We had a chat with the world’s most famous groundhog. Find out what he had to say
Each year on Feb. 2, the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania celebrates Groundhog Day and their resident legend, Punxsutawney Phil. Phil’s the guy whose shadow (or not) lets you know how many weeks of winter are to come. According to tradition if he pops out of his hole, sees his shadow, and heads back in, there will be six more weeks of winter. Otherwise, it’s an early spring. We caught up with lil’ Phil to find out more about the critter behind the legend: read on to hear Phil dish on the weather, love, and life underground.
TNY: Phil, thanks for taking the time to speak with us. We know you’re busy.
PP: No problem: Actually, the town is doing all the prep work. At this point in my career, I just snack and then put on a top hat when someone says “go-time!” I hibernate during the winter, so overall, it’s pretty chill.
TNY: Phil, you sound so relaxed. Truthtell: Have you always been able to take it easy, or was there a time when you really felt the pressure of your job?
PP: When I was a young kit, there were some nerve-wracking moments. I mean, it’s my call if you’re going to see spring flowers blooming soon or if you need to keep your snow boots near the door. Back then, it was before television or the internet, so people were really relying on me to predict the future. And if I was wrong, well, that’s how Mr. McGregor’s garden froze over.
TNY: Have you ever been wrong?
PP: No, although unforeseen weather patterns can change the outcome, especially in today’s climate. My job is to give my best guess. So in that way, I can’t really ever be wrong.
TNY: Is it really true that you’ve been predicting since 1886? Zoologists say that is impossible: that a groundhog’s maximum life span is just six years.
PP: No comment.
TNY: Has anyone ever tried to sway you toward winter or spring?
PP: Well, I’m not going to name any names but there was a rather well-to-do seed company that came poking around my den in late January. This was a few years back. They left a basket full of indoor-grown (hydroponic or some such nonsense) vegetables for me to eat. There was a little note that said, “Hope you enjoy the bounty of an early spring.” They never came out and said, “Pick spring!” but I got the message. Early spring is good for crops.
TNY: What did you do? PP: I did what any self-respecting groundhog would do. I ate all the vegetables and then predicted exactly what I saw. Punxsutawney Phil don’t do bribery.
TNY: What’s with the top hats?
PP: It’s the way you know whose part of my Inner Circle: their signature top hats and tuxes. The Inner Circle is like the President’s advisors. Everyone needs their peeps, and mine help convey my prediction with dignity.
TNY: So the tradition is that two scrolls are placed near your stump, one for winter and one for spring, which you direct the Vice President of the Inner Circle to choose from. Do they actually have the words “winter” and “spring” written on them?
PP: Yes, but it’s in Groundhog-ese. Only Inner Circle members (and other groundhogs) know this complex language.
TNY: Are you married?
PP: My current partner and I have been together for 25 years this April. We have 30 kits, most of them now full-grown with families and burrows of their own.
TNY: Have you had any career highs and lows?
PP: Like any job, there are definite ups and downs. Going on the Oprah Winfrey Show back in 1995 was pretty thrilling. Last year I was almost arrested for my prediction. The charges have been dropped, so I can talk about it now. It was pretty scary. But as I said, this isn’t an exact science. And if you can’t arrest the weatherman for being off, you can’t arrest me.
TNY: Any spoilers on winter vs. spring? PP: Haha. I can’t say at this time but if you come to Punxsutawney you’ll be the first to know.
TNY: Thanks for your time, Punxsutawney Phil. Any parting words?
PP: Yes. A lot of farmers and home gardeners campaign against groundhogs because they say we eat their food crops. I want to go on record saying that not all groundhogs are thieves: in fact, most of us are hardworking with dozens of mouths to feed. I hope people have more compassion for the noble groundhog.
Gabby’s Cat Friend Ship is a hot gift for three-year-olds this holiday season
The holidays for three-year-olds are pure magic. For parents, the festive season can also be a whirlwind of commitments and to-dos. So, if you’re looking for help to narrow down your gift list or need some inspiration for presents that encourage the little ones in your life to explore, stretch their imagination, and discover their own way to have fun, keep reading. From indoor forts to Paw Patrol playsets, these gifts for three-year-olds will keep things merry and bright. Wondering what to get the other kiddos in your life? Check out our guides for two-year-olds, preschoolers, and grade school kids!
