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For months after a July foreclosure auction, nobody knew who was behind the limited liability company that bought Casa Encantada, one of Bel Air‘s most storied estates, in Pomona. Now it’s been revealed that the buyer was Peter Thiel.

Thiel, the PayPal co-founder and billionaire venture capitalist, is now the newest owner of a 40,000-square-foot piece of L.A. history. For $130 million, it’s one of Los Angeles’ most expensive homes.

The mansion has had many famous owners before Thiel, including Conrad Hilton, hotel magnate and founder of the Hilton Hotels Chain, who bought the home in 1950 for $225,000 (about $3.1 million in 2026) and lived there until he died in 1979.

Peter Thiel, the newest owner of Casa Encantada, attending the Axel Springer Award ceremony in September 2026.

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It was he who named it Casa Encantada, describing in his autobiography Be My Guest that “it was a case of love at first sight. From the moment I stood alone in the first floor gallery I knew it was for me, Casa Encantada.” He maintained its original decoration style, carefully selected by its previous owner, Hilda Boldt Weber.

Weber commissioned the home in 1936 after she bought 9.5 acres of a gorgeous hilltop site in Bel Air. In the midst of the Great Depression, she purchased the land for $100,000 (about $2.4 million in 2026). 

As an outsider to the Los Angeles film community, she spared no expense on her new home, which cost more than $2 million in total (about $47.5 million in 2026). She threw lavish parties and spent almost her entire net worth on building and decorating her house. It is therefore not totally surprising that she put the house up for sale only 10 years later for $1.5 million—less than she had originally spent to build and decorate it.

Another previous owner was billionaire businessman David Murdock, who purchased the estate in 1980, a year after Hilton died, for $12.4 million (about $50 million in 2026), setting a national residential sales record. In 2000, Murdock then sold it to Gary and Karen Winnick for $94 million ($175 million in 2026), setting yet another record.

After Gary’s passing in 2023, Karen listed the home for $250 million. The home fell into foreclosure after entities tied to Gary defaulted on more than $150 million in loans, which is how Thiel was able to get it at the price he did.

Thiel’s $130 million is roughly half of Karen’s asking price of $250 million, and less—in today’s dollars—than the Winnicks paid for it in 2000.

Casa Encantada’s history shows the highs and lows involved in owning a home like this. Weber spent her fortune on it and sold at a loss; debts tied to Gary Winnick ended in foreclosure. Hilton, by contrast, lived there for nearly three decades and wrote about his love-at-first-sight experience. The outcome of Thiel’s time there remains to be seen.

Related: In 2021, Diana Jenkins paid $13 million for a Hidden Hills mansion; five years later, the former ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ star listed it for $23 million

Lindsay Lohan just gave Mean Girls fans the ultimate October 3 gift by recreating the movie’s most iconic scene — and she couldn’t help but crack up at the nostalgia.

Lohan, who played Cady Heron in the 2004 coming-of-age comedy, shared a video on Instagram recreating the now-famous moment when Cady tells the camera, “It’s October 3,” after recalling the day her crush, Aaron Samuels (Jonathan Bennett), asked her what day it was.

After delivering the line, Lohan broke into laughter and winked at the camera, proving she’s still very much in on the joke more than two decades later.

Bennett, who played Aaron in the movie, was clearly delighted to see his former co-star recreate the scene. He hilariously commented on Lohan’s Instagram post, “This made me miss you two so much! This homo has fomo.”

The tiny moment from Mean Girls has become one of the movie’s most enduring references, turning October 3 into an unofficial holiday for fans of the film.

Every year, social media fills up with Mean Girls references, pink imagery, and quotes from the movie, all celebrating the date Cady famously revealed to Aaron.

“I hope your day is so fetch. Happy October 3rd to those who celebrate,” one person shared on Threads, referencing Gretchen Wieners’ (Lacey Chabert) doomed attempt to make “fetch” happen.

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Another fan used the day to point out just how much time has passed since the movie hit theaters.

“And in October 3rd he asked me what day it was. I’m happy Mean Girls day. Want to feel old? Mean Girls is 22 years old,” they wrote on Threads.

Other fans used the unofficial holiday to celebrate their favorite characters.

“This Mean Girls Day, we’re revisiting the iconic Kevin G (Rajiv Surendra) — math enthusiast / bad-ass MC, scene-stealer, and nerd. What’s your favorite moment?” one account posted.

And, naturally, there was plenty of pink.

Fans shared pink-themed posts across social media, a nod to the Plastics’ famous rule that they wear pink on Wednesdays. While October 3 doesn’t fall on a Wednesday this year, that hardly seems to matter to Mean Girls fans.

The movie’s October 3 moment has become so ingrained in pop culture that Lohan’s decision to recreate it herself feels like the perfect full-circle celebration — especially coming from the woman who made the line iconic in the first place.

At 40, Lohan has continued to embrace her connection to Mean Girls, the movie that helped make her one of the defining young stars of the 2000s.

And for fans, October 3 remains a perfectly acceptable excuse to rewatch the movie, wear pink and, yes, finally admit that maybe Gretchen was onto something with “fetch.”

Lisa Bonet may have risen to fame back in the ’80s on The Cosby Show, but decades later, the star is absolutely stunning with long, gray hair.

Bonet, 58, became a face every household knew thanks to her role as the rebellious Denise Huxtable on The Cosby Show. She parlayed that role into a spinoff, A Different World, before returning to Cosby later. She later appeared in the beloved film High Fidelity and the thriller Enemy of the State. But flash forward to 2026, Bonet has made it clear she’s not really one for the spotlight of Hollywood. That’s why we were delighted to see her in a rare appearance at the Celine fashion show at Paris Fashion Week. Sporting long, gray hair that reached her waist, the beautiful is looking better than ever in her fifties.

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Here’s another shot of the star arriving at the fashion show:

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Lisa Bonet is Zoe Kravitz’s Mom

Bonet is also the mother of one of Hollywood’s strongest rising stars, Zoe Kravitz. Kravitz, 37, whose father is musical icon Lenny Kravitz, earned acclaim for her roles on TV series like Big Little Lies and High Fidelity. Now a veritable film star and rising director who made her directorial debut with 2024’s Blink Twice, Zoe has made headlines in recent months thanks to her relationship with the one and only Harry Styles. Last week, Bonet and her daughter were spotted by the cameras dancing it out at one of Harry’s concerts. Check out the mother/daughter duo having the time of their lives and feeling the groove below:

View this post on Instagram Will Lisa Bonet Appear on the New A Different World?

A Different World debuted in 1987 and showed Bonet’s character, Denise Huxtable, heading to the fictional Hillman College. But when the press asked Jasmine Guy, who rose to stardom as Whitley Gilbert-Wayne on the beloved series, whether Bonet would return for a cameo on the new Netflix reboot, Guy made it clear things are up in the air.

“That’s a cliffhanger,” Guy told PEOPLE, with fellow star Cree Summer adding, “That’s a real cliffhanger.”

 Summer, who played the free-spirited Freddie on the show, went on to say, “That’s my sister. But I can tell you, even if I begged, I don’t think she would come back.”

Related: ‘Cosby Show’ Star Phylicia Rashad, 78, Is Stunning With Long, Gray Curls in Rare Public Appearance

“Love Is A Many-Splendored Thing” was a hit 1955 song, which was originally included in a film with the same title starring William Holden and Jennifer Jones. The version of the song released by The Four Aces won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1956. It also rose all the way to number one on both the Billboard and Cash Box charts, earning a gold record.

In an interview with Fred Diodati, who is the lead singer of The Four Aces, he was asked what his favorite song from the band was. “‘Love is a Many-Splendored Thing,’” he answered. “You know why I like it so much? Because I like poetry, I love poetry. Say the line, ‘Love is a many-splendored thing; it’s the April rose that only grows in the early spring.’ Beautiful words! There’s never a night that I don’t sing that song. The more I sing it, the more I fall in love with it. I would say that the Four Aces are very fortunate to have recorded that song.”

He revealed his favorite line from the song is, “Love is nature’s way of giving, a reason to be living, the golden crown that makes a man a king.”

He also spoke about his love of performing the band’s hit songs. “We enjoy singing our songs no matter how many times we’ve been singing them,” he said. “’Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing,’ ‘Three Coins in the Fountain’ and ‘Strangers in Paradise.’ They are pretty songs, they’re good songs. We enjoy singing them, and the more we enjoy singing them, the more we feel good about our singing, the better we sing. And the audience responds accordingly to the songs that they know very well by heart.”

Related: 1961 Rock and Roll Song, Which the Band Members Originally Considered Awful, Became a Hit for the Marcels

The Four Aces had many other hits throughout the years, including “Three Coins in the Fountain,” “Stranger in Paradise,” “Tell Me Why,” and “(It’s No) Sin”. The band was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001.

Numerologists believe your birth date holds the secret to your likes and dislikes, including which cheese your taste buds align with. Building the perfect charcuterie boards takes practice. Finding the best cheeses that complement your taste buds and energy demands time, energy, and attention. On the one hand, you could pick up several different cheeses to try from your local grocery store until you find the best one. But on the other hand, you could cut to the chase by looking at your birth date to find the perfect cheese. 

