The DuckAbroad Blog
Travel stories, family adventure tips, destination guides, and updates from the DuckAbroad team.
Why "Educational Travel" Fails (And What Actually Works)
The difference between dragging kids through museums and sparking genuine curiosityWe've all seen it. Maybe we've been it.A family shuffling through a museum. T
What's New in the Discovery Center
The Discovery Center just got a fresh upgrade. Three new features make it easier to track your family's adventures and keep the learning going between trips.See
Features of Top Kid-Friendly Travel Apps
Traveling with kids is a wonderful adventure, but it can also be a bit challenging. Keeping everyone organized, entertained, and safe requires some planning. Lu
The $5,000 Trip Your Kids Won't Remember
Why family travel memories fade faster than you think, and the simple fix that changes everythingIn 2019, we took our kids to Italy. They were 13 and 11. We hit
The Night the Wall Came Down
For 28 years, East Germans were trapped. The Wall didn't just divide Berlin. It caged 16 million people inside a country they couldn't leave. No vacations to th
Set-Jetting with Kids: A Guide to Movie and TV Filming Locations Your Family Can Actually Visit
Remember when your kids begged to visit "that place from the movie?" That impulse has a name: set-jetting - traveling to real-world filming locations from your
DuckAbroad 2025: A Year of Discovery
2025 was a year of steady exploration at DuckAbroad. Every week brought new destinations, and by year's end, we'd added 57 new points of interest to the app, ea
Kuelap: The 1,500-Year-Old Fortress You've Never Heard Of
Most people have heard of Machu Picchu. Almost nobody knows about the fortress that's roughly 900 years older.Kuelap, built by the Chachapoya "Cloud Warriors" i
The Future of Family Travel: Embracing Kidfluence in 2026
92% of families are traveling in 2026—but HOW they plan has changed. Discover kidfluence, multi-gen trends, and how to create trips kids actually remember.
Visiting Chand Baori with Kids: India's Incredible 3,500-Step Wonder
Imagine a structure so geometrically perfect that it inspired the prison pit in "The Dark Knight Rises," and it was built over 1,200 years ago without modern te
New in Duckabroad: Castel Sant'Angelo
We just added one of Rome's most fascinating landmarks to the app: Castel Sant'Angelo.This place has lived many lives. It started as Emperor Hadrian's tomb in 1
When “Worldschooling” Becomes Real: What Families Are Learning on the Road
Have you ever wondered what happens when travel doesn’t stop at vacation? Lately, more families are choosing a lifestyle called worldschooling — living and lear
I spent the weekend vibe coding with Claude 4.5, here's what I learned
This weekend I took a departure from the work I typically do for DuckAbroad to see for myself the progress that is being made in the "Vibe Coding" space. Here's
St Giles' Cathedral: 900 years of history on Edinburgh's Royal Mile
Edinburgh's skyline has one unmistakable silhouette—a crown-shaped spire rising above the Royal Mile. That crown belongs to St Giles' Cathedral, a building that
Embracing the Journey: What We Lose When Travel Goes Digital
The Nostalgia of TravelI found an old boarding pass from 25 years ago: United Airlines, Boston to San Francisco, seat 17C. It’s torn, smudged, and faded—but it’
Argentina's 12 UNESCO Sites: Iguazú, Los Glaciares & More
Argentina protects 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered from subtropical forests to Patagonian ice fields. DuckAbroad Travel Passport is starting with two o
Exploring Spain’s UNESCO Towns
Spain isn’t just about beaches and big cities. Hidden across its hills and valleys are towns so rich in history and architecture that UNESCO placed them among t
Ancient Roman Architecture: Experiencing Together as a Family | DuckAbroad
When you think about incredible travel destinations that spark curiosity and wonder, ancient Roman architecture often tops the list. Imagine walking through gra
The Magic of Unplanned Moments in Family Travel | DuckAbroad
