Whether you transform the backyard into a sit-down drive-in or the living room into a theater, you always need a few good movies for kids

Few activities bring the whole family together for a few (mostly) quiet hours of fun than hosting a movie night at home! But whether you transform the backyard into a sit-down drive-in or the living room into a theater, you always need a few good movies that will keep both kids and parents happily entertained. From the nostalgia of old faves to the newest hits, check out the best movies for families with 7-9-year-olds.

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Moana

Moana is a Disney film with strong female characters
Walt Disney Pictures

This animated musical about a Pacific Islander Disney princess who leaves home to find a way to save her people (with the help of a few animal and magical friends) has become a beloved family favorite since it was first released in 2016. Full of delightful songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, heartfelt moments, and plenty of adventure, it’s a must for this age group and can be enjoyed on Disney+.

Up

'Up' is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Pixar Studios

This magical Pixar pick about finding meaning and second chances within unexpected friendships is an ideal animated movie for kids of all ages—especially your seven, eight, or nine-year-old. A great story that helps children understand lessons in persistence, patience, and kindness, though be mindful of the first 15 or so minutes which touch on the subject of loss (odds are you’ll cry more than they will, though). Rated G, the 2009 film is available to stream on Disney+.

E.T.

E.T. is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Amblin Entertainment

The 1982 iconic pic about a group of kids befriending and helping an alien still holds up today. Chances are, you watched this PG flick when you were eight or nine too! Starring a young Drew Barrymore, Henry Thomas (who you’ll recognize from many Mike Flanagan Netflix horror films), and some old-school special effects, this coming-of-age story should have your kids cheering by the end. Available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime and Apple TV. 

The Lion King

movies for 7 to 9 year olds
YouTube

As if the original animated version wasn’t enough entertainment for the whole family, Disney went and remade the classic with a live-action 2019 version (rated PG). We honestly recommend watching both–kids will love the animated antics of the original, but the realistic look of the cubs in the remake is too adorable to be missed. Word of warning that Mufasa’s fate may prompt a few tears in more sensitive littles!

Charlotte’s Web

charlotte's web is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Paramount Pictures

Charlotte’s Web is a long-beloved book that teaches children about the importance of good friends and believing in yourself, while touching on the impermanence of life. The 2006 remake of the classic timeless tale featuring Dakota Fanning, Julia Roberts, and Oprah is a live-action animal-filled story your older child will absolutely adore, but we recommend reading the story and also watching the original from 1973 to compare and contrast. 

Encanto

Ecanto is a family movie with strong female characters
Walt Disney Pictures

Disney’s smash hit from 2021 will have (or already has) everyone singing about Bruno. It’s the story of the magical Madrigals, a Colombian family where everyone has a special gift, save for Mirabel. But the film serves as a reminder that you don’t need a special “gift” to be truly special. Enjoy this wonderfully diverse, animated musical with your entire household, now on Disney+.

The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride
Act III Communications

This quotable classic from 1987 is a great pick for when you’re looking for a family-friendly film that brings you back to your own childhood. A story about the lengths someone will go to to be reunited with their one true love (and the interesting friends they make along the way) is part adventure, part comedy, part romance, and all fun. 

Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse

Into the Spiderverse is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Sony Pictures Animation

Kiddos will love this fast-paced, often hilarious comic book hero film that introduces Miles Morales, an Afro-Latino teen whose life turns upside down when he becomes Spider-Man. It’s a great film with a diverse hero at the forefront to look up to, with an excellent soundtrack to boot. Watch it before the sequel comes out later this year! Available to rent or buy on Apple TV and other streaming services.

Matilda

Matilda is a family movie with a strong female character
TriStar Pictures

Based on the book by Roald Dahl, this classic story about a brilliant young girl with telekinetic powers who is frequently ignored and brushed aside by the grown ups in her life is a perfect movie for 7-9-year-olds. Kids will be thrilled to see all the creative ways little Matilda manages to get revenge and stick up for herself and her beloved teacher, Miss Honey. Make sure to read the book first!

Spirited Away

Spirited Away is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Studio Ghibli

Instill an early love of Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki films by watching this phenomenal, otherworldly film as a family. It follows Chihiro, a 10-year-old girl whose parents are unexpectedly turned into giant pigs while they visit an abandoned amusement park. It only gets wilder from there as Chihiro has to figure out how to reverse the spell that transformed her parents, all the while having to interact with supernatural creatures—some friendly and others foes. 

The Nightmare Before Christmas

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a good movie for 7-9-year-olds
Walt Disney Pictures

This popular stop animation film can be your child’s introduction to the work of director Tim Burton and is so good it can be enjoyed both during and after the holidays. Your littles will surely be singing along with Jack Skellington by the end of his journey from Pumpkin King to Sandy Claws—a journey that will teach them that you don’t actually have to change drastically in order to find a bit of joy in your life.

Mary Poppins” and “Mary Poppins Returns

Mary Poppins and Mary Poppins Returns are good movies for 7-9-year-olds
Walt Disney Pictures

A true classic starring Julie Andrews, Mary Poppins features catchy sing-a-longs and enough entertainment to keep even the most tech-loving Gen Alpha littles happy. The story revolves around a magical nanny who shows up at a time when a family is struggling to connect and reminds them to take a moment to stop and appreciate one another. The 2018 sequel starring Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda will also give you major nostalgic vibes as you watch it with your family. 

