Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Professional Men & Women.
Below you will find clothes, shoes, gear, decor, and organization products that professional men & women are bound to love (and use!) for Christmas 2022.
Several years ago, a dermatologist recommended that my daughters and I wear tinted sunscreen daily and we've since decided that tinted sunscreen is one of our favorite beauty products! It's lightweight and leaves a lovely, natural glow while simultaneously providing sun protection and moisture. Because you don't need to match skin tones precisely, tinted sunscreen makes an excellent gift! Men and women of any age will also appreciate anti-aging moisturizers from a trusted skincare company.
Most of the best gifts are intangible - warm hugs, close friendships, conversations of depth, time in nature, solitude, or a good night's sleep. When we consider that last gift, however, a cooling, comforting, scientifically-designed pillow can make all the difference. Head over to Bedgear, take the PillowID Quiz, and find the perfect pillow for your sleeping personality.
If you have curly hair and are committed to clean products for your hair care routine, Bounce Curl products have the best possible rating on the Think Dirty App and are free of known carcinogens (cancer causing agents), hormone disruptors, and allergens. The founder is a mom and a scientist who has beautiful curly hair so she personally understands the need to find curly hair care products that work.
From cashmere sweaters to sculpting dress slacks to festive party dresses, you'll find these and so much more at sister companies Chico's and White House Black Market. Both brands specialize in professional pieces with modern touches. They walk the line wonderfully between classic and on-trend so you can be sure that the pieces will last in your closet while also putting you squarely in the up-to-the-minute fashionable category.
Pictured (left to right): Poplin Blouson Sleeve Tee, Plaid Knit Poncho, WHBM® Signature Blazer, and WHBM® Ines Slim Bootleg Comfort Stretch Pant.
For the man who craves excellence (in business, literature, food, or footwear), Samuel Hubbard's Tipping Point Brogue Wingtip Shoes will satisfy. Thoughtfully crafted with premium ingredients, these elegant men's dress shoes are as supportive as they are stylish. With built-in arch support and a cushioning sole, he'll be tempted to wear to these everywhere. They are the perfect pick for flights, meetings, and fun times with the family.
A quality pair of sunglasses is on every man or woman's wishlist - and Serengeti offers sophisticated styles with superior sun protection. Consider the Haywood (pictured left) and Hayworth (pictured right) for holiday 2022.
Serengeti's mineral lenses are made with borosilicate optical glass, which is 20% thinner and lighter than traditional lenses. They are also chemically tempered to ensure scratch and impact resistance. An anti-reflective coating is added to the backside of the lens, canceling the scattering light that causes reflective glare.
This one is for photographers, writers, journalists, and family memory recorders! The SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD provides powerful solid state storage. Nearly 2x as fast as the previous generation! This compact drive allows you to easily back up and organize thousands of photos.
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Some of the products in the list below were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I will always provide both the pros and cons of each featured product. You are welcome to send any follow-up questions to me via twitter (I’m @stephsheaffer).
Welcome to Metropolitan Mama’s Christmas Gift Guide for Party Hosts. Below you will find hand-picked selections of the best furniture, decor, serveware, glassware, lighting, games, activities, and accessories for people who love to entertain - both indoors and outdoors.
Whether you gift recipient enjoys hosting formal dinner parties, weekend brunch, high tea, or backyard barbecues, this list will help you find exactly the right gift.
In our family kitchen, we're on a mission to purge any aluminum and teflon pans from our collection. We prefer high-quality stainless steel, ceramic, or stoneware items - which are heirloom quality and have numerous health benefits. Emile Henry's Ultime Square Baking Dish is the perfect size for baking brownies, fruit crisps, or small casseroles. Plus, it's a lovely serving piece in its own right. Take from the oven to your table for a picture-perfect meal. Available in nine colors, all Emile Henry products come with a 10-Year Guarantee.
Libbey is a glassware company with a long history of producing lovely, translucent glasses, plates, prep bowls, and serveware. Since 1818, Libbey has become synonymous with glassware for parties. I'm fairly certain that the punch bowl at my first baby shower sixteen years ago was made by Libbey!