You can figure out your perfect cheese by looking at the single-digit number associated with your birth date. All birth dates can be reduced to and grouped together based on a single-digit number between 1 to 9. Some groups of birth dates are better aligned with soft, sweet cheeses while other groups prefer something nutty or robust. Read on to discover your perfect cheese for birth dates 1 to 31.

Your Perfect Cheese, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: Feta

People who are born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th are known for having big, bold personalities. According to astrology, these birth dates are guided by the sun. The sun imparts strengths, vitality, and ego to these birth dates. Aside from being solar ruled, these birth dates also embody the independence and excitability of 1. With this in mind, these birth dates will see their zest reflected in feta. This cheese’s salty, tangy flavor profile exemplifies these birth dates’ brazenness and pluck. Feta cheese isn’t for everyone, but neither are these birth dates.

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: Brie

A soft, mild cheese is perfect for those born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. These birth dates align with the quiet energy of the moon, while also embodying the sensitivity and receptivity of 2. Given their energy, brie is the best cheese for these birth dates. Brie is famous for its mellow taste, subtle sweetness, and creamy mouthfeel. People born on these dates cannot resist brie, because it mirrors their tenderness. Brie also has a comforting energy that these birth dates naturally exude. Whether they’re enjoying alone or with loved ones, they can always count on brie being there for the moment.

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: Goat Cheese

Unlike other birth dates, people who are born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th aren’t afraid to venture out of their comfort zone trying different cheeses. They’re ruled by Jupiter, the astrological planet of growth and journeying. People born on these dates have traveled far and wide to find their perfect cheese thanks to their Jupiterian spirit. They might even do their homework since they’re also influenced by 3’s curiosity and open-mindedness. No matter where they’ve been or what they’ve tried, these birth dates cannot resist goat cheese. Goat cheese’s sweet funkiness perfectly captures their worldly personality.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: Gouda

The perfect cheese for someone born on the 4th, 12th, 22nd, or 31st is a tried-and-true charcuterie staple. People born on these dates look for something they can count on, since they’re ruled by the tenacity and consistency of 4. Part of them may still want something a bit different given they’re also influenced by Uranus, the astrological planet of rebellion. So, these birth dates won’t settle for everyone’s favorite cheese. Luckily, gouda is the perfect compromise for these birth dates. Gouda embodies these birth dates’ constancy while also exemplifying their uniqueness and individuality.

Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: Blue Cheese

A funky cheese doesn’t deter those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd. Openminded 5 and quirky Mercury guide these birth dates, so they have the right mentality for trying all kinds of cheese. They might favor quite a few different kinds, but these birth dates know that blue cheese has a special place in their heart. Blue cheese is arguably controversial because it’s loud, bold, and spunky. But so are these birth dates! People born on these dates cannot help but choose blue cheese every time, since this bold cheese reflects their colorful personalities.

Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: Burrata

The perfect cheese is something people born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th can share with others. Individuals born on these dates are a mix of Venus and 6, so they believe that enjoying cheese is a shared experience. There’s nothing better than finding the perfect cheese that’s not only a crowd pleaser but also complements their personalities. Burrata is exactly what they’re looking for. Similar to these birth dates, burrata is widely popular for its easygoing personality and mild demeanor. Obviously, everyone loves these birth dates just like these birth dates love burrata.

Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: Aged Cheddar

Life is complicated for those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th, so finding their perfect cheese shouldn’t have to be. Neptune and 7 guides these birth dates to a solitary, introspective lifestyle. It’s not unusual for these birth dates to pull back when they get overwhelmed. Enjoying aged cheddar can help them escape for a moment. Aged cheddar has a familiar flavor profile that brings comfort, but this cheese is still complex enough to mirror these birth dates’ depth. If these birth dates are looking for a spiritual experience, then they eat their favorite aged cheddar.

Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: Pecorino Romano

Cheese is a luxury for individuals born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. These hardworking individuals are ruled by Saturn, the astrological planet of patience and restrictions, as well as 8, the numerological energy of luxury. Between both energies, these birth dates strive for greatness in all they do, so their cheese should reflect this. Pecorino Romano has the classic, old-world taste and famous reputation that these birth dates cannot resist. People born on these dates will see their legacy, success, and ambition reflected in this noteworthy cheese.

Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: Manchego

Someone born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th has seen and done it all. They’re influenced by the worldliness of 9, which is a powerful numerological energy. 9 bestows a higher perception and immense knowledge to these birth dates, so they know what an exemplary cheese entails. After searching high and low, Manchego wins over these birth dates. Manchego’s distinct appearance and flavor profile pulls these birth dates in. They’ll fall head over heels for this cheese, because Manchego represents their experiences and humanitarian energy.

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While some travelers are excited to add destinations rife with colorful fall foliage and brisk temperatures to their fall must-see lists, others are hoping to extend summer a bit longer by trading in cardigans and beanies for sandals and swimwear. One celebrity-favorite hotspot is hoping to become not only a warm-weather favorite, but one people turn to when they want to find escape as the seasons change, too. And with the likes of Kylie Jenner, Boris Kodjoe, Nicole Ari Parker, Taye Diggs, Chad Michael Murray, and more famous faces frequently visiting and singing the island’s praises, it likely won’t have to do much convincing.

Situated on Providenciales’ Grace Bay Beach, the all-inclusive Beaches Turks and Caicos opened its new Treasure Beach Village earlier this year, and it deserves a spot on your fall travel list—not just for its laid-back Caribbean vibes and clear blue waters, but for the sense of peace you feel upon arrival. The fifth village addition to the massive resort, which in itself feels like a hotel inside a hotel, offers luxury multi-bedroom villas, a 15,000-square-foot pool, elevated dining concepts with every style of cuisine you can imagine, a movie theater, and family-friendly amenities designed for group getaways.

Entering the property feels like something out of a daydream, with the open-air, outdoor lobby offering views of the expansive pools and beach below. Upon check-in, you’re greeted with a welcome drink: chilled and refreshing, featuring citrus notes and a splash of soda for just the right amount of sizzle. The process to get into your room is also smooth sailing, and the staff’s warm hospitality makes you feel instantly welcome.

An aerial look at the new Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos, featuring 101 new luxury suites.

Beaches Treasure Beach Village

With jaw-dropping, gorgeously decorated, modern, and spacious guest rooms built to accommodate travelers of all group sizes, the Sandals-owned hotspot is perfect for everything from a romantic couples’ getaway or girls’ trip to a multi-gen family escape that offers fun for all ages. Suites with separate rooms, bathrooms, and bunk beds add whimsy for young adventurers (kids even get their very own robes!), while balconies showcasing tranquil views of Grace Bay and the Atlantic are a welcome addition for adults who can’t get enough of soaking up the sun or taking in the tropical ocean breeze from the comfort of their own vacation digs.

Nearly everything in-room is automated in Treasure Beach Village: Delivered dining is ordered online via mobile device, housekeeping is notified if you need cleaning services by the press of a button (it lights up green for “enter” or red for “do not disturb” around your doorbell—genius), and the property’s scheduled activities are all conveniently available by quickly checking the daily lineup on your room’s TV.

While Beaches Turks and Caicos may already be a popular summer destination, it’s quickly proving itself to be the perfect fall travel choice for its quieter crowds from September through November, a prime time to beat the high season (December through April) ahead of the bustling holidays while still enjoying beautiful weather and minimal rainfall. Plus, the property’s Fall Fam Jam programming, complete with fun musical performances and special events, presents all the more reason to book during autumn.

Things to Do at Beaches Turks and Caicos Eat

If culinary experiences are always at the top of your must-do list when vacationing, Beaches Turks and Caicos has plenty for your tastebuds to explore. With over 20 eateries on-property, there’s no shortage of diverse options. Butch’s Island Chop House is its hottest restaurant at the moment, serving a variety of steak cuts for dinner and delicious breakfast items for a hearty morning meal.

Kimonos, a Hibachi-style eatery where the chefs battle it out hit-for-hit singing karaoke favorites (and encourage you to get involved), makes for a fun and memorable dinner for the whole family. Pinta Food Hall is a good spot to stop for lunch, with its options across Mexican, Italian, and American food items. Rooftop restaurant Sky, in addition to Le Petit Chateau, and Caribbean cuisine diner Sapodilla‘s are all restricted to ages 12+ for a slightly older, tot-free crew.

Meanwhile, for a quick cup of joe or a pastry, Bru café is open all day for grab-and-go sips and treats, and there are several other places between the villages to grab a bite or snack during your stay, too.

Relax

What’s an island vacay without dedicated time for some much-needed R&R? The resort’s full-service Red Lane Spa, of which there are two locations, offers tropical botanical treatments, massages, and wellness services to help you actually kick back and relax.

For leisurely reading, hanging out, or even outdoor napping, there are swings and hammocks situated at different spots around the property. Meanwhile, some prefer to head down to the sand for beach lounging. As a bonus, they have the coolest water hammocks for taking a moment to drift off mentally as you simply float beneath the sun, letting your troubles melt away in the ocean.

Swim

If there’s one thing that stands out on the resort, it’s the pools—there are so many of them. In addition to the huge new one in Treasure Beach Village with a swim-up bar, each of the property’s other villages—Italian, Caribbean, French, and Key West—has its own pool area, and guests are welcome to take a dip at any (or every) pool across the resort. And, of course, it wouldn’t be a beach vacation without getting your daily dose of “vitamin sea,” so definitely take advantage of the proximity and bounce between the pools and the beach.

