Mari on the Map

Family Travel Made Simple

Detailed travel itineraries, budget-friendly travel ideas, and all the tips you need to take unforgettable family vacations, because life is too short to wait until your kids are older to travel. Take your family on once in a lifetime trips more than once in a lifetime!

Welcome to the family! We’re so glad you’re here.

I’m Mari, the mama and world traveler behind Mari on the Map. My boys and I are on a mission to help “normal” working families like us not only realize that the trips of their dreams can be accessible and affordable with kids, but also make those trips actually happen. Like you, we have school vacations, PTO, tight budgets, and so many other life things that could prevent us from leaving home!

But we made a choice after our first son was born to share our passion for travel with our kids, and we’re knowledge dropping everything we’ve learned to help make your travels easier and more enjoyable. Follow along as we teach our kids to experience the world through travel and cultural experiences both near home and far away. We can’t wait to share it all with you!

Here are some of our latest posts to get you started

Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a top-tier travel rewards card that makes earning and redeeming miles incredibly simple for families. Whether you’re planning a road trip with the kids, flying to visit relatives, or booking a spacious Airbnb for a family vacation, this card offers generous rewards, flexible redemption options, and valuable perks…
Read more: Capital One Venture Rewards Card: Easy Rewards for Family Travel
Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida – The Ultimate Guide for Families to a Perfect Day

Our boys were deep in their Peppa Pig phase when we first discovered Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida. It was right along the route of our Florida road trip, presenting a perfect opportunity to visit. Spoiler alert: They LOVED it! And we’ve actually been back twice. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to…
Read more: Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida – The Ultimate Guide for Families to a Perfect Day
10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each

The memories you make on family vacations are priceless — but the cost certainly isn’t. The good news? Many hotels offer “kids stay free” promotions that make traveling with little ones a whole lot easier on your wallet. Better yet, pair those deals with the right travel rewards credit card, and you could rack up…
Read more: 10 Hotels Where Kids Stay Free & How to Maximize Your Rewards at Each
Washington, DC Itinerary: 4 Memorable Days with Your Family

Washington, DC is an exciting and educational destination, perfect for a family getaway. Known for its rich history, world-class museums, and iconic monuments, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration and fun. After visiting many times, most recently as a family of four, I can confidently tell you that DC has something for everyone. This…
Read more: Washington, DC Itinerary: 4 Memorable Days with Your Family
10 Free Things to Do in DC with Kids

Washington, DC is one of the best destinations for families, and the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it! The nation’s capital is packed with incredible museums, interactive exhibits, scenic parks, and historic landmarks—all at no cost. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, there are…
Read more: 10 Free Things to Do in DC with Kids
Best Things to Do in DC with Kids: 4 Amazing Museums for Families

Washington, DC is an incredible destination for families, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and hands-on fun for kids of all ages. Whether you’re exploring world-famous museums, discovering interactive exhibits, or enjoying outdoor adventures, the nation’s capital is packed with fun experiences for the whole family.
Read more: Best Things to Do in DC with Kids: 4 Amazing Museums for Families
The Best Washington, DC Restaurants for Families

Washington, DC is packed with amazing sights, museums, and historical landmarks, but if you’re traveling with kids, you know that meal times can be just as important as sightseeing. Finding the best Washington, DC restaurants for families—that offer great food and a welcoming atmosphere for kids—can make all the difference in your trip. On our…
Read more: The Best Washington, DC Restaurants for Families
Washington, DC Cherry Blossoms: Experiencing the Magic of Spring in the Capital

Washington, DC is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms, which transform the nation’s capital into a breathtaking sea of pink and white every spring. Each year, thousands of visitors travel to see the Washington, DC’s cherry blossoms, making it one of the most anticipated seasonal events in the country. Whether you’re visiting for the first…
Read more: Washington, DC Cherry Blossoms: Experiencing the Magic of Spring in the Capital
Traveling While Pregnant: How to Travel in Each Trimester

Traveling while pregnant can be a safe and enjoyable adventure with the right preparation, tips, and essentials for every trimester.
Read more: Traveling While Pregnant: How to Travel in Each Trimester
Exploring Historic Pensacola Village and Pensacola Downtown: The Best Activities for Families

On our trip to Florida, we made our way to Pensacola expecting sun and sand—but we quickly discovered there’s so much more to explore. The Historic Pensacola Village, nestled in the city’s Historic District, became an unexpected highlight. With its beautifully preserved buildings, immersive museums, and interactive exhibits, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and…
Read more: Exploring Historic Pensacola Village and Pensacola Downtown: The Best Activities for Families
Incredible Blue Angels Practice at the National Naval Aviation Museum

