If a last-minute vacation plan is what you’re after, it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, a spontaneous family adventure can be as easy as reserving a campsite near Boston at one of our favorite spots. Each has reservations available in the coming weeks, and each is less than two hours from the city. So roll up your sleeping bags and put some extra tent stakes in your pack, there’s still time to take the kids camping this summer.

Shawme-Crowell State Forest | Sandwich, MA

Brahmsee via pixabay

Camping at a popular spot, especially this one on Cape Cod, is a great choice for first-timers or families with toddlers in tow. With over 280 wooded camping sites, a nature center and an on-site playground, kids can explore nature without leaving too many of their city faves behind. Hiking trails abound on the property and the nearby Heritage Museum & Gardens is worth a trip. Although the famous Looff carousel remains closed, Hidden Hollow is always is hit.

Cost: $17/night; $45/night, small yurts; $55/night, large yurt. All prices for Massachusetts residents.

42 Main St.
Sandwich, MA
508-888-0351
Online: mass.gov/locations/shawme-crowell-state-forest

Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Camping | Freeport, ME

Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Camping via yelp

Hit the forest, farm and sea trifecta when you make a reservation to camp at this popular Maine destination. Set on 626 acres of oceanfront farmland, with over 130 campsites, it's easy to leave the city far behind here. The demonstration farm is a big draw for visitors. It's a chance for kids to interact with farmyard animals, harvest eggs and view the milking parlor. And farmyard storytime is a summer staple on the activity schedule. But beyond the barnyard basics, families can also rent bikes and kayaks, explore tidepools, hike and fish. Plus, the onsite Farm Cafe, cooking food sourced straight from the fields, means you don't have to do all the cooking on your trip.

134 Burnett Rd.
Freeport, ME
207-865-9307
Online: freeportcamping.com

Horseneck Beach State Reservation | Westport, MA

Marge F. via yelp

Head south to Buzzards Bay to take advantage of this campsite that puts water play at the center of your summer activities. With two miles of sandy beach, sandcastle building, swimming and beach lounging is what this camping trip is all about. But it's also a great spot to watch birds, bike and play on the playground if you need a change of pace. The camping season runs through Columbus Day in early October. 

Cost: $22/night, residents; $70/night, non-residents; $13/day for parking

5 John Reed Rd.
Westport, MA
508-636-8816
Online: mass.gov/locations/horseneck-beach-state-reservation

Townshend State Park | Townshend, VT

Steven Weirather via pixabay

Nestled at the foot of Bald Mountain, this rustic campsite is ideal for families who want to unplug. On the smaller side, the campground has 30 tent sites and a a few lean-tos, for families looking to try something new this summer. Hiking the 3.4 mile trail to the top of Bald Mountain during your stay. It leads to spectacular views and heart-felt high-fives for kids who make it to the top. And feel free to bring your pooches to this wilderness outpost. They can stay for an extra dollar per night. 

Cost: $19/night; add $2/night for non-residents

2755 State Forest Rd.
Townshend, VT
802-365-7500
Online: vtstateparks.com/townshend

Harold Parker State Forest | Andover, MA

Jeff W. via yelp

If driving isn't your thing, but camping is, Harold Parker State Forest is a great choice. About an hour north of the city, this quintessential camping spot has something for everyone, including 35 miles of trails and 11 ponds. Pack your hiking boots, fishing poles and bikes when you head out. Then spend time swimming, fishing and biking around the property. Look for family-friendly programs that run all summer long and try your hand at any number of easy trails that take you around the campsite.

Good to know: The 34th annual family fishing festival on Sudden Pond is scheduled for Sept 11, 2021.

Cost: $17/night; $5/day for parking through Nov. Pricing is for Massachusetts residents.

133 Jenkins Rd.
Andover, MA
976-686-3391
Online: mass.gov/locations/harold-parker-state-forest

Wells State Park | Sturbridge, MA

Loretta W. via yelp

Not too far outside Worcester is Wells State Park, home of the cliffs of Carpenter Rocks. It's an ideal summer spot to pitch a tent or reserve a yurt if glamping is more your style. Mountain biking and swimming at Walker Pond (for campers only!) are big reasons to visit in the summer, so be sure to pack bikes and swimsuits alongside your sleeping bags. Because this is a popular park, families can expect ranger programming through September. Parking is $5 per day for residents.

