Bananas—and so much more—are on the menu at Universal Orlando Resort’s brand-new Minion Land

The red carpet has been rolled out—just watch for banana peels—because Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating the grand opening of a brand-new Minion Land. The exciting addition to the central Florida theme park resort is part of an overall initiative to offer more attractions geared toward families with younger children—and we were one of the first to explore the colorful streets inspired by the beloved characters.

Minion Land at Universal Studios Florida occupies the resort’s original park and features an entire block—now known as Illumination Avenue—adorned with attractions, whimsical eats, and meet and greets all centered around the Despicable Me franchise, the highest-grossing animated film franchise of all time. The new land is a collaboration between Universal’s award-winning creative time and Illumination’s acclaimed filmmakers.

Let’s take a look at the mischief and mayhem that awaits.

This is a game-changer for families with younger kids

The banana-loving, mischief-making Minions have long been a part of the park, from parade appearances to the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride—and the decision to expand upon that footprint was simple. “People love these characters, and they love these films,” Mike Aiello, senior director of entertainment creative development for Universal Orlando Resort, shared with us.

Immersive, family-friendly simulator attraction Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, was the park’s first large-scale foray into the adorable world of the Minions and is a surprisingly heartwarming ride that’s been overwhelmingly received. Now the theme park destination which is known for high-level thrills is putting the focus on families with the creation of even more experiences targeted towards the younger park goers.

“Everyone knows we do thrill rides, and we do intense experiences, but we also do family really well,” Aiello shared at the land’s preview event. “Being able to increase the portfolio that offers something for everybody, that is what this is about. It truly is something that you can experience together. It just speaks towards the want and need to keep families engaged as a family together.”

Villain-Con Minion Blast is a brand-new attraction

new Minion Land at Universal Resort Florida

A pioneering new attraction joins the existing Despicable Me Mayhem as the heart of the land. Inspired by Minions: The Rise of Gru, Villain-Con Minion Blast is Universal’s most customizable ride ever built, impressively marrying interactive game-based technology with immersive practical set pieces. It’s both familiar and unlike anything we’ve ever seen. The concept is simple: Blast to earn points and all the glory on the attraction’s leaderboard—but it’s also much more than that.

Players compete in a showdown to become a member of the Vicious 6, a supergroup of villains from the film. Never before done, riders aren’t aboard traditional attraction vehicles but instead a moving conveyor belt. With this new system, there is no height requirement making this a true family-friendly ride. Guests are equipped with self-supported blasters, called E-Liminator X, with a smaller blaster available for younger guests.

new Minion Land at Universal Resort Florida

Unlike other straightforward blaster-style attractions, like Universal’s MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack and Disney’s Toy Story Mania, this is a layer-filled, choose-your-own-adventure of sorts.

Villain-Con Minion Blast is Universal Orlando’s first leap into a truly connected experience where the mobile Universal Orlando Resort app enhances and works in real-time with the attraction. This means that every ride can be a completely new experience.

With the ability to customize, it offers that desired ride-ability factor. On each mission, the objective and the villains represented may be different. Universal creatives also shared that guests can expect seasonal content to be incorporated into the attraction, like pumpkins during Halloween and even flaming turkey legs during the Thanksgiving season.

The app extends the fun beyond the attraction itself, and into the ride’s queue and land, with the ability to unlock new content visit after visit and earn more powerful blasts during gameplay. A collectible loot feature mimics a classic scavenger hunt and sees app users exploring the land to uncover the bounty. With one scan of a phone, it connects to your virtual collectibles and is a fun way to experience the land from a different vantage point.

For those adverse to technology, the attraction can be enjoyed at face value as a next-generation blaster-style ride without ever turning on the app as the player’s score will appear on the blaster itself.

Simply put, this is a clever attraction that’s a load of fun no matter at what level you commit to playing it.

Whimsical eats await in Minion Land at Universal Resort—and it’s way more than bananas

new Minion Land at Universal Resort Florida

Universal Studios Florida excels with wildly inventive eats—from Harry Potter-themed, snow-capped pubs, to The Simpsons’ Fast Food Boulevard—but Minion Land raises the bar on both creativity and execution.

The new land houses four new options, from grab-and-go snacks to sit-down dining. Bake My Day is an adorable cupcake shop serving up a hefty dose of whimsy with Minion-fueled sweets. Insider tip: We recommend that you try the standout banana cream Swiss roll. Two snack stands dishing fun eats to parkgoers, including Minion-themed ice pops at Freeze Ray Pops and banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-A-Nana, have already proved ever so popular.

new Minion Land at Universal Resort Florida

Its marquee dining location, Minion Café, is perhaps the land’s most ambitious feat, fusing elements of fast casual dining with table service in an immersive setting. Amongst its three highly themed dining rooms, diners can soak up the air conditioning while getting a glimpse of colorful art pieces and eye-catching details.

