Southern Delaware is home to some of DC’s favorite beach destinations. With five family-friendly destinations to choose from, it can be hard to narrow the choices and pick which beach town is just right for your family. From kid-friendly eats to rainy day fun, we rounded up the best family activities in each destination to help you make the best choice. Once you settle on your home base, be sure to check out our guides to nearby Lewes, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island for more fun things to see and do in Southern Delaware. For more information on Rehoboth Beach, read on.
Just a quick 3-hour trip from Washington, Rehoboth Beach ranks as the #1 beach destination for DC residents. In fact, so many people make the drive from DC to Delaware that this small town is often referred to as the nation’s “Summer Capital.” From boardwalk staples like Funland amusement park and Zelky’s arcade to natural attractions like the free public beach and Gordon’s Pond State Park, it’s no wonder families flock to this beach destination. Scroll down to discover the best places to stay and what to do with kids when you’re in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
Gordon Pond State Park includes a recreational beach area and a bike path that winds its way around a marshy pond, through a coastal forest and over a bike-friendly boardwalk ($10 fee for out-of-state vehicles). To get there, you’ll drive through the tony oceanfront neighborhood of North Shores where President Biden has a home.
If you’re looking for a unique bike ride, head to the boardwalk downtown where you can rent a 2 or 4-seat surrey at Bob’s Bike Rental (just a few doors down from Avenue Inn). The boardwalk is also home to Funland, which has been serving up peace, love and (naturally) fun since 1962.. This year they are celebrating 60 years of classic rides, toddler favorites and teen thrills. From fire trucks and a kiddie wheel (a pint-sized Ferris wheel) to tea cups and bumper cars, you’re guaranteed to find fun at this adventure park.
Funland also works on a rainy day. Most of the rides are outside, but you will find a number of toddler-friendly attractions indoors, a carousel, the Haunted Mansion and carnival-type games. Just a few steps away is Zelky’s, a family-friendly arcade, and another must-stop on the boardwalk (rain or shine). Challenge the fam to a rousing game of skeeball or air hockey or try your luck at one of the many claw machines.
photo: Jean Balzan via Pexels
Where to Eat
Salt Air, self-described as “beach picnic” fare, is reminiscent of a beach picnic Gwyneth Paltrow might pull together. This upscale restaurant offers fresh, inventive dishes using local ingredients and sustainable fish. Despite catering to foodie adults, this restaurant has a children’s menu for kids with grown-up taste. Just a short walk away, DC restauranteur Chef Todd Gray owns Federal Fritter where you can carry out corn fritters as a beach-side snack (or eat them as you stroll the boardwalk). When a hot day has you yearning for a scoop (or two), be sure to head to The Ice Cream Store where you can sugar load with a flavor aptly named Crack.
Where to Stay
There are a couple of hotels that line Rehoboth Beach’s boardwalk, like the Atlantic Sands and the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, but one of the best-kept secrets is the family-friendly Avenue Inn & Spa, tucked along one of the side streets downtown just one block from the beach and boardwalk. This hotel helps you unwind after playing all day with a complimentary wine and cheese hour from 5-6 p.m. and fresh baked cookies every night at 8 p.m. Bonus: there is an indoor saltwater pool onsite. If you’re looking for a little more room than a hotel or inn offers, consider this modern, 3-bedroom Airbnb townhouse just a 5-minute drive to the beach and within walking distance of downtown Rehoboth
Portland is known for its bike friendliness and spring is the perfect time for young bikers to get their peddle on, even if it’s for the first time. Finding bike paths where kids of all ages and abilities can learn and practice their bike riding skills isn’t as hard as you might think. From tree-lined paths to state parks and waterfront trails, we’ve lined up our picks for the the best bike paths for beginners in and around Portland. So grab your helmet, it’s time to ride.
Winding through Greenway Park near Washington Square in Beaverton, Fanno Creek Trail is really great for anyone just starting out. It’s a short trail at 1.8 miles one way, making it perfect for a quick out and back ride. The paved path is flat and is mainly in parks and along the creek, with plenty of trees and occasional shade. The trail continues through several communities if you’re willing to connect the paths, but for a beginner jaunt, just stick with the park section.
1.8 miles one way Location: Scholls Ferry to Denny Rd, through Greenway Park, Beaverton Online: accesstrails.org
Banks-Vernonia Trail
This forested path west of Portland is Oregon’s first rails-to-trails, running from the towns of Banks to Vernonia. Once a set of train tracks to haul lumber, it’s now a beautiful flat path through bird songs and ferns, and over 13 trestle bridges. Six different trailheads allow access along the way, including LL Stub Stewart State Park. The small town of Vernonia prides itself on being bike-friendly. Pro Tip: Check the website in advance for any trail closures (due to logging) or other hazards. The advisories are always being updated.
Distance: 21 miles one way Location: West of Portland, Vernonia Online: oregonstateparks.org
Springwater Trail
Another one of Portland's iconic bike trails, this trail winds along Johnson Creek, jumping back and forth along at least 10 bridges on it’s way out to Gresham. You can start either downtown at the Willamette River, or jump on the trail from several parks and other access points like Beggars-Tick Wildlife Refuge, Leach Botanical Gardens, Powell Butte Park, and Gresham’s Main City Park. The wide paved path is easy to follow and nice and flat for all levels of riders. If your older kids are ready for a challenge, tell them you’re going to ride all the way to where the trail ends at Boring, Oregon, to see if it matches up with it’s name!
Distance: 21 miles one-way, though it’s easy to cut into shorter bits Location: Downtown Portland through Gresham to Boring Online: portlandoregon.gov
Tualatin River Greenway Trail
If you are looking for wide scenic bike paths, this local trail is worth checking out. Your family bike ride will follow a 12 foot wide multi use pedestrian and bike path that meanders through trees, along the Tualatin River, by creeks, and past wetlands. The biking option is 4.6 miles long and runs from Brown's Ferry Park to Tualatin Community Park into Durham Park and Cook Park in Tigard. There are plenty of places to stop, play and explore along the way.
Get ready for a gorgeous bike ride that takes you back in time. The 4 miles of paved path winds through Champoeg State Heritage Area, where early settlers to Oregon held their provisional government and young bikers can access the trails. You’ll ride through wildflower meadows, riverbanks, and forests on a path that never feels too busy. Off-path, you can dig into history at old farmsteads and interpretive centers.