159 Walker Pond Rd.
Sturbridge, MA
508-347-9257
Reservations: 877-422-6762
Online: mass.gov/locations/wells-state-park

Devil’s Hopyard State Park | East Haddam, CT

Family enjoys camping trip with best camping gear for families
iStock

Reserve a spot at this oddly named campsite and your kids will have stories to tell when they head back to school. Whether it's about the fish they catch in the stream that runs through the campsite, or their thoughts on touring nearby Gilette Castle, this is one unforgettable camping spot. Nearby waterfalls set the perfect backdrop to sound sleep at night and although swimming isn't allowed, hiking and biking are. 

Good to know: Plan to bring your own water to this campsite.

Cost: $14/night, Connecticut residents; $24/night, non-Connecticut residents; no parking fees

366 Hopyard Rd.
East Haddam, CT
860-526-2336
Online: portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Devils-Hopyard-State-Park

Pinewood Lodge | Plymouth, MA

pinewoodlodge.com

Less than an hour from Boston, this campsite, set among 200 acres of white pine forest, brings a little glamp to your camp, even if you're pitching a tent. There are only seven tent sites to snag (most are RV spots), but if you can get one, it's well worth having the comforts of home nearby. The game room, snack shack, playground and lake (boat rentals available!) mean you don't have to go too far to find things to do. But if you do choose to venture out beyond the campgrounds, it's easy to enjoy all the sights and activities of nearby historical Plymouth

190 Pinewood Rd.
Plymouth, MA
508-746-3548
Online: pinewoodlodge.com

October Mountain State Forest | Lee, MA

family travel blogs about camping
iStock

Consider this your passport to the Birkshires this summer. October Mountain State Forest is the largest in Massachusetts, and beyond the hiking, canoeing and kayaking that make this a summer hot spot, it's also close to Tanglewood. Plan to check out a Boston Symphony Orchestra performance when you visit this summer. There are 46 campsites to choose from here, and everyone will enjoy hiking the Gorge Trail that leads past the Shermerhorn Gorge.

Cost: $17/night; $45/night, small yurts; $55/night, large yurt. $8/day, parking. All prices for Massachusetts residents.

317 Woodland Rd.
Lee, MA
413-243-1778
Online: mass.gov/locations/october-mountain-state-forest

—Allison Sutcliffe

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We know: the kids just got back in school. And now they’re out again! (For the Jewish holidays, Columbus Day, Election Day, Veterans Day…) If you need some coverage, a school holiday camp is a lifesaver. We’ve rounded up single day camps offering all kinds of fun, including cooking, climbing, playing, crafting, tinkering and more! Treat the kids (and yourself) to one!

Cook with The Dynamite Shop

The Dynamite Shop

At this Park Slope kids cooking spot, try Cake Camp on 9/30, Pasta Camp on 10/1, and Food Science Camp on 10/9. Cost is $150 for 9-2:30 p.m., and camps are for kids ages eight and up. 

487 7th Ave.
Park Slope
917-909-0288
Online: thedynamiteshop.com

Get Crafty with Kids at Art

Kids at Art via Yelp

This upper east side spot boasts that it offers the “best art classes for kids in Manhattan," and it holds half-day workshops on Columbus Day and Veterans Day. Campers get to exercise their creative juices through projects such as mask-making, puppet creation and papier mache. Camps are for kids ages four-and-a-half and up, run from 9 a.m. to Noon, and cost $95 a day.  

1412 2nd Ave.
Upper East Side
646-832-4886
Online: kidsatartnyc.com

Hang with Wildlife at the Queens Zoo

WCS

The Queens Zoo is another place that holds camp every single school holiday. Camps are for kids pre-k (age four) to second grade, and third to fifth grade. Themes include "What's the buzz about?" (learning about birds, bees bats and other pollinators); Caring for Wildlife, and Election Day's "Vote for Wildlife", dedicated to advocating for animals. Camps run from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., and are $100/day for non-members, and $80/day for members. 

53-51 111th St.
Corona, Queens
718-271-1500
Online: queenszoo.com

Get Swinging at Court 16

Court 16

Court 16, which has locations in Gowanus and Long Island City, is a members-only club, but it's open to non-members for camps when school is out. Designed for kids ages four through 12 tennis day camps are designed to help kids build confidence through tennis games in small groups, and develop social fluency with fun off-court activities as well. Full day camps run 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are $145; half-day camps are 9 a.m. to Noon, and are $115. 