The menu is a merry mashup of kid-friendly eats and inspired foods with global flair—but it’s all far beyond the expected theme park eats. The food delivers the fun to the fork, from a green tomato bisque topped with crispy pork belly and basil oil to a delightful salsa roja braised beef. There are also plenty of familiar eats with a playful twist for the pickier eaters, like addictive Minion-shaped tots and a stuffed pizza. With all eats under $20, it also offers affordability and elevation in the theme park culinary landscape.

Related: Did Someone Say Bananas? You Have to See This Adorable Minion-Inspired Café

new Minion Land at Universal Resort Florida

Illumination Theater is where you can meet your Minion friends

While the land itself is a bounty of colorful photo ops and murals, Illumination Theater serves as the main hub for character meet and greets—because you can’t come to Minion Land and not meet one of the adorable yellow friends!

The art deco-inspired theater features screen-based, digital posters offering the ability to switch out the characters throughout the day. Here, guests can meet the characters like Gru, Margo, and Agnes, but also other popular characters from hit Illumination films.

What else can families expect in the future?

The good news for families with younger kids? Universal Orlando Resort will be welcoming another kid-centric land in 2024 inspired by beloved movie characters from DreamWorks Animation. Its focus will be attractions and interactive play spaces that bring popular franchises like Shrek and Trolls to life.

Kids and adults alike will love Minion Land at Universal Resort, Florida

Rich with storytelling, Illumination films have resonated with people of all ages—and that sentiment is evident in Universal’s newest land. It’s a place where parents won’t just take a backseat to watch their kids at play, but they, too, become active and engaged participants.

In many ways, Minion Land accomplishes what so many other kiddie lands do not: it’s a destination-worthy land that can hold a candle to the likes of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s not tucked away in a back corner but instead, seamlessly blends in with the rest of the park as a transportive experience unique to its own. It’s truly tailored to the younger parkgoers but with broad appeal for guests of all ages.

—images courtesy of the author

San Diego’s parks and playgrounds were made with kids in mind and good for us, there are plenty to explore. From digging in the sand to climbing walls, here are the best playgrounds and parks in San Diego county

We’ve searched high and low and came up with the 11 of the coolest playgrounds in San Diego. From an old classic, a few that have undergone million-dollar renovations and others that are entirely brand new, each of these parks has something unique that you won’t find anywhere else. Tell your kids about the turf hill they can slide down on cardboard, the stream they can play in, the Belmont Park-inspired pink tarp slide, the story-book walking trail or the 3-story slide. Plan ahead because a couple of these even have splash pads, a wheels track your kids can bike, scoot or skate around until their legs are tired.

The Best Playgrounds in San Diego

1. Maruta Gardner Playground

Dubbed locally as the “Pink Park”, it’s named after late community activist Maruta Gardner and designed to model Belmont Park right across the street. You can’t miss the uncanny resemblance of the pink tarp slide in the shape of a roller-coaster, the silly swings circle around like a carousel, and the climbing ropes of the ropes course. The paved pathway lines the beach at Bonita Cove so bring the sand toys and make it a beach day. Walk across the street to Belmont Park for a few rides, eats and treats that will make for one special day!

1100 W Mission Bay Dr.
Mission Bay
Online: sandiego.gov

2. Veteran’s Park

The city’s first inclusive net climber at the newly rebuilt Veteran’s Park in Chula Vista allows kids in wheelchairs to access the play structure. GameTime built this playground with surfacing at each side for wheelchair access and a transfer platform for kids to climb up and into the net and slide down the other side. This is part of the recreation center where you’ll also find many community classes, sports, skate area, dog run and picnic tables.

785 E Palomar St.
Chula Vista
Online: chulavistaca.gov

 

3. Olympus Park

Activity Hill at Olympus Park has all kinds of ways to slide down it. BYO Cardboard for the turf hill or concrete slide system or slide down the whimsical covered tube slide that hugs the hillside. When kids tire of this hill, they’ll find a zip line, tire swing, merry-go-round, a cool climbing cube, botanical garden, skate park and walking trails. There’s so much to do here you might as well pack a lunch and spend the day!

Parking: Residential street parking only. This one is popular on the weekends and some parents have been ticketed when this park initially opened for parking violations. Make sure you’re parked legally nearby and know that you may have to park a few blocks over.