Distance: up to 4 miles of trails Location: 5 miles south of Newberg, OR Cost: $5 vehicle pass required Online: oregonstateparks.org
Waterfront Park Loop/Eastbank Esplanade
This trail is one of Portland's iconic bike rides, looping around the Willamette with bridges, skyscrapers, fountains, and a floating bike path. When you’re ready to cross the water you can choose which bridge you want to use. Choose between the Steel Bridge, Hawthorne, or best of all—Tilikum Bridge, which doesn’t allow cars. There are lots of options for breaks, with two fountains on the downtown side, and on the other side you’ll find OMSI or the floating bike path—perfect for dipping hot feet into the river come summer!
Distance: approximately 6 miles looped, easy to cut into shorter parts Location: Downtown Portland Online:portlandoregon.gov
Marine Drive Trail
One of the best Portland bike trails, this is a flat, wide, straight trail great for beginners, running right alongside the Columbia River you can expect gorgeous views of the water, boats and the marina. This is part of Portland’s 40 Mile Loop, but it’s super easy to access anywhere for a quick ride. It’s a great place to practice bike skills. The western side starts at Kelley Point Park and goes through some industrial areas. Another good option is to start at Blue Lake Regional Park, where you can end your day with some splash pad fun when hot weather eventually hits!
Distance: 17 miles one-way Location: NE Portland Online: traillink.com
Trolley Trail
An urban interpretation of a rails to trails, this 6 mile path follows an old streetcar route from Milwaukie to Gladstone. The path has roots way back in 1893! Today it winds through neighborhoods and parks. Start at Riverfront Park in Milwaukie and follow the paved path as far you’d like. Several parks along the way make great stopping points, and the trail ends in Gladstone, or can be easily extended to Oregon City.
6 miles one-way Location: Milwaukie Riverfront Park to Gladstone Online: ncprd.com
Dreaming of a European adventure with the kids? There is no better place to start than Amsterdam. With its easy-to-manage size and bike-friendly streets, this international city is buzzing with unique kid-friendly activities everyone will love, all with a side of pancakes. Scroll below to see all of the must-do activities when you visit Amsterdam with the kids.
Understanding Amsterdam’s Layout
Amsterdam is laid out in a half circle—the Ij River (the Dutch word for water) is on one side, while 165 canals and 1281 bridges cut through the 13th-century city on the other.
Take the 15-20 minute train from Schiphol Airport bound for Amsterdam Centraal Station—the city’s train hub where you can find all the trams and the metro station that will take you all over the city. (That is if you aren’t on a bike, but more on that later.) Trains leave regularly through the hour (even more so on the weekends) from the airport, so if a train seems too crowded, just take the next one.
Good to Know: Train and tram tickets need to be scanned upon entering and leaving (otherwise, the next time you go to enter a train or tram, you may not be granted entry). If this happens, just find an attendant and ask for help—everyone is super friendly and most people speak English fluently.
I amsterdam City Card
If you haven’t already pre-ordered your I amsterdam card, before you leave Amsterdam Centraal Station, go to the I amsterdam store located in IJ-hal (on the north side of Centraal Station), or to the I amsterdam visitor center in Stationsplein (across from Amsterdam Centraal Station) and purchase an I amsterdam card.
Think of this as your passport to the city as this card grants you access to all public transportation, entrance to over 60 museums and attractions, a free canal cruise, plus discounts on bike rentals, some restaurants, and experiences not fully covered by the card. Purchase the card in increments of 24 hours, 48, 72 or 96 hours. Prices below will only be listed if they weren’t covered by the I amsterdam city card.
Good to Know: Additional public transportation tickets for the kids aren’t covered by the I amsterdam card but go to the ticket counter at the Tram Office outside Centraal Station and ask for an all-day ticket for kids (ages 4-11). The cost? 3.75 Euros. Otherwise, all day kid tickets, purchased on the tram, cost 7.50 Euros.
We’re not going to lie—Amsterdam is expensive when it comes to hotels and lodging. But when you’ve traveled this far with kids, don’t take a chance on the comforts of your hotel. Having a good home base is worth the money.
Pulitzer Amsterdam Peter Pulitzer, the grandson of Pulitzer Prize founder Joseph Pulitzer, founded this five-star hotel. It recently went through a massive renovation and oozes comfort, charm, and quintessential Dutch design. It’s made up of 25 interlinked Dutch canal homes that were built in the 17th and 18th century and every nook and cranny of this retreat has a delightful discovery. Keep an eye out for the bucket full of LEGO bricks (really!) or the set of hanging egg swings in the courtyard. Exploring this hotel is as much fun for the adults as it is for the kids.
Of course, it’s impossible to not fall in love with the jaw-dropping, one-of-a-kind suites decorated in themes like books, music or art that include private entrances and canal views. But what you’ll really love at this hotel? The family suites.
Perfectly appointed to accommodate a family of four, the kid’s rooms are upstairs so when it’s time for them to go to bed, you can continue to hang out in the living room and enjoy those canal views. There’s even a dining table so if you decide to eat in, you don’t have huddle around the coffee table or balance take-away plates on your lap. If you don’t score a family suite, the hotel also offers 30 room and suites with interconnecting doors.
Ready to chill and a cocktail to boot? Head to the games corner right outside the Pulitzer Bar (a decadently styled bar in dark wood and moody velvets) that has board games and that bucket of LEGO bricks we mentioned earlier.
Jansz: Located in the hotel, this old-world, charming restaurant offers a buffet bar (where everything is as good as it looks) or has menu options where you can get all the pancakes, waffles and omelets you desire. This is definitely the spot to fill up before exploring the city for the day.
Good to Know: On the last Sun. of the month from 4:30-6:30 p.m., they have “Family Sundays” where you and the family can grab an earlier dinner that caters to those little ones—picture an extensive children’s menu, fast service and supervised play for the kids when they get antsy so the parents can relax.
The Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station Located within walking distance of Centraal Station, this modern hotel overlooks the water. Ask for a higher-floored room so you can get a view of the city. But don’t worry if none are available, because this hotel has a rooftop deck and lounge that is totally worth a visit (whether you stay here or not).
Head’s up railway fans: One side of the SkyLounge overlooks the train station so if you have trainspotters, you can watch trains, trams and even boats and buses make their busy-way through this part of town.
Rates: Standard rooms start at $200 USD per night.
Nemo Science Museum: As impressive architecturally as the contents it holds, this is a mecca for science, technology, experiments, and interactive play. The Renzo Piano-designed building sits on the waterfront and as you approach, you may notice people walking on the sloping roof, also known as Amsterdam’s highest square.
This elevated square has an art installation called Energetica, as well as a cafe and a bar, available to museum patrons and the public alike. On a nice day, it’s a great spots for a bird’s eye view of the city.