526 Baltic St. 
Gowanus
718-875-5550
Online: court16.com

Court 16 LIC
Long Island City 
718-875-5550
Online: court16.com

Code, Build, Play at Robofun

DavidSacha/Robofun

This uptown tech spot offers classes in robotics, coding, circuitry and Minecraft, and you can register for either a half or full-day option on any of the upcoming days off from school. Robofun's project-based curriculum ensures that your child will have fun while also "leading their learning" in the STEM realm. Camps are $85 for a half-day (9 a.m. - Noon), $170 for the full day, and early drop off or extended day (to 5 p.m.) is offered for an additional $20. 

2672 Broadway, Loft A
212-245-0444
Upper West Side
Online: robofun.org

Climb High at Brooklyn Boulders

Brooklyn Boulders

Adventure Days at Brooklyn Boulders Gowanus are a out more than just scaling the walls. Climbing, team-building exercises and S.T.E.A.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) activities keep kids busy and engaged. Camps run from 9 a.m to 3:30pm, with the option of Extended Day for $20/climber—and there's complimentary early drop-off starting at 8:30 a.m.!) Cost is $139/day, Brooklyn Boulders and snack included. (In Queens? There's a location there, too!)

575 Degraw St.  
347-834-9066
Gowanus
Online: brooklynboulders.com

 

Kick in the Pool and On the Field at Asphalt Green

Asphalt Green

Asphalt Green brings its popular summer day camp model to school break and holiday camps. These mini-camps incorporate various swim, sports, fitness, and recreational activities to keep kids active, learning, and engaged all day. Mini-camps are for kids ages 4 to 12, and children are split into coed age groups with a low counselor-to-camper ratio. Camps run from 8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., with early drop-off and late pickup options available for an extra fee. The cost is $150 per day. 

555 East 90th St.
Upper East Side
Online: asphaltgreen.org

212 North End Ave.
Battery Park 
Online: asphaltgreen.org

Click Some LEGO Bricks in Kensington

Eleanor Rodgers

Brooklyn Bricks does LEGO fun outside, weather permitting, with a move indoors to local church if needed. The theme for 9/30 and 10/1 is "Castles" ( with a focus on towers and turrets), and 10/9 is dedicated to "Fun Fair," with rollercoasters, big wheels and other rides. Camps run from 9 a.m. -3 p.m., ($90) with an extended day option until 5 p.m. ($120) Register here.

Brooklyn Bricks
Kensington
347-403-3798
Online: brooklynbricks.com

Create with Playday

Playday

Drop-in for creative play in a variety of mediums any time at one of Playday's locations (Long Island City or Gramercy Park),  or do a half-day or full-day or creative play. If school's out, they're open. Playday is for kids ages five to 12, and you get a 50 percent sibling discount. Cost is $36/hour, $75/half-day and $150 for a full day. (Read our story on Playday here!) 

PLAYDAY LIC
5-37 51st Ave
Long Island City
Online: playday.com

PLAYDAY Gramercy Park 
122 East 25th St.
Gramercy Park

Parkour with The Movement Creative at Astor Place

The Movement Creative

Does your kid have a lot of energy? Get them to a parkour camp with The Movement Creative, where they'll run, roll, vault, crawl, and leap for hours. Maybe that will tire them out. (A little.) Camps are from 9 a.m. to 3 pm. and are $150. 

Online: themovementcreative.com

Party at Mini Camp at The Craft Studio

The Craft Studio

Don't need a whole day of coverage? Check out Day Off School Mini Camps at The Craft Studio, in Tribeca or on the Upper East Side. At these "mini parties", artists get lunch, craft, and play games.  Camps are for kids ages four to nine, and run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and are $140. (You can also drop in for an hour if you want; rate is $37/hour.) For older kids ages eight and up, try the Tween Drop off from 2 - 4 p.m. These sessions are for more advanced artists who are ready to dive deeper and develop their skills with more techniques and mediums, working with the latest art project trends. 

1657 3rd Ave.
Upper East Side 
212-831-6626
Online: craftstudionyc.com

174 Duane St.
646-922-8823
Tribeca

Engineer at The Robot Foundry

Brooklyn Robot Foundry

Despite its name, The Brooklyn Robot Foundry's reach extends beyond the borough, with locations in Tribeca and on the Upper East Side, in addition its Boerum Hill and South Slope storefronts. Full-day camps for kids K through fourth grade have campers learning  basic mechanical engineering and electrical principles while creating two super-fun robots. (Both go home at the end of the day.) The Robot Foundry's approach to engineering encourages students' imagination and artistry in the building process. Got a returning camper? Repeat students in third to fifth grades can choose to enroll in the Robot Inventors program, in which they'll design and build their very own robot creations.  Camps run 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with option to extend until 6 p.m.; cost is $120-$200, depending on location.

