FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
Wherever awards

A St. Petersburg Summer Night

by Carley Wade

Dec 19, 2017

© Grauvision | Dreamstime

Destinations / Europe

Millennials who grew up watching Reagan or repeats of Red Dawn on Saturday mornings may not consider Russia a vacation destination, but today’s Motherland is worth considering — and for families at that.

 

Summer is the perfect time for a visit since Beliye Nochi, or the unique natural phenomenon known as White Nights, means the sun doesn’t descend low enough at St. Petersburg’s northerly location for it to grow dark at night — so much so the streetlights don’t need to be turned on!

 

St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Russia. Photo: Carley Thornell

 

What are turned on, however, are the seasonal fountains of Peterhof in this imperial capital. The series of palaces and gardens constructed under the orders of Peter the Great are often called the “Russian Versailles,” and the rushing spray of the jets here dance to music as the water flows down a path to the sea at the Gulf of Finland. Reaching the complex just an hour outside of the city is a true highlight — ride a unique hydrofoil and bounce along the water on a vehicle that looks like you’re about to board a submarine a la the Hunt for Red October (don’t worry, it doesn’t descend!).

 

© Carley Thornell

 

Back in the city center, the hop-on, hop-off canal cruise is an easier ride and an easier way to see most of the city’s highlights, and enjoy English-language narration for each. Although it may be a bit tricky to get around not knowing any Russian, most passersby on the street can point you in the right direction and most signs are in English; or, private guides from companies like Esperance Travel specialize in both group and one-on-one tours in the city center and beyond.

 

All of the larger hotel chains are fluent and most offer concierge service to help plan activities or family-friendly restaurants. At boutique Domina, each of the five floors has a different theme, one of which is family; kids will love the open, multilevel floors with inset loft spaces on the top level. The “Dom” is also within walking distance of Mariinsky Theater, which features special opera and ballet programs during White Nights for kids. Or, within walking distance of the illustrious Hermitage art museum, the Kempinski Hotel offers up a hearty breakfast spread, a cool view over most of the city from its rooftop bar and restaurant (youngsters welcome) and nautically themed accommodations. Traveling at the end of June also brings an opportunity to witness Scarlet Sails, a frigate with red sails, fireworks, concerts and a massive water show.

 

Train Museum in Russia

© Carley Thornell

 

Want to visit all of Russia in one fell swoop? The Grand Maket Rossiya, an 8,600-square-foot model train museum, presents the entire Russian Federation in miniature — so St. Basil’s Cathedral in Red Square and playful polar bears in Siberia are all within reach.

 

Those who wish to trek to the capital for real can also avoid the airport with an easy, high-speed train ride from St. Petersburg to Moscow, arriving within four hours. Business class is in order for the entire family, since it includes enough food and snacks for much of the day.

#WhereverFamily

Insta Feed
Hotels
Nov 7, 2024

Velas Vallarta: The Perfect Family Stay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Family travelers looking for the ultimate escape in Puerto Vallarta should consider booking a stay at Velas Vallarta. Located directly on the beaches of Banderas Bay, Velas Vallarta offers a luxury all-inclusive experience in one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.

Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway

East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.

Hotels
Nov 7, 2024

Family-Friendly Holiday Packages from Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa will transform into a festive wonderland for family travelers this holiday season. Non-stop fun for all ages includes cookie decorating, face painting, hot chocolate and smores, and so much more.

Hotels
Nov 6, 2024

Discover What’s in Store for Kids at Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos

A private island resort in Turks and Caicos almost sounds too good to be true for family travelers, but true it is. Ambergris Cay, a private island resort about 600 miles south of Miami, is packed full of romance, relaxation and, now, incredible options for family fun.

Hotels
Nov 6, 2024

Santa Claus is Coming to … Swissôtel Chicago

Family travelers to Chicago will want to book the Santa Suite at Swissôtel Chicago. Tickets and bookings are now available for the return of this beloved tradition. The theme this year is Holiday Songs, and 17 trees will be decorated with ornaments inspired by classic holiday favorites like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

Airlines
Nov 5, 2024

Simulated Flights to Help Families with Autistic Children

Traveling with neurodiverse kids can be so challenging many parents simply avoid flying as a family. But Breeze Airways’ Autism Flies events pave the way for families of kids with autism to take off with confidence.