Star Wars Film Series

The Star Wars series are good movies for 7-9 year olds
© Lucasfilm Ltd

By the time your kids reach this age, they’ll no doubt begin to hear about Star Wars from their peers, and for good reason. These films are among some of the most beloved for the last few decades and show children the importance of friendship, teamwork, and allyship in the face of adversity (in this case, the Dark Side). Some of the action and fighting sequences may be a bit much for some of the younger kiddos, so tread carefully. 

Song of the Sea

Song of the Sea is a good movie for 7-9 year olds
GKIDS

This animated film (rated PG) follows a young Irish boy named Ben who discovers his mute sister Saoirse is a selkie (a mythical creature from Irish folklore). Together they set off to free the fairies from the spell of a Celtic goddess (and find her voice along the way). It’s a wonderful story about the bond of siblings, and with a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this movie for 7-9-year-olds will be sure to please the whole family. 

Wall-E

Pixar Studios

If you’re looking to prompt a conversation about climate change and/or the importance of caring for our environment with your kiddos, this is the movie! It’s a cautionary tale about what might happen to our planet if we continue to pollute it to the point of being inhabitable, through the eyes of a sweet little robot. Watch this movie for 7-9-year-olds on Earth Day or any other day on Disney+.

 

Lions and tigers and… cars? If seeing the zoo on foot doesn’t cut it for your animal-loving brood, there are plenty of immersive animal experiences that’ll give you the feeling of an authentic wildlife safari park from the comfort of your (or someone else’s) car. Whether you want to gaze at giraffes from a double-decker safari truck or see the wild from the comfort of your own front seat, here are the best safari park experiences in the U.S.

Safari West - Santa Rosa, CA

Safari West

While a three-hour tour through the Sonoma wine country usually conjures up visions of gorgeous grapes ripening on the vine, Safari West will have you rethinking those expectations. Here, you'll board a double-decker safari truck and log some serious face time with zebras, giraffes, water buffalo and any number of the other 800 animals that call this preserve home.  Expect learning to happen, too. Safari West guides love actively engaging guests, promoting conservation and education efforts on their tours, as they expertly weave the open-air jeep in for a closer look. When tummies rumble, belly up to the Savannah Cafe that overlooks the park; the authentic food, beautiful scenery and grown-up grape juice from the region hit the spot after a long safari.

Wildest Extra: Want to make a weekend out of it? Spend the night in one of Safari West's 30 authentic African safari tents, with polished hardwood floors, en-suite bathrooms (with hot showers and real toilets), hand-hewn furniture, and ultra-plush linens atop comfortable beds.   

Online: safariwest.com

San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Escondido, CA

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

The San Diego Wild Animal Park (a branch of the San Diego Zoo) has everything a zoo has to offer, with a plethora of ways to see it all. Rather than keeping animals in small cages, this place opts to let the animals roam free—and puts the people in various vehicles to go out and see them. Families can commune with exotic wildlife from golf carts, African trams, zip lines, behind-the-scenes truck tours, or, even in a hot air balloon for a spectacular bird’s eye view of it all. Add in a ropes course for adventurers as young as seven, and you could spend days taking it all in. But at the heart of this animal wonderland is a mission to save the critters of the world, with its researchers and activists leading conservation efforts in 45 countries, with 380 partners in its conservation work, five conservation field stations and 200 conservation scientists working in the field or the lab, according to this article

Wildest Extra: Want to really wow your wildlife-loving kiddos? Opt for an overnight in an authentic safari tent. At the Wild Animal Park's "Roar and Snore" overnights, you'll get a nighttime tour of the zoo (with up-close animal encounters), then fall asleep to the sounds of lions' roars in the distance.

Online: sdzsafaripark.org

Virginia Safari Park - Natural Bridge, VA

Gas up the family wagon and grab a bucket of tasty grains for the “locals” at the gate before taking off along the three-mile paved drive through this natural animal habitat. Expect a few delighted shrieks from the littles as ostriches, llamas and zebras poke their heads through the windows to say hello and help themselves to tasty treats. When you’re done with the drive, be sure to check out the Village Walk-Thru where the kidlets can spend some QT with potbellied pigs, chickens and goats and more. Let the good times roll!

Wildest Extra: For an added fee, you can feed giraffes from a special platform, get up close and personal with the penguins or feed and pet the rhinos—all while learning how zookeepers take care of the animals and how the Safari Park is helping the animals in the wild. 

Online: virginiasafaripark.com

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure - Varysburg, NY

What’s not to love about a family-owned and operated animal park where it’s all about the beauty of the land and the animals that make their home there? Drive your car or hop on the bus to get a rolling tour of this bucolic oasis. Little rangers can be on the lookout for llamas, bison and ostriches, all of whom may cautiously approach the tiny outstretched hands looking to feed and interact with them. It’s a ring-side seat your sidekick won’t soon forget. Add in dinner at the Trailside Grill and you’ve got the whole day planned. The park opens in May and runs through October before closing for the winter.

Wildest Extra: Winter sleigh rides through the lower park make for a magical, snowy, family-friendly outing. Sleigh bells ring!