Photo: Beaches Resorts

Play

Get active! Not that swimming isn’t a full-body workout in itself, but there are also opportunities to play basketball, pickleball, table tennis, and water volleyball on the resort’s grounds. Additionally, visitors can utilize the fitness center, get adventurous with snorkeling, or hit the massive Pirate’s Island waterpark with water slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator for a full day of play.

Next, This ‘Glam-Tropical’ Caribbean Icon Made History When It Opened 77 Years Ago

Tortoise print has a way of making even the most ordinary home pieces feel a little more collected. The warm swirls of brown, amber, black and honey tones bring an instant vintage ambiance to everything from trays and picture frames to serving pieces and kitchen accessories. And lately, I’ve been especially tempted by tortoise-patterned tableware—it’s bold enough to catch my eye without feeling like it’s trying too hard.

That’s why I immediately noticed Target’s newest addition to its Threshold line: the Glass Tortoise Short Tumbler, priced at just $5. The tumbler is currently listed as a new Threshold item at Target, and with the other goodies it’s dropping at the same time, this tumbler feels like a gateway to a full tortoise tablescape.

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Threshold Glass Tortoise Short Tumbler, $5 at Target Threshold Glass Tortoise Short Tumbler

Target

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For me, this is exactly the kind of little kitchen find that can make an everyday table feel more special. The short, classic tumbler shape feels familiar, while that tortoise pattern gives it the personality that a basic clear drinking glass simply doesn’t have. I could see myself using it for everything from ice water and lemonade to a casual cocktail or mocktail when I want my drink to feel a little more dressed up.

And at such a great price, I wouldn’t feel the need to save it exclusively for dinner parties. I’d happily use one for my morning iced coffee, keep a few on the table for family meals or mix them into a collection of mismatched vintage glasses.

Related: T.J. Maxx Just Stocked a $10 Marble Soap Dish That Looks So Luxe

As part of this new line, Target will also be selling matching tortoise-patterned pieces, giving shoppers plenty of ways to build a coordinated bar cart. Other pieces in the line include:

• A coupe glass
• A champagne flute
• A stemless wine glass
• A wine glass

I especially like the idea of mixing these glasses with solid-colored brown, cream or amber pieces rather than going all-in on tortoise everything. A linen napkin, tapered candlesticks and a few of these tumblers could create a table that feels eclectic and thoughtful.

Basically, if you’ve been looking for an inexpensive way to sneak some retro personality into your kitchen this fall, this $5 Target find makes a pretty convincing case for letting your glassware get a little wild.

Related: Target’s New Stella Stoneware Set Is the Dream Dinnerware for Fall Tablescapes

The Marcels released a popular cover version of “Heartaches” in 1961. It was originally created in 1931 by Al Hoffman and John Klenner. There were several versions released throughout the years from singers like Ted Weems, Patsy Cline, and Al Bowlly with Sid Phillips and his Melodians. The Marcels’ version of the song rose all the way to number seven on the Billboard Hot 100.

As one fan said, “Of all of the versions of this song (Patsy Cline, Ted Weems, Harry James, Caretaker, Al Bowlly, etc.), this is the most drastically different. This song has soul. It’s not even the same song, almost. Al’s version is associated with The Caretaker’s mix, and it’s astounding to see how such a depressing song can be turned on its head in such a beautiful way.”

Singer Walt Maddox told Star Bulletin about their decision to record the song, which they weren’t actually fans of. “Stu [Philips] sent the song to us, and the guys in the group thought it was awful,” he admitted. “I called a group member at 3 a.m. and told him I’ve got our next hit because I created the new vocal arranging on ‘Heartaches.’”

During his interview, he also revealed where the band name came from, saying, “It’s a French word for a type of hairstyle that’s very wavy. A guy in the group had a style like that, which back then we called a ‘Process.’”

The Marcels are known for their hit cover song, “Blue Moon,” which was released during the same year as “Heartaches.” When asked how many takes of it they recorded, Maddox said, “Just two, and the first was very close to the released second take.” Over one million copies of the song were sold, and it was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll. The group was also inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002.

Related: 1974 Soft Rock Song, Which Became a No. 1 Hit for Olivia Newton-John, Was Originally Meant for a Man To Sing

Maddox died earlier this year, in 2026. He was 88.

If you grew up in the late 1990s or raised kids during that era, chances are high that nautical nonsense and an insatiable craving for Krabby Patties played a substantial role in your household soundtrack. For decades, the quirky inhabitants of Bikini Bottom have held a legendary spot in pop culture, bridging generations with absurd humor, unmistakable optimism, and pure childhood joy.

Now, the world’s most famous sea creature is trading animation for the high seas—and heading straight for center stage.

Royal Caribbean has revealed that the Tony Award-winning Broadway hit “The SpongeBob Musical” will make its first-ever at-sea debut aboard Hero of the Seas when the brand-new Icon-class ship sets sail from Miami in August 2027.

Related: Royal Caribbean Just Revealed the Newest World’s Largest Cruise Ship

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“At Royal Caribbean, we’re focused on creating incredible experiences that bring families of all ages together in meaningful, memorable ways,” said Christi Coachman, vice president, entertainment, Royal Caribbean. “Our entertainment lineup on Hero of the Seas is designed with something for everyone. ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ delivers on that by bringing generations together through a story families know and love, while showcasing the creativity, cutting-edge technology and world-class production that can only be experienced on a Royal Caribbean vacation.”

Related: This Pro Says One Cruise Line Sets a New Bar for Onboard Entertainment

While some travelers might initially picture a costume character walking across a stage, theater lovers know this production is on an entirely different level. When the musical originally landed on Broadway, it earned a staggering 12 Tony Award nominations—tying for the most-nominated production of that theater season—and took home honors for its wildly inventive, high-fashion scenic design. The show features a Grammy-studded original score penned by an eclectic dream team of music royalty, including David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, John Legend, Lady A, and Sara Bareilles. It’s genuinely witty, creatively brilliant, and just as deeply entertaining for adults as it is for kids.

Aboard Hero of the Seas, the production is being reimagined specifically for the multi-deck Royal Theater. The story follows SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy as they race against time to save Bikini Bottom from an erupting volcano, complete with unexpected staging twists, show-stopping choreography, and powerhouse live vocals. It marks another ambitious step in Royal Caribbean’s mission to rival West End and Broadway venues with full-scale theatrical productions at sea.

Related: Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas Will Have a Very Cool Surprise Onboard

The show will serve as the signature marquee headliner on Hero of the Seas, the fourth ship in the cruise line’s record-shattering Icon class. Designed as the ultimate multi-generational escape, the vessel will span eight distinct neighborhoods packed with water parks, elevated dining, and entertainment across air, ice, stage, and water. When it launches in late summer 2027, the ship will embark on year-round, seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries departing out of PortMiami, with every single sailing featuring a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Whether you know every lyric to the theme song by heart or simply appreciate world-class live theater on vacation, Hero of the Seas is officially making the under-the-sea lifestyle the hottest ticket on the water.

Related: Royal Caribbean Just Began Building Its Fifth ‘Icon’ Ship—and the Boom Isn’t Stopping Anytime Soon

After months of delays, Landman Season 3 is finally underway. The announcement was shared Thursday, Oct. 1, alongside an image of a hard hat displaying a CTT Oil Exploration & Cattle, LLC sticker covering an M-Tex Oil sticker. Paramount+ also confirmed that production has commenced in Fort Worth, Texas.

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But there’s even more fun news to dive into—like the fact that series creator Taylor Sheridan’s wife inspired one of the show’s wildest storylines.

‘Landman’ Season 3 Is Finally in Production

As production begins on the hit Paramount+ drama, Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, Ali Larter, Sam Elliott, and Andy Garcia are among the returning stars, while Colm Feore, who plays Nathan; Mustafa Speaks, who plays “Boss”; Bobbi Salvor Menuez, who plays Paigyn; and Francesca Xuereb, who plays Cheyenne, have all been promoted to series regulars.

Emmy-nominated actor Michael Kelly is also joining Season 3 as William Crockett, whom Paramount describes as the leader of the world’s largest oil management firm.

Paramount+ has not yet announced a premiere date for the new season. But while fans wait for Season 3, there’s a fascinating piece of Landman history that makes one of the show’s most unexpected storylines even more entertaining.

One of Angela’s Wildest Storylines Came From Taylor Sheridan’s Wife

Ali Larter, who plays Angela, revealed that the retirement-home storyline involving Angela and her daughter, Ainsley, was inspired by Sheridan’s wife, Nicole Muirbrook.

During a Landman cast panel at the Newport Beach TV Festival in June, Larter said Muirbrook visits retirement homes and spends time with the residents.

“She really does go to these homes and spend time with the residents,” Larter said. “She brings margaritas and takes them to casinos.”

In other words, some of Angela’s most outrageous retirement-home adventures weren’t entirely Sheridan’s imagination.

The storyline has included Angela and Ainsley throwing parties for the residents, bringing them drinks, and eventually taking them on a casino outing.

