Get all the fun of Great Wolf Lodge without the cost

Are your kids jonesing for a day at the waterpark? Did you know that you can visit one of the many Great Wolf Lodge locations across the US without staying the night? The Great Wolf Lodge day pass is a great way to get the fun of the water park, restaurants, activities, and more.

Purchase your day pass online before you head over. Kids 2 and under do not require a pass but all other guests entering the facility will need a pass (even those not planning on swimming). Pick up your passes at the front desk when you arrive.

family at Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge

Here are some other tips for your visit:

  • Guests are strongly encouraged to bring their own towels.
  • Coolers and outside food are not permitted in the water park.
  • Lockers are available at a nominal fee on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • You are welcome to bring your own life jacket. Great Wolf provides Coast Guard-approved life jackets on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Parking fees apply at our Southern California location.

Dry-land attractions and dining outlets are available at an additional cost. You are not able to add on a dining package to your day pass.

For those worried that day pass might cause crowds and wait times for the pools and slides, Great Wolf Lodge promises to maintain capacity restraints. “Families love knowing that when they come to the waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge, they won’t need to wait in long lines for their favorite slides, struggle to find a deck chair, or swim shoulder to shoulder in our pools,” Murray Hennessy, chief executive officer for Great Wolf Resorts said in a press release. “By managing capacity levels at our waterparks we will continue to offer a stress-free waterpark experience, just as we have from the onset of Great Wolf Lodge.”

WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo is always worth the trip. Make your plans to see this whimsical winter light display now

Winter nights are settling in and that can only mean one thing—light displays are popping up all over Seattle. We know families are excited that Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns will be returning for its 2022 season. We’re excited too. This year’s larger-than-life display will feature new lanterns, plus some that you’ll recognize from year’s past. But one thing is guaranteed—it will knock your kiddo’s socks off.

Get a sneak peek of Tinybeans’ writer, Kathryn Mueller’s experience at WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo. Then read on to find out more and make your family’s plans.

WildLanterns—What to Expect This Year

Everyone new favorite light experience—WildLanterns—is returning to Woodland Park Zoo for the 2022 season. If you made the trek last year or the year before (or both!) and loved it, put a return visit on your calendar because you'll see new lanterns alongside your favorite from past years when you visit. Families will be welcomed through four themed zones where they'll encounter lighted animals and plants lining the zoo’s walking paths, at kiddo eye height and towering overhead.

Along the way you'll encounter All About Bugs, where you'll feel smaller than ever among gorgeous and oversized dragonflies, bunnies, and plants before making your way through the glowing Garden Delights. Up next are the big animals. You'll find these fascinating creatures as you take a Walk Among African Animals or go on an Asian Safari. It's where you'll find wow-worthy animals like tigers and orangutans, plus coo-worthy red pandas (a favorite with kids these days). Make Oceania Animal Odyssey your final lantern destination. It's full of Southern Hemisphere faves like cuddly koalas, kangaroos, and colorful parrots.

We suggest families plan about 90 minutes to walk the whole loop with your little adventurers.

Related: Watts Up: Seattle's Best Holiday Light Displays

kids run toward a lighted tree at WildLanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

Sensory-friendly Experiences at WildLanterns

This year WildLanterns has added three sensory friendly evenings in an effort to make WildLanterns more accessible. Low-sensory experiences, activities, and other resources help to make everyone who heads to the display feel comfortable. On these nights, Zoomazium will transform into Zoomazium NightLights where families can find low lighting, soft nature sounds playing, and sensory toys, like a giant Light Bright, set out to use.

Plan to attend one of these special evenings on November 16, December 13, or January 12. 

Related: 12 Places Where Kids of All Abilities Can Play

Kathryn Mueller

Wild Programs & Experiences

During your visit, make sure to stop by the carousel for an always-fun spin. Riding the carousel at night is a whole new experience as far as your Littles are concerned. Plus, like past years, there will be interactive zones providing delight to lantern enthusiasts of all ages. Head to the middle of the zoo to find these features that are just as engaging as they mechanical lanterns that captivate everyone's attention as you make your way around the zoo.

kids pose in front of a giant insect at Wildanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

What to Bring

Plan your WildLanterns visit like you do other zoo trips and you’ll have everything you need to keep your wee ones happy. The zoo’s wide paths were made for strollers, so be sure to have yours on hand for just-walkers or sleepy toddlers who need a rest. Outside, rain or shine, is the name of this game, so dress for the weather, with plenty of layers (hats and gloves), rain gear and snuggly stroller blankets to keep kids warm and dry. Don’t forget to throw your trusty umbrella into the mix too. Snacks are allowed and face masks are a must. Last but not least, make sure you’ve got room on your phone for all the cute pics.