We are choosy about dinnerware and we adore Liberty Tabletop's American Bistro set. Made in the USA in the cheerful and sun-kissed city of Tucson, Arizona, these pure white dishes are sturdy, smooth, and elegant. When you pick them up, you'll be surprised by both the weight and the grace of each plate, bowl, and mug. When Tim and I got married twenty years ago, we chose white dishes on purpose and that was one of the best registry decisions we made. White dishes go with every kitchen and tabletop decor theme and can be seamlessly used for everyday meals or fancy dinner parties (even weddings!).
Liberty Tabletop is a brand that is committed to quality and patriotism. In fact, Liberty Tabletop bought Oneida in 2005 and it is now the only remaining flatware manufacturer in the United States. You can expect shiny, durable, and high-end flatware from Liberty. The spoons, knives, and forks in the Annapolis collection will add beauty to any table, while also being a pleasure to use.
We've ordered our Christmas photo cards from Shutterfly or Tiny Prints almost every year for the past ten years! They offer modern, stylish designs for each new year and there always seems to be a special promo being offered for 40%-60% off. Photo gift options include blankets, calendars, cards, magnets, and mugs.
If you're still using foil or parchment paper when baking (or spraying/buttering your pans!), it's time for a grand introduction. Silpat® baking mats have revolutionized baking in our home. These silicone, non-stick mats allow for cookies, scones, muffins, and baguettes to cook to perfection while minimizing and almost completely eliminating sticky clean-up! We love Silpat® and I have a hunch that your favorite baker or cook will too!
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Some of the products in the list below were sent to us to try. Other products are ones that we purchased ourselves or were given by family members and friends. Know that I will always provide both the pros and cons of each featured product. You are welcome to send any follow-up questions to me via twitter (I’m @stephsheaffer).
Hersheypark Camping Resort is one of the three official Hershey Resort accommodation options for Hersheypark.
The 55-acre scenic campground, which can appropriately be found on Sweet Street, offers RV sites, tent sites, and cabins plus a variety of family-friendly activities and amenities.
Hersheypark Camping Resort is a huge campground with 260+ sites of various kinds for RVs & tents of all sizes. Choose between no hookups, water & electric only, or full hookups.
There are four cabin configurations available at Hersheypark Camping Resort - Log, Deluxe Log, Deluxe 2 Bedroom Log, or Extended Log.
Although you may not have much time to play at the campground itself since there is so much to do in Hershey, you will have plenty of options if you are seeking a day of rest from area attractions.
The following activities/amenities are available on-site:
* All registered guests must wear a Hersheypark Camping Resort issued wristband to access the pool and other activities.
Cancellations within 24 hours of booking are without penalty. Cancellations after 24 hours of booking and up to 10 days prior to the arrival date result in a $15 processing fee. All cancellations within 10 days of the reservation's arrival date will result in forfeiting the first night's deposit.
The front office at Hersheypark Camping Resort also houses a small store and a game room.
There are two playgrounds at Hersheypark Camping Resort with subtle Hershey-chocolate theming. Playground hours are 8:00am to dusk.
Hersheypark Camping Resort has two swimming pools and one toddler pool, which are open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Aside from snacks and sundries available at the front office store, there are no full scale restaurants on-property. Never, fear, however! You can take the complimentary shuttle to the food hall at Hershey's Chocolate World or to The Chocolatier at Hersheypark. Five Guys (burgers, fries, and shakes) is less than a mile away also! If you need to stock up on groceries, GIANT is about 4 miles away.
There are five sets of restrooms (with showers), which are distributed throughout the park. There are also three different laundry rooms for your convenience.
Guests are asked to knot trash bags and place them at the end of their sites for collection each morning.
Pets must be on a leash at all time and are not permitted in any buildings or inside the pool area.
Free WiFi is provided to guests.
Hershey, Pennsylvania is rich in both beauty & history. Read our full Hershey Pennsylvania Travel Guide for recommendations of things to do and places to go in this charming town.
In addition to your regular packing list (clothing, shoes, toiletries, food, etc), you may also want to bring:
If you have ever wished that you could step inside Willa Wonka's Chocolate Factory, visiting Hershey, Pennsylvania is probably as close as you can get.