‘Landman’ Stars Actually Filmed in Real Retirement Homes

There’s an even better second layer to the story: Larter said she and Michelle Randolph, who plays Ainsley, actually filmed the retirement-home scenes inside real facilities with people who live there.

“For Michelle and me to spend time in those environments and see the joy there, it was really special,” Larter said.

That authenticity was also evident behind the scenes. Larter has explained that some of the residents seen in the retirement-home scenes were actual residents of the facility where they filmed.

So while the margaritas, casinos, and general mayhem make for classic Landman television, the inspiration behind the storyline came from something much more grounded: Muirbrook’s do-good volunteer work with elderly residents.

Taylor Sheridan’s Real Life Keeps Finding Its Way Onto ‘Landman’

The retirement-home storyline isn’t the only part of Landman rooted in the real world. Sheridan and Christian Wallace co-created the series, inspired by Wallace’s Texas Monthly podcast Boomtown, which explored the modern Texas oil industry.

That makes the retirement-home revelation especially fun. Landman may revolve around oil, billionaires, and the rough-and-tumble world of West Texas. Still, one of its most memorable side stories came from something Sheridan’s wife actually does in her own life.

And now, with cameras officially rolling on Season 3, fans have even more Landman chaos to look forward to.

Related: 1993 Val Kilmer Classic Named the ‘Very Best Film Ever Made’

While We Were Liars fans get ready for the second season, which is slated to arrive on Prime Video in 2027, E. Lockhart has a literary treat for us. The Pools will be published on Oct. 6, 2026, and it’s a poetic story filled with heart and grief.

The Pools follows Lexie, a teenager who moves from the city to a small New England town with her mom and younger sister. While there, she falls for a boy, who has grown up his entire life there, and he holds a dark secret that he hopes the world will never see.

After an argument with Lexie, he heads to The Pools, the local hot springs, where four other people are, as something paranormal happens to them. The town is turned upside down, as people deal with the loss and confusion surrounding the events. As everyone else tries to just move on, Lexie finds herself stuck. She’s lost two people who are close to her, and she needs to get answers.

Lockhart sat down with Parade to discuss the new release, looking at the inspiration behind the story and the use of supernatural events once more. We also chatted about We Were Liars, the development of the book story, and Lockhart’s involvement in the TV series.

One thing that I will tell everyone about The Pools is that it’s one to put aside and read again later. You’re going to be left with a multitude of feelings, and I think there are plots and emotions that will stand out in different ways with a second read, and that’s where the conversation started.

“I love thinking about the second read that people might do,” Lockhart shared, going into the differences between writing for adults and writing for teenagers. “That’s one of the great privileges of writing for teenagers. For the most part, my audience goes up to the age of 35 or so, but the younger side of my audience will read a book five times, 10 times, they’ll put sticky note in, they’ll pass it to a friend, they get it back and read it again, so when people come to my events, they have very worn books.”

It’s true that as we get older, we tend not to reread as much. Of course, there will be Outlander fans screaming at me that they reread those tomes all the time, but there just doesn’t seem the time to reread and then get into the multitude of fiction that is out there. Teenagers have that time on their hands, as they’re not as worried about the stresses of life.

Courtesy of Delacorte Press

Like We Were Liars and many other of Lockhart’s books, The Pools features supernatural elements. In this case, it’s something that happens to five people in the town when they visit the hot springs, and I had to find out more about that. Why opt for a supernatural element to the story?

“It’s just the way my imagination goes,” Lockhart explained, delving deeper into the setting of the story. It’s a love story at its heart, of a boy who has grown up in this small New England town and a city girl escaping her life. However, as they fall in love, they’re driven apart by something terrible. “I started with the setting — the pools in a New England town isolated in the mountains, in this case — and instead of creating a world that was ordinary, I wanted one with a little bit of a surreal feeling, a little bit magical.”

In the end, we get a story that is fairy tale adjacent, and there are certainly fairy tales that come up in the story. Isn’t there always that theory that the fairy tales are based on some sort of truth, something that people experienced in the past?

“I wanted to create a sense of the town being separate from the rest of the world,” the Family of Liars author went on to explain, as we got into the vibes that this town offers. As I thought of Crystal Lake or Steven Spielberg’s Amity Island from Jaws, Lockhart explained it was more like The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta.

“[In Jaws] the entire universe descends on the town and news people are there, and politicians are getting involved. I could have done it like that, but that wasn’t really what I was interested in. I wanted individual human beings and their experience of it.”

The story becomes one of what happens to the people afterward, and it certainly creates a deep and foreboding feeling as you imagine yourself in this setting. What happens to the people after such a traumatic paranormal event? It leads to a mixture of deep-rooted themes that many of Lockhart’s novels have included in the past, so I had to understand the process of writing all that.

“I often plot something out quite carefully in terms of structure,” Lockhart explained, before going on to share that The Pools was slightly different. “I started writing The Pools during the pandemic, and I didn’t sell it to my publisher right away. I wrote the first half of it with no plan; just ideas of what could happen. Then I put it aside, and I wrote Family of Liars.”

It was after that when she went back to the manuscript to see what she could do with the second half of the book, and that’s when she crafted a more orderly fashion. However, this is nothing like her previous novels in terms of the prose formatting. There’s a poetry to the words and format that adds to the bittersweet foreboding emotions of the story.

There is an author’s note at the back of The Pools that goes into Lockhart’s fun with poems that she found. “There are poems on all the signs of the Covington Hot Springs, and there’s a poem on the diner menu, and another one in the apothecary store. All those actually move the narrative forward.”

While we started off with the differences between adult and YA books, Lockhart went on to share a little more about why she focuses more on YA in all her stories. Even Family of Liars takes us back to a time when the moms in We Were Liars were teenagers.

“I’ve always had a pretty big adult audience compared to my writer colleagues, but I’m just writing the stories the best way I know how,” Lockhart shared honestly, “I love writing for teenagers, and I love going to book festivals and schools. I love the mission that comes with being a writer that not only are you making stories about topics that interest you, but you are also somebody who makes connections for teenagers with literature. It’s part of your job to get teenagers excited about books.

This moved us onto the topic of social media, and you’ll find that Lockhart is extremely active on Instagram. She doesn’t use it as a spot to constantly and only promote her books. It’s a place to offer entertainment, to invite teenagers into thinking about authorship and living a creative life. As I mentioned that she was shaping the next generation, she joked that it was “with characters who do terrible things,” and while that may seem the case with some of her work, it’s not with The Pools.

Sure, teenagers in The Pools make some mistakes, and they’re influenced by the adults in their lives, but some of them strive to do better. They strive to find a solution rather than hide from the truth.

The We Were Liars author went on to explain that writing about the topics that young adults are interested in is what interests her, such as “the first time you love someone, the first time you separate from your family of origin, the first time you have to make big moral choices. They affect your understanding of who you are.”

Teenagers always think that they have the world figured out. We’ve all been there, believing that we know better and forgetting that older generations have been through it all before. It leads to mistakes, and some of them do have major life consequences.

As well as The Pools, work on We Were Liars Season 2 is underway, and while Lockhart couldn’t share a lot, she did delve into what it has been like working with Julie Plec and Carina Adly Mackenzie.

“They made an offer as a creative team, whereas most of the time when you get an offer for television or film, you have a producer making the offer, so that was very appealing to me. They were really enthusiastic and already had a creative team assembled.”

Lockhart did work a little on the behind-the-scenes tasks, with getting some say in terms of casting and working in post-production, and she got to write the script for the finale. However, she hasn’t worked on the second season.

“I did go visit,” she made it clear, “I’ve read all the scripts and I got to meet the cast. Season 2 is based on Family of Liars, so there are new characters, a new cast, a new time period. They’re phenomenal, and I think people are really going to love them.”

Yes, the story does take place in another time period. We go back around 20 to 25 years with the moms now as teenagers. There was a hint in the first season that two of the moms still hold a secret from an eventful night in their past, and that’s the story of Family of Liars.

However, what shocked me was that the entire story came long after We Were Liars was published in book form, “I didn’t know any of the things that happened in Family of Liars or We Fell Apart. What happened was that We Were Liars had this new surge in popularity during the pandemic. It got really popular on TikTok, where all these incredible, young creators were making book recommendation videos in creative ways, and We Were Liars was making people cry.”

The novel was one of those cathartic cries that people needed at the time, and it was recommended with the likes of Song of Achilles and They Both Die at the End, and so many of these books soared to the top of bestseller lists again.

With that happening, Lockhart realized what the younger generation wanted and needed, and it made her think about another book. It was her chance to give something back to those on TikTok who made these videos.

The Pools is a standalone novel, not connected to the Sinclair family in any way, but it is a story that will leave you filled to the brim with emotions. One minute you’ll be crying, the next you’ll find peace with the prose, and then you’ll start to wonder if there could be more to this tale — I can already see where a prequel story could land.

The Pools is out on Oct. 6, 2026.

“I Honestly Love You” was a 1974 song from Olivia Newton-John. This soft rock song, which was certified gold, rose all the way to number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It won a Grammy for Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance. It was also nominated for Song of the Year and made it onto Billboard’s Year-End Top 100 of 1974.