Kathryn Mueller

Where to eat

If all this lantern gazing has your crew’s tummies rumbling, families can find plenty of food options at the zoo. 1889 Pizza and the Wild Cup will be open and a couple of pop-up kiosks will have food items for sale too. Plus, like other zoo events, families are welcome to bring their own food and drink to enjoy on-site. 

Good to Know:
1. Timed tickets are required for the event, and they sell out fast, so grab yours while you still can!

2. If early works best for your kids, you’re in luck. Even if you get the earliest ticket time spot, it’s dark enough to enjoy this experience. Plus, by the time you head out, the lanterns will be at their magical best, and you’ll still have the kids home by bedtime. 

3. Families will be welcomed at the West Entrance only, where the experience begins.

Dates: Nov. 11, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023; closed Mondays (except for Dec.19 & 26) and Nov. 25, Dec. 24 & 25
Hours: 4-9 p.m. (last entry at 8:30 p.m.)

Woodland Park Zoo
5500 Phinney Ave. N.
Seattle
Event details

These Atlanta toy stores are the stuff of kid dreams. Stocked from floor to ceiling with the best gifts around, no matter what the occasion

Looking to get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping? Stop in to one of these local toy stores Atlanta kids and families can count on. Maybe it’s because they offer curated gifts with customer service that goes the extra mile. Or because no matter who you’re shopping for (or for what occasion) they’ve got STEM toys, puzzles, games, outdoor toys, and all the arts and crafts supplies you could dream of, plus a few more. The next time you need to find that just-right gift, these spots can take out the guess work.

Rhen's Nest Toy Shop

iStock

This small but mighty shop with a location in Ponce City Market is filled with engaging toys, books, puzzles, and more to provide unplugged play for all ages. We particularly love the books with book character dolls and stuffed animals—the perfect partnership. Parents will love the fact this cute store always stocks the hottest gifts—the ones your kids can't wait to unwrap, no matter what the occasion. No matter what you're looking for—from ride-ons to fidgets to puzzles—you can find it here. Don't forget to browse the novelties section filled with the oddest gifts in town.

Good to Know: Rhen's Nest offers free shipping on orders over $100.

Ponce City Market
675 Ponce De Leon Ave. N.E.
Atlanta 
Online: rhensnesttoyshop.com

Related: 12 Atlanta Black-Owned Businesses We Love

Seed Factory

This boutique Atlanta toy store opened in 2002 and has grown from "Sprout" to a complete Seed Factory over the years. It's your go-to spot for a curated selection of smart and sustainable children's gifts. In the toy area (they sell amazing kids' clothing too), shelves are lined with books, wooden toys, puzzles, and the softest stuffed animals around. Everything here has a vintage feel—no bells, whistles, or blinking lights in sight. What you will find are trusted brands like Begin Again, Elm + Otter, and Jellycat that engage kids' imaginations while they play.   

763 Trabert Ave. N.W., Suite D
Atlanta
Online: seedfactoryatlanta.com

Kazoo Toys

Kazoo Toys is a full-service toy store in Buckhead with a full selection of high-quality toys, games, puzzles, and creative playthings. Excellent, friendly customer service means that you will walk away with thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list, from the athletes to the scientists—and everyone in between.

3718 Roswell Rd.
Atlanta
Online: kazootoysatlanta.com

Related: Light Up the Holidays with Locally Made Gifts

Learning Express

Though there are multiple Learning Express stores, this locally owned operation has kept a focus on filling its shelves with well-thought-out toys, crafts, construction sets, and more. Organized by age and interest, shopping is a breeze—especially with informed associates and inventory that's been tried and approved before making its way to the shelves. 

Good to Know: Learning Express offers a gift registry, which takes the guesswork out of holiday shopping for grandparents and extended family.

4407 Roswell Rd. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: learningexpress.com/buckhead

Related: Asian American-Owned Businesses to Support in Atlanta

Treehouse Kid & Craft

At Treehouse Kid & Craft, you'll find shelves stuffed with unique, kindly-made products from all around the world that encourage critical thinking, problem solving, and imaginative play. Treehouse is fueled by a love of design and a focus on quality. It's our go-to spot to find art supplies and gift options with endless creativity. Splurge-worthy Art Pantry packs include everything kids need to set up an complete art station (from ages 1-12), and the Box of Happy makes a great small, custom gift for any kid on your list. 

533 W. Howard Ave., Suite A
Decatur, GA 
Online: treehousekidandcraft.com

Related: Atlanta Women-Owned Businesses You Should Know

Blabla Kids

Everyone's favorite cozy doll once had its own storefront in Atlanta, and it was filled with hand-knit dolls, decor, and baby clothes. These days, Atlanta families can find Blabla products at these local toy stores in Atlanta. Each is made with natural fibers, the softest cloth, and fair trade always. Blabla kids plants a tree for every doll sold.

Online: blablakids.com

Not all parks are created equal—these parks in San Diego are hiding some of the best kid-friendly activities and we’re spilling the beans

Playgrounds and parks can quickly run their course which is why we’re dishing about these 7 parks with hidden gems around San Diego where your kids can up the ante on playtime. From a musical garden with real xylophones to volcano hiking and nature scavenger hunts, here’s where you can discover new adventures for kids both big and small.

1. Musical Garden at Briercrest Park in La Mesa

Bring music to your ears during a visit to this sensory park at Briercrest Park. You’ll find four mallet percussion instruments that have the sound quality worthy of an orchestra. This park also has a cute mosaic butterfly labyrinth for kids to follow, an herb garden, frog and lizard sculptures to climb on, and our favorites: the bridges and gently rolling grassy hills to run on.

9001 Wakarusa St.
La Mesa
Online: cityoflamesa.com

2. Volcano Hiking at Lake Calavera in Carlsbad

If you’re looking for a little more adventure, take a hike on a volcano. Don’t worry though, it’s considered extinct as it last erupted over 20 million years ago. There are lots of easy and well-maintained trails crisscrossing all over this volcano. The loop trail up and around the lake and over the dam is almost 2 miles, but getting up to the top might be a bit too much for little legs to do on their own. Consider an out-and-back trip that starts on the easy flat foothills. The main entrance is on Tamarack where the bathrooms are and quick access to take the trail over the dam.

Secret Tip: If you get to the top, you’ll see a chain link fence, and just beyond that is a really cool rock labyrinth and other rock art that others have left behind.

Tamarack Ave. near Strata Dr.
Carlsbad
Online: carlsbadca.gov

3. Pump Track at Pacific Highlands in Carmel Valley

Pump it up at this rad pump track. It’s open to all wheels, so bring scooters, skateboards, and bikes to roll over these bumps. Don't forget the helmets and pads! There are two tracks, the one on the right is a bit easier for littles or beginners since the one on the left has slightly deeper dips to get up and over. Both tracks have a one-way route that is clearly marked so everyone rolls in the same direction. Bathrooms are about a 5-minute walk across the soccer fields, so plan ahead.

Good to know: It’s a little tricky to find once you’re at the rec center. Park in the smaller lot closer to the main street on Village Center Loop Road. Walk towards the left of the soccer fields where you’ll find the exercise stations, then walk all the way down towards the bike park.

5977 Village Loop Rd.
Carmel Valley
Online: sandiego.gov

4. Fishing at Santee Lakes

You don’t need a boat to take the kids fishing here. There are seven different lakes to choose from but most fish from the shoreline. You’ll need to buy a fishing permit from the Gatehouse as you enter or from outside park staff. No fishing permits are needed for children under 7, but they must be with an adult who has one. Check the website for details about other ages and permits, as well as fishing limits and catch & release rules.

9310 Fanita Pkwy.
Santee
Online: santeelakes.com

5. Skateboarding at Linda Vista Skate Park

Grab the boards and your little skaters and head to the skate park. There are so many skate parks in San Diego that I’m sure you’ll find one in your neighborhood. The Linda Vista Skate Park is the largest and one of the newest in San Diego. There are plenty of areas for all skill levels to practice tricks or just to learn how to ride.

Good To Know: Helmets and knee & elbow pads are required at all skate parks. Some have a nominal entry fee, while others are free.

7064 Levant St.
Linda Vista
Online: sandiego.gov

6. Splash at the Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego

Splish splash the day away at the always fun Waterfront Park downtown. Kids love to frolic through the fountains as they spray into the pool area. This is great for littles because it has a zero entry and the depth is just a couple of inches. There’s a playground just behind the splash area and a large grassy field for kids to run around. Sometimes the snack shop is open and there are bathrooms closer to the playground. There's no shade so bring your own tents or pop-ups as there’s plenty of grassy areas to set them up.

Insider’s Tip: There are actually two splash areas. The main one is in front of the playground on the South side of the County Administration Building, but if you walk North of the building you’ll find another large splash park that’s usually less crowded.

1600 Pacific Highway
Downtown
Online: sdparks.org

7. Nature Scavenger Hunts at San Dieguito County Park in Del Mar

Just one more reason to love San Dieguito County Park are all the interactive self-guided kids programs they have. Once you pass the entry ranger station, look just beyond the booth and you’ll find a little information stand. It’s filled with pamphlets to grab for Scavenger Hunts, Nature Hide & Seek and a Sensory Challenge. You’ll find this cute Butterfly Garden to the right of the entry ranger booth next to the bathrooms. When you’ve found everything on your scavenger hunt, head over to Activity Hill where you’ll find the most amazing swinging bridges, climbing walls and staircase lookouts.

1628 Lomas Santa Fe Dr.
Del Mar
Online: sdparks.org

Choo, Choo! Santa coming through! Christmas traditions are back on track this year and this is one of our favorites! After Ol’ St. Nick’s famous red sled, trains are Kris Kringle’s favorite way to travel. NOW is the time to book! These magical holiday rides sell out quickly, so make your reservations soon. Scroll down for the best places to catch the holiday spirit on the rails. All aboard!

Bring Your Holiday List

West Chester Railroad's Santa Express

Mike Arney via Unsplash

Spend 90 minutes with the Jolly Guy on this excursion that explores the Chester Creek Valley in PA. There are plenty of chances to fill your Instagram feed, from the historic station to candid meet-and-greet snaps on the rails. Be sure to bring your wish list to give Santa. West Chester Railroad also offers a Christmas Tree Train on Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, 12; hop aboard for a scenic trip to Wiggins Tree Farm for a unique pick-your-own tree experiences (trees are tagged and loaded on to the train's flat car).

Cost: $30/adult, $25/child ages 2-12, $10/infant, children under 9 months are free
When: Nov. 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 and Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and Dec.  4, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 5 pm.
Where: 230 E. Market St., West Chester, PA
Online: wcrailroad.com

 

Hop a Ride on a Historic Train

Strasburg Railroad's Santa Paradise Express

Strasburg Railroad

Share in this 60 year tradition on America's oldest operating railroad. Climb aboard a vintage rail car for a 45-minute journey with Santa himself on Santa's Paradise Express. You can even hop aboard on Christmas Eve! Before you depart, don't forget to visit Mrs. Clause at the North Pole Annex. Want get cozy on a train in your PJs? Come listen to The Night Before Christmas from story tellers dressed in old fashioned nightcaps and gowns. Santa makes a brief appearance on this train, as well. 

Editor's Note: To ensure everyone's safety, all Team Members will be wearing masks during you visit. The rail line asks that guests also wear a mask when not eating or drinking. 

Cost: $23/adult, $17/child ages 2-11, Free/infant ages 0-1
When: Nov. 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29 and Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 24; departure time varies by date
Where: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA
Online: strasburgrailroad.com

Sip Hot Chocolate with The Big Guy

Walkersville's Train Ride with Santa

Jill Wellington via Pexels

Get your camera ready for this Insta-worthy trip on the Walkersville Southern Railroad. Santa will make his way through rail cars, being sure to greet each passenger with his hearty signature welcome and a special small gift for all children. After the trip, be sure to grab your free hot chocolate and cookies in the museum. 