Founded in 1903 by Milton S. Hershey, the town was originally designed for factory workers. Milton Hershey, however, had much more than economics in mind. Hershey envisioned a community where people loved where they lived and worked. In light of this goal, he built homes with electricity, indoor plumbing, and heating. He invested in the town by adding a a public trolley system, a free school to educate children of employees, a free vocational school to train orphaned boys, an amusement park, and many other recreational spaces.
Now, almost 100 years later, Milton Hershey's benevolent legacy and philanthropic mindset remain. Hershey explained his development of the town in this way, "I am trying to build here a place where people can be happy and contented while they work, and live in pleasant surroundings." His dream lives on in the hearts of the people and in the physical structures, the landscaping, and the overall schematic of the city. Just shy of 14,000 people call Hershey home (most of whom are employed by a Hershey company), but many more vacation here every year.
Hershey, Pennsylvania has four distinct seasons with brisk winters, sparkling springs, hot summers, and colorful autumns. The best time to travel to Hershey from a weather perspective is April, May, September, or October when highs are in the 60s and 70s and lows are in the 40s and 50s. Early to mid-June can also be quite pleasant.
Just outside Hersheypark's front gates, Hershey's Chocolate World is a treat for the senses. Walk inside the doors and you'll find mountains of candy, candy-centric souvenirs, and candy-themed experiences behind many closed doors (tickets required).
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GENERAL INFORMATION:
Originally opened in 1937, Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre serene space where you can be immersed in natural beauty. While the crowds descend on Hersheypark, you can wander through quiet green spaces and vibrant flower gardens (featuring 3,000 roses).
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Hersheypark is the most well-known attraction in Hershey, PA. Originally opened in 1906, the 121-acre amusement park is the most visited theme park in Pennsylvania and the ninth most visited theme park in North America.
Hersheypark has almost 70 amusement rides! Of the amusement rides, 13 are roller coasters, 19 are kiddie rides (best for ages 1-10), and 15 are water slides/spaces.
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GENERAL INFORMATION:
The Water Park portion of Hersheypark is called The Boardwalk at Hersheypark. This area has 15 water attractions, including 8+ waterslides, a sandy shore, and playzones for toddlers & young children.
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Navigate to Chocolate Avenue on your GPS and you'll find your way to The Hershey Story, a museum about the life of entrepreneur & philanthropist Milton S. Hershey. Although you may be tempted to whizz into Hersheypark and then buzz out of town, we don't recommend it! You'll miss a fascinating history lesson and incredible facts that will leave you with a greater love for what makes Hershey unique. In fact, I would argue that one of the very best parts about Hershey is learning about the man himself and his enduring legacy.
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Tastings is a ticketed experience at The Hershey Story Museum, which allows you to sample a flight of warm tasting chocolates from around the world. The chocolates are presented in shot glasses and are thicker than hot cocoa (it's melted chocolate in varying degrees of light, dark, sweetened, etc). You will undoubtedly enjoy observing how very different chocolate can taste, depending on its origin and/or mixing ingredients.
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We stayed in our RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort, which is one of the official resorts of Hersheypark.
Hershey, Pennsylvania is charming and I wouldn't hesitate to vacation here again. On our next trip, however, I'd probably skip the theme park and immerse myself in the history and chocolate experience instead!
Here is what is on my Hershey Bucket List for a future trip:
Williamsburg Campground (formerly Williamsburg KOA) is one of the highest rated campgrounds in the Historic Triangle, Virginia area - and for good reason! The campground offers plentiful family-friendly amenities along with convenient access to all three cities in the Historic Triangle (Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown).
Williamsburg Campground has 100+ full hook-up sites in a variety of configurations. As expected, you can expect to pay more for sites with concrete pads and/or patios.
There are also 18 water & electric only RV sites.
Williamsburg Campground is tent-friendly also with six tent sites that offer no hookups and eleven tent sites that offer water & electric. Two yurts (which are a cross between a tent and a cabin) are also available if you prefer that option.
There are 24 classic cabins, 3 2-room cabins, and 19 deluxe cabins available for rent at Williamsburg Campground.