According to SongFacts, Jeff Barry, who wrote the song, said, “I thought it would be a really sexy song for a guy to sing – ‘I’m not trying to sleep with you. I honestly love you.’ No one had ever said that before. And I thought any girl who would hear that would have to say, ‘Well, can we just do it once?'”

In Newton-John’s memoir, Don’t Stop Believin‘, she spoke about the moment when she first heard the song. “My heart stopped when I heard the lyrics: ‘I love you… I honestly love you.’ It was so simple, with a meaning that was deeper than the ocean. Those words made me stop and think because they touched me. I could certainly relate, and I knew that everyone would be able to make those words fit their own personal story of love and perhaps even loss. Just putting the word ‘honestly’ into the mix made it even more poignant. No lies. No denying it. I honestly love you.”

She also spoke about her time recording it. “I remember in a little tiny rickety studio, it was so small,” she said. “The control room was upstairs, and John Farrar was up there with the engineer, and I was underneath, and they had to sit still because it would creak, and you’d hear it in the microphone.”

Related: Michael Douglas Reveals He Had a Secret Romance With ‘Romancing the Stone’ Costar Kathleen Turner That They Lied About for 40 Years

Newton-John had many other hit songs throughout her career, including “Physical,” “Magic,” “You’re the One That I Want,” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” She was inducted into Australia’s ARIA Hall of Fame in 2002.

Newton-John died in 2022 at the age of 73.

The bond between Dancing with the Stars stars Ezra Frech and Connor Wood is officially fan-approved.

In a viral new Instagram video, the two Season 35 competitors thrilled social media with a backstage moment that showcases their genuine camaraderie. The hilarious interaction has quickly become one of the most talked-about moments among DWTS viewers.

Frech posed the behind-the-scenes clip, taken when neither competitor was working with their pro partners, Daniella Karagach and Rylee Arnold, on their new dances for Week 4 of the competition. As the friends readied for their newest challenges, they found some time to kick back and make a video clip that has fans laughing for all the right reasons.

The clip was captioned, “When we overlap at rehearsals.” It showed Frech and Wood in a lighthearted moment, grooving to Nicki Minaj‘s 2012 tune, “Starships.”

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The pair danced, acted out, and showed a genuine camaraderie. Within hours of posting, the clip triggered a massive wave of enthusiastic reactions across Instagram.

“Just a guy and his long-lost fibula,” joked a fan, referencing Wood’s nickname.

A second fan wrote, “Me staring at my 20 votes every week.” A third social media user asked, “So can they spilt the mirrorball?”

“The friendship we didn’t know we needed!!!! Love you guys,” penned a third DWTS viewer.

Several days prior, Wood shared his own off-camera Instagram moment poking fun at the duo’s contrasting outfits for the show’s “Yacht Rock” night. While Frech opted for a powder blue suit, Wood rocked bright pink.

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A video overlay read, “When the squad dresses like its a gender reveal party.” Frech addressed social media, greeting them with, “Hi everybody, we’re here for the gender reveal party. I think its gonna be a boy!” Wood responded, “I think it’s gonna be a beautiful little girl.”

At the end of the day, scores and mirrorball trophies pale in comparison to the genuine bond formed away from the judges’ table. For Dancing with the Stars viewers, watching Ezra Frech and Connor Wood’s real-life friendship blossom has become the season’s true reward.

Their natural chemistry reminds fans that the best moments often happen when the camera isn’t officially rolling. As long as these two keep sharing their wholesome backstage antics, their fans will eagerly tune in for every update.

Related: Taylor Hanson Joins List of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Most Unforgettable Eliminations

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Spooky season doesn’t have to mean dressing head to toe in black and orange all month. The Jollidays Peanuts Spooky Sweater brings Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Linus, pumpkins, bats, and bright pops of color into one cozy knit you can wear from a pumpkin patch to Halloween night. Right now, Kohl’s has it marked down from $40 to $30, and code TAKE20 drops the price again to $24. It’s available in sizes extra small through extra large.    

Beyond the fun graphics, the sweater is made of acrylic and features a crew neckline, long sleeves, and an easy pull-on design. The front features appliquéd Peanuts characters against a bright purple background with orange and green accents and oversized “SPOOKY” lettering. As an added bonus, it’s machine washable for easy care.   

Jollidays Peanuts Spooky Sweater, $24 (was $40) at Kohl’s

Courtesy of Kohl's

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This cozy sweater is perfect for anyone who would rather wear Snoopy than a scary Halloween graphic. Instead of looking like a costume, it offers a fun and festive style that works for everyday plans, whether that means wandering around a fall festival or cozying up for a movie marathon at home.

“It’s such a cute sweater,” one shopper wrote, adding, “The characters are appliquéd on the sweater, making it look so much more expensive.” Another reviewer said, “I loved the design and bright colors.” Others mentioned buying it as a gift, so a Peanuts fan with an October birthday or a serious Snoopy collector could especially enjoy it.

Related: Walmart Has a ‘Chic’ $19 Scalloped Color Block Sweater Available in 8 Colors

You could wear the sweater with jeans and sneakers for an easy daytime outfit, or dress it up with a skirt and boots for brunch. It would be especially cute for Halloween night, but it doesn’t have to disappear as soon as October ends. The soft knit also makes it a cozy option for chilly evenings when you want something fun to throw on.

Shop More Deals

• Lands’ End Classic Cable Crew Neck Cardigan Sweater, $61 (was $95) at Kohl’s
• Lands’ End Cashmere Puff Sleeve Crewneck Sweater, $134 (was $210) at Kohl’s
• Lands’ End Drifter Puff Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater, $64 (was $100) at Kohl’s

Whether you love Snoopy yourself or know someone who does, now is a great time to grab the Jollidays Peanuts Spooky Sweater while it’s still in stock. Don’t forget to apply code TAKE20 to bring the price down to just $24, and snag it in your size before it sells out.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.

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Spices, pantry staples, cooking oils, canned goods, and other everyday essentials can quickly crowd cabinets and countertops, especially in a small kitchen. One easy way to create more room is to take advantage of the areas that often go unused, like the gap beside the refrigerator or the space between cabinets. If you’re looking to make your kitchen a little more organized this fall, Amazon has an option that could be worth a look.

Right now, the Giantex 4-Tier Rolling Slim Storage Cart at Amazon is on sale for $36, down from $45, ahead of the retailer’s Prime Big Deal Days event on Oct. 6 and 7. The four-tier cart can slide beside the refrigerator, between the washer and dryer, or into other slim spots, giving you a convenient place to keep everyday essentials. It also rolls on four wheels that come with brakes to lock the wheels in place if needed.

Giantex 4-Tier Rolling Slim Storage Cart, $36 (was $45) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Made from engineered wood, the cart measures 19 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 32 inches high. There’s also an 8-inch-wide version for shoppers who need more room for larger bottles, jars, and other bulkier essentials. It comes in four color combinations: gray and natural, black and natural, white and natural, and white. Prices vary by color and size, but none are currently more than $60.

With four tiers, this cart gives you plenty of room to keep everyday essentials organized. The upper and middle shelves can each hold up to 15 pounds, while the bottom shelf supports up to 25 pounds. Plus, the cart has a handy side handle that makes it easy to pull out when you need to grab something. 

Amazon shoppers say this cart is a smart way to make use of tight spaces. One reviewer called it a “perfect organizer and storage,” adding that it was a great fit between their fridge and wall. Another shopper said it was “easy to assemble” and a “great storage option” that takes up little room.

Shop More Deals

• Giantex 5-Tier Rolling Kitchen Cabinet, $127 (was $150) at Amazon
• Shintenchi Lockable Outdoor Storage Shed, $94 (was $150) at Amazon
• Snslxh 4-Tier Organizer, From $19 (was $22) at Amazon

Related: Walmart’s $42 10-Drawer Rolling Cart Is a Versatile Storage Option for Papers, Tools, and Crafting Supplies

Whether you’re organizing a cramped kitchen or adding storage to the laundry room, the Giantex 4-Tier Rolling Slim Storage Cart is a practical pick for making the most of tight spaces. Snag one while it’s on sale ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, happening Oct. 6 and 7!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Raising a child isn’t easy, and you’ve probably encountered a plethora of perspectives on how to do so the “right” way. Should we let kids get bored again? Is gentle parenting the best parenting style? What feeling should parents actually stop trying to “fix” in their child? At what point is supporting a child actually overpraising them—and when and why is that harmful?

Arguably, raising a girl comes with even more concerns and questions, such as safety and equality. That’s perhaps more of a hot-button topic in today’s polarized political climate, too. You might wonder who has the “best” advice or who you should listen to.

Surprisingly, the philosopher Plato shared some very interesting insights about the subject way back in his time—in “BCE,” or “before the common era.” Despite how long ago he lived, his views were pretty modern—at least considering the norms of the day.

Ahead, a psychologist weighs in on Plato’s beliefs and ties them into parenting lessons. What was the reasoning behind his thoughts, and what can we make of them in modern times? What are key takeaways for parents and educators? We’ll answer these questions and illustrate how they do (and don’t) apply to child psychology and raising girls well.

Related: 5 ‘Exhausting’ Habits of Eldest Daughters, a Researcher Warns

What Was Plato’s View on Raising Girls?