Cost: $18/adult, $17/child ages 2-12 and seniors, Free/2 & under 
When: Nov. 27 & 28 and Dec. 4, 5. 11. 12. 18, 19; departing at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 
Where: 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD
Online: wsrr.org

 

Head to the North Pole on the Polar Express

Polar Express Train Ride

B&O Railroad

All aboard at the B&O Railroad Museum’s roundhouse, which, we might mention, is chock full of trains. The museum is open daily, but you can take a special trip on the Polar Express on select dates in Nov. and Dec. Character actors bring this beloved book to life through songs and interactions. Get you golden ticket punched while Chefs dance to the hot chocolate song and guests receive a special gift: a silver bell. 

Cost: $47-67
When: Nov. 19-21, 26-28 & Dec. 2-5, 10-12 at 10 a.m. 
Where: 901 West Pratt St., Baltimore, MD
Online: borail.org/holiday

 

—Meghan Yudes Meyers

featured photo: Strasburg Railroad

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When I realized I was going to be a #boymom, I mentally prepared myself for a lot of things from being completely surrounded by testosterone to having to wipe the toilet down multiple times a day. What I wasn’t prepared for was the influx of outdated and insulting stereotypical phrases directed towards young boys.

From the moment onlookers experienced my five-year-old’s heartwarming hugs or my 2-year-old’s swoon-worthy dimples, I’d be bombarded with “compliments” ranging from “He’s gonna break some hearts” to “That’s an aspiring lady killer” and “He’ll definitely be a ladies man.” And then, we have “Boys don’t cry.” “Boys will be boys.” “Boys are much rougher than girls.” Every time those remarks hit my ear, I’d instantly cringe. I understood there was no malice behind these phrases. They were people making conversation, trying to connect. But what I heard were stereotypes being perpetuated onto my young sons. And these stereotypes had the capacity to do very real damage to their sense of self, their relationships, and even their safety. Let me explain.

I believe children hear and absorb more than we realize. But young children don’t necessarily have the capacity to decipher these supposed “well-meaning” phrases. If they hear them enough and start internalizing them, there’s a chance they become a reflection of those stereotypes. They become boys who grow up to lack respect for another person’s body and personal space, demean another’s display of emotions and not feel the need to be held responsible for it because “boys will be boys.” That is not what I want for my kids.

And it’s even more essential for me to shut down these stereotypes because I’m the mom to two Black boys. When I hear them, I feel like these phrases have the potential to erase the small dose of innocence little Black boys are allowed in a world destined to vilify them. Being wild and rough, or being a “heartbreaker” in relationships are generalizations society routinely associates with Black men. However, the difference is that when Black boys absorb those generalizations, there is little grace that may be extended to white children. According to a 2014 study conducted by the American Psychological Association, Black boys are viewed as older and less innocent in comparison to white boys from the age of 10—which leads to harsher disciplinary actions.

Words have power. I want my children to be well-adjusted, functioning members of society. That’s why I do everything in my power to not only shower them with positive affirmations, but I correct any adult who dares repeat those narrow minded ideologies about or around my children in the hopes they will one day learn the error in their words.

Until then, I’ll continue to do what I can to surround my boys with positive images of masculinity and defy gender stereotypes in the hopes that they will learn that  “boys will not be boys.” Instead, boys can aspire to be “good people.”

—Written by Terri Huggins Hart  
Terri Huggins Hart is a nationally-published journalist, freelance writer, and public speaker. Find her on Instagram @terrificwords.

This post originally appeared on StereoType.

Elizabeth Brunner is a San Francisco-based designer and the founder of StereoType, a gender-free, st‌yle-forward kids clothing brand that’s designed to celebrate individuality and freedom of self-expression by blending traditional ideas of boys’ and girls’ wear. StereoType combines st‌yle, design and comfort to inspire creativity, individuality and freedom of expression.

Halloween Time may have just kicked off at the Disneyland Resort, but that doesn’t mean the magic makers aren’t prepping for the holiday season, too. Not only can park goers expect plenty of festive food, music, entertainment and decor, but Disney is offering a brand new, limited-capacity event!

Disney Merriest Nites brings Mickey Mouse and his friends together for six themed parties all rolled into one throughout Disneyland on five select nights in November and December. Access to the nights requires a separate ticket, but will give you after-hours access to select attractions, entertainment and all with limited capacity.