Williamsburg Campground has plentiful on-site activities for the whole family:
Williamsburg Campground has a spacious front office and gift store with souvenirs, firewood, and camping supplies. The gem mine is immediately outside.
There is a playground at Williamsburg Campground, but your kids will probably be even more enthralled by the Gravity Rail and Jumping Pillows!
Williamsburg Campground has a swimming pool, a toddler pool, and a splash pad, which are immediately adjacent to the Activity Room and Laundry Room.
You can find snacks and sundries at the front office store, but if you want a full menu, you'll need to visit the restaurants in Williamsburg, Yorktown, or Jamestown.
Need Groceries? Walmart Supercenter is 3.2 miles away, Harris Teeter is 3.8 miles away, and Publix is 8.3 miles away. In other words, you should be able to access a grocery store within an easy 10-15 minute drive.
There are four bath houses at Williamsburg Campground, which are spread out throughout the campground.
The one laundry room is near the Swimming Pool, Splash Pad, and Activity Room.
Please put all trash in the dumpster near the entrance of the park.
Pets must be kept on a leash and quiet at all times. This campground offers a dog park and doggie bath for your furry friend.
Cell phone signal (Verizon) was weak during our stay in June 2022. WiFi did not work in our spot (E30), which made streaming and working difficult.
The Historic Triangle has soooo much to do! Rich history, amazing dining, top-tier salons, outdoor adventures, and MORE. Read our full Historic Triangle Travel Guide for recommendations.
In addition to your regular packing list (clothing, shoes, toiletries, food, etc), you may also want to bring:
"How do you like living here?" I asked an acquaintance nonchalantly during a summer visit to the Historic Triangle in Virginia.
She leaned in conspiratorially as her face broke into a genuine smile, "THIS is the very best place to raise a family. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else!"
Her reply didn't surprise me a bit. I had heard the exact same sentiments over and over again as I interviewed various families and business owners. After the first day, it was immediately apparent that Virginia's Historic Triangle was well-loved. To put it simply, people who live in this area seem content - truly grateful for the deck of cards they had been dealt in terms of location.
What kinds of amenities can inspire this kind of affection of place? Is it the weather? The food? The attractions? The personality of the people, comprised of many individuals who make up a united warm and friendly whole? Read on to find out more about what makes the Historic Triangle so special.
The weather in Virginia's Historic Triangle is mild most of the year.
The best months to visit the Historic Triangle are April/May (highs are in the 70s and lows are in the 40s to 50s) or September/October (highs are in the 70s and 80s and lows are in the 50s and 60s). July and August are the warmest months with average highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. December, January, and February tend to be the coldest with highs between 49-53 degrees and lows between 29 and 33 degrees. March and November are shoulder months, which can also be a pleasant time of year to plan a visit.
We enjoyed driving between Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown in the month of June. The weather was lovely, the scenes were picturesque, and even a sudden rainstorm along the coast made for a marvelous memory.
There is no lack of fun activities and attractions in the Historic Triangle - particularly if you are a history buff!
If you have a trip planned to the Historic Triangle, make time for the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown!
As a somewhat new attraction (this museum replaced the Yorktown Victory Center in 2016), the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown "tells the story of the nation's founding, from the twilight of the colonial period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond." The indoor exhibits and outdoor living history area uniquely and beautifully capture "the transformational nature and epic scale of the Revolution and its relevance today." Our entire family (two adults and four kids, ranging in age from 5 to 15) was awed by how well-done this museum is. Note, too, that we visited this museum directly after a weeklong getaway to DC where we had been inside a number of Smithsonian museum. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is definitely in the same league, probably outshining some of the DC museums in cleanliness, friendliness, state-of-the-art exhibits, and immersion in history.
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Of the three cities in the Historic Triangle, Williamsburg is the most well-known and, more specifically, Colonial Williamsburg. Tauted as "the world's largest living history museum," Colonial Williamsburg's 301 acres feature iconic sites, working tradespeople, historic taverns, and two world-class art museums. To put it in another way, walking into Colonial Williamsburg is like wandering right back in time to the 18th century. Watch a carpenter, tailor, shoemaker, wigmaker, gunsmith, or apothecary at work. Visit the tavern or the market. You might even catch a glimpse of James Madison, Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Marquis De Lafayette, or George Washington!