1595 2nd Ave.
Upper East Side

200 Church St.
Tribeca

492 Atlantic Ave. 
Boerum Hill

586 Fifth Ave.
South Slope

347-762-6840 (all locations)
Online: brooklynrobotfoundry.com

347-762-6840  
Online: brooklynrobotfoundry.com

Get Active at Gantry Kids & Teens

Gantry Kids & Teens

Kids get a full day at Long Island City fitness facility Gantry Kids & Teens. Activities include free play, organized game time, and a field trip. Past destinations have included the Museum of Moving Images, Domino Park, the American Museum of Natural History, biking on Governors Island and even ice skating. Camps are small in size with a minimum coach to kids ratio of 1:6.; the camps are best for ages 5-11, although younger children may be able to attend. Cost is $138, and pickup is between 5 and 6 pm. at no extra charge! 

Gantry Kids & Teens
10-19 46th Rd.
Long Island City
917-426-4650
Online: gantrykids.com

—Mimi O’Connor

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Sip apple cider. Set up your scarecrow. Take a bumbling hayride. Get lost in a corn maze. Fall calls for fun family festivals that celebrate the best of the season. From apple mania in Lincoln Square to a Native American harvest pow wow in Naperville, we have you covered for the best places to get an awesome taste of autumn. Read on to find out why you’ll fall for these festivals.

photo: White77 via Pixabay 

Cornucopia Fall Fest at Eugene Field
This isn’t your typical day at the park, but rather one filled with pony rides, pumpkins, a petting zoo, plenty of bouncy toys and arts & crafts vendors. If tummies start rumbling, don’t worry! Food trucks will be rolling by throughout the day.

Sep. 12; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2 p.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: Free
5100 N. Ridgeway Ave., Albany Park
Online: eugenefieldpac.com

lincoln-square-apple-fest
photo: Lincoln Square Apple Fest

Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest
Apples stand as everyone’s favorite fall fruit, and this 34th annual Lincoln Square festival celebrates them all, from Akanes to Zestas. Dozens of vendors will be selling apples in all shapes and forms — apple cider, candy apples, apple pie, apple strudel — as well as handcrafted items. There is also a kid zone full of children’s activities and live music throughout the day at the Leland Avenue Kid Zone.

Oct. 2 & 3; 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: $5 suggested donation
Lincoln Ave., between Lawrence & Eastwood, Lincoln Square
Online: lincolnsquare.org

Harvest Festival at North Park Village Nature Center
This beloved forest in the city celebrates the harvest by focusing on the animals that begin to prepare for the long winter ahead after gathering their fall goodies. Do nature-centric crafts, stroll the farmers market, watch the scarecrow building contest, listen to storytellers and jam out to live music. If you’re looking for a slice of peace, the nature preserve offers trails that wind through woodland, wetland, prairie and savanna.

Oct. 12 & 13; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
NPV, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd., North Side
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

photo: Antigone_gone via Pixabay

Kick-Off to Oktoberfest
Pack a picnic and head to Heritage Farm for a traditional German Biergarten complete with German music, pretzels, refreshments, local craft beer and soda.

Sep. 4; 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5/person
201 S. Plum Grove Rd., Schaumburg
Online: parkfun.com

Shades of Autumn Festival
You’ll definitely need more than one weekend to visit the Shades of Autumn Fall Festival. Bring the fam as many times as you want because it’s pretty much going on all fall long. Take a little drive for more than 25 family-friendly attractions. Of course, you have the traditional hayrides, pumpkin picking and petting zoo. But, the little ones are also going to be wowed by the famous pumpkin cannon, hamster track, semi-truck slide, trikes for tikes, scrumptious apple cider donuts and so much more.

Sep. 7-Oct. 27; Sat. & Sun. in Sep., Fri-Sun. in Oct.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Open Columbus Day
Cost: $15/ages 3-64, $10/ages 65 & up, free for ages 2 & under
Stade’s Farm & Market, 3709 W. Miller Rd., McHenry
Online: stadesfarmandmarket.com

photo: Free-Photos via Pixabay

Harvest Bonfire at Heritage Farm
Help celebrate our fall harvest time by taking a wagon ride through Spring Valley’s Heritage Farm, and roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over an open fire.