Some of the best parts of a family trip aren’t on the itinerary.They’re the small, unexpected moments.The ones that happen between destinations, when you take a
Turn Family Adventures into Lasting Memories: The Power of Travel Journaling
Discover how family travel journaling strengthens bonds, preserves precious memories, and transforms your family adventures into a legacy. Learn best practices
Why Every Parent Should Give Their Kids a Travel Journal
Keeping a travel journal can be a valuable activity for kids. Here are some reasons why your kids should keep a travel journal:1. Educational Opportunity: A tra
The Day Your Family’s Idea of “Big Waterfall” Changes Forever
Your kids have a mental model of what "big waterfall" means. Maybe they've seen Niagara Falls. Maybe they've just seen pictures. Either way, they think they und
Exploring the Majestic Glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park
Los Glaciares National Park, located in the southern part of Argentina, is a family traveler's dream come true. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural won
A Photo Journey Through Spain’s Scenic Town of Cuenca
Just a short train ride from Madrid, the breathtaking town of Cuenca, Spain, feels like stepping into another time. Perched dramatically between two river gorge
New Destinations Added in Segovia and Cuenca
There are 2 more locations to explore in Spain. We've added the Aqueduct of Segovia and the Hanging Houses in Cuenca. I'm planning to visit both of these in a f
Peace comes to the Roman Empire
Emperor Antoninus PiusAntoninus Pius was the fourth of the "Five Good Emperors" of Rome. He came to power in 138 AD after the death of Emperor Hadrian. Antoninu
The Life of Emperor Hadrian
This weeks newsletter focused on the third of the Five Good Emperors of Rome. This time we looked at the life of Emperor Hadrian.Hadrian's reign began with the
The Miracle That Saved The Roman Empire
Marcus Aurelius was one of the Roman Empires greatest leaders. He used all of his mental and physical strength to guard and protect Rome and it's borders. He wo
Family Adventures at Walnut Canyon National Monument
Walnut Canyon National Monument is located in northern Arizona, near the city of Flagstaff. This beautiful park is known for its stunning canyon and ancient cli
3 State Parks you need to visit in the north eastern United States
Beautiful weather is upon us and it's that time of year when we load the family in the car and get out and explore nature. If you live in the northeastern part
Who was Emperor Nerva?
When Emperor Nerva took the throne in 96 A.D., Rome was on the brink of chaos. The previous emperor, Domitian, had ruled through fear and suspicion, leaving the
Musee de la Reddition: Where Germany Surrendered to End WWII in Europe
At 2:41 AM on May 7, 1945, German General Alfred Jodl signed the document that ended World War II in Europe. The room where he signed still exists in Reims, Fra
Todt Battery: A Massive WWII Gun Built to Intimidate England
The Todt Battery is one of the most famous gun emplacements along the Atlantic Wall. The battery was named after Fritz Todt, the engineer who oversaw much of Ge
Explore Glaciers in the Rocky Mountains of Canada
Imagine standing in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks and ancient ice. Banff National Park, established in 1885 as Rocky Mountains
Explore Saxon Switzerland National Park with Kids
Saxon Switzerland National Park, established in 1990, is one of Germany’s most dramatic natural landscapes. Located just south of Dresden, the park is divided i
Churchill War Rooms: Inside London’s Secret WWII Bunker
Deep below the streets of London, hidden under the Treasury building, sits one of the most important places of World War II: the Cabinet War Rooms. These underg
The Inspiring Legacy of Sojourner Truth: A Trailblazer in the Fight for Equality
As DuckAbroad expands the number of inspiring people your family can learn about, today we’re adding Sojourner Truthto the app.Born Isabella Baumfree in 1797 in
Women’s History Month: Inspiring Women to Explore with Your Family
March is Women’s History Month, and it is the perfect time to highlight the women who shaped our world through courage, determination, and groundbreaking achiev