Barbie Dreamhouse Playset
There's no Mojo Dojo Casa here! The 2023 version of the iconic dollhouse is the perfect mix of iconic and modern.
Kids can watch classic Little Golden Books like The Pokey Little Puppy on this nostalgic projector that’s easy to use, plays music, and can also be used as a night light and white noise machine.
Future veterinarians can put their animal care-taking skills to the test with this barnyard play set from schleich®. Loaded with realistic farm accessories and animal figurines (like a cow, calf, piglet, cat, and dove), toddlers will love feeding the flock and fetching hay with a working winch.
Little ones can chop, dice, and saute with this pretend Dutch oven that makes real cooking noises, and with the help of a little water, steams up their “dinner.”
Speed-loving tots will get thrills behind the wheel of this interactive dashboard that lets them make phone calls, drive around different tracks, listen to traffic reports, and even head to the gas station to count how many gallons are needed to fill up.
Introducing young kids to the world of LEGO is always a good idea, and this new set is filled with pets, kids, grandparents, and lots of accessories for pretend play.
Make screen time smarter with a kid-safe, ad-free app for ages 2-7. The Noggin Learning app is so easy, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. Build math, reading, wellness, social & emotional skills with 1000+ educational games, videos, and books starring your little one's favorite characters.
The newest addition to the Gabby's Dollhouse world is this cute cruise ship that will attach to the original dollhouse. It comes with furniture and two friends!
With 30 mini snacks and activity cards, kids can learn about counting, matching, and other skills with this adorable set that also encourages creative play.
They’re at the age where setting up high tea for their beloved stuffies is always fun. This adorable set has a cake too, and comes daintly arranged on a cheerful tray.
Rubble & Crew Backyard Construction Bark Yard Play Set
Kids will build to their heart’s content with their own version of Rubble’s construction crane tower. It also includes a bulldozer and molding sand to make bricks.
Not only is this game a work of art, but it’s a fun game for young kids. Match up the different trucks including an ice cream truck, a robot supplies truck, and even a school bus.
Portable and lightweight, this doodling board comes with its own stylus, kids can create and erase with the push of a button, and it comes in a wide variety of colors.
If you can’t find one, make one of your own, right in your kitchen, porch, or stoop
No rainbow in the sky today? No problem. Just pick one (or all) of these easy kid-friendly science experiments with your rainbow-making know-how. From reflection (mirror) to refraction (water glass) to learning about density, we’ve found six science experiments to make or learn from the rainbow. If you want more ideas, check out our sidewalk science ideas or dry ice science experiments.
Lesson: Demonstrate the principles of reflection and refraction with this easy experiment. Light bending, aka refraction, takes place as light waves pass through the water. When you shine your flashlight (or position your glass so the sun comes in) you are bending the light waves, each one of the waves at slightly different angles resulting in the different colors of the rainbow. This is the same basic principle that occurs when water and sunlight create a rainbow in the sky. Reflection is the light bouncing off of the mirrored surface.
Lesson: Refraction, as above. This time, instead of using a mirror to reflect the light, you are going to basically mimic the natural formation of a rainbow by causing the water to hit the light in a fine mist.
You will need:
A spray bottle or a hose
Sunlight
1. Put the hose on mist or grab your mister and spray it into an area of your yard/house/garden that has natural sunlight hitting it.
2. Let the kids ooh and ahh over your rainbow-making skills, then let each of them take a turn.
Lesson: By adding more or less sugar to each water solution you are creating different density levels. When you add coloring to the glasses you will be able to see which solution is the heaviest. Add the colors in rainbow order to impress the kids. Visit Little Bins for Little Hands for the experiment that shows you how to make a rainbow.
1. Put the glass of water on a table or windowsill where there is sunlight.
2. Put the piece of paper on the floor where the sunlight hits, in the line of the glass.
3. Spray the window with warm water where the sun is coming through, and so it lines up with the paper.
4. Move the glass and paper around until you see a neat little rainbow on the paper.
6. The Bubble Method
photography (c) by Carl Tremblay, used with permission from Storey Publishing.
It doesn't get any easier than making a rainbow by blowing bubbles. You can use regular dish soap and a bit of water and shake ingredients inside a bottle, or just blow bubbles and observe. Want to up the fun factor? Make your own bubble mixture out of ordinary kitchen ingredients.