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Operated by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation (the same foundation that operates the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown), Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum which chronicles the history of America's first permanent English colony of the same name. Jamestown was founded in Virginia in 1607 and this space masterfully explores the Powhatan Indian, English, and West Central African cultures that converged there.
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If you are on vacation and looking to book a Williamsburg photographer, we highly recommend Jessica Barrett Photography. She is a professional photographer, a mom, and a master at harnessing light. Plus, she knows Williamsburg inside-and-out! She'll be able to direct you to all of the best and secret spots for perfect photos that you can treasure for a lifetime. Above you'll find a *sneak peek* of our Christmas photos! Jessica Barrett is a PRO and a pleasure to work with.
For a picture perfect vacation memory, book afternoon tea at Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters. Located in the Cole Digges House (built circa 1726), afternoon tea is held on the upper floor in a charming room with natural light streaming through the windows. Decorated in delightful colonial style, the afternoon tea menu is robust and absolutely delicious.
Mobjack itself is a must-see location in the Heart of Historic Yorktown Village. Even if you don't book tea, you should DEFINITELY still stop in to enjoy expertly roasted coffees, espressos, teas, wine, beer, sweets and delicious sandwiches. The building itself (as well as the street it is on) is quaint and adorable. Plus, if the weather is nice, you can sit outdoors in a gorgeous event space that is both serene and picture-perfect.
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Sometimes business names don't live up to their names. Posh Salon, however, does. It truly is a posh space - in the best possible way. In other words, it's sparkling clean, stunningly modern, clearly upscale, and wonderfully luxurious. From the moment you walk in to when you step back out the front doors, you'll feel like a million bucks. I'm not a local so I can't say for sure, but I wouldn't be at all surprised if this is the best salon in Williamsburg!
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You may already know that the Siege of Yorktown, which occurred in 1781, was the last major battle of the American Revolution. What you may not know is that Yorktown itself is the most adorable seaside town with quaint shops, waterfront restaurants, and non-crowded beaches where you can enjoy a delightful afternoon in the sunshine. After visiting the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, we took a driving tour of the area and were pleasantly surprised by the surrounding area. In fact, we actually started looking up real estate in the area and dreamed of buying a colonial home right then and there. Yorktown is a special place.
GOOD TO KNOW:
We stayed in our RV at Williamsburg Campground (formerly Williamsburg KOA), which is a pristine campground with plentiful family-friendly amenities with convenient access to all three cities in the Historic Triangle.
I can't wait to go back to Virginia's Historic Triangle! In fact, I'd do a repeat trip to this location next summer in a heartbeat.
On our next visit, I'd love to check the following items off my Historic Triangle bucket list:
Hidden away in the rolling green hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, you will find an amazing outdoor theatrical production with stunning scenery, a talented cast of 125+ people, live animals, and engaging special effects. The Great Passion Play, which has been called "America's #1 attended outdoor drama," follows the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
The 667-acre property also includes the following attractions:
* Items denoted with a $ indicate that they are available for an additional fee. All other items are included with your Great Passion Play ticket.
Tickets to The Great Passion Play can be purchased online:
If you want to add on The Holy Tour and do both the play & the tour, ticket prices are as follows:
If you choose, you can also add on other items for an additional cost, such as a buffet dinner, a backstage tour, an in-depth tabernacle teaching, or a virtual reality tour of the holy land.
Advanced reservations are not currently required for The Great Passion Play, but they are recommended. That being said, advanced reservations are required to tour the Holy Land on days that the play is not performed (year-round).
The Great Passion Play is performed on Good Friday & Saturday and also on select nights from May until October. Performances are on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during June and July. In May, August, September, and October, performances are always on Fridays and Saturdays and sometimes on Tuesdays. Check the full schedule to plan your visit.
The Great Passion Play begins at 8:30pm (7:30pm after August 15). Seating begins at 7:50pm (6:50pm after August 15) after the pre-play performances of the Potter and the Shepherd, which are included with your ticket.
Parking is plentiful at The Great Passion Play. RVs and buses can also be accommodated.