701 Olympus St.
Encinitas
Online: encinitasca.gov

4. Cottonwood Creek Park

Build dams and float leaf-boats down the manmade creek alongside this open playground. Climb up the giant boulder, play on the play structures, run over bridges and meander the walking paths. This ocean-aired park is just a few blocks from Moonlight Beach and walkable to coffee, ice cream and pizza shops one street down.

95 N Vulcan Ave.
Encinitas
Online: encinitasca.gov

5. Poinsettia Community Park

When the playground inspector reports “this is one of the most unique playgrounds I’ve seen in over 20 years!”, you know it’s good! With a recent extreme makeover designed for ‘inclusive play’, this playground boasts tons of fun for everyone. Rock climb up to the slide, swing across the orange circle bars, balance over the obstacle wall slides, swing on the platform swing and teeter-totter under the futuristic shade canopy.

6600 Hidden Valley Rd.
Carlsbad
Online: carlsbadca.gov

6. Pacific Highlands Ranch Community Park

Bring your energy and maybe some wheels to spend the day at Pacific Highlands Ranch Community Park. This large newer park has so much to do, but littles can start at the tot lot for baby swings, group swing and monkey bars, and older kiddos will love the unique and challenging climbing walls and domes and a 4-person seesaw. There’s a Discovery Area with a sand lot, musical elements and a (fake) climbing rock. Roll your way over to the skate plaza or the popular bike pump track. Kids of all ages and interests will surely love playing here, whether it’s climbing around the playground, biking, skating or just running free.

5977 Village Center Loop Rd.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

7. Waterfront Park

One of the coolest, most unique playgrounds is downtown at the Waterfront Park with all kinds of futuristic yet whimsical play structures. Rock climb over a ribbon of twisted metal, crawl inside an orb of cargo nets or take a spin on the merry-go-round that’s unlike any you’ve ever seen. Most of these seem best suited for older kids, but walk over to the fountain jets where littles and all ages alike will love splashing and running through the wading pools. One of the best things about coming here, besides the city skyline views, is there’s no need to pack up any food because you can grab breakfast or lunch from the reasonably priced on-site snack shop.

Parking: The best place to park is in the paid parking garage that’s directly underneath this park ($10/day). Metered parking is available nearby or take the trolley to the County Center/Little Italy Station two blocks east.

1600 Pacific Hwy.
San Diego
Online: sdparks.org

8. Grape Day Park

Make it a GRAPE day at this fun playground in Escondido. Slide through this bunch of grapes, climb through the grapevines, or play on the harvest-themed play structures. Afterward, walk past the registered historic homesteads situated at this park and over to the decommissioned locomotive engine docked next to the old train station. Walk across the street to the fun Children’s Discovery Museum to make it a full day of fun and play.

321 N. Broadway
Escondido
Online: escondido.org

9. Civita Park

Civita Park in Mission Valley is an urban oasis with all kinds of play features. Two playgrounds have separate age features, a nature themed play area is a nod to the quarry this area was dug out from, miles of trails, a bird house and pollinator parks, chess and ping pong tables (BYO equipment), a grassy amphitheater for concerts and even a splash pad. Plan your visit for a Tuesday evening when they have weekly food trucks and live music.

Parking: The main parking lot is at Civita Blvd. + Russell Pkwy, but you can also park all along Civita Blvd. (bring a stroller because little legs might tire from this long-ish walk).

7960 Civita Blvd.
Mission Valley
Online: civitalife.com

10. Mast Park

Curious explorers will love the nature discovery area at Mast Park; which boasts repurposed Mast Park trees, leaves, bark, sticks and rocks to explore. Let little ones use their imagination to build and create with these elements or head to the renovated forest-themed playgrounds with a three-story slide, swings (including 1 ADA) and a Global Motion Spinner. Walk the 1-mile loop trail with the enclosed dog park in the center, but start at the end with the story book trail and read a page from this story as you walk along. This trail will line the disc-golf course and end with the concession stand open on weekends.

9125 Carlton Hills Blvd.
Santee
Online: cityofsanteeca.gov

11. Lakeview Park

Lake views and sunset hues will delight your senses, but kids will love this forest-themed park with new playground equipment. Bring some wheels to scoot, ride or just walk around the ¾ mile flat paved lake trail. Take the side trail down to the dock and watch the ducks (no feeding signs are posted). Head back to the playground’s splash pad to catch one of the posted timed water fountains.

650 Foxhall Dr.
San Marcos
Online: san-marcos.net

Inflation is a budget-killer so here are all the free things to do in Los Angeles with kids so you can save your cash

From exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame to taking a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, there are plenty of ways to experience the City of Angels without breaking the bank. Whether you‘re a longtime resident or just visiting for a few days, these free things to do in LA will make sure you don‘t miss out on the best the city has to offer. And for what it’s worth, our free things to do list in LA list is by far the most fun one yet.