Online: hiddenvalleyadventure.com

Northwest Trek - Eatonville, WA

Katie Cotterill/ Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

With a focus on preserving and encouraging the repopulation of native Northwest wildlife, this sanctuary, just 60 miles south of Seattle, is a surprisingly perfect place to be on a rainy day. In the true spirit of the Pacific Northwest, the bison, elk and bighorn sheep (and moose, if you can spot one) are a little less camera shy when it’s overcast and drizzling. The park's all-new "Wild Drive" premier tour lets you drive your own car through the Trek's Free-Roaming, where you'll cruise by herds of Roosevelt elk, bison, moose, caribou, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, swan and deer.

After that, stretch your legs on the Animal Walking Paths as you check out grizzlies, cougars and more. Kids will love the "Kids Trek," a nature-inspired playground with ropes, slides, sand, cabins and a massive “tree trunk" to climb. Up for a hike? Access to more than five miles of paved and primitive walking trails is included in admission. 

Wildest Extra:  Don't miss Eagle Passage, an immersive experience that allows visitors to see majestic bald eagles close up while giving the rescued birds—all of whom have some degree of long-term wing injury—a safe passage between habitat sections. 

Online: nwtrek.org 

Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

Stewart Deats/ Bearizona

Drive your car on a three-mile gravel trail to see some of our country's most popular wild natives, including bison, black bears and wolves. When you're ready to stretch your legs, the winding walk-through, Fort Bearizona, will give you the perfect view of the park's resident jaguars, grizzly bears, and more. Craving cuddles? Creepy-crawly lovers can see bugs, spiders and nocturnal animals at the Mine Shaft Experience.

Wildest Extra:  Want a peek at the resident bears... right now? Check out the park's Grizzly Cams!

Online: bearizona.com

African Safari Wildlife Park - Port Clinton, OH

Michelle Loiselle Fulton via Facebook (used with permission)

Alpaca, bongos and camels are waiting to say hello to kids and their parents as they drive through the African Safari Wildlife Park. Cup in hand is the way they roll here. And when the drive comes to an end, be sure to check out the Walk-Thru Safari, where kidlets can come face to face with white alligators, ocelots and playful gibbons as they stroll along. In warmer months, the park brings out its giraffes for up-close encounters that let you feed these long-necked beauties a snack. 

Note: The park is closed from Dec. through Apr. Check the online calendar for details. 

Wildest Extra: Want to come face-to-tongue with a giraffe? Sign up for the 30-minute Giraffe Encounter, which lets you feed and mingle with the giraffes, Matata, Rudy, Poptart, and Harrison. 

 Online: africansafariwildlifepark.com

Wildlife Safari - Winston, OR

Wildlife Safari

Be sure to slap your “Will Break for Bison” bumper sticker to the back of your ride before driving the gang through this open-air Safari park in Oregon. Families can get up close and personal with mammals, reptiles and birds as they check out the sights and feed a few of the residents in this 600-acre park. When your little animals get restless, take a break at Safari Village, a walkable area with trains, playgrounds and a petting zoo to keep kids busy and happy. As for conservation, Wildlife Safari’s staff works hard to protect animals both internationally and domestically. They’ve helped bring over 235 cheetah cubs into the world as part of their super successful cheetah breeding program. Hooray!

Wildest Extra: Want some wine with your wild? Be sure to get tickets for the park's "Sippin' Safari," which will honor the park's 50th anniversary on July 22 with live music, wine and beer tastings, and local food trucks. 

Online: wildlifesafari.net

Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari - Ashland, NE

The winner of USA Today's Best Safari Park two years in a row, this Nebraska wildlife park (which is owned and operated by Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium) lets you enjoy a four-mile, drive-through experience showcasing North American wildlife. You'll see a menagerie of animals, including American elk, bison, waterfowl, raptors and white-tailed deer. At Wolf Canyon, guests can get out of their cars to gaze at grey wolves and American black bears. After the drive, take a hike to one of the park's overlooks to view the animals from above.

Note: Due to a current Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak in Nebraska, the American white pelicans in the Pelican Wetlands, the sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans in Crane Meadows and the chickens at the Hands-on Corral will not be on display until further notice. The Eagle Aviary will be closed, but the eagles are still viewable to the public. The whooping cranes will be off display.

Wildest Extra: For an extra $65 per person, you can book a Backstage Experience to see the animals and their keepers up close. Experiences include a Cheetah Conservation Experience, which gives visitors a backstage look at the state-of-the-art Cheetah Conservation Breeding Facility to see and learn how keepers care for the park's 20 cheetahs; and the Tiger Conservation Experience, in which visitors will get the chance to tour and meet the tigers at the Tiger Conservation Breeding Center.  

Online: wildlifesafaripark.com

The Wilds - Cumberland, OH

Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

A sprawling sister property of the award-winning Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Wilds lets visitors get an unfettered glimpse of the animals who call this 10,000-acre park home. Here, it's the humans who go in the "cages" and the animals who get to roam free. To see the wildlife, visitors must board the park's open-air safari vehicles to see the resident rare and endangered animals roaming in their large, natural settings.  

What else? Want something extra special? Select from a variety of specialty tours to soak in The Wilds’ stunning scenery. Whether you want to float the day away during a relaxing Fishing Safari on one of nearly 100 lakes; whoosh above it all on a Zipline Tour; saddle up on a Horseback Safari through the quiet prairies; snap some Insta-worthy shots during one of the park's gorgeous Sunset Tours, or get a behind-the-scenes look at the animals with a Wildside Tour—there’s an adventure for everyone! 