We promise that these pirate jokes won’t make you want to walk the plank
Talk Like a Pirate Day is September 19 and we’ve got all the best pirate jokes for kids to get your day off to a hilarious start. These kid-friendly jokes are full of puns and will have you laughing all day! Be sure to check out our collection of the best jokes for kids, summer jokes, corny jokes, and even knock-knock jokes.
1. How much does it cost a pirate to get his ears pierced? About a buck an ear.
2. Knock knock.
Who’s there?
Interrupting pirate.
Interrupting pir—yarrrrrr!
3. What’s a pirate’s favorite letter? Arrrrrrrrrr
No, it be the C! (Sea).
—A hilarious 6-year-old reader.
4. What is a pirate’s favorite body part? The booty!
—C.J., age 9
5. How do you save a dying pirate?
CPArrrrrrrrr
6. What’s a pirate’s favorite fish?
The Swordfish.
7. What’s a pirate’s worst enemy?
Termites.
8. What do you call a pirate who likes to skip school?
Captain Hooky.
9. Why does it take so long for pirates to learn the alphabet?
Because they spend years at C.
10. Where do pirates buy their hooks?
The second hand store.
11. What did the pirate say when he left his wooden leg in the freezer?
Shiver me timbers!
12. What do you call a pirate with two legs and two eyes?
A newbie.
From splashers to sprinklers, these inflatable water slides & toys are summer must-haves
Ah, summer. The season of sunshine, pool parties, and delicious BBQs. But seriously, what’s a summer party without some epic water toys? And what’s the ultimate water toy? An inflatable water slide, of course. Not just any inflatable water slide, though. We’re talking about the kind that makes your backyard the envy of the neighborhood. The kind that has kids screaming with excitement and adults secretly wishing they could join in on the fun. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best inflatable water slides and toys that you need for your summer shenanigans.
Whether your yard is big or small or somewhere in-between, we’ve got something for every home’s splash-a-thons. Maybe you’re planning a birthday party, a family reunion, or just looking for a fun way to spend a lazy afternoon, and these water slides are a guaranteed hit. Not only do they provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike, but they also add a splash of excitement to any backyard. Get ready to make some serious waves with these bad boys.
Go back to the good ole days where you could pop the top off a hydrant and play in the street all day. This giant inflatable fire hydrant sprinkler is 76 inches tall and just needs a garden hose to work.
This fun play center is Amazon awesomeness! It includes a water sprayer that can be operated with a standard garden hose, soft water slide and inflatable toys.
Perfect for littles and small backyards, this Jump 'n Slide Bouncer is the ideal home bounce house. Coming with a blower, stakes and even pockets to hold shoes, this is pure family fun.
Bullseye! This nearly six-foot-tall dartboard is perfect for adult or kid entertainment. Throw the oversized foam and suction cut darts from a spot on the grass or even poolside!
No need to head to a massive water park when you can enjoy a backyard inflatable water slide like this one. This version also comes with a sprayer AND water cannon––perfect for dads.
If we seem a little into Nerf, that's because we are. Super Soakers are an iconic summer toy, and this inflatable water park is the epitome of summer memories.
This huge pool is the next best thing to an in-ground pool. 1000-gallon per hour filter pump with 1 cartridge, a pool ladder, ground cloth, and pool cover.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Celebrate the beauty of spring by making a magical fairy garden all your own
Your little one is no stranger to enchantments: from peering under rocks to fashioning wings and wands, the kingdom of the fairy is a magical place perfect for budding imaginations. What better way than to combine a love of the fae with a little small-scale gardening, of the little people, by the little people, and for the little people! We’ve got an easy tutorial on how to make a fairy garden for kids right here. For more seasonal fun, try a different gardening project for kids or giggle at a few spring jokes.
What You Need to Make a Fairy Garden for Kids
Sara Olsher
A garden pot. Preferably one that is wide and/or bowl-shaped, so you have more room for all the tiny things, but any will do. Don’t forget the potting soil!
Plants. You can use annuals like lobelia, violets, or marigolds, or use succulents/sedum or other dwarf ground covers. If you want to get elaborate, get some bonsai trees. If your garden is indoor-only, look for teeny-tiny house plants, which you can pick up at a garden center for only a few dollars. Be sure and water the plants when you bring them home and before planting.
Shortcut: no plants or place to really grow them? Try a little florist moss for a woodland effect without the woods!