Plato’s view on raising girls was actually quite modern. In his book The Republic, Plato discussed how girls should receive the same nurture and education as boys. They should be taught music, gymnastics and the art of war, especially if they’re expected to be in similar “arenas” as men. He found that, despite their differences, males and females shared qualities and similarities.

For context, this was a radical departure from ancient Athenian norms and beliefs. For example, Aristotle—another Greek philosopher from that era—thought women were weaker leaders, lacking in authority and generally inferior. Plato, on the other hand, emphasized that women and men have the same nature and need the same preparation, especially if they’re asked to do the same tasks.

“Plato did challenge a common assumption at the time that girls and boys should be educated differently based on biological sex, saying that there was no reason to deny someone education or opportunity just on that basis if they were capable,” says Dr. Amy Marschall, PsyD, a licensed psychologist and consultant with Mentavi Health who works primarily with children and adolescents (and who majored in philosophy!). 

She finds merit in his sentiment.

“Children’s understanding of themselves and their abilities comes in part from feedback from adults, so limiting opportunities or changing boundaries based on assigned gender can teach kids that certain things are just not available to them,” she explains.

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most ‘Underrated’ Positive Parenting Habit

Equal Education in ‘The Republic’: Physical, Intellectual and Military Training

While Plato’s perspective on education included the more obvious subjects—like math—it also encompassed more. 

For students in early and primary education, Plato encouraged physical training, such as gymnastics, alongside music. When children reached the age of 10 (through the age of 18, which is the phase of primary education), he recommended arithmetic, geometry, astronomy and harmonics. Last but not least, adult men and women were to learn dialectics and philosophy.

Additionally, Plato believed women—not just men—should be able to be “Guardian” leaders, or people who govern the state.

Related: Quote of the Day: Nearly 2,000 Years Ago, a Stoic Philosopher Said Women Should Study Philosophy. His Reason Was Simple—and Radical for Rome

Nature vs. Nurture: Why Plato Believed Girls Could Be Guardians

Plato’s beliefs stemmed from his philosophical reasoning. In The Republic, he argued that gender differences are physical, not mental or spiritual. In his eyes, men and women have equal capacity for virtue, governance and wisdom (if given the same upbringing, which is the argument here about education). He felt that not allowing women to be Guardians and get an education would be a waste.

How Radical Was Plato? Comparing Ancient Athenian Norms vs. Aristotle

As mentioned, Plato was pretty radical—at least for his time and considering ancient Athenian norms. In those days, women generally couldn’t own land or inherit. Their sole purpose was to raise children. Girls were educated but only for child-rearing. Aristotle believed that women weren’t intellectually capable of making important decisions.

While today’s America still has plenty of room to grow when it comes to women and equality, those ancient beliefs aren’t as widely held. In fact, Plato wouldn’t be considered as radical in 2026.

“For his time, he had ideas that were considered unconventional, especially with his thoughts on gender, education and opportunities,” Dr. Marschall states. “His writing challenged other people’s perceptions about inherent biological differences in ability, which was not mainstream at the time.”

The Nuance: Was Plato Truly a ‘Modern Feminist’?

Can we consider Plato a feminist, then and/or now? The answer isn’t clear-cut.

“He challenged gender restrictions, but his writing isn’t exactly on any required feminist reading lists,” Dr. Marschall says. “Basically, he wanted society to benefit from everyone, not just those who happened to be men.”

One could also argue he was the opposite of a feminist in some ways, particularly if you look at his beliefs through a disability-justice, intersectional-feminist lens. In that sense, Dr. Marschall says, he’s “actually anti-feminist because the core of his argument was that girls have equal worth to boys because they can be productive and valuable to society rather than because human beings inherently have worth.”

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists the One Thing Grandkids Need Most From Their Grandparents—They All Said the Same Thing

Key Takeaways for Modern Parents and Educators

As Plato (and many since him) have suggested, women and girls have capabilities and strengths that should be utilized, and they deserve proper education. Today, that might look like parents and educators reconsidering their automatic response when a girl says she wants to grow up to be a scientist or enter the army, for example. 

“I think the biggest takeaway is the need for intentionality when we interact with children and place expectations on them, and [to] be sure to challenge our biases and how we interact with children due to their assigned gender,” Dr. Marschall concludes.

Up Next:

Related: Dr. Becky Says This Parenting Advice About Confidence in Kids Is Outdated—Here’s Why

Sources:

• Dr. Amy Marschall, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist and consultant with Mentavi Health who works primarily with children and adolescents.
• From Plato’s The Republic, University of Minnesota
• Plato and Aristotle on Women: Selected Quotes, ThoughtCo
• Plato’s Theory of Education: Shaping the Ideal State, PolSci.Institute
• Women in Ancient Greece, World History Foundation

John Glenn, the legendary NASA astronaut and U.S. Senator, made history not just once but twice, first becoming the first American to orbit Earth before making a significant return to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1998.

In the late 1990s, the Ohio native further cemented his legacy as one of America’s pioneering astronauts, alongside Alan Shepard, Neil Armstrong and John Young.

Before entering politics, he made history in 1962 when he piloted Friendship 7.

It was his children who named it “Friendship,” which Glenn said should represent “our country and the way we feel about the rest of the world.”

Cape Canaveral, Fla.: Lt. Col. John H. Glenn, Jr. enters his Mercury 7 for a test.

Getty Images

“I asked them if they would be willing to think about some names. I said, ‘There’s only one ground rule,’ Glenn recalled in his memoir as cited by Universe Today. “The world is going to be watching, so the name should represent our country and the way we feel about the rest of the world.’ They pored over a thesaurus and wrote dozens of names in a notebook. Then they worked them down to several possibilities, names and words including: Columbia, Endeavour, America, Magellan, we, hope, harmony, and kindness. At the top of the list was their first choice: Friendship. I was so proud of them. They had chosen perfectly.”…

As for the number seven, it represented the original Mercury Seven astronauts that NASA publicly introduced in 1959.

Under Project Mercury, Glenn was the sole astronaut to complete three orbits around Earth aboard the historic Mercury spacecraft, completing the mission in four hours, 55 minutes and 23 seconds before safely landing in the Atlantic Ocean.

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This rare and successful achievement made him the first American astronaut to orbit Earth and led to him being hailed as a national hero by President John F. Kennedy.

Thirty-six years later, while serving as a senator, Glenn returned to space aboard the space shuttle Discovery.

The then-77-year-old made history for the second time by becoming the oldest person to enter Earth orbit, as cited by Guinness World Records and NASA records.

During the 1998 mission, Glenn served as a payload specialist alongside six other crew members, spending eight days, 21 hours and 44 minutes in space while completing 134 orbits of Earth.

Related: In 1974, Ronald Reagan paid about $527,000 for a 688-acre California ranch; the Young America’s Foundation has owned it since 1998 and still opens it only to students and supporters

Even though Hallmark Channel launched in 2001, it didn’t start their Countdown to Christmas lineup until 2009. Prior to that, they did air a Christmas movie or two including A Season for Miracles and The Christmas Card, but it wasn’t until 2009 that they officially launched their slate of Countdown to Christmas movies. At the time there were only four movies to premiere that holiday season. Meager beginnings, for sure.

The Christmas movies have become so popular that it spawned a Hallmark Christmas Cruise as well as a weekend fan experience in Kansas City, Missouri where Hallmark’s parent company, Hallmark Cards, Inc. is located.

With each year, Hallmark added a few more movies to its slate. A lineup of Christmas movies that once started after Thanksgiving soon began to grow so large that the schedule had to be moved earlier and earlier until now Countdown to Christmas starts in mid-October! Fan favorite stars like Lacey Chabert, Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker, Alison Sweeney, and Brennan Elliott return year after year to film these joyful movies for Hallmark. This year, on the 17th anniversary of Countdown to Christmas, the network will premiere a record 34 original movies!

Let’s take a look at the first Countdown to Christmas movies to the upcoming tentpole holiday movies on Hallmark Channel.

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What were the first Countdown to Christmas movies?

The very first Countdown to Christmas lineup was back in 2009 and featured a small slate of just four original movie premieres. These films set the groundwork for the holiday extravaganza the network celebrates today.

The Original 2009 Countdown to Christmas lineup included:

(L to R: Kari Matchett as Faith Russell, Andrew McCarthy as Corey Burdock, Evan Williams as Rock Burdock, Paula Brancati as Katie)

Hallmark Media

The National Tree

Premiered on Nov. 28, 2009
Starred Andrew McCarthy, Kari Matchett, Evan Williams

A teenager wins a national contest to provide the official White House Christmas tree, prompting a road trip with his father to transport the massive tree across the country.

Fun Fact: Evan Williams, who starred as McCarthy’s son in the film, went on to play Elliot Augustine in Hallmark Channel’s original series, The Way Home!

Just when single dad Seth Webster (James Van Der Beek) begins to feel that he’ll never be able to control his rambunctious six-year-old twins, housekeeper extraordinaire Emily Merkle (Doris Roberts) shows up to help all three Webster boys find their way. Photo Credit: Chris Large/2009 Crown Media.