The Holy Land Tour is a 2-hour interactive Biblical teaching tour where you will meet characters from the time of Moses to the time of Christ.
Upon arrival, you board a bus and your driver explains various exhibits as you drive by them. There are five stops along the tour where you will exit the bus to watch a brief presentation by a costumed Biblical character.
According to The Great Passion Play, "each of the individual exhibits in the Holy Land Tour have been
researched for historical accuracy and have been recreated as authentically as possible." The characters themselves do a commendable job of staying in character. For example, when I asked Mary if I could take her picture, she feigned ignorance about such modern inventions. ;)
The five stops on the Holy Land Tour include:
Although you can choose to waltz in right before the main stage production starts, we wouldn't recommend it. The pre-show performances, which are included with your ticket purchase, are well worth an early arrival.
There are two different demonstrations that run back-to-back. Performed by talented artists in costumed character, these 20-30 minute shows are infused with Biblical truths and are lovely to behold:
The Great Passion Play itself is a marvelous and memorable experience. The huge open air theatre features a 550-foot-wide, multilevel stage in an outdoor amphitheater which has 4,100 individual seats. You have to see it in-person to truly grasp how large the stage is! The set includes Pontus Pilate's house, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Court of the Sanhedrin, the Upper Room, etc.
The play itself lasts approximately 2 hours and is performed in rain or shine.
Standing 67 feet hight, the Christ of the Ozarks Statue on property at The Great Passion Play is seven stories high! Constructed in 1966, the statue features a somewhat morose looking Jesus with arms outstretched as if preparing to embrace the viewer in a hug. Free with paid admission.
Noah's Ark Park is a petting zoo on property at The Great Passion Play where guests can interact with sheep, a pygmy goat, a dog, a llama, miniature horses, chickens, a rabbit, and ducks. If you bring spare change, you can also purchase food to hand-feed the various animals. Free with paid admission.
There is an all-you-can-eat buffet on-site at The Great Passion Play, which is somewhat reminiscent of a church potluck or a camp dining room. You'll grab a tray, a brightly colored plate, and a plastic cup - and make your way through the buffet lines to fill your plate with chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, string beans, and jello.
Prices are as follows for the Buffet: $16.99 for adults, $15.99 for youth (ages 12-16), and $9.99 for kids (ages 4-11).
Dinner is served from 4:30pm - 7:30pm each day the play is performed (4:00pm - 7:00pm on Good Friday & Saturday and after August 15).
If you have special dietary needs/requests (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc), be sure to call 800-882-7529 prior to your visit and the chef will make something special for you!
Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers are certainly welcome at The Great Passion Play. Note that there may be some instances that may be frightening. For example, an actor, who is dressed in black with a corresponding hood, represents Satan. His presence is sometimes accompanied with smoke, fire, and scary sound effects. Note that the crucifixion is not particularly graphic or gruesome and the distance from the stage makes that part of the play less frightening than it could be.
Are there changing tables in the bathrooms at The Great Passion Play?
Yes.
The Great Passion Play is outdoors so it is important to dress for the weather. If the temperature is expected to be high, wear breathable, lightweight clothing and consider bringing a fan and a bottle of ice water.
For a memorable stay in Eureka Springs, consider Eureka Springs Treehouses, Caves, Castles, and Hobbits (7 minutes away), Beaver Lakefront Cabins (26 minutes away), or Sugar Ridge Resort (28 minutes away).
Northern Arkansas and Southern Missouri are surprisingly beautiful and offer an array of things to do and places to explore, including:
Can we visit the grounds in the morning and then come back for the play in the evening?
Absolutely! If you are staying nearby, you are welcome to explore the property in the morning and then come back later the same night for the play.
Are seats assigned at The Great Passion Play? Which seats are best?
Seats are not assigned so you are able to select your seat when you arrive. With 4100 seats, however, it is unlikely you will have to arrive early to get a good seat. On the night we attended, there were plentiful open seats - from very close to the front to all the way at the top of the amphitheater. Almost all of the seats provide an excellent view of the enormous stage.
Are the seats at The Great Passion Play comfortable?
They are stadium-style seats with backs. If you prefer extra comfort, feel free to bring a cushion with you.