What Museums in LA Are Free?

1. California African American Museum

The California African American Museum (CAAM) is the premier museum dedicated to African American art, history, and culture. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, CAAM has been a leader in the exhibition and interpretation of African American art, history and culture for over 30 years. Through its permanent collection and dynamic special exhibitions, CAAM provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse contributions made by African Americans to the culture, history and art of California and the United States. The museum also serves as a platform for emerging and established African American artists to showcase their work. CAAM is a vital resource for students, scholars and the general public seeking to understand African American history and culture.

600 State Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: caamuseum.org

2. Roundhouse Aquarium

This always-free-to-enter aquarium, located on the Manhattan Beach Pier, is home to over 100 different species of marine life (most of whom call Santa Monica Bay home), has four galleries where kids can explore and learn about sea life and home to our favorite animal encounters in LA where kids can get up close and personal with moray eels, rays, and octopi—not to mention get hands-on experience with starfish in the touch pools. The Roundhouse also offers summer beach camps and on-site classes for budding marine biologists (or any kid that just loves the water and all the animals that live in the sea).

2 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach
Online: roundhouseaquarium.org

3. The Broad

Giant teacups, massive balloon animals, Alice in Wonderland-esque splashes of color and the Infinity Room will convince any kiddo that contemporary art is where it’s at. The museum "For Families" guide offers a "scavenger hunt" and fun art-themed activities. For older kids, they can also download and listen to a free audio tour which includes family-friendly information about the art. Tickets are released on the last Wed. of each month at 10 a.m. PT for admission the following month.

221 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: thebroad.org

4. The Hammer Museum

In addition to offering free admission, this UCLA art museum regularly hosts pop-up art studios for little ones, family-friendly movie screenings and guided tours-plus-games for kids ages 7 and up. A visit to the relatively small yet impressive (and manageable!) museum will expose kids to a range of artwork, from 17th century Rembrandts to the more contemporary work of Kara Walker.

10899 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: hammer.ucla.edu

5. LACMA

Right in our home town is a world class museum that wants you to bring your kids so much that they created a fabulous program: LACMA NexGen membership where kids get in free along with one adult. It's a pretty amazing deal, especially when you realize that at LACMA, there are art exhibits that appeal to kids like rad modern art sculptures, a giant suspended rock and of course, every kid (and grown-up kids’) favorite, Metropolis II. There is also a painting studio in the Boone Gallery where your inspired little artists can create watercolor masterpieces and listen to story time. Tickets must be reserved in advance. 

5900 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
Online: lacma.org

6. The California Science Center

Where else can you see a space shuttle and a shark tank, not to mention play in one of three kids-only Discovery Rooms, explore rotating science exhibits and watch as baby chicks hatch? And all for free? Rainy days, hot days, vacation days, or just “I’m bored” days, the California Science Center is here for you. And, if you have a few extra bucks, you can round the day off with a spectacular 3D IMAX show. 

700 Exposition Park Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: californiasciencecenter.org

7. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Start your Aquarium visit with the sea stars in the simulated “tide pool touch tank” then spend your time winding through the thirty-eight aquaria. Don’t miss out on the favorite aquatic babies exhibit and let the little ones learn a little something at the research station. Be sure to look up and meet the giant whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling.

The museum is free for all but they do suggest a donation to help keep this wonderful community resource going. Parking is free and easy on the street or you can pay $1 per hour to park it right out front. The aquarium hosts loads of kid friendly activities and events, including the fabulous spring time grunion runs—a SoCal tradition.

Check out these other noteworthy Los Angeles aquariums, many of which are also free! 

3720 Stephen M. White Dr.
San Pedro
Online: cabrillomarineaquarium.org

8. La Brea Tar Pits

Next door to LACMA are the famous La Brea Tar Pits. While the Page Museum at the center will cost you an entrance fee (unless you visit on the first Tues. of the month when admission is free), there is plenty to explore around the tar pits and gardens that surround the museum.

Check out Ice Age plant life in the Pleistocene Garden, roll down the grassy hills and learn all about being a paleontologist with a peek inside Pit 91 and Project 23, which are still actively being excavated. No visit would be complete without snapping a selfie with those perpetually stuck elephants in the bubbling tar pit. Advance timed tickets are required.