Hallmark Media

Debbie Macomber’s Mrs. Miracle

Premiered on Dec. 5, 2009
Starred Doris Roberts, James Van Der Beek, Jewel Staite

An overwhelming single father of twin boys gets unexpected help from an enigmatic, magical nanny named Mrs. Merkle (whom the boys call “Mrs. Miracle”). Roberts made two Mrs. Miracle movies. Subsequent reboots of Mrs. Miracle movies starred Caroline Rhea and Rachel Boston in the titular role.

Related: 12 British TV Shows That Make It Hard to Stop at One Episode—From Twisty Crime Dramas to Cozy Countryside Escapes

Although he doesn???t have the money to buy his loved ones real gifts, widowed farmer Daniel Burton (Billy Ray Cyrus) finds a way to provide hope and make Christmas special for his family. Photo by Chris Large

Hallmark Media

Christmas in Canaan

Premiered on Dec. 12, 2009
Starred Billy Ray Cyrus

Set in 1960s rural Texas, a white boy and a Black boy are forced by their parents to spend time together after a schoolyard fight, leading to a lifelong friendship during the Civil Rights era.

Jack and Cherie Green (Dean Cain and Jean Louisa Kelly) run a wooden toy company which brings joy to kids everywhere, even though they have no children of their own to share it with. But that all changes when they take in three troublemaking orphans during the holidays. Photo: Alexx Henry/2009 Crown Media

Hallmark Media

The Three Gifts

Premiered on Dec. 19, 2009
Starred Dean Cain, Jean Louisa Kelly

A childless couple agrees to foster three rowdy, orphaned brothers over the Christmas holiday, permanently changing the lives of everyone involved.

Related: Hallmark Just Revealed Its 2026 Christmas Movie Lineup—See the Full Schedule

This Year’s Countdown to Christmas Tentpole Movies

Amongst the record 34 original holiday films on this year’s Countdown to Christmas slate, three films stand out. Check them out below.

Robert Buckley, Lyndsy Fonseca

Hallmark Media

Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story

Premieres Saturday, Oct. 17
Starring Lyndsy Fonseca, Robert Buckley, Marsha Mason, Barbara Alyn Woods, Khary Payton
Featured Cameos by Chicago Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson, quarterback Caleb Williams, tight end Colston Loveland, tight end Cole Kmet, legendary Bears alumni Mike Singletary, Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Dan Hampton, Connie Payton, wife of the late Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, and the team’s beloved mascot Staley Da Bear, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Marilu Henner, Jake Connelly and Dyon “Mojo” Brooks

When ambitious freelance reporter Avery Clark (Fonseca) returns to Chicago to spend Christmas with her mom (Woods) and new stepdad (Payton), she’s hoping for a little holiday downtime before her next assignment. Instead, she lands a feel-good story profiling Darlene Donnelly (Mason), a beloved Chicago Bears superfan about to celebrate an incredible milestone – attending her 500th game. There’s just one catch: Avery knows next to nothing about football or Chicago. Enter Darlene’s handsome grandson Matt (Buckley), a Chicago firefighter and die-hard Bears fan who, with a little gentle nudging from Darlene, agrees to show Avery what being part of Bears Nation is all about. As Avery follows Darlene’s remarkable story through cherished game-day traditions, festive Chicago
adventures and memories of a love story that began at a stadium, she starts to understand that football is about much more than what happens on the field. And as sparks fly between Avery and Matt, this Christmas may just convince a woman who’s always on the move that sometimes the greatest adventure is finding a place, and someone, that feels like home.

Bryce Durfee, Asher Alexander, Travis Van Winkle, Lacey Chabert, Taegen Burns, Richard Kind, Christy Carlson Romano

Hallmark Media

Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True

Premieres Saturday, Nov. 28
Starring Lacey Chabert, Travis Van Winkle, Richard Kind, Christy Carlson Romano, Bryce Durfee, Taegen Burns

Lindsey (Chabert) and her extended family head to the Walt Disney World Resort® to spend a magical Christmas together. But the dream of a jolly holiday gets quickly dashed when Lindsey discovers her room is next door to Philip (Van Winkle), a disastrous first date she recently had, who’s also there on a family trip. As Lindsey and Philip’s paths cross throughout their stay, the frost starts to thaw as they learn they’re not so different from each other after all. Thanks to some Walt Disney World magic, the holiday wish Lindsey made in Cinderella Fountain just might turn their rivalry into romance.

Niall Matter, Holland Roden

Hallmark Media

A Grand Biltmore Christmas

Premieres Saturday, Dec. 5
Starring Holland Roden, Niall Matter, Andie MacDowell, James Trevena, Jonathan Frakes, Rachel Boston, Wes Brown

As Biltmore House opens for the first time on Christmas Eve 1895, 13-year-old Elizabeth and her family are holiday guests. When she notices Michael, a fellow teen caught trespassing by the staff, Elizabeth comes to his rescue by claiming to know him, much to his relief. The two share an instant connection and set out to explore Biltmore but Michael inexplicably vanishes. Twenty years later, Elizabeth (Roden) is spending Christmas at Biltmore and this time is accompanied by James (Trevena), a suitor her Aunt Maysilee (MacDowell), is keen for her to wed. When a stranger asks Elizabeth to dance at the Christmas gala she’s shocked to discover it’s Michael (Matter). Thrilled to reunite with her friend, she throws herself into his arms. But the world around her changes in an instant when Elizabeth is transported into the modern world with Michael, a tourist from the present day who had traveled to the past 20 years prior with the help of a magical hourglass in Biltmore’s library. Now, Elizabeth and Michael must find a way to send her back to her time, while not arousing the suspicion of Michael’s mother and sister during their family vacation. As Elizabeth experiences life and Christmas in the 21st century, she and Michael become close. When the time comes for her to return to 1915, Elizabeth must decide whether she’ll resume the life that’s been chosen for her or if her heart will lead her down a new path in the present.

Next, A Writer Finds Herself Back in Time in Hallmark Channel’s ‘A Biltmore Christmas’

For 62 years, one of the most famous love songs ever written sat untouched in Paul McCartney‘s live catalog. It took a famous wedding to bring it back, with a very special on stage guest.

During a Friday, Oct. 2 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, staged at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, McCartney confirmed what had been reported through sources since July: Taylor Swift asked him to perform at her wedding, and he happily agreed.

Kimmel wanted to know whether McCartney knew going in that he would be singing. “Yep. She asked me to do it,” he said. Asked which song, he answered with the title: “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”

Swift was up there with him, and he had an instruction for her. “I said, ‘You should sing along, and you should sing it to your man,'” McCartney recalled.

Swift married Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on July 3 at Madison Square Garden. McCartney last played the song on Sept. 20, 1964, at New York’s Paramount Theatre, and had never performed it as a solo artist. Looking back at the early days of Wings, a period when the band steered clear of Beatles numbers, McCartney said, “Definitely we were in the shadow of the Beatles. I was very conscious of that. But I made a promise to myself that we wouldn’t do Beatles stuff and I wouldn’t write songs like Beatles things.” He added, “I made it very difficult for myself.”

Related: Sabrina Carpenter Beats Taylor Swift to Win Her First Emmy Award

McCartney moved on to talking family with Kimmel. The host described watching McCartney’s grandchildren sing and dance in the front row at his March show at the Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, then asked whether McCartney had gone to his own grandfather’s concerts.

“Do you know what? I never had a grandfather,” McCartney said. “I only thought about it recently, you know, ’cause I’m now grandpa to eight kids.” Of his grandparents, he said, “Granddad and grandma passed away before I was born.”

He was just as direct about Ringo Starr, who joins him on “Home to Us,” their first duet, from The Boys of Dungeon Lane. “He is up for anything pretty much,” McCartney said. “We get on very well, which is great. And, yeah, I love him.”

McCartney and Swift have a bit of a history together; they shared the cover of Rolling Stone’s Musicians on Musicians issue in 2020, he attended an Eras Tour show in London in 2024, and she was in the audience at the Fonda in March. A special edition of The Boys of Dungeon Lane arrives Wednesday, Oct. 7, according to Kimmel’s introduction.

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If you’ve ever dreamed of a leaf-peeping trip that pairs New England‘s most vibrant fall color with a walkable destination the whole family can enjoy, you’re in luck.

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain in northwestern Vermont, Burlington delivers all the benefits of an urban getaway framed by the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. This accessible city is filled with leafy parks and farm-to-table restaurants, anchored by a lively outdoor pedestrian mall and lined with miles of waterfront along New England’s largest lake. Wake up in a hotel overlooking the city, then stroll a few blocks to the water for a scenic dinner cruise, a stop at a world-class museum or a walk along the Burlington Greenway. Later, head to Church Street for shopping and an outdoor concert.

It’s no wonder travel advisors consistently rank Burlington as a top choice for multigenerational family trips—and autumn is the ideal season to visit. Here’s why this Vermont city is one of the best destinations in the state for a leaf-peeping getaway with the whole family.

Related: The New England Fall Road Trip Travel Experts Swear By

Why Fall Is the Best Time to Visit Burlington Known for its parks, Burlington is especially spectacular in fall, when the leaves change.

Photo credit: Hello Burlington

From late September through mid-October, Burlington’s maple, oak, and birch trees turn brilliant shades of gold and russet. The weather is crisp and cool, and the fall colors set against Lake Champlain are spectacular.