Note: The Wilds is open May through Oct. 

Online: thewilds.columbuszoo.org

Lion Country Safari - Loxahatchee, FL

Courtesy of Lion Country Safari

The original drive-through safari park in the U.S. (and believed to be "the first cageless zoo in the country"), this safari spot has been serving up African game park experiences for the whole fam since 1967. It’s four miles of drive-through meetings with oryx, giraffes, rhinos, wildebeests and a whole slew of animals we’ll bet you’ve never heard of (with more than 900 total, we’re pretty confident taking that bet), each living it up in an area that replicates their natural habitat. And the lions for which the park is named? Well, they’ve got their special spot where they can’t get up to too much mischief. Ice this cake with an adjacent KOA campground where you can fall asleep listening to the nighttime sounds of the animals outside your tent, just like a real safari!

Wildest Extra: The get-up-and-move activities that are available after your car safari are awesome perks. Mini golf, a safari cruise, plenty of rides and even a splash park are all part of the day’s adventures at Safari World, the 55-acre amusement park portion of this preserve.

Online: lioncountrysafari.com

Fossil Rim - Glen Rose, TX

Born out of a desire to help dwindling animal populations, Fossil Rim found its roots and eventual footing in propagation programs for threatened and endangered species. Thirty years later, families still flock to this Texas park, where they can take their own vehicles around the 9.5-mile Scenic Drive, or get insider deets and educationally potent tidbits when they ride along on a Guided Tour. We love that The Overlook is smack dab in the middle of this drive, as it's the perfect stopping point for antsy toddlers. Get out and interact with friendly tortoises and curious goats at the Children’s Animal Center, or grab grub at the snack bar.

Wildest Extra: A two-hour nighttime tour through the park to see what wild antics the animals are up to once the sun sets is as thrilling as it sounds! Want to stay even later? Adventurous explorers can also spend the night at the Fossil Rim Lodge, which was the original home for original Fossil Rim owner Tom Mantzel; or at one of the safari cabins overlooking one of Fossil Rim's most popular wildlife watering holes. 

Online: fossilrim.org

Out of Africa - Camp Verde, AZ

Out of Africa is a safari park in Arizona
Courtesy Out of Africa

Nominated as one of the top 10 Best Safari Parks in the U.S. by USA Today, this 100-acre park is home to hundreds of exotic mammals, birds and reptiles from all over the world—with an assortment of fun ways to see them. Climb aboard the open-air safari truck—or upgrade to a"Supermog" (an all-terrain, safari vehicle modified from a medium-size Isuzu truck)—and set out on a bumpy ride into the Serengeti preserve to see zebras, sable antelope, gemsbok, and more. You may even get a chance to feed a giraffe along the way! When the ride is over, there's plenty more to see, including the "Tiger Splash" show, which lets you spy on Bengal and Siberian tigers as they splash around in their pool and interact with their keepers; and the "Predator Feed," where keepers throw 800 pounds of raw food to eagerly-waiting carnivores.

Wildest Extra: Adrenaline junkies will want to sign up for a zip-line tour over the rolling hills. The "Racing Raptor" features three parallel lines—so you and your kids can zip the more than 1,000 feet together above the animals; the Predator zipline tour gives brave riders a course of five zip line runs above it all (Children must be 8 years old to ride.).

Wild Animal Safari - Pine Mountain, GA

Whether you drive your vehicle, rent a zebra bus (you know you want to) or take advantage of the guided bus tour, your pack will have a grand time spotting many (and even touching a few!) of the 65 different species that roam this 250-acre Serengeti adventure park. Think zebras, elk, bison, camels and more. When the park first opened, it was specially designed to capture the imagination of the littles and engender a lifelong love of animals. Not much has changed since then. Kiddos of all ages love the personal attention they get from the curious animals here! Don't miss the park's newest resident: Malaika, a giraffe calf born in January. 

Note: The Wild Animal Safari also has locations in Strafford, MO and Aggieland, TX.

Wildest Extra: The chance to hand-feed animals at the park's Walkabout Adventure Zoo is a hoot for the tot lot. "The animals are sociable, and you may be slobbered on if you are too close," warns the website (in other words, animal-loving kids will be in heaven). Fuzzy, friendly and hungry, these animals are sure to elicit some giggles from the little ones who feed them.

Online: animalsafari.com

—Allison Sutcliffe & Melissa Heckscher

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Birthday party planning can be stressful, we know it! When you are planning a party for the kids, it’s really all about location, location, location. We scoured San Jose and its nearby neighbors to find all of the amazing spots to host your next small person soirée, South Bay-style. Party on!

Photo: Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill

Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill, San Jose
Never bowled under water? Well you are in for a real treat at Uncle Buck’s. This new bowling alley is attached to the massive Bass Pro Shop that opened this past fall in San Jose. The whole restaurant and bowling alley is decked out to make you feel like you are completely under water. Kids will love the shark and alligator ball returns and the massive shipwreck over the center bar. The basic party package includes bowling, pizza and soda. Go wild and add on some fried alligator!