As part of the festivities, Mickey Mouse kicks off the party on Main Street, U.S.A. with Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and friends. Head to New Orleans Square to see Princess Tiana’s bayou-inspired celebration, and you’ll find Miguel from Coco over in Frontierland.

The three remaining celebrations involve Lilo & Stitch in Adventureland, Elsa in Fantasyland with lots of winter vibes and Buzz Lightyear in Tomorrowland. Each party features themed photo backdrops, character sightings and festive food and drink.

Guests will be able to hop on attractions with far fewer crowds, especially taking advantage of the dressed up “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, in addition to a special viewing of “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade.

For the evening, park guests can also take advantage of unlimited Disney Photopass digital downloads!

Disney Merriest Nites will take place on Nov. 11, Nov. 16, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 9. You can purchase beginning Sept. 14, at approximately 9 a.m. on Disneyland.com and the Disneyland app.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Disneyland Resort

 

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Finally, we’ve got something to look forward to! Mark your calendars for June 14 as the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Bay Area is opening to the public. The ultimate indoor LEGO® playground for families will take up residence at the Great Mall in Milpitas and we’ve got the full scoop on what you can expect when you visit (including some awesome Bay Area-specific builds that you can check out!).

As the first of its kind in California, the long awaited LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area originally delayed its April 2020 opening due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following local and state capacity and safety regulations, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area will have enhanced cleaning measures implemented throughout the day to clean and sanitize the attraction, including high-frequency touchpoints, play areas, and LEGO® bricks.

California’s first LEGOLAND Discovery Center is comprised of more than 31,000-square-feet of interactive and educational attraction space geared towards children ages 3–10 and their families. Dubbed the ultimate indoor playground, its range of educational and interactive experiences includes themed build stations, master classes, an Imagination Express train ride, an earthquake table, a 4D cinema, special party rooms for birthdays and other celebrations, a café and a LEGO retail shop.

In MINILAND you can explore and interact in miniature LEGO replicas of the Bay Area’s most loved landmarks built from over 1.5 million LEGO bricks. Mischievous mini-figures can be found hiding throughout MINILAND, as guests spot the ghosts at the Winchester Mystery House, take in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, or score a touchdown at the local football stadium.

Get Your Tickets: Single-Day Admission Passes are available for purchase online starting at $23 per person. Annual Passes are also available for purchase through the LEGOLAND Discovery Center’s website. Annual Pass holders receive unlimited access to the attraction for 12 months and benefits including café, LEGO® Shop and birthday party discounts and invites to exclusive events. The Annual Passes pay for themselves in less than three visits.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Bay Area
870 Great Mall Drive
Milpitas, CA
Online: legolanddiscoverycenter.com/bayarea

—Kate Loweth

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It’s been one long year of sample-less trips to Costco but it’s all about to end. The warehouse has announced that both the food courts and samples are coming back to Costco!

Last year, Costco somewhat got our hopes up when it brought back pre-packaged samples during the summer. This time around, they’re back for real.

photo: iStock

Shoppers can get their hands on samples at about 170 Costco locations starting in June. By the end of the month, nearly all 550 warehouses will be back in full effect with samples galore.

In addition, you can also snag that churro and hot dog, and eat it, too, at the food court. Costco will be brining back seating at about 50% capacity with up to four people per table.

As if that wasn’t enough, the warehouse has also dropped its mask policy. Happy shopping!

––Karly Wood

 

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Great news Disney fans! Disneyland Resort has announced it will start welcoming out of state guests beginning Jun. 15.

The happy announcement comes after a year-long closure, followed by a quiet reopening that only allows for 25% capacity, and California-only residents. As a whole, the state of California will largely move to a full re-opening on Jun. 15, which makes way for the tourist economy to open fully for the summer season.

photo: Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort

Guests can already head to Disneyland.com to start making reservations for anytime after Jun. 15. Additionally, you will now see options to purchase tickets as far out as 120 days, as opposed to the previous 60 day time period.

There is still much to be learned in the coming days about whether or not the parks will open beyond the 25% capacity, but COVID protocols like mask wearing will likely remain in effect. One thing is certain: this is some magical news!

––Karly Wood

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