MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As travel season arrives, many families are looking for some tips on the top toys for family trips. With ideas fresh off her visit to Toy Fair in New York, Marianne Szymanski joined us on Tuesday, March 18.
She also wrote the following about toy tips and family trips:
Family Trips: Denver Highlights
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Denver, which is just a short 2-hour flight away. One thing I love about flying into Denver International Airport is the Westin Hotel right on-site—such a great convenience for unexpected late arrivals or early departures. Plus, the airport’s unique design, shaped like a bird in flight, is a sight to see from the airplane window.
Denver, famously known as the "Mile-High City," lives up to its name, sitting at an elevation of exactly one mile. It's a wonderful city to explore, with plenty of activities to do museums to explore and eateries to visit before you head up to the mountains. I absolutely loved the Denver Art Museum and Kirkland Museum but there are so many museums, specialty museums and child-friendly activities within them that will keep the entire family engaged all day long.
During my stay, I checked into the Sheraton Downtown Denver, which is ideally located in the heart of the city. It’s within walking distance of the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall and other downtown attractions. But, if you’re just passing through Denver on your way to the mountains, you can plan a stop by the resort for a day pass to enjoy the gym and pool facilities, even if you're not staying overnight.
Toy Tips from Toy Fair in NYC
I also just returned from Toy Fair in NYC, where I discovered some exciting new toys coming to the market this year. Here are a just a few of the standout finds:
- Squishmallow Chairs: A fun new way to combine comfort and playtime with these adorable squishy plush chairs.
- Connectix Sets: Using the strength of magnets safety, these building sets are for hands-on connecting and creating. There are basic and themed sets appropriate for children age 3+. Creative and building toys are always popular but it is important to also make sure to but sizes that are age appropriate.
- Fidget toys as a category and toys that promote sensory will still continue to be popular.
- Paw Patrol: A popular brand for over a dozen years now, 2025 marks several other anniversary celebrations in the toy world, including Mattel's 80th and Toy Story’s 30th anniversary.
However, it’s important to note that there may be a rise in toy prices later this year due to ongoing tariffs on products made in China. If you're looking to shop the toy aisles, it might be worth planning ahead.
My Toy Tips
As a parent, one of the most important things I always recommend is to play with what you already have. Sometimes, simply reusing toys in a new way can be incredibly engaging for kids, boosting imagination and creative play. Also, make sure to purchase toys that are age-appropriate, based on your child’s current skills and interests. This way, the toy will grow with them, keeping them entertained and making sure your investment in toys is getting full use of play.
For more information, visit toytips.com.