MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Travel games, sticker books and craft kits are among the items suggested by Toy Tips founder Marianne Szymanski, who joined us on Wednesday, May 7 to share ideas for summer trips and home-based adventures.

Among her recommendations is the "I Love California" sticker book from Workman Publishing, which includes 425 state-themed stickers for $12.99. Szymanski also mentioned "Vendel to Viking," a Nordic history board game from Ion Games priced at $89, as well as the locally made Lucky Bears National Parks Game for $35.

For packing, she noted options like the Lovete Hair Bow Craft Set at $19.99 and the reusable silicone storybook "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" from Hey Doodle at $26.99.

Szymanski also recommended "Painting for Real," a compact art kit for solo travelers, available for $29.99.

Additional ideas and links are available by visiting Marianne on Facebook.

She also wrote this travel guide:

Hit the Road Like Marianne: Route 66 to California Dreams

A Journey for Families and Solo Travelers Alike

The Classic Road Trip: Route 66 Adventure

Pack your bags, load the car, and head toward Chicago—the official starting point of the legendary Route 66. While there are many ways to journey west, I followed the classic path with a few detours for hidden gems that piqued my interest. The best time to travel Route 66 is from May through Fall, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

This journey is perfect for both families and solo travelers. The route is lined with themed attractions, quirky roadside stops, and rich slices of Americana. Planning ahead is key—choose what excites you most, and build your itinerary around that.

My Route 66 Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 – Tulsa, OK
Side Trip: Pawhuska, home to The Pioneer Woman’s Mercantile, a delightful bakery and store that’s worth the detour.

Next Stops:

• Amarillo, TX – Classic diners, big skies
• Santa Fe, NM – A slight detour, but breathtaking architecture, art, and desert charm
• Flagstaff, AZ
• Sedona, AZ – Red rock beauty and spiritual energy
• Scottsdale, AZ – Sun, spas, and southwestern flair
• Los Angeles, CA – Your final stop on this iconic route

Total: 4 nights, 3 full days — but feel free to stretch or shorten based on your pace. I recommend doing this trip with a travel partner.

Whether you’re cruising Route 66 with your family or discovering solo travel joy in California, the journey itself can be just as healing and memorable as the destination.

California Gems: From Family Fun to Soulful Solo Escapes

As my kids grew older and started bringing friends on trips, I rediscovered the beauty of solo travel—a time to reconnect with myself, recharge, and explore on my own terms.

Here are a few California destinations perfect for both family adventures and solo escapes:

Carlsbad, CA – Wellness by the Sea

Fly into San Diego or Los Angeles and head to Carlsbad for at least two days of coastal bliss.

Stay: Omni Resort & Spa – I created a personal “Wellness and Reset” getaway here. With its expansive golf course, cave-style spa, serene pools, and relaxing campus, this resort is ideal for solo travelers or families. From the moment I arrived, I felt the stress melt away.

Carlsbad Must-Do’s:

• The Flower Fields (March–May): Stunning seasonal blooms
• Museum of Making Music: Interactive and inspiring
• Evening Tip: Enjoy live music and fresh seafood in downtown Carlsbad’s fun, beachy atmosphere

Getting There: The Amtrak train from LA or San Diego takes under two hours—easy, scenic, and stress-free.

Temecula – Wine, Balloons & Wonder

Looking for a laid-back weekend trip? Temecula offers a lovely mix of nature, charm, and adult fun.

Morning: Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards
Afternoon: Wander through Old Town and sample wine at local vineyards
Evening: Catch live music and dinner under the stars
Bonus Stop: PennyPickles Workshop – quirky, hands-on fun for kids and adults alike

Temecula’s friendly, easygoing vibe makes it a joy whether you’re flying solo or traveling with friends.

Napa Valley – A Work-Friendly Escape at The Meritage Resort

Most people know Napa for its wine, but it’s also a hidden gem for a peaceful working getaway. I stayed at The Meritage Resort and transformed a few "work from home" days into a luxurious “work in comfort” escape.

Why I Loved It:

• A spa inside a real cave
• Three amazing on-site restaurants
• Vineyard walking trails and beautiful pools
• Reliable Wi-Fi and quiet nooks for focus

The resort also offers a shuttle to downtown Napa where you’ll find:

• Charming boutiques
• Delicious dining options
• A warm, social vibe great for meeting new people

This was the perfect mix of leisure, productivity, and solo traveler inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re reminiscing on childhood road trips or planning your next solo reset, there's magic in hitting the road with an open heart. From Route 66 adventures to California coastlines, each stop is an opportunity to connect—with yourself, with others, and with the beauty of the journey.