STOWE AREA ASSOCIATION
51 Main St., Box 1320
Stowe, VT 05672
(802) 253-7321
www.gostowe.com

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Jo Sabel Courtney, (802) 253-7321 extension 219, josc@gostowe.com

STOWE VERMONT SPEAKS KIDS’ LANGUAGE ON THE WEB

Stowe, Vermont, long known as a family-friendly destination, has unveiled the “Kids Zone” section of their web site, catering exclusively to their younger visitors. Created by the kids of Stowe, the Kids Zone is an easy to navigate, fun to visit section of Stowe’s web site ideal for kids looking to get a sense of what their family’s trip to Stowe might be like, what to bring with them and some just plain fun.

“More than a quarter of all household trips include children under 18 and the kids are often involved in the planning of the trips,” says Valerie Rochon, Executive Director of the Stowe Area Association. “The Stowe Kids Zone offers our younger travelers a section of our website with information geared just for them – from the best hikes, to the coolest place to ride bikes and even tips on packing - it’s written for kids, by our kids.”

The Stowe Kids Zone premiered this month on the www.gostowe.com website in the “For Families” section or at www.gostowe.com/kidszone. The page includes opinions offered by Stowe kids on the best local attractions, things to do and places to go, as well as tips for families such as getting a sitter, safe travel with kids, and a list of family hikes. In “Make a Friend” there are interviews of a number of Stowe kids who talk about their life in Stowe, how long they’ve lived in Stowe and what they like best about it. “The Game Room” has a scavenger hunt that can be printed out and completed by families visiting Stowe. And for those who want the short cut, the “Around Town” section highlights a variety of fun facts about the quintessential Vermont town, such as the fact that it’s home to Jake Burton considered the father of modern snowboarding. Whatever the age of the child and whatever the interest, there’s something for everyone on this kid-focused page which is an ideal primer for families planning a vacation getaway to Stowe.

KIDSZONE was made possible by a group of Stowe Middle School students and their principal, Nancy Shiok. “Our students wanted to show visiting kids their community from a kid’s perspective, whether on the mountain or in town,” states Shiok. Nationally syndicated family travel columnist, Eileen Ogintz, the author of Taking the Kids (www.takingthekids.com) came to Stowe to work with the students, helping them to hone their advice and tips for this unique area of the website. “Stowe kids, like kids everywhere, know they look at places differently than their parents, stated Ogintz. “They’re glad for the opportunity to help visiting kids get to know their town.”

From spectacular year round events to a host of wonderful outdoor recreation options, Stowe Vermont is perfect for families. A drive up the famed Toll Road provides spectacular views from the top of Mt. Mansfield and ideal conditions for even the tiniest of hikers. Stowe’s scenic recreation path is ideal for family strolls or bike rides and there are a variety of places to stop and cool off in swimming holes along the river. Get the thrill of gliding down the mountain on Stowe’s Alpine Slide or enjoy a round of mini golf and finish the day with an ice cream cone or ice cream soda at an old fashioned malt shop. For a full list of events and things to do in Stowe, or to book a trip, visit www.gostowe.com.

Located at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak, the quintessential village of Stowe, Vermont has been hosting visitors for 200 years. A true four-season destination, Stowe offers endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors—from world-class skiing and snowboarding to an award-winning recreation path and a virtually endless trail system. The village offers boutique shops, fine dining, and more than 60 different lodging establishments ranging from full service resort spas to quaint bed and breakfasts. In 2006, the Stowe Area Association celebrates 70 years of welcoming guests to Stowe. For more information, please call 1-800-GO-STOWE or visit www.gostowe.com or www.stowe.travel.