Sep. 14; 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Cost: $7/person; free for ages 3 & under
201 S. Plum Grove Rd., Schaumburg
Online: parkfun.com

Harvest Pow Wow at Naper Settlement
Gain insight into the Native American heritage as you celebrate the harvest with dancing, cultural demonstrations, children’s games, craft and food vendors and more.

Sep. 21 & 22; Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. & Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $12/adult, $7/ages 3-12, free for ages 3 & under
Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville
Online: harvestpowwow.com

photo: Long Grove Apple Festival

Long Grove Apple Festival
Expect bushels of fun at Historic Downtown Long Grove’s 26th annual Apple Festival. Take in the beautiful fall outdoor ambiance of the charming village and participate in the many activities offered, including free live music, apple pie-eating contests and more.

Sep. 21-23; Fri., noon-11 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 p.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: $5/person; free for ages 12 & under
308 Old McHenry Rd., Long Grove
Online: visitlonggrove.com

photo: Homewood Fall Fest

Homewood Fall Fest
Homewood is getting geared up for their favorite fall time fest. From scrumptious cuisine prepared by local eateries to horse-drawn wagons, and pumpkin patches to pony rides, there’s something for the whole family to sink their teeth into.

Sep. 28; 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Martin Ave., from Hickory to Ridge Roads, Homewood
Online: village.homewood.il.us

Fall Fest at Rehm Park & Oak Park Conservatory
Horse-drawn hayrides, games and a pumpkin patch make this festival one of the best in the near west ‘burbs. Kids can hop aboard the hand-cranked Rehm Trains, enjoy yummy fall favorites from local food vendors or take part in a Fall Scavenger Hunt, which invites families to explore fall landscapes by looking for items outdoors.

Sep. 29; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Rehm Park, 515 Garfield St., Oak Park
Online: pdop.org

Harvest Days at Garfield Farm

Head back to the 1840’s at the Garfield Farm & Tavern Museum’s Harvest Days. This only historically intact Illinois prairie farmstead and former teamsters’ inn now serves as a family-friendly 1840s living history farm and inn museum. Learn more about the farm’s harvesting days in the 19th century via demonstrations of farm and household skills, period music and old fashioned treats.

Oct. 6; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: $6/adults; $3/ages 12 & under
Garfield Farm, Illinois 38/Garfield Rd., LaFox
Online: garfieldfarm.org



St. Charles Scarecrow Fest
Over 50 handcrafted scarecrows compete for the best in show at this unique fall fest. You can even make a scarecrow of your very own to protect and defend your garden. The arts and crafts show, petting zoo and carnival extend the fun, making for a full day of autumn merriment.

Oct. 11-13; Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Route 64 & the Fox River, St. Charles
Online: scarecrowfest.com

photo: Cantigny Park

Fall Festival at Cantigny Park
Roam this 500-acre park as it puts on its very best fall colors. At the annual Fall Festival, you’ll enjoy music, games, hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Stop by Bertie’s, the coffee shop adjacent to the onsite First Division military history museum for a taste of autumn with a cup of hot cider or hot chocolate.

Oct. 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free with $5/car parking
Cantigny Park, 1 S. 151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton
Online: cantigny.org

— Maria Chambers & Amy Bizzarri

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There’s nothing quite like exposing your kids to the majestic beauty of our national parks. Lassen Volcanic National Park is about four hours from San Francisco and about as far away from city life as you can get. Drakesbad Guest Ranch sits just inside the park and is the ideal spot to bring your family and literally unplug (there’s no cell reception or WiFi within miles!). Check out all it offers and book your stay!

A Mountain Retreat

As soon as you drive on to the one-lane gravel road that leads to Drakesbad, you’ll know that you are truly getting away. Located just inside the south portion of Lassen Volcanic National Park, Drakesbad offers cabins for as many as four people and bungalows that can sleep up to 10 people at a time. Multi-generational families visit year after year as it offers something for all ages. Bonus: kids under age six stay free!

All rooms include a full or half-bath with additional showers offered at the pool house. The Annex is the only sleeping quarters that offers electricity with outlets—the others have kerosene lamps only (which is part of the fun!) and no electricity.

Drakesbad is about 30 minutes from the closest town of Chester so all meals are included with your stay. Guests have reserved seating in the dining room or outside deck for breakfast and dinner. Lunch can be eaten in the dining room as well or you can request a sack lunch to take with you on your day’s adventure. Breakfast includes a buffet with fruit, cereals, oatmeal and a hot item like French toast and bacon. Dinner includes two choices, a meat option and one that is vegan-friendly. Kids can choose from options like mac n’ cheese, pizza and pasta for dinner.