Each level of the museum has a designated theme like Elements, Technology, the Human Body, etc. You’ll be amazed at how engaged your kids will be tinkering, engineering and playing. We couldn’t be more impressed by all the options that easily spanned various age groups. (Although we did spend the majority of our time engineering dams to prevent flooding.)
Insider Tip:If you decide to try out the manual elevator, opt to spin yourself down, rather than up, and prepare yourself for a workout.
Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; closed Mon. and Kingsday (usually a day in late Apr.)
Rijksmuseum: Originally established in 1800, this is Amsterdam’s most popular destination so be prepared for crowds and lines to see the more famous exhibits, i.e. “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt van Rijn, (commissioned and painted in 1642). This gorgeous building houses over one million pieces of art, including the breathtaking Rembrandt: this famous artist was a master at light and dark, subtext and storytelling but you’ll have a blast letting the kids tell you what they think is happening in this impressive painting. It is also home to some awesome giant “historical” Playmobil figures, which make the perfect vacation photo op.
Van Gogh Museum: This museum houses the world’s largest collection of paintings by the troubled artist, Vincent Van Gogh. It’s big, with three main floors plus an exhibition hall and is perpetually crowded. So much so, in addition to having the I amsterdam City Card, you’ll need to reserve a (free) time-slot for entry. Repeat: You cannot walk into the museum without a confirmed reservation. Understandably, the museum is taking great pains to make the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Insider Tip:You can reserve tickets up to four months in advance and plan to visit between 9 a.m.-11 a.m. or after 3 p.m. as these are the least busy times (note that the last admission is 30 minutes before closing).
Good to Know: The cafe has amazing views of Museumplein (the open green space that links this museum, MOCO Museum, Rijksmuseum and the contemporary art museum Stedelijk) and is a great spot for some hot chocolate and a croissant for the kids, a coffee and muffin for the adults.
Amsterdam Museum: Want to know how and why Amsterdam came to be? Head to the Amsterdam Museum where a guided audio tour will have everyone mesmerized by the development of a simple fishing village to Golden-Age powerhouse to the melting pot it is today.
The tour is fascinating, engaging and since it’s self-guided—you can go as fast or slow as you like. Do plan on spending a couple hours here, though. It’s that interesting for both kids and adults. It’s also a great spot when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise, included with your I amsterdam pass. Hop on and hop off at numerous stops around the city (click here for the map). Also worth a trip but best for kids 10 and up is the Anne Frank House. Keep in mind reservations need to be made online and well in advance of your arrival. You can’t go to a country that dominated maritime history and NOT visit the National Maritime Museum and tour a (replica) of an 18th-century ship. Swing by the oldest zoo in continental Europe and visit with 900 specials of animals at Artis Amsterdam Royal Zoo. Still have time? Next door is Micropia—the first museum dedicated to all thing microbes, both good and bad.
Ferry to the Noord: Get away from the tourists and see cutting-edge architecture and cultural hotspots in the Noord neighborhood (Northern in Dutch). Free ferry boats, will drop you off by the Eye, the A’dam Toren (the tallest tower in Amsterdam that also has a giant swing on the roof) and a bike path that will take you into the countryside along the Ijsselmeer coast. The NDSM ferry will take you over to another section across there river where you’ll find loads of restaurants like family-favorite vegetarian Pllek, art galleries and more.
Where to Play in Amsterdam
The area between the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh (Museumplein) is where you’ll find ice skating in the winter, appropriately called ICE. The playground off to the right is a fun place to let the kids burn off some energy (even in the freezing cold) if you don’t strap on some skates. But of course, you can’t miss Vondelpark. Designed and built in 1850, this is Amsterdam’s most famous public green space. Expect to see lots of bikers, walkers and dogs enjoying the park (and in the summer, lots of picnics and lounging in the much-appreciated sunlight). If hunger strikes, make your way over to Groot Melkhuis, a cafe with a terrace adjacent to a kid’s playground. On the weekends, it’s rumored to have a bounce house and cotton candy. If you’re up for an even more unique dining experience, walk a little further to just outside the park to Kinderkookkafé—a cafe where the kids do all the cooking, serving and cleaning. Seriously.
Where to Eat in Amsterdam
Pancake House: Do not leave Amsterdam without a stop at Pancake House. This warm and cozy restaurant has been serving the veritable staple for breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1973 and it will not disappoint. Whether sweet or savory, there are so many choices, you may even want to plan on going once when you get first here and then at least once again before you leave.
The kid’s menu is hilarious—they can choose between the fire department, princess, a surprise pancake, pirate and more and it is delivered with a prop to boot, like the police version above that includes a police helmet (not to keep), a side of chocolate to spread on the pancake along with some gummy candies and a lollipop. For adults, we highly recommend the Greek pancake, filled with gyro meat and feta and the Norwegian pancake, filled with salmon and cream cheese.
Off the beaten path, in the Oud-West neighborhood, is Foodhallen, a food hall located in a renovated tram depot, filled with vendors selling pizza to pita and everything in between. A great place to go when no one can decide what they want to eat for lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is buzzy, jovial and communal. You’ll feel like a local and get a great meal, all at the same time
With over 700 years of history, Amsterdam is full of fun facts, quirky finds and the unusual—most of which are fun to discover on your own but we think these are good to know before you go. Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes) is Amsterdam’s most popular area—full of boutique and designer shopping, restaurants and cafes, and fun finds like the Amsterdam Duck Store—a store dedicated to all things rubber ducky. This is the most touristy spot in Amsterdam and while it’s fun to walk around as an adult, not so much with kids in the cold. Our recommend? Wake up early, let your partner watch the kids so you can walk these streets at your own pace, during less crowded times.
If you love cats and houseboats, head to De Poezenboot, a houseboat that is also a cat sanctuary for felines looking for a permanent home. Started in 1968 by Henriette van Weelde, the boat is open to tourists and free to enter but donations are appreciated.
Getting around Amsterdam
If everyone in your group can ride a bike, and the weather is nice, then renting a bike is the best way to see this city. With ample bike paths that weft and weave their way through town, you’ll be able to explore, get lost, get found again all while feeling like a local. If you have little ones, you can rent bakfiats (basically a cargo bike) and plop the kids in front while you pedal away. And if no bikes are in the cards for your trip, navigating the tram system is easy. Most trams return to Centraal Station and stop close to, or in front of every popular destination.
Amsterdam has so much more to offer outside the city center and it’s really worth exploring if you are here for more than three days. Castle Muiderslot is a real-life castle filled with seven centuries of Dutch history. Expect treasure hunts, and meet and greets with a Falconer for starters. You can technically bike here too if you and the family’s legs are up for it! Keukenhof Gardens, one the world’s largest flower gardens, is open from Mar.-May and features over 7 million spring-flowering bulbs.