Do any of the cast members speak or is all of the dialogue pre-recorded?
The cast members speak, but the audience hears the pre-recorded dialogue.
Does The Great Passion Play offer any homeschool discount days or events?
The Great Passion Play does not currently offer any events or deals for homeschool students/families.
Does The Great Passion Play offer any birthday party packages?
The Great Passion Play does not currently offer birthday party packages, although you could certainly bring a group to the play or the Holy Land Tour to celebrate a special event.
Does The Great Passion Play offer field trips for schools?
Yes. Call 479-253-8559 to inquire about setting up a field trip for your school.
Is the Gospel presented at The Great Passion Play?
Yes. Costumed characters present the story of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection with compassion and steadfastness.
I am interested in being part of the cast. What is the audition process?
Learn more about current openings on The Great Passion Play employment page.
Have a wonderful time at The Great Passion Play!
If you're looking for a camping or RV experience that is more "resort" than "rustic" with abundant activities and amenities for kids, the Jellystone brand will likely be your cup of tea! Yogi Bear's Jellystone Parks are family-friendly to the max with fun things to do around the entire campground! From arts & crafts and bicycling to character meet-and-greets and swimming, Jellystone is like a super fun summer camp that the entire family can enjoy together.
Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest is in Harrisville, which is in Butler County in Western Pennsylvania. There are many small towns within 15 minutes of the park - including Branchton, Clintonville, Eau Claire, Forestville, Grove City, and Slippery Rock.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest has almost 100 full hook-up sites - many with shade. Nine of these are designated as premium, three are deluxe, and the remainder are standard. Premium sites have a swing and a level concrete pad in a more private location.
Additionally, there are 5 basic RV sites with water/electric only (no sewer).
There are also 2 tent sites at the back of the park.
A few seasonal sites can be found on this property as well, but this park caters more to short-term vacationers.
Check-in time is at 3:00pm for all reservations. Check-out time is at 11:00am for cabins and 2:00pm for RV sites.
If you'd rather not deal with tent camping or you don't have a recreational vehicle of your own, you can book a cabin, yurt, glamping tent, or treehouse!
The treehouse, in particular, sounds like soooo much fun! It features a kitchen, a living room, a full bathroom with tub/shower, a TV & DVD player, air-conditioning/heat, and two bedrooms with a loft. Sleeps 6.
Note, too, that there are many different cabin sizes and configurations to choose from - including a multi-family cabin that sleeps 14 (the Rangers Retreat).
Credits and refunds are not granted for weather, illness, work schedule changes, etc.
In typical Jellystone fashion, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest has TONS of activities and amenities!
Visitors to the campground are required to pay a visitor's fee to participate in activities and/or to use campground amenities.
The front office is near the entrance and has a gift/camping shop with lots of necessities as well as treats - plus a full snack bar menu and ice cream counter!
There is one playground toward the front of the park, adjacent to the miniature golf course, 1/2 basketball court, jumping pillow, and swimming pool.
See note above. The swimming pool is a bit small for the size of campground, but is well-maintained and a popular spot for campers. Wristbands are required for use of this and other campground amenities. Children, ages 12 and under, must be accompanied by an adult.
Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest has a full snack bar with entree, appetizer, and dessert options, including:
Breakfast (most items are $4-$5)
Entrees* ($2.99-$13.99)
Snacks ($2.00-$3.99)
Drinks ($1.50-$4.49)
Plus, Hershey's ice cream ($2-$4)!
* All entrees can be made into combo meals - with a side of fries or tater tots & a 24oz beverage.
If you need to pick up groceries, ALDI and Walmart are both within 15-20 minutes.
There are two restrooms/bathhouses on the property as well as a laundry room with Speed Queen machines, which is centrally located within the park.
Please dispose of all garbage at the dumpster near the exit gate.
Leashed dogs are welcome at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest and there is a dog park available for your use.
WiFi was fast and worked well during our stay.
Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest is in Butler County, Pennsylvania. For ideas for things to do in Butler County, consult our travel guide by clicking on the link in this sentence.
In addition to your regular packing list (clothing, shoes, toiletries, food, etc), you may also want to bring: