Genie+ service are also available. The limited-time tickets are available for purchase beginning June 6, 2023, and California residents may redeem their tickets on any three eligible days from June 12 through Sept. 28, 2023, subject to park reservation availability.* These tickets may be purchased at Disneyland.com, through a travel agent or by calling (866) 572-7321. Valid admission and park reservation for the same park on the same date are required for park entry.

From immersive lands to new attractions and shows, here are several ways the whole family can enjoy this summer at Disneyland Resort.

Disneyland Park

- In the reimagined Mickey's Toontown, guests will find new, interactive experiences and returning familiar favorites, plus the new attraction Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway, where guests of all ages can embark on a zany adventure through the cartoon world of Mickey Mouse on a train engineered by Goofy.

- Part of the Disney100 celebration at Disneyland Resort, "Wondrous Journeys" is a heartwarming nighttime spectacular that honors 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios with nods to every film released by the iconic studio over the past century. Through Aug. 31, 2023, guests can marvel as state-of-the-art projections and fireworks bring beloved stories and characters to life in multiple locations.

- A lively parade with nine vibrant floats, fashion-forward costumes and upbeat music, "Magic Happens" celebrates moments where magic comes to life with characters from Disney Animation tales including "Frozen 2," "The Sword in the Stone," "Moana" and "Sleeping Beauty," as well as Disney and Pixar's "Coco."

- In Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, guests can embark on missions to aid the Rebellion aboard two exciting attractions, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Once their missions are complete, guests can wander the trade outpost on Batuu and perhaps spot some familiar faces including R2-D2, Chewbacca and the Mandalorian and Grogu.

Disney California Adventure Park

- "World of Color – ONE" – an impressive water show which debuted on Paradise Bay as part of the Disney100 celebration at Disneyland Resort – celebrates how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. This is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular with characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers and Star Wars in the same production.

- For a limited-time engagement beginning June 30, 2023, "Rogers: The Musical" will tell the tale of Steve Rogers – Captain America – in an all-new, one-act musical theater production. Performed in the famed Hyperion Theater, the show will feature five original songs, appearances by select members of the Avengers and more.

- In Avengers Campus, thrill seekers can get their adrenaline pumping on Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: BREAKOUT! Guests of all ages can help save the land from pesky Spider-Bots on WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure. After a busy afternoon around the campus, guests may encounter favorite Super Heroes such as Spider-Man, Black Widow and Black Panther.

- From a spin on the Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind to a ride on the high-speed Incredicoaster, there's something for every member of the family to enjoy at Pixar Pier. In addition to five attractions, guests can dine on playful bites and drinks and perhaps even meet a character from a favorite Pixar story.

Plus, from Sept. 1-Oct. 31, 2023, Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort will bring seasonal décor, bewitching new outfits for Mickey Mouse and his pals, the "Halloween Screams" nighttime spectacular at Disneyland Park and so much more across the resort. From Sept. 1-Nov. 2, 2023, Plaza de la Familia will celebrate the spirit of Día de los Muertos in Disney California Adventure Park with colorful décor, menu items inspired by Mexican cuisine and entertainment featuring characters and songs from Disney and Pixar's "Coco."

When hunger strikes, guests can enjoy classic treats like churros, popcorn and Mickey Mouse ice cream bars alongside refreshing sips like cold brews, mint juleps and slushies. Foodies may also want to try limited-time food and beverage offerings from the Foodie Guide to the Disney100 Celebration at Disneyland Resort.

About the Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel with its "day-at-the-beach" theme. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round.

Four Seasons residential project in Las Vegas

Four Seasons, leader in luxury hospitality and branded residential, together with Azure Resorts & Hotels and Luxus Developments, announce a new standalone residential project in Las Vegas that will welcome residents home in 2026.

Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas will be set within the MacDonald Highlands community, a private 11-acre (4.5 hectare) oasis in Henderson, Nevada and minutes from the world-class entertainment, fine dining and upscale shopping of Las Vegas. The new project will comprise 171 high-rise residences with panoramic views and six standalone, family-style villas, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with contemporary desert design, resort-inspired amenities and fully-serviced luxury living marked by Four Seasons thoughtful and genuine care.

"We are honoured to be partnering with the legendary Four Seasons brand, known for its highly personalized service and ability to create exceptional lifestyle experiences for guests and residents alike. From the moment of arrival, owners will be greeted by elegant décor, unparalleled hospitality, and world-class amenities, attracting buyers who desire a social and active yet private community with exclusively curated experiences at their fingertips," says Jim Reilly, President of Azure Resorts & Hotels.

"Las Vegas has always been synonymous with entertainment and excitement and now it is rapidly evolving and maturing in the quality and sophistication of its product offering. We're excited to introduce a one-of-its-kind offering to the city, bringing an elevated lifestyle experience like never before," adds Jonathan Lawrence, Managing Partner of Luxus Developments.

Leader in branded residential since 1985, Four Seasons continues to expand its global portfolio of luxury homes in the world's most sought-after destinations. The company's growing collection of standalone Private Residences offer unmatched privacy, alongside the renowned personalized service and property management expertise that homeowners can expect when living with Four Seasons.

"Our standalone residential offerings present a unique opportunity to live with Four Seasons in destinations that are appealing to luxury homeowners, outside the walls of our hotels and resorts, while still delivering the exceptional care and service to residents that is core to our brand," says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development and Portfolio Management, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "This new project in Las Vegas is the perfect addition to our standalone portfolio, catering to discerning homeowners in this important destination, and with partners who share our vision for creating an unparalleled luxury lifestyle experience in the market."

About Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas

Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas will be the first residential tower in Henderson and will be designed by architectural visionaries Wimberly Allison Tong & Goo (WATG). The contemporary residences will range from 2,300 to 7,300 interior square feet (213 to 678 square metres) and 500 to 5,000 exterior square feet (46 to 464 square metres), offering expansive indoor and outdoor living space with sweeping views of the Las Vegas Strip and McCullough mountain range. Residences will feature thoughtful, turnkey touchpoints including semi-private elevators, private garages, and fully-furnished interiors. Wimberly Interiors selected superior designer finishes and fixtures with a rich palette of options, including epicurean kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms. Each residence will offer customizable terraces equipped with outdoor kitchens, social gathering spaces and dining areas, extending owners' seamless indoor-outdoor living and style.

The new luxury residences will also feature a signature restaurant and wine bar, Noble Heights, for residents and locals to enjoy everyday dining, special occasions and much more right at their doorstep. Curated by hospitality industry veterans Elizabeth Blau and Chef Kim Canteenwalla of Blau + Associates (and Honey Salt and Buddy V's Ristorante in Las Vegas and Crown Block Dallas), Noble Heights will anchor the community with an incomparable culinary offering complemented by unobstructed views, al fresco dining options and a culinary experience featuring ranch, farm and sea-centric cuisine alongside an elevated selection of cocktails.

Led by a Director of Residences and a dedicated Four Seasons team, residents will enjoy a service-rich environment with premier amenities such as private chef services, private wine cellars, multi-level resort-style pools, cabanas, an on-site event lawn, catering services, a pet spa, auto spa, community boardroom, library, screening room, and myriad wellness amenities including a full-service gym and spa with a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, lap pool, multiple private treatment rooms and personal training offerings. Overseeing the complete residential experience as the ongoing property managers, Four Seasons will ensure that residents and their homes are cared for with the same quality and service excellence for which the brand is renowned.

Residents will also have ease of access to surrounding scenic walking and biking trails, two pickleball courts, a virtual golf simulator within the MacDonald Highlands community as well as access to Dragon Ridge Country Club, the private golf, swim and tennis club.

About Azure Resorts & Hotels

Azure Resorts & Hotels is a collective of development, sales and marketing professionals dedicated to maximizing resort and resort residential opportunities. With a history of success in Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean, Azure works with institutional investors, lenders, and equity stakeholders to formulate and execute strategies that maximize the return on investment across all stages of the development process. Whether for unimproved land or a diverse portfolio, envisioning to execution, our hands-on approach is designed to maximize value and minimize uncertainty and risk for our clients. The Azure Resorts & Hotels team is comprised of seasoned real estate executives, with successful international experience tested through numerous real estate cycles. We utilize our deep industry knowledge, broad range of experience and wealth of multicultural contacts to develop proactive solutions to seize market inefficiencies. For more information, visit www.azureresorts.com.

About Luxus Developments

Luxus Developments, a subsidiary of The Luxus Group, is a boutique real estate investment and development firm focused on ground-up and repositioning opportunities in the hospitality and resort-residential asset classes. Luxus focuses on select domestic and international markets including the Caribbean, Mexico, and the United States. Luxus Developments also operates in Italy, via Luxus Restorations, which restores historical properties into modern resorts and homes. Luxus has cultivated a track record of success by identifying unique opportunities, partnering with local and international talent, and applying institutional quality execution while maintaining a nimble and creative approach. For more information, visit www.luxusdevelopments.com.

About Four Seasons Private Residences

As a long time leader in branded residences, Four Seasons currently operates 53 branded Private Residence properties around the world, with more than 65% of future Four Seasons projects including a residential component. All Four Seasons residential offerings combine Four Seasons legendary people and service with bespoke hotel and resort-style amenities such as spa services, in-residence dining services, housekeeping, concierge services and many more, creating a seamless experience for residence owners.

About Elizabeth Blau + Associates

Founded in 2002, and led by husband and wife hospitality industry veterans, Elizabeth Blau and Chef Kim Canteenwalla, Blau + Associates, is one of the leading restaurant development and consulting companies in the world. As founder and CEO, Elizabeth Blau is widely credited with transforming Las Vegas into the world-class culinary destination it is today. Blau is recognized a leading industry innovator for transforming iconic properties around the world such as the Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center and her work creating the restaurant portfolios at both Bellagio and Wynn which forever transformed the food and beverage philosophy of the city. Chef Kim Canteenwalla provides a diverse range of international expertise with more than 30 years of culinary and industry leadership. He has led restaurants and resorts around the world including Singapore, Thailand, Dubai, Bali, Toronto, and Montreal, and is the former Executive Chef for MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

About MacDonald Highlands

Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas is located within the esteemed MacDonald Highlands community just outside the buzzing Las Vegas strip. Situated at the foothills of the McCullough Mountains, MacDonald Highlands is a collection of luxury homes and residences with panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline coupled with upscale amenities and attractions. Four Seasons Private Residences Las Vegas is less than a thirty-minute drive to the Las Vegas city center, and just 10 miles from the city's Harry Reid International Airport (formerly McCarran), making the residences an ideal year-round hub or weekend destination.

Viking Voted The Best Cruise Line

Viking (viking.com) has been voted Best Cruise Line by Food & Wine readers in the publication's inaugural Global Tastemakers Awards, which were announced today. According to Food & Wine, Viking topped the Cruise Line category for the inventive culinary programs across its river, ocean and expedition voyages.

For 45 years, Food & Wine has celebrated the global epicurean experience; for its first-ever Global Tastemakers Awards, the publication is recognizing the best culinary experiences around the world, chosen by its readers. In addition to cruise lines, other categories include top restaurants, airlines, hotels, bars and more. Viking will be featured in the July issue of Food & Wine magazine, which will be on newsstands in June; the full results of the awards can be found at www.foodandwine.com/global-tastemakers.

"Discovering a destination through its culinary traditions is central to the Viking experience, and we are pleased that our approach to dining has resonated with so many curious travelers," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "I would like to thank our guests and readers of Food & Wine for recognizing us, as well as our culinary team members who make awards like this possible."

Dining on a Viking ship, guests find the ideal setting for impeccable service and casual elegance. In addition to always-available classics, menus on board feature dishes inspired by the destination—with regional beer and wine included at lunch and dinner. On Viking's ocean and expedition ships, guests have multiple dining options, from Mamsen's Norwegian Deli and the open kitchens of the World Café to Manfredi's Italian trattoria and the multicourse tasting menus of the Chef's Table. On Viking's European river vessels, guests may choose between the main dining room, The Restaurant, and the revolutionary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. And on the new Viking Mississippi, the innovative River Café, features American classics and locally inspired specialties. Across its fleet, Viking offers the most al fresco dining on any waterway, so guests always have the option to enjoy a meal or a glass of wine while completely surrounded by the scenery.

Today's announcement from Food & Wine is the most recent milestone as Viking continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary. In March 2023, Viking dominated Cruise Critic's Cruisers' Choice Awards, receiving top honors in six categories including "Best Overall Line," "Best River Line," and "Best Dining" for its ocean and expedition voyages. In January 2023, the company had its most successful single month of bookings following recent years of strong growth. Since 2020, Viking has welcomed 16 new ships to its fleet—including eight new Viking Longships on the rivers of Europe; new, purpose-built vessels on the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi rivers; three new, identical ocean ships; and two Polar Class expedition vessels. Viking has also been named both the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, making it the first line ever to simultaneously earn #1 in its categories from both publications.