Photos by Andie Huber unless noted otherwise. Hotel accommodations, the I amsterdam City Card, and dinner at Pancake House were provided but all opinions and recommendations are my own.
Summer is right around the corner. Before you know it, the kids will be out of school and it will be time to hit the beach! While the water may beckon, those crowded shores leave something to be desired. That’s why we are over-the-moon about Virginia Beach’s newest hotel property, Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Bayfront Suites. Just a quick 3-hour drive from DC, Delta Hotels Virginia Beach is the only private beach hotel on the bay! We’re swooning over this property with water views and sweeping vistas of First Landing State Park. Read on for 7 reasons to book a stay with Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Bayfront Suites NOW!
1. Every Room is Family Friendly
This all-suite hotel offers spacious, family-friendly rooms designed for comfortable travel. Each room features a living area that doubles as extra sleeping space at night so even the smallest room on property can hold a max of 6 guests (starting at $179/night)! Need more space? There are 13 two-room suites available for those with larger families.
Our favorite is the west-facing double suites that feature not one, but two sets of bunk beds! These bunk rooms were designed for kids to lounge in, with a large screen TV and faux-leather poufs! Each standard suite has a small microwave so you can conveniently heat up your DoorDash or reheat your cup of Starbuck’s. If you need more than a microwave, this hotel also has a Kitchen Suite (maximum 6 guests).
2. You Can Gather As a Group
Meghan Yudes Meyers
Has it been a minute since you've seen loved ones? This hotel has amble space to gather... for free! The second floor features a space aptly named the Living Room where you and your fam can lounge, play or watch TV en masse. Want to grab a bite? You can reserve The Conservatory, a private party room at the hotel's signature restaurant, Tin Cup Kitchen + Oyster Bar, for no additional fee (seats 50), or host a smaller gathering on the Dune Deck.
First Landing State Park, VA's most visited state park, is just a foot path (or bike ride) away. First Landing boasts over 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of coastline. Visitors prefer this park for its kid-friendly hiking and calm waters. Hotel guests can gain access to Cape Henry Trail, a 7.5-mile path that winds through the wooded acres of First Landing, directly across the street from Delta Hotels. Cape Henry Trail is bike-friendly; bike rentals are available at the hotel's boutique, Seas the Day, for $12/hr (helmets are complimentary).
4. Calm Waters Welcome Little Swimmers
Meghan Yudes Meyers
Delta Hotels Virginia Beach is the ONLY hotel that sits on a private beach on this bay. While the ocean is just under 2 miles away (by shore), the bay offers mild waves and calm waters which makes for a safer beach experience for the littles. These waters are so tranquil you can launch a kayak or paddle board straight from the beach. Both are available to rent from Seas the Day for $35/hr. (or $50/2 hr.; life jackets are complimentary).
This hotel's on-site restaurant, Tin Cup Kitchen + Oyster Bar, showcases the best of Virginia's seafood scene, from Upper Bay to Seaside oysters to the Chesapeake Bay's sugar toads, crabs and more. If you've never tried puffer fish (considered both dangerous and a delicacy), you have to dive in to its regional equivalent, sugar toads, featured as an appetizer on the Tin Cup menu. Made famous by DC's own The Dabney, fans of The Dabney will appreciate this replicated version of sugar toads listed as Buffalo Sugar Toad on the menu—a lighter, crispier version of a buffalo wing.
You'll also find beachside staples like burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. The kids' menu includes chicken tenders, mac & cheese, grilled cheese and grilled chicken. Tin Cup has a laid-back atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor dining. Bonus: the entire restaurant boasts water views!
6. You Never Have to Leave Your Hotel
Meghan Yudes Meyers
Delta Hotels Virginia Beach overlooks the beautiful Chesapeake Bay for stunning views from sunrise to sunset (speaking of, the early morning and evening shows on this beach are worth the trip alone!). You can play on the sandy shores, lounge by the outdoor (heated!) pool, take a hike through First Landing State Park, bike near-by trails and paths, kayak (or paddle board) the calm bay waters and chow down on some of the best seafood in VA Beach... all while on (or near) the property!
7. It's Convenient to VA Beach Attractions
At Delta Hotels Virginia Beach, you can get away from it all (literally) with a location perched on the only private beach on the bay! Sheltered by First Landing State Park, this hotel feels worlds away from the VA Beach strip, but conveniently located for those looking to dive in to touristy fun. Our fav? The Virginia Aquarium & Science Center! Whether it is a rainy day or you're just looking to dive in with the fishes, this aquarium features an outdoor tank filled with seals (feedings occur throughout the day), an aquarium tunnel where you can walk beneath the sharks, turtles and sting rays, and an outdoor nature path where you can explore the local wildlife (and littles can run off some steam!).
Don’t let the stroller slow you down! Our friends at AllTrails sent us their 10 favorite hikes in Phoenix that are perfect for strollers and we know you are going to love them. Most of these hikes are paved so they double as bike-friendly trails for little ones just learning to ride a two-wheeler. Which one will be your new favorite?
1. Water Ranch Trail
Matthew Rinard/AllTrails
Water Ranch Trail is a heavily trafficked loop trail located near Higley, Arizona that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from September until May. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
The Riparian Preserve is an urban park with a series of loop trails surrounding seven ponds stocked with fish and birds. Several species of birds and waterfowl live in the preserve. The park has several amenities.
Distance: 1.9 miles Difficulty: Easy
2. Arizona Canal Trail
Dell Foster/AllTrails
Arizona Canal Trail is a heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Phoenix, Arizona that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
The Arizona Canal Trail is an easy, partially paved walk that starts at the historic Arizona Falls generating station and continues to the Scottsdale Waterfront, which is Scottsdale's version of the San Antonio Riverwalk, featuring public art, bridges, and shopping and dining. In between, the trail parallels Indian School Road.
Distance: 3.6 miles Difficulty: Easy
3. Papago Park to Papago Golf Course Loop
Jordan Herrick/AllTrails
Papago Park to Papago Golf Course Loop is a 2.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Tempe, Arizona that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, road biking, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. This is an easy paved path perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely bike ride.
Distance: 2.7 miles Difficulty: Easy
4. Tolleson Wetlands Loop
Darcy Darse/AllTrails
Tolleson Wetlands Loop is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Cashion, Arizona that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs and horses are also able to use this trail.
This family-friendly loop is a popular destination for bird watching and wildlife sightings. The trail is dirt but flat enough so it is accessible for bikes and those with strollers or mobility equipment.