Little Things.Here’s where you can get creative. Decorate your fairy garden with little items found or created. Pinecones trees, stick teepees, and stones for benches or garden paths all give the fairy garden an au naturel feeling. Many nurseries now carry miniature “fairy house” items, but you can scour your toy boxes for the just-right accessory: a petite teacup could become a fountain or reflection pool, little flags from hors d’oeuvres designate fairy territory, large marbles become garden globes. We love this popsicle stick house (and table and chair set). Also, try aquarium stores for tiny castles and similar structures. And don’t forget LEGO bricks!
Create Your Fairy Kingdom
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Fill your pot with soil. If you have any larger “structural” items, such as a tiny house, put that in place before you plant. Designate an area where you will put your garden path. Most of the smaller items can be added after, or in some cases, on top of the plants.
Make sure your plants have been watered but aren’t still soaking wet.
Tip: Layout your plants and larger garden decor in the pattern you’d like before you remove the plants from their pots. That way, you can rearrange them a bit before deciding exactly where they’ll go.
Plant your plants with enough space in between them for them to grow. As a rule of thumb, plant the largest plant you have first (i.e. the bonsai tree) and anything that might trail over or creep a bit closer to the edge of the pot. Before you accessorize, be sure you are happy with the placement of your plants. You can move them a bit after planting if necessary, but it’s best to avoid this too much as it will traumatize the plants and they may not thrive.
Tip: If you aren’t using live plants, you still need to create an elevated surface in your pot. If you prefer to skip the dirt, you could try using small pebbles to create a relatively flat surface on which to create your garden.
Now place in an area where fairies are sure to visit: garden, deck, porch, bedroom windowsill, or dresser near a window.
Egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny, craft stations, and even a few drag queens might make their appearance
It’s that time of year again to grab your baskets and crew and head on out for some fabulous family Easter fun. From Brunch cruises and parades, to egg hunts for days, you’ll find plenty to do in our roundup of family-friendly Easter activities all around the Bay Area. So grab your bunnies and hop on over to one of these jumping local events.
San Francisco Easter Events
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St. Mark's Lutheran Annual Easter Egg Hunt Bring a basket and have your little bunnies hop on over and join St. Mark's annual Easter Egg Hunt! Apr. 1 Event details
Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Meet the Easter bunny at Neiman Marcus and enjoy breakfast, photos, balloon art, and other surprises. Apr. 2 Event details
Castro Eggstravaganza Block Party The first annual Castro Easter Eggstravaganza Block Party will feature photos with the Easter bunny, a petting zoo, drag queen story time, music, and entertainment. Apr. 8 Event details
Hornblower Easter Champagne Brunch Cruise Hop on board a relaxing two-hour Easter brunch buffet. Enjoy entertainment, free-flowing champagne and mimosas, scenic SF Bay views, coloring sheets for the bunnies, a keepsake photo, and a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny! Apr. 9 Event details
East Bay Easter Events
Orange Empire Railway Museum
Spring-Styled Pontoon Boat Ride with Snacks - Castro Valley Lake Chabot is a lovely spot for family-friendly boat trips and your two-hour rental includes a kid's Easter basket and a snack basket to enjoy as your family floats idyllically on the lake. Apr.1 - Apr. 30 Event details
Piedmont Bunny Blast Egg Hunt Bounce into Spring with the Piedmont Rec. Department, as they host their annual egg hunt for children 2-7 years old. Hunt for treasures and enjoy a morning full of festivities in the park. Apr. 1 Event details
Ride the Easter Egg Express - Sacramento Celebrate Easter on an unforgettable train ride and visit the private river-side park and boarding station. Kids will decorate their own Easter Egg bag, play games, enjoy an Easter Egg hunt and other surprises! Relax with your family and friends at one of our picnic tables and enjoy the scenery. There's so much fun that your little bunny will be hopping with excitement. Sat. & Sun.startingApril 1 Event details
Easter Celebration at Jack London Square This family-friendly event invites families to enjoy storytime, kid's crafts and contests. Apr. 1 Event details