Horseback Riding and Hiking

The Ranch offers horseback riding to Boiling Springs Lake, the largest acid lake in the U.S. The other-worldly landscape and smell of sulfur will be nothing like you’ve experienced before. You can also opt for longer a trail ride to Devil’s Kitchen where you can see boiling springs, mud pots and steam vents before you head back to the stable. Horseback riding is for kids seven and older, those under seven can choose a 30-minute pony ride led by a ranch wrangler.

You can easily hike to either of these locations with Boiling Springs Lake being especially kid-friendly at only 90 minute round trip.

Hot Spring-Fed Pool

After a day spent hiking through Lassen, you’ll definitely want to spend some time relaxing in the property’s hot spring-fed swimming pool. During the day the pool is cooled to an enjoyable temperature but when the sun sets in the evenings, the pool becomes a huge hot tub! Lounge poolside in one of the hammocks and enjoy the scenic views. Showers and restrooms are available in the pool house.

Other Activities

Daily arts and crafts are offered at 11 a.m. where the kids can paint pine cones and rocks or make beaded bracelets before heading to lunch. Archery is available every afternoon with instruction and equipment provided. Ping pong, horseshoes and cornhole games are available on the property. Or pick a spot on one of the swings and watch for deer in the meadow as the sun sets. End your day with a spot at the campfire where you can roast marshmallows for s’mores. After a long day on the trails, mom and dad can even enjoy an on-site massage.

The Details

In addition to meals offered at the dining room, Drakesbad has a well-stocked store in the lodge that offers ice cream, cold drinks and souvenirs for purchase. From 2-5 p.m. enjoy happy hour on the deck with daily offerings like fresh-made donuts and Drakesbad fries topped with spicy chipotle sauce. Local beers and wine are available for purchase at meals and throughout the day at the dining hall.

Drakesbad opens for the season the first week of June (weather permitting) and closes on Columbus Day weekend. Reservations are taken up to a year and half in advance, starting in November (in Nov. 2018 dates for 2020 will be available). With many families returning year after year, dates do fill up so get your reservation in!

Drakesbad Guest Ranch
14423 Warner Valley Road
Chester, CA
Rates (per person per day, including meals): $180 and up/adults, $75/kids 7-14, under 7 are free
Onlinedrakesbad.com

—photos and story by Kate Loweth

This trip was paid for by Drakesbad Guest Ranch but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer. 

In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue; 523 years later, what does that mean for you? The answer is easy: the first long weekend of fall! And in some cases, a day off from work and school. Here’s a roundup of our favorite ways to enjoy some family fun and keep the bambinos busy during this holiday weekend.

Photo: U.S. Department of Agriculture via Flickr

Fill’r Up at Taste of D.C.
Hungry for some new cuisine? Little foodies and grown-up gourmands alike can fill up at Washington’s biggest food festival, Taste of D.C. Take your brood on a tour of downtown while you nosh on nibbles from more than 60 local restaurants and food trucks. There’s also a chef stage where cooks-in-training can watch local culinary experts in action (and you can pick up a trick or two!).  

When: Oct. 10-11, 12 pm-7 pm
Cost: $20/adults; $10/kids 5-12; free/kids under 5
Pennsylvania Ave. between 3rd and 7th Sts., NW
Online: thetasteofdc.org

Photo: Ana Kurland via Flickr

Fall for the Weekend at Clark’s Elioak Farm
From hayrides to pumpkin picking, nothing says “fall” quite like a trip to Clark’s. What makes this Ellicott City farm stand out? To start, there’s the Enchanted Forest: a maze featuring dozens of storybook characters that have been dazzling kiddos for more than 60 years. There’s also a petting zoo, pony rides, and even gemstone mining. What’s more, the farm is open on Columbus Day from 10am to 5pm. Road trip, anyone?

Cost: $6
10500 Clarksville Pike (Ellicott City, Md)
410-73-4049
Online: clarklandfarm.com

Photo : Encore Stage via Facebook

Act Out at Encore Stage & Studio Mini-Camp
School’s out for Columbus Day? Let your kiddo enjoy an entertaining vacay while you go to work. During Encore’s mini-camp, elementary schoolers will exercise their imaginations with theater games and activities and also get the chance to relax with snacks and a movie. Word on the street is this session has a Minions theme, so get junior’s yellow duds ready.