Cost: $190 for up to 10 kids with one hour of bowling in two lanes.
Location: 5160 Cherry Avenue, San Jose
Online: restaurants.basspro.com/UncleBucksFishBowl

Sharks Ice, San Jose
Skate on over to birthday fun at Sharks Ice. Your party includes skate rental, admission and skating lessons for the group. You also get your own party room, decor and favors for your guests. Little skaters will have a blast skating on the ice and playing games with the party captain. Everyone gets pizza, soda and a build-your-own Zamboni.

Cost: $30/guest, 10 or more guests
Location: 1500 South Tenth Street, San Jose
Online: sharksiceatsanjose.com

Children’s Discovery Museum, San Jose
Your next birthday party will be a hit when it takes place at the “Purple Museum.” Have fun and encourage active learning in a family-friendly environment. Your party will take place in one of our two birthday party rooms. Enhance your party with options like arts or science activities, gift bags, extra time in our party room and more.

Cost: $350 and up for up to 20 guests
Location: 180 Woz Way, San Jose
Online: cdm.org

photo: Cucina Bambini via yelp

Cucina Bambini, San Jose
Celebrate your little chef at Cucina Bambini where cooking is on the menu. Love making pizza? Kids can learn how to make dough, roll it and top it with their favorite toppings. Parties end with a decorate-your-own cupcake extravaganza. Looking for just the sweets? Select the Cupcake Craze package and your guests will make cupcakes from scratch and then decorate their creations. Pasta-mania is another fun option where the kids make fettuccine noodles plus two sauces. Bravo!

Cost: parties start at $430 for 10 guests
Locations in San Jose and Los Gatos
Online: cucinabambini.com

Whirlygig Parties, San Jose
The ultimate birthday party spot and a space where kids can be kids! Whirlygig has four unique play rooms, each with a theme like Farm or Beach, and can amplify the birthday fun with a customizable party theme with all the essentials! The birthday boy or girl can choose their own party theme from amazing options like Dinosaurs, Unicorns and Outer Space—there is truly something for everyone. Additionally, parents can expect delicious and gourmet food options, straight from the owner’s cooking school, Savory Kitchen—no more cardboard pizzas and sticky floors.

Cost: $475 for two-hour exclusive use of one of the party rooms for up to 15 kids
Location: 919 The Alameda, San Jose
Online: whirlygigparties.com

San Jose Giants
Little sluggers will love celebrating their birthday with Gigante and the San Jose Giants. Partygoers will get a general admission ticket to the game and there’s not a bad seat in the house. Party fun also includes two tickets to the Kids Fun Zone where you can bounce in the bounce house or practice your batting skills in the batting cages. You also get a hot dog, soda and Nothing Bundt Cake to celebrate the day.

Cost: $19/person with a 10 person minimum
Location: San Jose Municipal Stadium, 588 E. Alma Avenue, San Jose
Online: milb.com

photo: Marissa B. via yelp

Razzberry Lips, Los Gatos
Time to get all dolled up at Razzberry Lips! This birthday party venue is perfect for the sassy princess in your life. Invite all her friends to get hair makeovers and nails painted. Or choose a rockstar theme for some rad hair extensions. They have a party room available and you can bring in any outside food that you’d like. They even have options for co-ed parties to include a pirate makeover for the boys.

Cost: Minimum 7 kids at $27-37/kid depending on the package
Location: 307 N. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos
Online: clubrazzberry.com

The Jungle Island, San Jose
Laser tag, bumper cars, giant play structure, arcade games and more. The Jungle Island has it all and they are ready to host your next party. Party rooms are all decorated in jungle themes and there are tons of food options available so you can just sit back and enjoy the fun. Kids will love the laser tag party that includes tokens to play arcade games after the laser tag fun.

Cost: Parties start at $18.95/child
Location: 5401 Camden Avenue, San Jose
Online: thejungleisland.com

Laurel Street Arts, San Carlos
Celebrate any occasion with Laurel Street Arts—they provide everything you need for a creative party, you bring the cake! Parties are drop-off and include all the supplies your kids need to create a work of art, specialized instruction for your party, glazing and firing and reserved space for your artists!

Cost: $22/guest and up
Location: 733 Laurel Street, San Carlos
Online: laurelstreetarts.com

photo: Rockin’ Jump

Rockin’ Jump, San Jose
Looking for an easy birthday party that is guaranteed to tire the kids out? Head to Rockin’ Jump for some fun on the trampolines. Parties include 1 1/2 hours of trampoline time including access to the foam pit and dodge ball room. You also get a party room where you can enjoy pizza (which is included in the party packages) and cake (which you can bring in).

Cost: Parties start at $28/guest
Location: 1901 Monterey Road, San Jose
Online: sjo.rockinjump.com

The Studio, San Jose
Get the kids all tired out (their parents will thank you) with a party at The Studio. This rad space is an old movie theater turned into rock climbing gym. The Studio party staff will do all the work of belaying the kids and encouraging them to climb as high as they want. After climbing, the kids can re-fuel in the party room which is available for your use during your two-hour event.

Cost: $180 and up
Location: 396 S. First St., San Jose
Online: touchstoneclimbing.com

Tutu School, San Jose
For the sugar plums in your life, the Tutu School’s ballet birthday parties will be the perfect way to celebrate. Your mini dancers will enjoy a personalized ballet class, story time, crafts, cupcake picnic with pink lemonade and every guest receives a tutu or princely cape to dress up in and take home. In addition to Willow Glen, they have 15 other locations that offer birthday parties.