Easter Celebration at Alameda Landing Face painting, balloon art and photos with the Easter Bunny are all at the Landing for your family to take part in. Apr. 1 Event details
Family Day at the Park Newark Community Center Park invites your family to join in on the Easter festivities with an egg hunt, face painting, egg dyeing, arts and crafts, games and more. Apr. 1 Event details
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10th Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt Rudgear Park in Walnut Creek hosts an egg-citing egg hunt, face painting, and other arts and crafts. Apr. 8 Event details
Muffins with the Easter Bunny Muffins, snacks, games, crafts, and of course the Easter bunny will all be at the Robert Livermore Community Center. Pre-purchase tickets; no tickets will be sold at the door. Apr. 8 Event details
Bunny Weekend Bunny Weekend brings family-friendly games and activities, arts and crafts, ‘hopscotch’ activities, and live performances all to Fairyland. Apr. 8 & 9 Event details
Easter Sunday on the Farm Stop by Ardenwood Farm to delve into the magic of springtime! Pet the hens and bunnies, and look for the giant egg. Apr. 9 Event details
29th Annual Eggster Egghunt and Learning Festival Start off at the start booth and pick up your egg hunt tickets (two per child). Enjoy age-appropriate, designated hunt areas, family-friendly learning activities, music, live performances, raffles, and more. Apr. 15 Event details
Best Easter Events on the Peninsula
Kim Stoegbauer
Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Start the day with a continental breakfast and pictures with the Easter Bunny before playing your heart out at Dave & Buster's. Two packages are available and kids 2 and under are free. Apr. 1Event details
Gamble Garden's Easter Egg Hunt Join this festive tradition as Gamble Garden becomes a treasure of hidden Easter eggs. Children will enjoy a supervised petting zoo, arts and crafts, treats, light refreshments, Easter Bunny photos, and an Easter Egg Hunt in the garden. Three scheduled hunts start at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Apr. 2 Event details
Half Moon Bay Easter Egg Hunt Bring your bunnies out for a morning of treats, fun, and a visit with the Easter bunny at Lemos Farm. There will be four hunt sections, for ages 1-10. The fun kicks off at 10:45 a.m., bring your own basket. Saturday & Sunday,Apr. 8 & 9 Event details
Egg Hunt Adventure Hunt Bring a basket to Belmont and help the Easter bunny find all 13,000 eggs! Apr. 8 Event details
Easter Bunny by Helicopter Did you know that the Easter bunny can fly? At Hiller Aviation Museum, kids can see a flying bunny, run an obstacle course, and jump in a bouncy house. Apr. 8 Event details
Bunny Bound Spring Event Hop on over to our Bunny Stop at the Los Altos Community Center for carnival games, an egg hunt for kids ages 1-10, and a performance by the popular Andy Z. Apr. 8 Event details
45th Annual City of San Mateo Eggstravaganza Start your day with a pancake breakfast (9-11 a.m.), then get going on your egg hunt. Kids ages 1-3 can visit Peter Rabbit’s Playground, an area set up just for them while the 4- to 9-year-old group can go for the Big Egg Hunt. There are multiple hunts throughout the day, plus a parade at 10:30 a.m., photos with the Easter Bunny, and live entertainment including a magician. Apr. 8 Event details
Easter Events in the South Bay
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Easter at Venture Church Families are invited to join for inflatable fun, a petting zoo, food, a toddler zone, and an egg hunt for kids. Tickets are free, but reservations are required. Apr. 1 Event details
Big Bunny Scramble Milpitas Community Center hosts an egg hunt, crafts, coloring contest, egg decorating and more in their Spring celebration. Apr. 1 Event details
Easter On The Farm & Egg Hunt When Easter is celebrated on a farm, in addition to egg hunts, enjoy food trucks, arts and crafts, games, and more! Don't miss this Easter on the Farm in Watsonville event! Apr. 8 Event details
Helicopter Easter Egg Drop Just when you thought an Easter event couldn't possibly be more fun, VIVE Morgan Hill drops one (or many) on you. Have the kids bring a basket and enjoy the thrill of rushing for eggs falling from the sky! Apr. 8 Event details
Egg Hunt & Spring Flowers Let kids burn off some steam with an egg hunt (included in admission) and then check out the Fantastical Flowers Spring Celebration. Apr. 9 Event details
All Aboard the Easter Eggspress The Easter Bunny makes a stop at Roaring Camp. After riding either the Redwood Forest Steam Train or the Santa Cruz Beach Train, your kids will have a blast participating in Easter activities in Town. April 8 & 9 Event details