If you’re planning a visit to Pensacola, Florida, one of the top attractions you absolutely can’t miss is the Blue Angels practice at the National Naval Aviation Museum. After watching this thrilling show, I highly recommend taking time to see the live show and visit the museum. Let’s dive in!
Read more: Incredible Blue Angels Practice at the National Naval Aviation Museum
How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner

When it comes to earning travel rewards, business credit cards might seem out of reach. If you’re thinking, “I don’t own a business, so I can’t apply for a business card,” you’re not alone. I used to feel the same way! But here’s the good news: you don’t need a registered business to qualify. In…
Read more: How Business Credit Cards Boost Travel Rewards, Even if You’re Not a Traditional Business Owner
Hiking Georgia’s Great Little Grand Canyon (aka Providence Canyon) with Kids

If you’re dreaming of the Grand Canyon but it’s just out of reach, Providence Canyon in Lumpkin, Georgia, often called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” might be the perfect alternative for your next family adventure. Located just two hours south of Atlanta, this national park offers a chance to explore stunning canyons without having to travel…
Read more: Hiking Georgia’s Great Little Grand Canyon (aka Providence Canyon) with Kids
Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential

There are more ways to earn credit card points than just with sign up bonuses. Our family takes advantage of category multipliers, also known as bonus categories, which can help us earn 2X, 3X, 4X, or more points in certain categories if we use the right card. Whether you’re ordering takeout, booking flights, or buying…
Read more: Credit Card Points: Understanding Category Multipliers to Unlock Travel Potential
Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner

Traveling with a family means you need even more points to get anywhere—for us, it’s flights and lodging times four, which can deplete our hard-earned rewards rather quickly. Enter two player mode, where I can tap my husband, so our family can earn more faster. Two player mode is one of the most powerful strategies…
Read more: Earn More Travel Rewards with Two Player Mode: Doubling the Fun by Working with Your Partner
Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand…
Read more: Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel
Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel

The Southwest Companion Pass is a must-have for anyone who loves to travel with a friend or family member—especially if you’re looking to stretch your budget further. With this pass, a designated companion flies with you for free—you just cover their taxes and fees, which are typically only $5.60 each way on Southwest. As you…
Read more: Southwest Companion Pass Guide: Your Ticket to Free Flights for Family Travel
How We Planned Our Hawaii Family Vacation for Almost Free — And How You Can, Too!

Aloha! If you’ve been dreaming about taking a Hawaii family vacation but feel held back by the cost, I’ve got great news: you can make that dream a reality by using points and miles! My family traveled to Hawaii this year, visiting both Oahu and Maui, for an unbelievable grand total of only $67.20 in…
Read more: How We Planned Our Hawaii Family Vacation for Almost Free — And How You Can, Too!
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: The Ultimate Family Travel Tool We Love

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the perfect starter card for families looking to dive into the world of rewards travel. It offers easy-to-use benefits, flexible points, and exceptional transfer partners that make it ideal for family vacations. It was the first card that my husband and I both opened when we started out as…
Read more: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: The Ultimate Family Travel Tool We Love
Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families

For years, visiting a Christmas market in Europe has been on my bucket list. It is a magical experience I’ve always wanted to have. There’s just something about twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and rows of charming wooden stalls selling festive treats and handmade crafts that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Now…
Read more: Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families
Ruby Falls Cave Walk: The Most Unique Family Experience in Chattanooga, TN

If you’re planning a family road trip between Nashville and Atlanta or find yourself near Chattanooga, there’s one activity that should absolutely make your list: Ruby Falls. It’s not just another tourist attraction, but rather a breathtaking underground waterfall housed in a cave system that’s only been known to people for less than 100 years.…
Read more: Ruby Falls Cave Walk: The Most Unique Family Experience in Chattanooga, TN
Experience Gifts for Kids

Gift-giving season is here! Instead of filling your home with toys that may break, become clutter, or lose their appeal, why not focus on experience gifts for kids that create lasting memories? Experience gifts offer amazing opportunities for family bonding and can be used close to home or while traveling.
Read more: Experience Gifts for Kids
5 Fun Must Do in Oahu with Kids

You might be wondering … is Oahu good for families? After visiting with our family of four, we can confidently say that Oahu is an exceptional destination for in Hawaii for families! Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and diverse activities for visitors of all ages. Families…
Read more: 5 Fun Must Do in Oahu with Kids
Kualoa Ranch Jungle Tour Review & Our Recommendations for Your Visit

Ever wondered, “What island in Hawaii was Jurassic Park filmed on?” We did, too: The answer is the incredible island of Oahu—specifically, at Kualoa Ranch. This spot was an unforgettable stop on our trip to Oahu, bringing some major throwback magic for me and my husband, as some of our favorite childhood movies and series were…
Read more: Kualoa Ranch Jungle Tour Review & Our Recommendations for Your Visit