Distance: 5.4 miles Difficulty: Easy
5. Tempe Town Lake Trail
Randy Jaeger/AllTrails
Tempe Town Lake Trail is a heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Tempe, Arizona that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, road biking, and canoeing and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Distance: 7.4 miles Difficulty: Easy
6. Desert Botanical Garden Loop
Vanessa Echols/AllTrails
Desert Botanical Garden Loop is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Tempe, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips.
As of October 2020, advance ticket reservations are required. There is an entrance fee for this park. Please visit this link for more information.
Distance: 2.1 miles Difficulty: Easy
7. Salt River Shore and Rio Salado Pathway
Matthew Clark/AllTrails
Salt River Shore and Rio Salado Pathway is a moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Phoenix, Arizona that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, bird watching, and road biking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This is a long pathway with numerous access points for visitors to walk, bike or run. There are some short dirt sections of the path.
Distance: 19 miles Difficulty: Easy
8. Kiwanis Park Lakefront Trail
Sandra Walters/AllTrails
Kiwanis Park Lakefront Trail is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Tempe, Arizona that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from September until May. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
A nice casual paved walk with a beautiful pond. As of October 2020, the boats are closed, but fishing is open. The big playground, community picnic area, and splash pad are also closed. Bathrooms and drinking fountains are open.
Distance: 0.8 miles Difficulty: Easy
9. Peoria New River Trail
Jeff Blackman/AllTrails
Peoria New River Trail is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Sun City, Arizona that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, bird watching, and road biking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
The trail is well maintained and offers a variety of routes on concrete and blacktop. Plenty of designated rest areas, but bring your own water. Easy to access and plenty of parking.
Distance: 16.8 miles Difficulty: Easy
10. Merkle Trail
Michelle Wright/AllTrails
Merkle Trail is a heavily trafficked loop trail located near Mesa, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from October until April. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
AllTrails helps connect us to the outdoors and makes getting outside easier and more accessible. Home to the largest collection of hand-curated trail guides, with AllTrails you can search for and navigate trails, parks, and green spaces, or use filters to find your next favorite trail.
With May being National Bike Month, it’s the perfect time to dust off your bikes, trailers and training wheels and hit the trails. To help you get off on the right foot er pedal, we’ve mapped out nine fantastic stops along the Burke Gilman Trail—from Ballard to Kenmore—to keep you and your little cyclists happy and fueled. Read on and get ready to plan a day on Seattle’s best urban bike trail.
It's the perfect place to begin your journey: the sandy beaches of Golden Gardens lie at one end of the trail. Forgot to pack a picnic? Miri's got you covered. The popular spot specializes in local, organic breakfast and lunch goodness, with an emphasis on poffertjes. Poff-what? As owner Miri Plowman says, "Tiny Dutch pancakes, the little ones love them." Open Thurs.-Sun. and Mon.-Sun. starting in mid-June.
8498 Seaview Pl. N.W. Seattle, WA 98117 360-317-8530 Online: mirisseattle.com
The Hiram Chittenden (aka Ballard) Locks provide endless fascination for kids of all ages watching the boats go through. The Lockspot guards the entrance, making sure no visitors will go hungry or thirsty. With a kids' menu and a large flowery patio, put this spot on your summer bike map. Is it too early for a fish sandwich? Never.
Hale's Ales and the Burke-Gilman go together like beer and bicycles, sharing the same corner of the path in Fremont since the 1980s. Order yummy Mexican food from on-site food truck fave El Camion. Hale's hosts a full roster of live events as well; don't miss The I Hate Children Children's Show, a very funny magic show starring...you guessed it, kids!
4301 Leary Way N.W. Seattle, WA 98107 206-782-0737 Online: halesbrewery.com
Ivar's Salmon House
Ivar's
A Seattle icon, Ivar's makes a perfect stop just off the trail for epic water views. Lock up your wheels and enjoy the back patio. Birds, boats and kayaks rush by to entertain while the Space Needle and skyline shine in the distance. Don't forget to show the kids the incredible First Nations art collection inside the restaurant. Another option is to grab some grub from the easy to-go window right in front. Baby prawns, fries, clam chowder and salmon Caesar salad make the perfect picnic to take to Gasworks Park.
Need a bike—or several—for the family? Recycled Cycles has bikes of all shapes and sizes for the little ones. The Trail-a-Bike allows kids to pedal along while still safely attached to your bike, while the Burley Bee is a tiny trailer for the smallest of cyclists. The friendly shop also has air, parts, new and used bikes...everything to make your day on the Burke-Gilman a huge success.
1007 N.E. Boat St Seattle, WA 98105 206-547-4491 Online: recycledcycles.com
Agua Verde Cafe & Paddle Club
Agua Verde
Looking to add some aquatic fun to your epic day on the Burke-Gilman? Agua Verde rents stand-up paddleboards and kayaks to landlocked cyclists of all ages. They also have a full Mexican restaurant with tacos, nachos, and—that's right—margaritas!
1307 NE Boat St Seattle, WA 98105 206-545-8570 (ext. 2) Online: aguaverde.com
Two great stops in one! After a long day pedaling in the sun, sometimes only a burger, fries and a Northwest IPA will do. Great State Burger has joined the Renee Erickson restaurant empire with a satisfying, inexpensive burger.
Burke Gilman Brewing Company opened last July, causing hundreds of cyclists to screech on the brakes to check it out. They specialize in the beers sweaty cyclists crave and hop-forward ales. Their mantra: "Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, also we are quite friendly."
Feeling fancy? Erickson's Bistro Shirlee just opened in the same bike-friendly complex.
Great State Burger 3600 N.E. 45th St. Seattle, WA 98105 206-775-8990 Online: greatstateburger.com
Burke Gilman Brewing Company 3626 N.E. 45th St. Seattle, WA 98105 206-268-0220 Online: burkegilmanbrewing.com
Magnuson Cafe & Brewery
Magnuson Cafe & Brewery
Take N.E. 65 Street—with a fully protected bike lane—off the trail down into Magnuson Park, then head north. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery is a peaceful oasis with gorgeous views overlooking Lake Washington. Featuring beers from the team behind Mollusk, it's the place to recharge before visiting the park. Make the pilgrimage to Cascade Bicycle Club, right next door, to find out about the latest group family rides. For extra credit, head out to A Sound Garden, part of the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration complex. The wind-activated sculpture art installation once upon a time inspired the name of—you guessed it—Soundgarden.