“There’s nothing like an autumn walk through Waterfront Park, once a lumber yard and now a beautiful lakeside green space,” says Royal Ahmadi, senior vice president and general manager of The Vacation Group. “You can see foliage views along Lake Champlain without committing to a long hike, and it’s the perfect chance to walk a stretch of the Burlington Bike Path, buy a maple creemee from Champ’s Legendary Creemee Stand and enjoy the views.”

Fall festivals abound, bringing popular seasonal events like the annual waterfront Oktoberfest Vermont and the Vermont International Film Festival to the city. Families can pick apples at nearby farms like Shelburne Orchards (just 20 minutes from downtown by car), and fresh treats like apple cider and hot cider donuts can be found at vendors and cafes throughout the city.

“Most families travel to Vermont’s mountain gaps to see the leaves, but fall in Burlington is a completely different vibe. The whole harvest season turns the city into a celebration of local food and makers,” says travel advisor Amanda Coulman of ET Family Travel. “If you’re looking for that classic family vibe, hit the Saturday Burlington Farmers Market. It’s total sensory overload, but in the best way—families, live music and incredible local food.”

Related: A New Priceline Study Reveals Where Everyone’s Leaf-Peeping

In Town: Walkable Streets, Award-Winning Restaurants and Fun for the Whole Family Burlington’s lively pedestrian district Church Street Marketplace is lined with restaurants and shops.

Photo credit: Getty Images/Benedek

Ranked the No. 3 most walkable city in the country by USA Today‘s 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Burlington’s compact design and traditional street grid make it a pleasure to explore on foot. The University of Vermont’s campus is a 10-minute walk east of downtown on a hill. Sidewalks can be found almost everywhere, and the pedestrian-only, four-block Church Street Marketplace sits at the heart of downtown, lined with shops, restaurants and cafes.

“Burlington Bagel Factory is a great breakfast stop for hand-rolled, freshly baked bagels,” Ahmadi says. “On a chilly day, there’s nothing better than a bowl of pho at Pho Hong in the Old North End. And for multigenerational families, American Flatbread is the perfect dinner spot for artisanal, thin-crust pizza—it solves the problem of getting three generations to agree on where to eat.”

Fantastic hotel options can also be found downtown. A favorite for multigenerational families is the 125-room Hotel Vermont, ideally located between Church Street and the city’s Waterfront Park. This independent hotel offers a modern, eco-luxury boutique experience deeply rooted in local craftmanship, culture and agriculture, with cozy touches like Vermont-made goods and bedding and complimentary bicycles, a yoga room and fitness facilities for hotel guests. Plus, the onsite restaurant Juniper is top-notch, says travel advisor Joanne M. Telfer, owner of Singing Mermaid Travels and an independent agent with Dugan’s Travels.

“The culinary experience at Hotel Vermont is a big part of the fun,” she says. “Juniper serves ingredient-driven, locally sourced cuisine alongside small-batch craft beer and creative cocktails. And the acclaimed restaurant Hen of the Woods is just steps away within the hotel complex, so you have superb dining without ever leaving the property.”

Related: We Gave 3 Travel Experts a Strict $500 Fall Vacation Budget

The Burlington Greenway: The Best Way to Walk or Bike Through Peak Foliage The Burlington Greenway runs along the shore of Lake Champlain from south to north.

Photo credit: Getty Images

An eight-mile paved, multi-use path along the Lake Champlain waterfront, the Burlington Greenway is just a short walk from downtown, yet offers incredible, uninterrupted views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.

“For families traveling with multiple generations, the Burlington Greenway takes the stress out of a traditional New England hike while still delivering massive, panoramic views of the Adirondacks,” Coulman says. “What makes it perfect for a group that includes both grandparents and toddlers is how close it is to everything. Rent e-bikes or cruisers at Local Motion, hop on the trail, and pull off whenever anyone gets tired for a crepe at The Skinny Pancake or a walk up to Church Street Marketplace.”

In the fall, the Greenway brings especially stunning scenery: fiery sienna and yellow leaves line the path, and the mostly flat, car-free trail is ideal for walking or cycling. Several downtown bike shops rent out bikes and e-bikes, as well as a few hotels. And a hike or ride along the Greenway can be combined with an unforgettable excursion found just adjacent to it: a train ride in restored, 1930s-era vintage train cars.

“The Champlain Valley Dinner Train is a fun, unique experience for families,” Coulman says. “You board at the Burlington waterfront and are served a three-course meal on a three-hour round-trip ride to Middlebury and back. I highly recommend it, but book well in advance.”

Related: Don’t Battle the Crowds in the White Mountains This Fall—Here’s Where a Luxury Travel Advisor Told Me to Go Instead

Museums and Attractions for Every Season, In Town and Nearby The Shelburne Museum’s eighty-foot-diameter Round Barn is one of only two dozen built in the state.

Photo credit: Getty Images

For unbeatable autumn views from the water, hop aboard a sightseeing or dinner cruise on the Spirit of Ethan Allen, a triple-deck cruise ship and floating restaurant. A family-owned business, it runs seasonal cruises from May through October and offers a fun, relaxing and uniquely Burlington experience. A short walk away on the waterfront is another can’t-miss stop for multigenerational families: ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, a science and nature museum that delivers an engaging, hands-on experience for all ages.

“To really appreciate the scale of the area, I suggest getting out on the water—and the Spirit of Ethan Allen is the perfect way to do that,” Coulman says. “It’s relaxing for adults but keeps kids completely engaged. Do a daytime narrated cruise that dives into local history and lake monster folklore, or my personal favorite: an evening sunset dinner cruise. Either way, watching the sun drop behind the Adirondacks from the water gives you a front-row seat to Vermont you just can’t get from the shore.”

Some of the best experiences are just a short drive outside the city. Ten minutes south of Burlington by car, don’t miss the largest art and history museum in northern New England: the Shelburne Museum, an eclectic, 45-acre campus featuring a steamboat, restored antique carousel, a historic train and station and an incredible hand-carved circus collection. The museum closes for the season in late October, then reopens in late November for its annual holiday lights celebration.

“The Shelburne Museum is incredible—plan for a full day to see it all,” Ahmadi says. “Kids love exploring the Ticonderoga, a restored steamboat that’s a National Historic Landmark and the last of its kind in existence. Or if everyone wants to be outside, head to Shelburne Farms, a working farm with over 10 miles of public walking trails and grounds originally organized by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted.”

More Can’t-Miss Foliage Destinations Within a Few Hours of Burlington Built in 1909, The Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown offers sweeping views of over Otsego Lake.

Photo credit: The Otesaga Resort Hotel

Northeast Kingdom, Vermont: Vermont’s most remote, rugged corner is also its most dramatic for autumn foliage, with rolling farmland, dense forest and glacial lakes. About 90 minutes from Burlington by car, this region is filled with maple sugarhouses and quiet small towns like Craftsbury and Greensboro.

Stowe, Vermont: This iconic mountain town sits at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, about an hour from Burlington by car. Ride the gondola to the summit for sweeping foliage views, or walk the Stowe Recreation Path past covered bridges and white-steepled churches.

Middlebury, Vermont: A classic college town roughly 40 minutes south of Burlington by car, Middlebury offers a walkable downtown, waterfalls right in the center of town, and scenic drives through the Green Mountains—an easy add-on for more small-town Vermont charm.

Montréal, Quebec, Canada: About two hours north by car, Montréal trades small-town charm for big-city energy, with mountainside lookouts like Mont Royal offering spectacular foliage views alongside the historic Old Montreal district and a world-class food scene. Just don’t forget passports.

Cooperstown, New York: Roughly four hours southwest by car, this idyllic village on Otsego Lake pairs magnificent leaf-peeping with world-class attractions like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. For a multigenerational splurge, book The Otesaga Resort Hotel, a legendary lakeside resort with a spacious veranda built for foliage views.

How to Plan the Ultimate Multigenerational Leaf-Peeping Trip An aerial view of a scenic lake surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in Vermont.

Photo credit: Getty Images/Westend61

Loop in every generation on planning. “Ask everyone to choose one thing they’d love to do, so the trip reflects the whole family,” says Ahmadi.

Book early. “Always book early to have your pick of accommodations,” says Coulman.

Pack for changing weather. “Mornings can be near freezing while afternoons feel like sweater weather, so layers are key,” says Telfer.

Choose a home base with plenty to do. “Pick a base where a scenic walk, a museum and a good meal are all close by,” says Ahmadi.

Aim for late September through mid-October. “Foliage timing shifts year to year, but that window typically offers the most reliable peak color,” says Coulman.

Check foliage reports for day trips. “Vermont’s foliage tracker updates weekly, so use it to plan day trips around peak color,” says Telfer.

Balance activity levels. “You don’t need a strenuous hike to enjoy fall foliage. Mix in shorter walks with more active outings,” says Ahmadi.

Rent a car. “A rental vehicle is a must. It allows families to see more outside the city,” says Coulman.

Choose lodging with flexible space. “Look for suites or connecting rooms so everyone has privacy but can still gather together,” says Telfer.

Leave room in the itinerary. “Leave breathing room each day for an unplanned stop or a long lunch. Those moments become the best memories,” says Ahmadi.

Related: Not Into Leaf-Peeping? Travel Experts Recommend These 5 Fall Trips That Have Nothing to Do With Foliage