5801 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
Online: tarpits.org

9. The Griffith Observatory

Spend a day at the Griffith Observatory, poking through the exhibits, figuring out your weight on Jupiter, looking through the telescopes, having lunch in the cafeteria and gazing out from the terrace, where you can see the whole city below. Free public star parties are held monthly, where kids can meet professional and amateur astronomers. And don’t forget about the Planetarium! There are currently two live shows scheduled every 60-90 minutes daily, for just $3-$7 (it’s the only thing at the Observatory with a fee, and kids under 5 can only attend the first show of the day).

If the kiddos need a break, there are beautiful hiking trails behind the Observatory with breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign.

If you want to avoid the parking lot, which fills up fast on weekends, hike one of our favorite trails, Ferndell. Then when you hike back, reward yourself with coffee and pie.

2800 E. Observatory Rd.
Griffith Park
Online: griffithobservatory.org

Shahrzad Warkentin

10. Travel Town

Every mini engineer and trainspotter will have a blast exploring this outdoor transportation museum dedicated to all things trains. You can climb around on real steam locomotives, check out wagons and other antique vehicles in the barn and even go for a ride on a mini train that circles the park for just $3.

Pack some snacks and grab a seat on the lawn where you can wave at the train as it drives past. 

Don't miss their docent-led tours are available by reservation. Check their events calendar for more great activities.

Insider Tip: You can throw birthday parties at Travel Town or hit the gift shop for an awesome gift for a train-themed birthday party or just because. 

5200 Zoo Dr.
Griffith Park
Online: traveltown.org

11. LA's Central Library

If you have a budding bookworm at home then a visit to your local library is always treat and LA is full of some really special kids collections. Come for the books and stay for the free story time at dozens of Los Angeles Public Library branches, but the coolest by far is the Central Library downtown which houses a massive children’s literature department and hosts story times, puppet shows, and music.

Our other favorite spots are the Santa Monica Main Library and Beverly Hills Library, both of which have awesome collections and kids activities.

LAPL
630 W 5th St.
Downtown LA
Online: lapl.org

Santa Monica Library
Online: smpl.org

Beverly Hills Library
Online: beverlyhills.org/exploring/beverlyhillspubliclibrary

How to Explore More LA Museums for Free

With your LA County Library card, you can reserve family passes to local museums and cultural institutions for free through Discover & Go.

How to Reserve a Pass:

  1. Visit the Discover & Go portal and log in using your library card number and PIN.
  2. Browse by museum or date.
  3. Make a reservation by selecting a date and venue.
  4. Shortly before your visit, print out your pass. Note: You cannot cancel your passes once they have been printed.
  5. Enjoy your visit!

And another way to explore LA Museums for free? Check out these LA Museums & Botanical Gardens with Free Admission Dates!

Outdoor Activities around LA That Are Always Free

1. Investigate a New Playground

best playgrounds for kids in LA
LA Parks

We've got a running list for the most fun playgrounds around LA—some may even be hiding in your own neighborhood. Check out these gems and never hear "I'm bored" again...almost.

RELATED: Durable Playground Shoes You Can Buy Online

2. Spend the Day at Grand Park

There's always something fun happening here! Home to one of our favorite fountains and splashpads (when it's open for waterplay), playgrounds and outdoor art exhibits makes Grand Park a fun and easy destination for everyone in the family to spend the day.

200 N Grand Ave.
Los Angeles 
Online: grandparkla.org 

3. Explore a New Neighborhood around LA

LA is about as diverse as you can get and there's no better place to explore all the different museums, street art, playgrounds, (and ice cream shops!) than in a neighborhood near you.

Related: Visit Visalia before the Rest of LA Discovers This Hidden Gem

5. Kid-Friendly Hikes Near LA

Leave Runyon to the tourists. Instead, take your little trekkers to one of these lesser known trails where the views are still Instagrammable, but the crowds won’t overwhelm you. From a hidden 58-acre park in Culver City to a natural preserve in Pasadena, here are our favorite, easy-to-moderate hikes the whole family will enjoy.

6. Easy Bike Trails for Families

So your two-wheelings tots have maxed out on riding around the block? Fortunately, LA’s beach bike paths—along with a few other car-free paths and trails—are open. Finally, kids can feel the wind in their hair, practice their pedaling and enjoy a change of scenery. If you’re looking to avoid crowds (um, yes please), we recommend visiting these routes during the week or early in the a.m. on weekends. Check out all of LA's best kid-friendly bike paths.

RELATED: The Best Kids Bikes & Tricycles for Every Kid & Stage

7. Dine at Hidden Picnic Spots

There’s no better time than now to dine outdoors with your family—and any other members of your quarantine pod. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal al fresco at these hidden LA picnic spots

 

Wondering how to enjoy autumn in the city? We’ve got tons of things to do in Boston with kids that are perfect for the fall-iday season

Fall has finally made its way to Boston! For all those families with kids who can’t wait to jump in the nearest pile of leaves—we feel you. For many families, this time of year is a last chance to get outside and explore with hikes at nearby parks to collect colorful leaves, one more picnic in the late afternoon, or a even a quick weekend getaway before the winter holidays hit. So if finding things to do tops your list, we’ve got 35 city adventures to check out. The only question is, how many will you get through before winter arrives?

Four kids celebrate Halloween with jack-o-lanterns and Halloween jokes for kids
iStock

1. Autumn is all about pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and leaf-peeping. While New England is known for its brilliant, changing leaves, you don't have to go too far to find dazzling reds, oranges, and yellows with the kids.

2. Put a whole new "spin" on dinner when you bring the kids to a sporty spot specializing in great food and ping pong, celebrating their grand opening this month. Psst...they even have a drink robot (and yes, it's what you think it is).

3. Make your Halloween plans now. It'll be here before you know it! And if you haven't grabbed your pumpkin yet, there's still time to head to a nearby pumpkin patch and get in on the fall fun. And even if you have, snagging another round of apple cider donuts is almost worth it.

4. Grab your tickets to one of Boston's most popular light displays before the sell out. It opens the day after Thanksgiving and runs through the end of the year. Our tip? Tickets go on sale on Halloween.

5. With Halloween just around the corner, you might need to stock up on sweets. We love the bulk and retro candy featured at these spots.

indoor playspace, indoor playground
iStock

6. You don't need a flannel (or maybe you do) to find a cozy cabin and plan your getaway.

7. Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping at one of our favorite shops. Whether you need something for baby or big kids, you'll find what you need here.

8. Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo may have just ended, but now's the time to make plans to take the kids on the annual pilgrimage to see ZooLights; it opens next month.

9. Although we're sad to see summer go, once the temps drop, our list of indoor playgrounds will come in handy. Let the kids go wild any day of the week at these fun spots!

10. Put a weekend getaway to Niagara Falls, Bear Mountain State Park or Gettysburg on your family bucket list. Now is as good a time as any!

a family of three hikes through a sunny forest in fall
iStock

11. Autumn is such a busy time of year. Why not make an easy dinner plan your kids are sure to love!

12. Let your kids indulge their '80s obsession over a plate of bacon and eggs (or maybe Nutella french toast?) at a place that's all the rage with Bender and Clarie.

13. Go on a street art scavenger hunt before the first snowfall.

14. Plan a magical train ride full of hot chocolate, golden tickets, and jingling bells (if you still believe, that is). Grab tickets while you can!

15. Parenting can be tough. Find inspiration from Boston moms who are crushing it or find a supportive community through any number of Boston Facebook groups that were made for parents.

Immersive Nutcracker

16. Plan a magical fall getaway when you sleep in a house that looks like it's right out of a storybook. 

17. Quiz the kids with funky and fun trivia all about Boston.

18. Visions of the Sugar Plum Fairy will surely be dancing in your little ballet lover's head when you take them to see Mikko Nissinen's The Nutcracker (opening the day after Thanksgiving). Or you can opt for a more 21st century experience with total kid-appeal.

19. Turn the page on healthy eating for the fam without investing too much time and energy. The busy season is just around the corner, and these services are here to help you manage it all.

20. Find a waterfall near you.

the exterior of the Boston Children's Museum on a sunny day with the large milk container
© Karin Hansen

21. It's never too early to start looking ahead to the holiday happenings around the city, especially since many events and experiences sell out quickly!

22. Fall is a great time to hike at the nearby natural preserve that inspired Thoreau.

23. Now that summer’s over, a trip to a nearby museum is in order. Whether your kids love science, nature, history of just having fun, Boston is chock full of museums that keep kids engaged.

24. Isn’t it time for a family road trip? Head beyond the city to find fantastic mountain adventures, cog railways, and a land that's lifted from the pages of your favorite childhood stories.

25. ‘Tis the season to go in search of dazzling light displays around the city. Psst… many open around Thanksgiving.

family movie night is a great activity when you're wondering what to do on a Friday night or how to plan a friday night for kids
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26. Fall's cooler temps and shorter nights were made for family movie night.

27. Shop local for upcoming birthdays, hostess gifts, and more. Hint: there's never a bad time to shop a Boston women-owned business either.

28. Wander through the world’s largest walk-in globe where you can learn and be amazed too!

29. You may not find Dory here, but you will find Myrtle the Turtle, who’s been a resident since 1970.

30. With the kids back in school, fall is a great time to make history come alive. Explore Black history in Boston whenever you've got time.