When: Oct. 12, 9 am-3 pm (extended hours available)
Various Locations (Arlington, Va)
Online: encorestageva.org

Photo: Tiffanni Reidy via flickr

Do Columbus Day Brunch at Founding Farmers
Christopher Columbus crossed the Atlantic four times during his exploration of the new world. What more could he have accomplished if he’d eaten brunch? Crowd favorite Founding Farmers celebrates Columbus’ adventurous spirit with a holiday brunch featuring many of its classics like the Farmer’s Scramble and fluffy pancakes (and orange juice to fight scurvy, of course!). Diners of all ages can also enjoy lunch specials from 11am on.

When: Oct. 12, 8 am-2 pm.
Various Locations
202-822-8783
Online: wearefoundingfarmers.com

Photo: Wapster via Flickr

Columbus Day Camp at Jumping Jack Sports
Fill your kiddo’s day off from school with running, jumping, climbing and playing at Jumping Jack Sports’ Columbus Day Camp. While you run errands or finish those TPS reports, your camper’s dance card will be filled with activities ranging from rock climbing to conquering an inflatable obstacle course. For tamer tots, board games and crafts are also on deck.

When: Oct. 12, 9 am-2 pm/4 pm
44710 Cape Ct. (Ashburn, Va)
703-858-9901
Online: jumpingjacksports.com

What “can’t miss” events are your Columbus Day family’s sked? Tell us in the comments section below.

—Sarah Vogel

Got a little LEGO maniac in the house? Good news! The Danish company recently unveiled its newest flagship store, and it’s smack dab in the middle of Manhattan’s Flatiron district. (That’s right — you won’t have to head to tourist magnet Rock Center anymore to get your mega LEGO on.) The shop’s grand opening is this weekend — see what LEGO has planned and take a look inside!

The Brick Basics

Located at 200 5th Avenue between 23rd and 24th Streets, the LEGO Store Flatiron District is a whopping 3,500 square feet. (The store’s impressive footprint is what earns it the label of “flagship”; LEGO’s other properties dubbed as such can be found in Minnesota’s Mall of America and at Disney’s Florida and California parks.)

The Flatiron store reflects its home in both the macro and micro sense. The front windows along 23rd St. feature multiple New York scenes rendered in oversized LEGO murals. Inside, LEGO sculptures depicting the evolution of the Flatiron District itself — from farmland to circus site to current day business and residential area — preside over the colorful sales floor. (Fast fact to impress your kids/friends: many of the more elaborate LEGO creations were designed and built by LEGO Master Builders — that’s a thing? — in a Czechoslovakian shop and shipped over by boat.)

Only in New York

Other unique features of this LEGO Mecca include an eight-foot-tall LEGO model of the Statue of Liberty (she lights up!); a striking LEGO sculpture of the flagship store’s mascot, Brickley the Dragon, which weaves throughout the space, and a miniature replica of the store and surrounding neighborhood for kids to build upon. Is your little builder seeking a LEGO in a transparent lime hue? You’re in luck!: the store is also outfitted with a “Pick-a-Brick” wall, where shoppers can load up on individual LEGOs by the cupful. The majority of the store’s inventory is a dizzying number of LEGO kits, which can be assembled to create everything from superhero and space scenes to castles, architectural monuments, and sushi.

The store will also include the first-ever LEGO Lounge. With the mini LEGO store replica as its centerpiece, the lounge will be outfitted with comfortable seating and charging stations for presumably weary parents, as well as a Library of LEGO books, a LEGO carpet, and even Duplo LEGOS in a preschool building area.

Grand Opening Plans

The LEGO Store Flatiron District will host its grand opening on Columbus Day weekend, with festivities kicking off on Friday from 4-6 p.m. As part of the celebration, LEGO Master Builders will be constructing a 20-foot-tall LEGO model of the Statue of Liberty in nearby Madison Square Park throughout the holiday weekend, and everyone is invited to help. (All participants will receive a “Certificate of Achievement” for taking part.) The statue will remain on display in the park after its completion for several days. (In store, LEGO will be rewarding customers who make minimum purchases with a different LEGO premium each day of the grand opening festivities.)

Beyond the opening weekend events, you can expect monthly Mini Model Builds for kids ages six to 14 on the first Tuesday of every month, during which children can make a seasonally-themed model and take it home — for free! The store will also host LEGO Club Meetings.

The LEGO Store Flatiron District
200 5th Avenue between 23rd and 24th St.
Flatiron
212-245-5973
Online: stores.lego.com/en-us/stores/us/flatiron-district

What’s your favorite LEGO store? Tell us in the comments below!