Cost: $475 and up
Location: 1702 Meridian Ave., Willow Glen, CA
Online: tutuschool.com

Photo: Happy Hollow by Kate Loweth

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, San Jose
An amazing animal adventure awaits you when you host your child’s birthday party at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo. You get admission for all of your guests, choice of private party picnic areas throughout the park, optional add-ons like a visit from Danny the Dragon, face painting and tons of food options. Kids will love spending the day at Happy Hollow – riding the Frog Hopper, visiting the anteaters and playing in the Crooked House.

Cost: Parties start at $350
Location: 1300 Senter Road, San Jose
Online: hhpz.org

Bricks 4 Kidz, San Jose
If LEGO bricks cover your floors, then maybe you want to hire Bricks 4 Kidz to host your little LEGO-lover’s birthday. Let the kids have free-play with LEGO bricks, have the host guide the group through a motorized LEGO build or many other options. Music, table coverings and a dedicated party host are included. Add-ons include pizza, goody bags and an additional host.

Cost: $375 for 12 kids, each additional kid is $18
Location: Parties are hosted at Little Champs, 5178 Moorpark Avenue, San Jose
Online: bricks4kidz.com

Bay Area Movement Parkour, San Jose
This is a super active party that’s fun for all ages from kindergarten and up. You’ll feel like an American Ninja Warrior when you take on the obstacle courses, parkour games, freerunning and other age-dependent activities. Kids will flip for the acrobatics they get to do into the stunt bag. Tables and seating are providing and you can bring in your own treats.

Cost: $350 for up to 10 participants
Location: 2016 Senter Rd., San Jose
Online: sessionsgym.com

—Kate Loweth

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One of the most famous mamas of the animal kingdom just gave birth—again! April the Giraffe finally gave birth, after 15 long months of pregnancy—and hundreds of thousands of anxious viewers tuned in to the livestream to watch the magic happen.

April’s last pregnancy garnered more than 232 million live YouTube views. Even though she just gave birth in 2017, Animal Adventure Park (April’s home) announced her latest pregnancy last July—hinting at a spring birth.

Animal Adventure Park owner Jordan Patch recently told The Washington Post, “We continue to sit and wait. The physical development and signs suggest we are there, it’s just a matter of when.” He went on to add, “If we hit April 1, I’ll be absolutely shocked, based on the observations we’re seeing in house.”

It looks like Patch was right—April gave birth on Saturday, Mar. 16 just before 1 p.m. local time. Still no word (yet) on whether it’s a boy or a girl.

If you missed the birth, don’t worry. You can still tune in to April’s live YouTube feed to see how mommy and baby are doing!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Alexas_Fotos via Pixabay

 

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There’s nothing that opens a kid’s eyes like an up-close visit with an animal. Kids can learn how to be gentle, what to do to protect animals in the wild and tons more. We have 22 spots that offer animal experiences from reptiles to sea lions to birds of prey to bugs. Plan your animal adventure today!

photo: Randall Museum

San Francisco

Randall Museum
A blending of natural history museum, science museum and arts center, the Randall Museum offers hands-on learning that all ages can appreciate, via exhibits and classes in science, nature and art. Events of all kinds, from bird walks to bug days, add to the lively slate of experiences at this very worthwhile attraction.

199 Museum Way
San Francisco, CA

Crissy Field Center
Crissy Field Center, a dynamic hub of youth engagement for the Golden Gate National Parks and a model program of the National Park Service, offers camps for tots, as well as environmental programming for the whole family. And Crissy Field itself offers a wonderful bayside promenade trail popular for walking and jogging, a shoreline beach where people keep their eyes on bird and marine life, a meadow for kite flying and even barbecue areas for families and groups.

1199 E Beach
Presidio
San Francisco, CA

photo: Kathryn Whitney/California Academy of Sciences

California Academy of Sciences
This part aquarium, part planetarium and part natural history museum offers loads of opportunities to meet some animals. Walk through the rain forest and see the butterflies landing on branches, watch scuba divers in the aquarium, touch a sea star and learn all about the bonded pairs of penguins. Bonus: you can even sleep over for an after-hours night at this amazing museum.

55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco, CA

photo: Lindsay Wildlife Museum

East Bay

Lindsay Wildlife Museum
With more than 50 animals at Lindsay, programs nearly every 30 minutes and an animal hospital that treats more than 5,500 animals each year there is always something new and fascinating for families to explore at Lindsay Wildlife Experience.

1931 First Ave
Walnut Creek, CA

Crab Cove Visitor Center
Bayfront education center with an 800-gallon aquarium and interactive marine exhibits, this venue has been a family favorite since its 1980 opening. Tide pools just outside the visitor center are another cool diversion for kids to explore, and are especially accessible at low tide.

1252 McKay Ave (at Central Ave)
Alameda, CA

Tilden Park Environmental Education Center
East Bay families have long been enjoying the free offerings of Tilden Park’s Environmental Education Center and Little Farm, including the cozy but cool playground by the parking lot. While the center boasts plenty of info and exhibits, the real fun is at The Little Farm itself, open every single day and home to all manner of farm animals, including cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens and pigs. Feeding the animals by hand is a real treat for kids–and the animals–so remember to bring celery or lettuce if you want to play the part of a friendly farmer.