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31. Check out one of our favorite kid play spots. Hint: they have a kid jam sesh every Friday.

32. Whether you’re getting together with family or friends for Thanksgiving or the winter holidays, these larger-than-life houses (just a short drive away) make large gatherings super easy.

33. If you've got a fall baby, you know it's not all playgrounds and spray decks for birthday parties. Check out our guide to Boston's best indoor birthday party spots for your fall and winter celebrations.

34. If snow falls early this year, break out the sled and bring it to a nearby sledding hill. Boston has lots, but we've got favorites for a reason.

35. Expecting or know someone who is? See just how “Boston” your baby name is before your sweet bundle gets here. 

I was terrified the first time I ever pumped breast milk at the high school where I work. Huddling over my pump in the girls’ locker room, I desperately waited for milk to trickle into bottles that hung from my pointy Madonna-style bra.

There was only one other colleague on campus who had pumped before (we were a new school). She advised me to time pumping between when the students changed into their uniforms and when they returned from the gym. Naturally, my timing was off. As my milk finally let down and the bottles began to fill, the volleyball team pounded on the doors, shouting, “Let us in!” Needless to say, I didn’t get much out of that pumping session—or the others that followed.

Couldn’t we do better than this? When I began chatting with colleagues who were moms or expecting, I began building a community of parents who wanted to support each other and see this thing through. “You’re our advocate!” one woman said, long before I’d even figured out the first step to establishing a space for us. I felt like I could barely advocate for myself, but when others expressed appreciation, I became motivated to step up.

As preliminary research, I spoke to my friend in corporate America to make a list of what her deluxe pump room included:

– Couches and recliners
– Refrigerator
– Sink, sponges, paper towels
– Bookshelves with breastfeeding resources
– Tasteful art and lamps that could be dimmed
– A hospital-grade pump designed to be sanitary for communal use so parents could lighten their loads

When I reviewed the list, I felt encouraged. We could get most items donated, and all we really needed was a private room with a door that locked. However, even that was a challenge. “We don’t have much space here,” my principal said, “But let’s talk about what your dream room would include.” I continued working on design ideas with a team of volunteers, creating a Google spreadsheet to organize donations. We were making progress!

When I had the big meeting with my principal, my union chapter representative accompanied me for moral support and to share information about New York state law, which requires employers to provide a private space that isn’t a restroom as well as a “reasonable” amount of time to pump. The three of us debated for a few minutes before concluding that the locker room didn’t meet those standards (one could argue that a changing room across from toilets was satisfactory, but the gym schedule wasn’t conducive to giving teachers “reasonable” time).

It was helpful to have the law in front of us and to have a neutral party in the union rep—a fellow teacher who wasn’t a mom herself and didn’t have a personal investment in the outcome, so was less emotional about the topic than I was.

Fast-forward to the grand opening of our Lactation Room: a sky-blue oasis with a black IKEA recliner, framed Georgia O’Keefe print, mini-fridge, and photo collage of all the breastfed babies born to the staff. The lactation room had been a former utility closet, but who cared? The space was private and quiet at the end of a long coordinator, blissfully separate from the rest of campus.

I posted signs on the door that read, Lactation Room: Do Not Disturb. Speak to Jess Hinds if you need a key. One of the most fun parts of the project was soliciting and collecting adorable baby pictures, and learning about the staff’s little ones. It made us all so much closer.

For a decade now, I’ve proudly held the (unofficial title) of lactation coordinator at school. This means that I check on the room regularly, hold orientations, and help multiple lactating people set a schedule so everyone has their own private time.

Every semester, I send out emails reminding everyone of my role and letting them know they can ask me confidential questions about anything baby-related. I’m delighted to say that newly pregnant moms often knock on my door now—and not just for pumping room access. I love being a port in the storm for new parents and holding a magical key that helps moms feed their babies. It continues to feed and nourish me, too.

Jess deCourcy Hinds (jessdecourcyhinds.com) is a writer and librarian. Sign up for her free quarterly newsletter, I’m an Open Book: On Love, Libraries and Life-building.

RELATED LINKS
Breast Milk Boosters: Tips & Products to Increase Your Supply
Pumping Essentials for Moms Returning to Work
Breastfeeding Essentials for Nursing Your Baby

We know many Seattle families will be hitting the highways and mountain passes this Memorial Day Weekend with cars packed full of camping gear. But for those families sticking close to home (you know who you are…been there, done that, never again with little ones in tow), we’ve rounded up ten activities to keep everyone in your crew happy and entertained over the three-day weekend. Scroll down to make your plans over the long weekend.