Booker T. Washington: Visit the National Monument Honoring His Legacy
As we close out this year’s Black History Month, it’s a great time to explore the places where families can learn more about Black history through real-world ex
Goodrich Castle: Exploring a Medieval Fortress in England
Perched above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in England — and it’s now the 17th castle added to the DuckAbroad
Grace Hopper: Computer Scientist & United States Navy Rear Admiral
Today, Grace Hopper was added to the list of people to find using your DuckAbroad passport.Grace Hopper was an early computer scientist and United States Navy r
Black History Month: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland. She was beaten and whipped as a child and even hit in the head with a metal weight (the wei
Black History Month: Frederick Douglass
Frederick Douglass escaped slavery and went on to become a leader of the abolitionist movement. His work in the movement in Massachusetts and New York led to hi
Neuschwanstein Castle: A Fairy-Tale Bavarian Adventure for Families
Few places in Europe capture a child’s imagination like Neuschwanstein Castle. Perched high above the Bavarian countryside, this fairy-tale palace looks like it
Visiting Egypt: Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Egypt. The mythical creature, a lion with the head of a pharaoh, represents pharaoh Kharfe
Destination #200: Historic Inca Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Today we celebrate our 200th destination. It's been a little over 3 years since the first code was written for the Duckwyn Travel Passport app. Now, we're addin
Experience The Great Sights That Venice, Italy Has To Offer
We've been busy adding new destinations to the Duckwyn Travel Passport. Italy is one of my favorite countries to visit. Several years ago we enjoyed a long wee
Exploring the Remarkable Life of Nelson Mandela
In celebration of Black History month, we're adding more inspirational people of color from history to the Duckwyn Travel app. Today, we're honoring Nelson Mand
Hook Lighthouse: Ireland’s 850-Year-Old Beacon That Still Works
Before most of today’s nations even existed, a light was already burning on Ireland’s southeastern coast.That light, first tended by monks in the 12th century,
William Shakespeare: Poet, Playwright, Actor
Visit William Shakespeare's birth home and the original location of the Globe theatre to collect the two latest additions to the growing list of people to find
This Day in History: The Tulsa Race Massacre
The Tulsa Race Massacre occurred from May 31 to June 1, 1921, in the prosperous Black community of Greenwood, Tulsa, Oklahoma, also known as "Black Wall Street.
Exploring Venice’s Faro San Giorgio Maggiore Lighthouse with Kids
Most lighthouses tower over rocky cliffs or sandy beaches. This one stands about 15 meters tall on a Venetian island, watching boats glide past centuries-old ch
Exciting Updates for the DuckAbroad App: Now on iOS and Coming Soon to Android!
Discover the Latest FeaturesLast week, the latest version of the DuckAbroad iOS app was approved on the App Store. This update brings performance improvements f
New Location: Royal Observatory
Today, the Royal Observatory was added to the Travel Passport. This fun location will take you through the history behind the Prime Meridian and Greenwich Mean
Support the People of Muai Affected By the August Wildfires
Just three weeks before the fires my family and I enjoyed two wonderful evenings in Lahaina. In this short period of time, we met so many locals who made our ex
Explore Your World with DuckAbroad Android App
We’re thrilled to share some big news: DuckAbroad is now available on Android!Families everywhere can finally join DuckAbroad right from their phones — discover
Winston Churchill, Inspirational Prime Minister who led Britain to victory in World War II
Winston Churchill was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945 and 1951 to 1955. He served in the military and the government through most of
Build great vacation memories with these Travel Journal starter questions.