7801 62nd Ave. N.E. Seattle, WA 98115 206-525-0669 Online: magnusonbrewery.com
What started as a 192 square foot brewery has become a vast urban beer garden and event space right on Lake Washington in Kenmore. Kids and dogs are welcome, and there is a full menu for all ages, from pub grub to falafel. Psst...don't miss the Sunday afternoon Blues Jam, the perfect way to end the weekend before heading home on the bike path, under the roar of the seaplanes on one of those endlessly bright summer nights.
7324 N.E. 175th St. Kenmore, WA 98028 425-424-2337 Online: 192brewing.com
A carousel ride can be the best few minutes of your day. For us grownups, they evoke the fun of our youth, which we get to relive through our children as they gleefully dash to the horse, frog, turtle or even ostrich of their choosing. Usually associated with amusement parks and carnivals, the Washington area has many to choose from at its many county parks and National Mall. Here are 11 to suit any fancy and ability.
Chessie’s Carousel at Lee District Park Part of the Chessie’s Big Back Yard playground and Chessie’s Trail nature park, this carousel features animals of the Chesapeake Bay watershed such as a turtle and hummingbird. The carousel, which opened in 2017, is fully accessible to children with mobility challenges. There’s even a bench to which children in wheelchairs can transfer that moves vertically just like the animal seats.
Where: 6601 Telegraph Road, Franconia When:11 am-6pm weekends only March 31-May 25 and Sept. 4-Oct. 28, 11 am-7 pm daily June 15-Sept. 3 How much:$2-$3 Online:fairfaxcounty.gov
The National Carousel
A welcome splash of color on the iconic National Mall, this carousel was built in 1947 and is one-of-a-kind because the horses are four abreast. Originally built for the Gwynn Oak amusement park near Baltimore, the carousel and its jumping ponies, one sea dragon and several unmoving seats moved to the Mall in 1981. Stop in at one of the Smithsonian museums while you’re there and grab a snack from the many food trucks camped out in the area.
Where: National Mall, in front of the Smithsonian Castle When: Daily, 10 am-6 pm How much: $3.50 per ride Online:nationalcarousel.com
Dentzel Carousel at Glen Echo Park
This hand-carved carousel’s most notable feature is the 1926 Wurlitzer Band Organ that plays as the ride turns. Choose from animals such as horses, ostriches and lions. The carousel is a perfect way to punctuate a trip to this fun-filled park, which also has The Puppet Co. children’s theater, Adventure Theatre for children and an aquarium. Note: April 27, 2019, is Carousel Day, the first day it’s opened for what will be a shortened season because of scheduled repairs that will start in July.
Where: 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo When:See website for hours How much:$1.25 Online:glenechopark.org
Burke Lake Park Carousel
This carousel may be small, but kids’ love of it is mighty. Especially because it sits between a shaded playground and the embarkation point for the Miniature Central Pacific Huntington Steam Engine. Did we mention it’s also a stone’s throw from an ice cream parlor and mini golf course? Boat rentals are also available for those interested in going on the lake, but the 4.7-mile trail is flat and kid-, stroller- and bike-friendly. Note: The carousel will reopen on weekends April 2 and daily Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Where: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station When:See website How much:free/rider under 2, $2 on weekdays, $3 on weekends Online:fairfaxcounty.gov
The Carousel at National Harbor
As if the Peeps store, Capitol Wheel and beachfront weren’t enough to do at National Harbor, there’s also the 36-foot carousel. Part of a new playground area, the carousel sits at the harbor’s north end and overlooks the Potomac River. Bonus: Birthday party packages are available.
Where: 137 National Plaza, National Harbor When:noon-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday, closed Monday-Thursday How much:$7/child, adults ride free with paid child Online:nationalharbor.com
Clemyjontri Park Carousel
Situated in the middle of this 2-acre park that caters to children of all ages and abilities, the carousel is recessed to ground level to accommodate wheelchairs. Chariots, a spinning teacup and 14 prancing steeds give riders a few moments of respite after climbing, sliding and monkey-barring their way around the rest of the park.
Where: 6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean When:See website How much:$2 on weekdays, $3 on weekends Online:fairfaxcounty.gov
The Chesapeake Carousel at Watkins Regional Park
Dating to 1929, this carousel has had a home at Watkins Regional Park since 1977. It includes horses, bison, a rabbit and a hippo, but the power seat is “a rare articulated kangaroo,” according to the National Carousel Association, which has jointed legs that appear to hop as the carousel spins. While you’re there, hop aboard the park’s miniature train and play a round of mini golf.
Where: 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro When:See website for hours How much:$2/resident of Montgomery or Prince George’s counties, $2.50/nonresident Online:mncppc.org
The Carousel at RIO Washingtonian Center
Presented by the Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, this Americana-themed carousel has 30 dancing horses, whimsical characters and two chariots that can hold up to 38 adults and 30 children. It also has wheelchair access. Riders under 42 inched must be accompanied by an adult. Note that the carousel is conveniently situated next to an interactive playground and a lake with paddleboats, which are available during the summer for $15-$25.
Where: 209 Boardwalk Place, Gaithersburg When:Reopens March 16, 2019 How much:$6/day pass, $27/five-day pass ticket book Online:riowashingtonian.com
Lake Accotink Park Antique Carousel Finished in 1945, the Lake Accotink carousel features 26 hand-carved horses, each with a look all its own. Students in the Lake Accotink Park art classes hand-repainted all the horses in carnival-worthy colors. A spin on this ride is essential after a day spent pedal boating, biking, playing mini-golf, and picnicking at the lake.
Where: 7500 Accotink Park Rd. (Springfield, Va) When: (June – September) Weekends and holidays, 11 am–8 pm; Mon–Thurs, 12 pm–6 pm; Fri, 12 pm–8 pm How much: $3 per ride Online:fairfaxcounty.gov
Speedwell Foundation Conservation Carousel at the National Zoo
Take a spin on an endangered species on this solar-powered, 42-foot (in diameter) carousel, which opened in 2012, and do a good deed in the process. All proceeds go to the zoo’s conservation and animal care. Plop down on a giant panda, zebra or Asian elephant to take a break from walking the zoo’s 163 acres, which 2,700 animals call home. Riders shorter than 42 inches must be accompanied by an adult.
Where: 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW When: Daily, 10 am-6 pm from March 1-Sept. 30, 10 am-4pm from Oct. 1-Feb. 28 How much: $3.50 per ride Online:nationalzoo.si.edu
Ovid Hazen Wells Carousel at Wheaton Regional Park The Ovid Hazen Wells Carousel, built in 1915, is also housed in its own building and features 33 hand-carved jumping horses, three zebras, and two chariots. This carousel entertained children on the National Mall from the 1960s to 1981, when it was moved to Wheaton Regional Park. It now makes a fine accompaniment to Wheaton Regional’s miniature railroad.