Central Park Drive
Berkeley, CA

Ardenwood Historic Farm
This farm in Fremont offers a history lesson right along with some farm animal encounters. Meet pigs, sheep, goats, birds and more as you stroll the massive property. Hop aboard the train at the entrance for a fun ride to the opposite side. When you walk back, you might even get to see a peacock showing off his stuff!

34600 Ardenwood Blvd.
Fremont, CA

Rotary Nature Center and Wildlife Refuge
Nestled alongside Oakland’s vibrant Lake Merritt, the Rotary Nature Center and Wildlife Refuge is actually the first official wildlife refuge in the U.S.  The venue is home to occasional educational events that all ages can enjoy, including the Audubon Society hosting a bird walk on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Summer camp offerings are another plus, and the nature center is an excellent source of information on the abundant local bird life.

600 Bellevue Avenue
Oakland, CA

Sulphur Creek Nature Center
“Sulphur Creek Nature Center is a wildlife education and rehabilitation facility dedicated to bringing people and animals closer together,” says Deb Varner, director of education for the center. “View the outdoor animal displays, explore the discovery center, and enjoy a picnic at this serene park nestled under the oaks.” Free admission and parking are another bonus at the venue, which is part of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District.

1801 D Street
Hayward, CA

photo: CuriOdyssey

Peninsula

CuriOdyssey at Coyote Point
Formerly known as the Coyote Point Museum, this San Mateo center includes science exhibits and shelters more than 100 Bay Area critters of all kinds being rehabilitated from the wild. Kids will love seeing them firsthand in CuriOdyssey’s authentically replicated wildlife habitats, and a real strength of the venue is the variety of animal residents–including all kinds of reptiles, birds, mammals, amphibians and even invertebrates.

1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA

Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center
After wandering the wildlife observation platforms for some unbeatable birdwatching, visitors can step into the center to discover fascinating facts about the animals living in the nearby tidal and freshwater habitats. at close to 2,000 acres this is the largest tract of remaining undisturbed marshland in the entire Bay Area.

2775 Embarcadero Road
Palo Alto, CA

EcoCenter
Located in a completely “green” structure in the Baylands Nature Preserve, the EcoCenter is a public nature center and headquarters for the group Environmental Volunteers. The venue is located across from the Duck Pond in the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve and offers hands-on activities, touchscreen exhibits, a green building tour, an art gallery and guided nature hikes.

2560 Embarcadero Road
Palo Alto, CA

photo:  Mike via Flickr

South Bay

Don Edwards Environmental Education Center
This 30,000-acre oasis for migratory birds and endangered species is the nation’s first urban national wildlife refuge. The Education Center offers family bird walks, hands-on animal exploration programs for kids and tons of other educational opportunities – all for free.

1751 Grand Boulevard
Alviso, CA

Martial Cottle Park Visitors’ Center
While agricultural offerings make up the bulk of the fun here, other offerings for kids include big lawns for running around and flying kites, three miles of smooth trails appropriate for bikes, scooters or skates, a visitor center with kid-friendly exhibits and activities, and picnic areas ideal for birthday parties and family gatherings.

5283 Snell Avenue
San Jose, CA

Hidden Villa
This organic farm and education center tucked away in the Santa Cruz Mountains lures visitors with its free admission, organic garden and animal pens bustling with chickens, pigs, goats and sheep. Kids will enjoy splashing in the creek or strolling the countless trails that branch out from the farm.

Los Altos Hills, CA

Seymour Marine Discovery Center
“The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is the place to awaken your inner marine biologist!,” says Operations Manager Teri Sigler. “Come touch a friendly shark, see how marine scientists work, and take a deeper dive into ocean adventure. Learn about giant whales, tiny lumpsuckers–cutest fish EVER–and more in this intimate setting.”

An awesome aquarium and touch pools will amaze kids with the wonders of marine life, while also illuminating them on ocean conservation.

100 Shaffer Road
Santa Cruz, CA
831-459-3800

McClellan Ranch Environmental Education Center
Children can see, touch and learn about animals at this welcoming ranch that runs year-round. Its Environmental Education Center offers nature-themed classes for kids, and another lure is the Nature Museum that is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and offers up-close encounters with turtles, snakes and other wildlife. Families dropping by McClellan Ranch on the second Saturday of the month (March-November) can head over to the 4-H farm for a tour of the animals given by 4-H members from 10 a.m. to noon.

22221 McClellan Road
Cupertino, CA

Youth Science Institute
A trio of science and nature centers comprise the Youth Science Institute, all of them committed to enriching children and families with useful information on the natural sciences. A highlight of their offerings are YSI’s weekend nature programs showcasing artifacts and animals from their facilities as well as indigenous animals residing in the neighboring parks. The Alum Rock location even hosts a free Wildlife Celebration every October.