Starting today, you will see a new icon appear next to your "write a note" button in your Travel Journal. This icon loads a screen with questions for you to ans
Park Güell: Unique architecture, panoramic views of Barcelona
Antoni Gaudí's influence can be seen all over Barcelona but Park Güell may showcase his style and talents best. Gaudi's style and imagination for using organic
Pena Palace: History, Things To Do, and Fun Facts
Your family's car winds up narrow mountain roads. Trees give way to glimpses of colorful towers. Then you round the final bend and there it is: a palace that lo
Finding Purpose Through My Kids, History and Travel
Recently, I started a new project. I’ve worked on many different ideas over the years but this one is different. For the first time in my life I’m working on a
Exploring Italian History in Pisa, Milan, and Florence
Duckwyn needs your help. Three new locations have been added this month in Italy. He'd love to check them out but he needs you to get him there. If you're in Pi
Visiting the Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s Masterpiece
No trip to the Vatican is complete without seeing the Sistine Chapel — home to one of the most breathtaking works of art ever created.Between 1508 and 1512, Mic
New Travel Destinations Added in Rome, San Antonio, and San Diego
So far this month we've added three destinations in Rome and our first points of interest in San Diego, CA and San Antonio, TX.Rome • Appian Way • Roman Forum •
Free City Walking Tour Planner
Over the past year we've been adding over 50 historical sites, 18 different historical people, 50 US State Capitals, and several general points of interest to h
Isle Royale National Park in Michigan
This remote national park on Lake Superior protects the island of Isle Royale and the more than 400 small islands nearby. Isle Royale is the fourth-largest lake
Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park commemorates the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, the 1857 Dred Scott case, and the first civil government west of the Mississippi River. The
Collectible City Coins Added in Canada, South America and Asia
Over the past few weeks we've added 20 new cities in Canada and across South America, Africa, and Asia. More cities are coming soon as we look to expand into mo
Acadia National Park: Collectible Cards
Your kids can now collect Acadia National Park.The newest card in the DuckAbroad Travel collection celebrates Maine's coastal treasure. Acadia holds a special p
Quick Update
I have spent the better part of the last 2 months continuing to improve Duckwyn's travel from home game. Although I feel there is a lot of potential here, it's
11 New Collectible Travel Coins
Hope everyone is staying safe out there. While it is going to take a while for us to get out and travel again, we don't want to stop creating new destinations t
New Historical Site: HMS Belfast
HMS Belfast is a light cruiser built for the Royal Navy in 1936. It was the fist ship in the Royal Navy to be named after the capital city of Northern Ireland.
Ukraine
Due to Russia's attack on the Ukraine, we're removing both Moscow and St. Petersburg from our World City Tour. Two new cities will be added to our Top 100 list
Build Lasting Family Travel Memories
Getting out and exploring the world together as a family are some of my most cherished memories. As babies, we brought them to California, Arizona, and Florida.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Exploring the Heart of the Himalayas
Kathmandu is the 94th city to join Duckwyn’s list of the Top 100 Cities to visit in the world — and it’s easy to see why. As the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is
Badlands National Park in Utah
Badlands National Park is located in southwestern South Dakota. The park was originally the reservation of the Oglala Sioux Indians. Today, the park protect the
Makapuu Point Lighthouse: Family-Friendly Hike and Scenic Views in Oahu
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse is the newest addition to the DuckAbroad lighthouse collection, and it’s one your family will love seeing in person. Located on the so
The Battle of Gettysburg: Did You Know?
The Gettysburg battlefield is now included in the Duckwyn Travel Passport. The museum and battlefield are a fun learning experience for all ages. You can explor
Amman, Jordan: One of the World’s Oldest Cities Now on DuckAbroad
Amman is now part of the DuckAbroad Travel Passport, and it is a destination your family will love discovering. As the capital of Jordan, Amman is one of the ol
Exploring Capitol Reef National Park with Kids
Capitol Reef National Park is one of Utah’s most beautiful surprises. Tucked between red rock cliffs and winding desert canyons, it’s a place where families can
Yosemite and Grand Canyon National Park Badges
This week we added our first two National Parks to the Duckwyn Travel Passport. You can now visit Yosemite and the Grand Canyon and collect these new badges whe
Visit this windy place where the first powered flight took off
New Duckwyn Destination: Wright Brothers MemorialThe Wright Brothers successfully launched the first sustained, powered flight at Kill Devil Hill in North Carol
Updates: Week of October 12th
• Added 2 destinations in New York City - Flatiron Building and Chrysler Building • New 50 State Challenge page added to track the states you've visited • Whe
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park becomes the 13th national park to be added to the Duckwyn Travel app. The park is located between Akron and Cleveland in the north
Animated Drawing of Grand Tetons National Park
I recently finished the a drawing of the Grand Tetons. The finished drawing will be used in the new badge coming later this week.
Grand Teton National Park is now part of our national park collection
Starting today, you can visit Grand Teton National Park and collect our new national park badge.Grand Teton National Park is located in Wyoming just south of Ye
More Locations To Visit in Philadelphia
Two more locations have been added in Philadelphia: • Independence Hall • Christ Church Burial GroundCheck out these 2 new locations and learn about the events
3 New Landmarks to Explore in Massachusetts
We've added 3 new locations in the Massachusetts area. Starting today, you can collect stamps and coins at these new locations in Boston and Plymouth by logging