— Mimi O’Connor

 

While Native American Heritage Month isn’t until November, lots of the events and activities celebrating this rich culture take place all fall long. Los Angeles was once home to the Tongva, Chumash and many other tribes, so we have loads of museums and cultural centers that teach history, awareness and arts. Take your tots to see and experience how native California peoples lived and worked long ago.

gabriello
photo credit: The Kuruvungna and The Gabrielino/Tongva Springs Foundation via facebook

Life Before Columbus Festival
Did you know that there are natural underground springs bubbling up right in the heart of West Los Angeles? The two Kuruvungna Springs, located in the University High School campus, were long a gathering place for indigenous peoples, and this festival revives the tradition of meeting at this sacred place. The Life Before Columbus Festival, hosted by the Gabrielino-Tongva people at the Kuruvungna Springs Cultural Center & Museum, is a blast for kids as it features native dances, music, storytelling, crafts and displays of historic artifacts (including some recovered during various construction projects at the school). The festival is Oct. 12 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Good to know: You can visit the museum on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

1439 S Barrington Ave.
West LA
Online: gabrielinosprings.com

visitorscenter

photo credit: Haramokngna American Indian Cultural Center via Facebook

Haramokngna American Indian Cultural Center
Haramokngna means “the place where people gather,” and it is a spot where the local American Indian community can gather to respect the natural environment and share the history of the first Native American people of the Angeles National Forest. Both the Visitor Center and the Toypurina Lodge house local native history and art. The mission here is beautiful – to have a place “where the Indian People relocated from their lands can once again touch the earth, feel the wind, listen for the sound of our wild brothers and sisters — the animals and birds — and smell the fragrance of native plants.” And they welcome all kids and their grownups to experience this connection to the land. The Center offers arts and crafts days for kids and is open seasonally Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and weekdays by appointment.

Good to know: Call before visiting!

Red Box, Forest Route 2N24
Phone: 626-449-8975
Online: haramokngna.org

autry

photo credit: The Autry Museum via facebook

American Indian Arts Marketplace at the Autry
Head on down to the largest Native American arts fair in Southern California, featuring 200 artists representing more than 40 tribes. Grab the kids by the hand and check out sculptures, pottery, bead work, basketry, photography, paintings, jewelry, textiles, wooden carvings, and more. And it’s all for sale. While the focus is definitely on crafts, you’ll still be able to see dance performances throughout the day. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Indian Country storytelling events. Grab a bite to eat and settle in for magnificent stories told by tribal elders. The Marketplace takes place Nov. 8 & 9 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission to the museum is $12/adults, $4/kids (3–12).

Good to know: Every second Tuesday of the month is free admission at the Autry. Come one come all, where you can always explore the exhibitions that illuminate the history of Los Angeles and the Native American people who lived here.

4700 Western Heritage Way
Griffith Park
Phone: 323-667-2000
Online: http://www.theautry.org

chumash teepee

photo credit: Jennifer Wolfe

Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center and Natural Area
A collaboration between the National Park Service and the Friends of Satwiwa, this facility is always a great resource for learning about the Chumash and Gabrielino-Tongva cultures native to Southern California. Inside the visitors’ center, located just north of Point Mugu State Park, you can see arrowheads, historic photographs and other artifacts; outdoors there’s a “Chumash Demonstration Village” where your kids can learn what life was like in pre-Columbian SoCal. Nearby trails include the Satwiwa Loop Trail (which circles past a neat old windmill) and a path to a waterfall located within adjacent Boney Mountain State Wilderness. The Center often offers cultural storytelling and crafting events for the whole family. Check the website for upcoming events. Admission is free and the center is open Saturdays and Sunday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

4122 West Potrero Rd, Newbury Park
Phone: (805) 370-2301
Online: nps.gov

nativeamericanchilddancers

photo credit: Rvanbree via Creative Commons

19th Annual Chumash Inter Tribal Council
Head on up the coast for the grand daddy of all Powwows. Join tribes from around the state as they compete in one of the largest singing and dancing competitions around. This is your best bet for getting a great taste of real, honest to goodness, tribal dance and song. Remember, you’re never just a guest at a Powwow, you’re family. So, join in a share in the fun with basket weaving demonstrations, drum circles, pottery painting and more. The Powwow takes place on Oct. 4 & 5. from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Live Oak Campground
4600 Highway 154
Santa Barbara, CA
Phone: 800-248-6274
Online: chumashcasino.com

-Christina Fiedler

How do you plan on celebrating Native American culture during the month of November?