Alum Rock Park
16260 Penitencia Creek Road
San Jose, CA

Vasona Lake County Park
333 Blossom Hill Road
Los Gatos, CA

Sandborn County Park
16055 Sanborn Road
Saratoga, CA

photo: Marine Mammal Center

Marin

Marine Mammal Center
Perched upon a hillside in the Marin Headlands, The Marine Mammal Center is a private, non-profit hospital that rescues and rehabilitates harbor seals, elephant seals, California sea lions and other marine mammals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. With a classroom, educational programs and space for over 200 animals (not to mention a spectacular view of Rodeo Beach), it makes for a fun and educational marine excursion. Admission is free.

Fort Cronkhite
2000 Bunker Rd
Sausalito, CA

WildCare
Home to a Wildlife Hospital and nature education programs, San Rafael’s WildCare treats about 4,000 sick and injured critters of all kinds every year. Families visiting WildCare can enjoy camps and classes, stop by the rehabilitation facility and even meet with wildlife ambassadors for their unique perspectives.

76 Albert Park Lane
San Rafael, CA

Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary
While this 900-acre, open-water sanctuary is closed from October 1st to March 31st each year, while accessible it’s a refreshing respite for human visitors and a welcoming hub for waterbirds and Pacific herring. The 10-acre site adjacent to the bay is also home to summer camps, youth conservation leadership programs and plenty of volunteer ops.

376 Greenwood Beach Road
Tiburon, CA

Petaluma Wildlife and Natural Science Museum
Being operated by area high school students give the tours at this venue an added family-friendly touch. Nature lovers of all ages can learn via hands-on experiences that range from petting a critter from the live animal collection to touring animal exhibits showcasing creatures from around the globe. The museum is open to the public on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

201 Fair Street
Petaluma, CA

—Zach Chouteau, Kate Loweth, Renee M. Rutledge and Erin Feher

If your kiddo needs entertainment beyond the living room this Spring Break, a fun camp may be in your future. Most camps offer the option of attending either the full week or just a few days. Whether you’re a working parent and need childcare coverage during the week, or you’re looking for some fun activities when school’s not in session the kids when school’s not in session, check out one of San Diego’s Spring Break camps.

Photo credit: Kid Ventures

For the Imagination Kiddo: Kid Ventures
Whether you’re working the week of Spring Break or you just want to have some free-time, your kiddo will have a blast at Kid Ventures camp. Their creative camps engage all the senses with opportunities to develop gross motor skills, improve social interaction, and explore creative play. The kids love the activities, including adventure play, spring art projects, grass hair planters, KV car wash, scavenger hunts, and much more. Their small group sizes make this a great experience for first-time campers too!

When: Mar. 23 – Apr. 3 (Eastlake) and Apr. 6-10 (4S Ranch)
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $65/day (members); $75/day (non-members) (Lunch is extra for $5/kiddo)
Ages: 3 – 8

4S Ranch Location
10760 Thornmint Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92127

Eastlake Location
851 Showroom Pl.
Chula Vista, Ca 91914

Online: indoorplaysandiego.com

Photo credit: Pachis Art Studio

For the Artist: Pachis Art Studio for Kids
If your kiddo loves to get creative and messy, art camp is the perfect way to occupy the time. Kids will explore art through paint, mixed media, and lean different ways to make and create. Beginners and seasoned artists are invited to participate. And don’t worry: Kids won’t be kept inside all day working. Outdoor time is included for kids to enjoy the park and the beautiful surroundings of Liberty Station, Point Loma.

When: Mar. 30 – Apr. 3 and Apr. 6 – 10, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $355-$395/week; $81-$90/day
Ages: 5 – 12

2820 Roosevelt Rd., Suite 102
Building 201
San Diego, Ca 92106
619-320-8057
Online: mypachis.com

Photo credit: AK Martial Arts Facebook page

For the Laser Tag Player: AK Martial Arts Camp
Active kiddos can spend their Spring Break playing laser tag every day. Each day includes prizes, laser tag and other fun activities. There’s also a daily Hunt prizes for all who attend. The camp includes a pizza party lunch on Fridays.

When: Mar. 23 – 27; Mar. 31 – Apr. 3; Apr. 6 – 10; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $179/week
Ages: 5 – 14

6120 Innovation Way
Bressi Ranch, Carlsbad
760-828-7165
Online: akkarate.com

Photo credit: San Diego Humane Society’s Facebook page

For the Animal Lover: Animal Adventure Camp
If your kiddo is an animal lover, then sign them up for camp at the San Diego Humane Society. Kids will spend all day with their furry, scaly, and feather friends while learning about animal interactions. Campers will also make animal-themed crafts and play games. Little animal friends learn to develop respect and a positive attitude toward all living things.

When: Mar. 30 – Apr.3; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $220/week
Ages: 5 – 13 years

5500 Gaines St.
San Diego Ca
619-299-7012
Online: sdhumane.org

Photo credit: Reuben H. Fleet Science Center Facebook page

For the Young Scientist: Reuben H. Fleet Science Center Camp
Young scientists will definitely want to check out the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center’s spring break camp. Kids will explore the mysteries of the ocean, what’s up in the air, the environment, the great outdoors, and extreme conditions. The Fleet camps are offered daily, or kids can learn something new each day by signing up for the entire week.

When: Mar. 01 – Apr. 3; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $50/day (members); $55/day (non-members)
Ages: 5 – 10 grade

1875 El Prado
Balboa Park, Ca
619-238-1233

Online: rhfleet.org

What are your plans for Spring Break? Are your kids attending camp?

— Leah R. Singer