In recent years, the city has become more and more bike-friendly. Re-establishment of bike lanes in NYC streets, convenient CitiBike stations slowly but surely expanding into the outer boroughs, and the occasional free helmet fitting and distribution events from the DOT have helped bikes regain their popularity as a way to get some exercise, move from one place to another, and just have fun! As you plan your summer trips and events, don’t forget to fit in some family bike-time at one of the many wonderful and kid-friendly biking spots in NYC. We’ve highlighted the best below!
Brush up on Your Skills with Bike New York and CitiBike
Before you take to the big-kid trails, you may want to refresh your memory — or learn to ride a bike in the first place. Luckily, a few of NYC's bike-loving groups have free classes and events for beginners to get the handle on biking, whether it's your kid who needs a lesson, or you. Learn to ride a bike from scratch with CitiBike's small group lessons, held every month in various locations. Click here for upcoming adult classes, and check out this list for kid classes. Or you can stop by any of Bike New York's bike Education Centers spread out around the boroughs for a free lesson. Click here to see a map with center locations.
Central Park is a fantastic place to start, since it's such a central location (pun intentional, sorrynotsorry). The park has paved bike trails that wind around the entire park, with entrances at different points for easy access. Bikers under age 14 are required to wear a helmet (although all riders are encouraged to wear one as well), and must obey the rules of the road since at various points bikes either share the path with pedestrians, or are intersected by pedestrian crossings. Since there are no cars, however, this is a perfect opportunity to learn the rules and practice your riding in a safe location.
Follow the trail map, which also highlights park bathrooms and key points of interest, to plan your path ahead of time (and maybe make some time to stop for a picnic). Don't have your own bike? No problem — bike rentals through BikeRent NYC are available at the SouthEast and SouthWest corners of the park.
Location: Manhattan. Bike rentals are located at East Dr. at 74th St., or Central Park West at 59th St. (Columbus Circle). If you BYOB, enter at any park entrance (refer to the bike map for entry and exit points).
For a much shorter, but just as refreshing ride, bring your bikes to Prospect Park's 3.35-mile cycling loop. Bikes are also allowed on the park's drives, Park Drive, Center Drive, and Wellhouse Drive, though families will want to stick to the quieter path around the lake. During the spring, you can rent bikes at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside.
Location: Brooklyn. Bike rentals are located at 171 East Dr. Enter at any of the park's entrances.
The Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway is a bike path that connects Brooklyn's waterfront with a 26-mile bike route. While every part of the route is accessible, some spots are more kid-friendly (and more scenic) than others. The most family-friendly location along the route is the biking trail through Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you can stop to enjoy some waterfront ice-cream or to ride Jane's Carousel. CitiBike rentals and bike racks are available at various points through the route, so you can enjoy the trip without having to lug your bikes around.
Location: Brooklyn. Various bike rental spots and entry locations are scattered around NYC's waterfront.
Need a respite from the city? Bring your bikes or rent some on location to enjoy the car-free bike paths on Governor's Island. In addition to a safe, completely traffic-free route, the path offers bikers stunning waterfront and city views. CitiBike has two stations located by the ferry landings on the island, or you can rent from Blazing Saddles near Liggett Terrace (which also allows visitors to borrow a free bike for an hour every Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.) With amazing photo-ops, thrillingly high slides, relaxing hammocks, delicious food trucks, fun children's climbing park, and so much more make sure you plan this one to be a full-day adventure. Governor's Island is open May through September yearly.
Location: Accessible via Ferry from Manhattan at 10 South St. (Battery Maritime Building) and from Brooklyn at Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 6.
Enjoy the beautiful waterfront route along this path dedicated to non-motorized vehicles. This is truly a bike-friendly spot — bike racks, rest stops, and mile markers are located along the length of the route. Along with the views, you can stop at various family-friendly spots along the path, like the Pier 51 Play Area.
Location: Manhattan.The path stretches along the Hudson River between Battery Place and W. 59th St.
Want to get away from paved city bike paths and get a feel for the real deal? Check out the 6.5-mile cycling track in Fresh Meadows. The path is split into thirds by difficulty, with space available for any biking level. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the beginner and intermediate dirt jump park (even if it's just to watch others attempt it!). Ensure you stay on the right path for you by following the difficulty markings on the trail map.
Ready to take on some more challenging trails? The bike trail at Wolf's Pond provides another opportunity for mountain biking with the older kids. Follow the natural trail down the unpaved path and try your hand at various obstacles intended for different skill levels. As you bike, enjoy the beauty of the park — and make sure to leave some time for relaxing on the quiet beach after all the excitement.
Location: Staten Island. Entrances at Holton Ave., Chisolm St., Luten Ave., Arbutus Ave., and Raritan Bay.
If you’re thinking about a last hurrah, a final summer getaway, keep Indianapolis “Indy” in mind. After a short three-hour drive, you’ll wind up in the capital city of Indiana, with loads of museums, parks and state history at your fingertips. Here is our list of the five best activities that are sure to keep the smiles plastered all weekend long.
photo: Indianapolis Children’s Museum
1. Stellar museums around every corner
Did you know that the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world’s largest with 1.3 million annual visitors? This massive kids paradise has 12 permanent galleries and nearly 1 million square feet—five floors—of interactive learning. Kids can explore the Dinosphere and visit with real paleontologists while learning about dinosaur fossils, ride on an antique carousel, revel in modern Chinese life in the Take Me There: China exhibit, see a 43-foot Chihuly-inspired glass sculpture that looks like fireworks and feel inspired by The Power of Children: Making a Difference exhibit. Don’t forget to visit one of their newer exhibits, Beyond Spaceship Earth, which takes an in-depth peek at a recreation of the International Space Station.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N. Meridian St.
317-334-4000
Online: childrensmuseum.org/
photo: Go Ape Tree Top Adventure
2. Opportunities to connect with nature
Do you have monkeys in your household that need to burn off energy? Take them to Eagle Creek Park’s Go Ape, an interactive outdoor nature adventure that features five zip lines and over 40 treetop obstacles! The entire family will work up a sweat on the skill course and enjoy time spent in the great outdoors.
Go Ape Tree Top Adventure
5855 Delong Rd.
800-971-8271
online: goape.com
3. Add a little music to your Summer
Indy has a huge music scene and there are multiple venues to see a show (indoors and outdoors). Klipsch Music Center has a fun concert lineup: Brad Paisley, Nickleback, Green Day, Hank Williams Jr., Kings of Leon, Zach Brown Band, John Mayer and more—it might be time to expose the kiddos to their first rock concert.