Easter Egg Hunt & Concert Enjoy a performance by the Silicon Valley Conservatory of Music followed by an Easter egg hunt with snacks, festivities, and more! Apr. 9 Event details
Best Easter Events in Marin & Beyond
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Annual Sausalito Easter Parade and Egg Hunt The parade is led by none other than the Easter Bunny, starting at Johnsons Street Fire Station, on the corner of Johnson and Caledonia. Hop on down to Dunphy Park for an Easter Egg Hunt, enjoy live music and the sights of many bright, crazy bonnets–or don your own and enter the Easter Bonnet Contest. Apr. 8 Event details
San Anselmo Spring Egg Hunt and Flashlight Hunt Come be a part of this annual tradition, where children 7 and younger can run loose at Memorial Park in search of treats, eggs, and the coveted golden eggs. The 8 and older bunch can test their night vision at the exciting flashlight hunt, the Friday before Easter. Wear good running shoes, and bring your own basket and flashlight. Apr. 8 Event details
Easter at the Mart Come for an egg hunt, decorate an Easter basket, take a picture with the Easter Bunny, and meet some real chicks and bunnies. Festivities start at 9 a.m. Apr 8 Event details
Egg Hunt at Marinwood The annual Las Gallinas Lions Club Egg Hunt will feature a free egg hunt for the kiddos and food for purchase. Apr. 8 Event details
Additional reporting by Christine Lai, Nella DuBon-Koch & Kate Loweth
Yes, it is possible to experience peace, tranquility, and calm on a family outing
Watch your entire family zen out before your eyes during a visit to the historic Portland Japanese Garden in Washington Park. A must-see for locals and tourists alike, the Japanese Garden is made up of eight unique, smaller gardens and is renowned for being one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan. Plus, it’s only a stone’s throw away from many of Portland’s other family-friendly spots like the Oregon Zoo, International Rose Test Garden, and the World Forestry Center. Make a day of it, pack a picnic, and get ready to learn, explore, and discover all sorts of new things right in your own backyard.
Tyler Quinn
Step Back in Time
Designed in 1963, the grounds now encompasses 12 acres with eight separate garden styles. Leisurely explore each one while taking in a spectacular view of Mt. Hood. From the lush, vivid greens of the Strolling Pond Garden to the stark, empty space (or ma) of the Sand and Stone Garden, each style highlights unique aspects of Japanese garden design. Be sure to check out the Kashintei Tea House in the Tea Garden, which is where you will often find tea demonstrations and gatherings.
Jonathan Ley
Garden Highlights
The Japanese Garden sprawls and sways into five verdant gardens: Flat Garden, Tea Garden, Strolling Pond, Sand & Stone Garden and Natural Garden. Spending time in each will give your crew a real sense of how mighty this place is. Everything has a reason and a there’s a reason for everything. Legions of volunteers work tirelessly to make this spot the pristine venue for all that it is; how incredible is their collective attention to detail.
Your kids will love trekking into the Japanese Garden. It’s an uphill trail of twists and turns, ready to set imaginations soaring. Once you arrive prepare to take in its splendor. Set the young amblers towards temples, a poetry stone, koi ponds, and gorgeous bridges. Keep those eyes peeled for whimsical statues, colorful flags, and symbolic artifacts at every turn.
Water is everywhere. You’ll see waterfalls, ponds, and water features throughout the grounds. Also abundant is stone. Stone pathways and steps, stone statues and monuments, and stone lion dogs are but some of the many interpretations. Nothing is without thought and purpose here.
James Florio
Festivals & Celebrations at the Portland Japanese Garden
Be sure to stop by the immersive Cultural Center where you can learn more about traditional Japanese arts, enjoy seasonal activities, and watch demonstrations and performances. Sit in on a flower arranging demonstration, try your hand at ink painting, or bang your hearts out at a Taiko workshop.
There are also a variety of Japanese celebrations observed at the Japanese Garden—from Hina Matsuri (Doll’s Day) in March to O-Tsukimi, the Moon Viewing Festival at the end of September. Be sure to check the website before booking a ticket to see what’s going on that day.
You can also check out the Zagunis Castle Wall—an authentic, Japanese medieval-style castle wall built using traditional hand tools. Pretty cool, right?
Know Before You Go:
1. It’s a circular journey around the garden, but it is not always stroller friendly. If you’re bringing babies or just-walkers, try a carrier. New walkers may struggle with the stone paths, boardwalks without railings, and uneven steps.
2. There are also plenty of off-limit spots to visitors, and the garden is a tranquil environment, so go when your kiddos are fresh and mellow.
3. No outside food or drink is allowed inside the garden, so snack it up before you arrive.
4. If you’re thinking of turning the garden into your own photo shoot, remember there is a $10 tripod fee.
It’s always exciting having grandparents in town for a visit. Here are our 9 favorite activities that are ideal for an all-ages group
There is something incredibly special about showing off the city you love, to the people you love—especially grandparents. Whether your kids call them Nana, Grandpa, Grammy, Poppa, Abuelita, or another loving and popular nickname, grandparents have a special connection with their grandkids—so much so, science has proven that grandparents feel closer to their grandkids than their own kids. And of course you want to give them the backdrop to make connections and have a great time.
As with any aging relative, you also want to keep their physical limits and energy in mind, while also making a personal connection to this amazing city—you know, balance the tourist attractions with lesser known local spots—making it more than just a vacation but a glimpse into your daily life. Even with its steep hills and winding streets the Bay Area is accessible for everyone. This list keeps the mobility needs for visiting family in mind while also providing inspiration for quality family time everyone will cherish. From boat tours and children’s theater shows to one-of-a-kind hotel stays, redwoods, and high tea, everyone in your family will find something to love about the next grandparents’ visit to the Bay Area and the memories that will last a lifetime.
The Best Activities in San Francisco for Visiting Grandparents
Sarah Montoya
1. Visit the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
Located along the Lands End Trail the Legion of Honor is one of the most beautiful places to visit in San Francisco. The architecture alone is enough to make it worth a visit, add in a lovely cafe and you have the perfect place to show grandparents the arts in San Francisco. The museum regularly hosts world class exhibits to inspire all ages. Just a short walk from the museum is a unique view of the Gold Gate bridge. Learn more about what else you can see and do at Lands End.
Accessibility Information: The museum itself is fully accessible and easy to navigate for persons with mobility concerns. However, the parking lot can be a bit rocky in places and steep in others; however, handicap parking is available at the entrance. For family members without a placard please consider dropping them off at the entrance. There is not a push button but there is an intercom at the north entrance to call security for assistance.
2. Visit the de Young in Golden Gate Park
The de Young is located in Golden Gate Park. The museum itself is wonderful, it has art from all over the world and centuries past, but if you are on a budget it’s the perfect space to picnic in the sculpture garden or head to the observation tower for a view of Golden Gate Park. Both the sculpture garden and viewing tower are free. During your visit check out all the Golden Gate Park has to offer.
Accessibility Information: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, as are the sculpture garden and viewing tower. The parking garage beneath the music concourse in Golden Gate Park has elevators. Handicap parking along the main road with a relatively flat walk to the museum. If you are traveling via public transit there is a stop directly in front of the museum. Golden Gate Park has closed JFK to cars but continues to run a shuttle through the park to ensure that everyone can enjoy the park.
Additional Museums to Consider Visiting with Grandparents: The SFMOMA, The Asian Art Museum, and the Contemporary Jewish Museum are all located downtown with paid parking lots close by and are all fully wheelchair accessible. Each one is also located along major Muni stops for families using public transit.
3. Book a Tea Party at Love Joys
It feels almost universal that kids and grownups love tea parties.Love Joy’s lovely neighborhood spot tucked away in Noe Valley is a beautiful way to experience a local neighborhood and enjoy the magic of tea time. They offer two options for full service tea and a cozy casual environment that is welcoming for all ages.
Accessibility Information: Conveniently located along the J line, visitors can take a historic trolley car directly to the front door. Parking is metered with reserved handicap parking on the block. The staff is happy to offer assistance and accommodate any needs especially if you call ahead.
Sarah Montoya
4. Step Back in Time at the Filoli Historic House & Garden
Built as a private residence in 1917, Filoli sits on 654 acres of land along California’s coastal range. The home is open for tours year round and the 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens are perfect for a slow stroll. Considered one of the finest country estates of the 20th century, Filoli is sure to be a memorable experience.
Accessibility Information: Reserved parking for ADA placards with a loading ramp are available at the entrance. The staff will guide you to the ramp entrance to the house through the Clock Tower Shop Courtyard. Due to Filoli’s historic structure, wheelchairs may need to traverse bricks, gravel, grass, and other uneven surfaces.
Stanford Park Hotel
5. Have the Ultimate Sleepover at Stanford Park Hotel with Their American Girl Package
The Stanford Park Hotel in Menlo Park hosts the perfect sleepover with an optional one-of-a-kind add-on called, The American Girl Package. The customizable experience includes an American Girl bed, bathrobe and slippers upon arrival, along with a welcome note. At night, enjoy freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and milk brought to the room before heading off to Stanford Shopping Center the following day for a special experience at the local American Girl store. Activities rotate throughout the weekend and include Pet Pampering Day, Doll Hair & Manicure Day, Sweet & Savory Treats, and more.
Accessibility Information: Both the hotel and the Stanford Shopping Center are fully accessible properties with ADA parking options and trained staff to support accessibility needs. The Stanford Park Hotel pool and hot tub are fully accessible along with all other amenities.
6. Hike The Redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument
California Redwoods are world famous and always worth the visit. Muir Woods offers up a beautiful range of trails with varying levels of difficulty. Use the NPS app to plan your visit. Grandparents can join their grandkids in the feeling of accomplishment while helping kids ages 5-12 earn their Junior Ranger badges. Muir Woods has a reservation to manage parking and visitor traffic, so best to plan your trip well in advance.
Accessibility Information: Muir Woods National Monument has ADA parking available and segments of accessible trails. Brochures and trail maps are available in braille, and assistive listening devices are available upon request.
Sarah Montoya
7. Enjoy a Show at the Bay Area Children’s Theater
With kid focused productions of children’s classics that many grandparents will recognize, Bay Area Childrens’ Theater is the perfect way to introduce kids to the theater while also entertaining grandparents. Whether you catch a show at their Oakland location, Fort Mason in San Francisco or a show in Berkley you can find a performance close to you in the Bay.
Accessibility Information: The Bay Area Children’s theater is dedicated to accessibility and works with all of their venues to ensure that the experience is accessible to all audience members. BACT also offers shows with accommodations for blind and visually impaired audiences and ASL interpreters at select shows.
8. Take a Tour of San Francisco with the Big Bus Tour
With so much to see and do in San Francisco, seeing the city can feel overwhelming. Let the Big Bus Tour do the work for you—check off your tourist bucket list as you hop on and off the bus at.
Accessibility Information: Big Bus Tours have accessible buses with wheelchair lifts; however, not all of the buses are able to accommodate wheelchairs. Please contact the company 48 hours prior to your tour.
9. Go on a Blue and Gold Boat Tour
What’s a trip to the Bay Area without time on the water? The Blue and Gold Boat Tour offers a variety of tours allowing you to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and Sausalito. Enjoy the sunset or simply get from one pier to another while enjoying the melody of the waves.
Accessibility Information: The fleet vessels vary in age and design. All vessels are wheelchair accessible and have accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs can only access the main deck which houses the bar, the restrooms and wide open interior deck and viewing spaces. The upper decks can only be accessed by stairs thus wheelchairs cannot access the upper exterior decks.
Take advantage of the cooler weather and head out on a family adventure
Winter in Dallas is a great time of year to plan some new adventures with the family. Enjoy the cooler temps and visit a new hiking trail, book a day on the ice, or visit the Fort Worth Botanical Garden. We’ve gathered up a slew of our favorite things to do in Dallas in the winter so all you have to do is print out the list and get ready to check off the activities!
If you didn't get your fill of ice skating at the holiday pop-ups last month, you can still enjoy this fun family activity in January. The Galleria offers daily open skating hours and you can even sign the kids up for lessons if they need some extra help with their spins.
Take advantage of the mild temps in the winter to head out on a family hike. You'll find loads of ideas including our favorite, the Oak Cliff Nature Preserve. Our friends at AllTrails shared this awesome list of their favorite stroller-friendly trails for when you have a wee one along for the ride.
Explore the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and see what's growing in January and February. Be sure to visit the Rain Forest Conservatory and the Japanese Garden.
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd. Fort Worth Online:fwbg.org
Escape reality and enter a world of magic! Chock full of amazing photo opportunities amidst many different art styles and mediums, this is the perfect place to find refuge in these strange times.
This year's program will feature an entertaining, educational, and diverse line-up of new and favorite films for audiences of all ages as well as free books. All programs are free to the community. Experience the festival from Jan. 21-22, 2023.