Klipsch Music Center
12880 E. 146th St.
317-776-8181
Online: livenation.com
photo: Indianapolis Motor Speedway
4. It’s a sports lovers paradise
Indy folks seriously love their sports: basketball, baseball, hockey, golf and football. It’s all there and it’s all near downtown. Families come out of the woodwork to attend sporting events all summer long. The internationally known Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an experience like no other — it’s home to the world’s largest single-day sporting event. The track has been hosting the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race for over 100 years. Families love to see The Brickyard 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race and the Red Bull Indianapolis GP MotoGP race. It’s fast, it’s fun and it’s family-friendly.
5. It’s chock-full of history
In the heart of Indianapolis sits The Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District, which is home to two museums, three parks, and 24 acres of monuments, sculptures and fountains (second only to Washington D.C. in size and scope). Families will love wandering around Monument Circle and the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a 284-foot neoclassical sculpture that is surrounded by a brick-paved street with loads of shops and restaurants in the center of town. Grab an ice cream and sit on the steps for great people watching and a view of the vibrant city life. You can rent a horse and carriage or a bicycle carrier here and take a ride around the city. This is also the location for several street fairs and family-friendly festivals (Brew Fest is Sept. 2, Monument Circle Oktoberfest is Sept. 15, Monument Circle Art Fair is Oct. 7and Taste of Indy Fall Festival is TBD). Check the calendar for more happenings.
The Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District
1 Monument Circle
317-232-7616
Online: downtownindy.org
photo: Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites
Location, location, location
You’ll want to pick a hotel within walking distance to downtown Indy. Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites and the Omni Severin Hotel are great options in terms of location, amenities, dining options and family-friendliness.
Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites
120 W. Market St.
317-972-0600
Online: hilton.com
Omni Severin Hotel
40 W. Jackson Pl.
317-634-6664
Online: omnihotels.com
Do you have any other ideas for fun kid-friendly places to explore in Indy? Share in the Comments below.
Our sprawling city is filled with some of the most beautiful and eclectic neighborhoods of any city in the country. But for families looking to move here, or wanting a larger home for a growing brood, it’s intimidating to know where to start. Hot neighborhoods means bidding wars and famously family friendly zips come with prohibitive price tags. For great schools, lots of amenities & eats for small fry and safe streets for walking or biking, these are some of our favorite zips for families in LA.
Montecito Heights (Near Downtown)
Known as the “Wilderness in the City,” the picturesque neighborhood of Montecito Heights is ripe for becoming the next big thing for families. Located in the hills of Northeast LA just 10 minutes from downtown, this small community is filled with rich history. With exquisite and affordable Victorian homes being restored at a lighting-quick pace, some of the best views in LA, and easy access to downtown spots like Olvera Street, MOCA, the Disney Concert Hall and Dodger Stadium, parents are discovering the beauty of a quick commute for family outings. But pint-sized nature lovers gain the real advantage here with all the incredible wildlife Montecito Heights has to offer. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park features hilltop lakes, hiking trails, grassy fields and beautiful picnic areas overlooking downtown and the San Gabriel Mountains. Not to mention the Audubon Society’s first urban nature reserve which offers a children’s area with play-house, water and sand features.
Cheviot Hills (Westside) Located near Century City and Beverlywood, the up and coming “it” neighborhood of Cheviot Hills is uber family-friendly, especially for broods with very young kiddos. With lovely houses, many of which look like they’ve been plucked straight off a movie studio lot, it’s fitting this neighborhood is just a hop, skip and a jump away from both the FOX and Sony Studios (read: speedy work commute for parents in the biz). Families also love having award-winning local public schools like Castle Heights Elementary and Overland Elementary within walking distance. What’s even better? Many homes in area are just steps away from what will be the future light rail system linking Santa Monica to downtown. And with Cheviot Hills Park, Rancho Park Golf Course and Hillcrest Country Club anchoring the area, active families never lack for things to do after school and on weekends.
photo credit: California Heights Neighborhood Association via Facebook
California Heights (Long Beach) California Heights is a cozy neighborhood in Long Beach’s largest historical district filled with adorable family homes, most of which are designed in the Spanish Colonial, Period Revival and and craftsman styles. Residents take great pride in their area’s small-town feel and enthusiastically participate in the famous Home & Garden Tour, frequent block parties and community gardens with neighbors. Since Long Beach is also striving to become the most bike-friendly city in the U.S., California Heights helps host fantastic programs like Beach Streets and Kidical Mass to educate families on bicycle safety and encourage the joy of riding together. And the biggest bonus of all? You don’t have to pillage your piggy bank to live here as most homes start at a much lower price than their LA brethren.
Brookside (Hancock Park Area)
Hancock Park is all movie stars, mansions and old money, right? Well, there’s certainly some of that, but there are some smaller HP adjacent neighborhoods that are booming, and actually great for young families. The quaint neighborhood of Brookside is named after the Arroyo de los Jardines, a beautiful brook filled with koi, crawfish and goldfish that flows from the Hollywood Hills through several backyards in the neighborhood all the way to Ballona Creek. The Brookside area is made up of only eight streets and offers the 1920’s charm of Hancock Park with more affordable price tag (key for those saving for college!). Brookside spans from Wilshire to Olympic and Highland to Muirfield. Residents love the community’s close-knit, small-town vibe as evidenced by Brookside’s annual block party—a local tradition for over 35 years. Every summer, neighbors gather for a fun-filled day of face painting, pony rides, bounce houses, dessert eating contests, petting zoos and music. The only issue with this lovely hood is inventory. Because of its precious size and fantastic appeal, homes here can be extremely hard to come by, so make friends with a local realtor if you’ve got your eyes on a home here.
photo credit: Carpenter Community Charter via Facebook
The Doñas (Studio City Area) Lately lots of Westsiders are moving to the Studio City area because of everything it offers families—more space, award-winning public and private schools, a plethora of creative classes for kiddos, the same dining and boutiques and farmers markets that they’re used to, and it’s still close to civilization for those shuddering at the thought of living over the hill. One specific hood that’s really thriving when it comes to an influx of families is The Doñas. Most homes in this community were built in the 1960’s and have retained their impressive Mid-Century architecture, as well offer sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley. The Doñas are nestled in the hills south of Ventura Boulevard and are located on either side of Laurel Canyon. This superb location is close to great hiking trails at Fryman Canyon, is only a 3-minute drive to the popular Carpenter Community Charter and is an easy peasy commute to WeHo and Mid-City.
What makes your family’s neighborhood special? We’d love to hear more about the best little communities in this big town and why you love them!