1. Northwest Folklife Festival

kids enjoy the Not Its concert at Northwest Folklife Festival over Memorial Day weekend in Seattle
Piper Hanson

There’s no shortage of fun things to see, do and eat at the 51st Annual Northwest Folklife Festival. One of the largest free folk festivals in the country, this year's festival will bring the old and new together, both virtually and in-person. Music, dance, spoken word, visual art and workshops will span 16 stages over three days, and about 2,000 attendees are expected to join in. A new Makers' Space, featuring tactile elements of folk traditions, and the return of some local favorites, like the Circle of Indigenous Peoples celebration and dancing at Warren's Roadhouse, are just a few of the festivities to look forward to. While the Northwest Folkife Festival in general is a family-friendly event, there are other kid-friendly offerings throughout the grounds including tons of your favorite Kindiependent rockers like The Not-Its!, Eli Rosenblatt and Brian Vogan and His Good Buddies, who'll be rocking the stage on Monday.

Good to know: If you can't make the festival in person, you can still enjoy the event safely at home

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2. The Infinite

Over Memorial Day weekend in Seattle folks can see The Infinite a new VR experience
Melissa Taylor

The Infinite is an out-of-this-world immersive experience that transports you into space aboard the International Space Station, and it just opened in Tacoma on May 25. Memorial Day weekend is a great time to check it out. During the experience, you’ll explore a life-sized, 3D-modelized recreation of the International Space Station and encounter mind-blowing views of the Earth in the first-ever cinematic spacewalk captured in 3D, 360 virtual reality. This experience is an exclusive installation from world-renowned Japanese artist Ryoji Ikeda that's best for kids ages 8 and up and their grown-ups. You'll need tickets for this one.

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3. Memorial Day Weekend Train Rides

Northwest Railway Museum

If you and the kiddos are itching to get out of the city for the day, head east to Snoqualmie and celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with a scenic train ride. This special 90-minute steam train run is in addition to the railroad’s usual weekend train schedule and will take you through the Cascade foothills of the Upper Snoqualmie Valley, including a ride to the top of Snoqualmie Falls. 

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4. Remlinger Farms Fun Park

A girl rides a pony at Remlinger Farms Fun Park on Memorial Day weekend
Allison Sutcliffe

Remlinger Farms is now open on Saturdays and Sundays and would be a great addition to your Snoqualmie excursion. Ride the half-sized steam train along the Tolt River, pet the farm animals (think: goats, horses, piggies, cows, alpaca, sheep, bunnies, donkeys) or take a pony ride and jump in the hay maze, spin on the mini roller coaster or "fly" on the pumpkins. Plus, go 'round and 'round in the pedal cars and enjoy a day full day of farm fun. Plus, parents will enjoy the farm's newest addition—Remlinger Brewery. It opened on May 7 when the fun park opened for the season. Eastside, here we come!

5. Ansel Adams: Masterworks Opens

Ansel Adams exhibit at Seattle Art Museum over Memorial Day weekend
© The Ansel Adams Publishing Rights Trust

Whether you dig art or just dig being outside, MOHAI has a fantastic new exhibit that opens over the long weekend. Ansel Adams: Masterworks, a traveling exhibit presenting the iconic works of the famed photographer, will be on view for a limited engagement. It features 48 photographs by Adams—a selection of images he considered the best work of his career. Each reveals the importance Adams placed on the awe-inspiring power and beauty of the natural world, and his deeply held conviction that place matters. Who knows? You might even recognize our own Washington National Parks in Adams' photos when you visit. 

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6. Molback's Butterfly Garden Reopens

Kids at the butterfly garden at Woodland Park Zoo over Memorial Day weekend when it reopns
Jeremy Dwyer-Lindgren/Woodland Park Zoo

Molbak’s Butterfly Garden is a magical experience, and it’s reopening Memorial Day weekend, so why not stop by? You and the kids can stroll among hundreds of free-flying butterflies inside the enclosed space, while surrounded by a display of beautiful flowers. Learn about the life cycle of these colorful insects, while watching larvae undergo a miraculous metamorphosis as they emerge as butterflies before flying. Our other favorite reopening at the Zoo? It's gotta be the Zoomazium, that reopened May 17 after more than two years of being closed. Who else can't wait to go? Two more great reasons to visit Woodland Park Zoo over this long weekend!

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7. Bicycle Weekends

Seattle Parks and Recreation

Dust off your bikes, blades, trailers, and training wheels and enjoy four car-free miles of Lake Washington Boulevard, between Seward Park and Mount Baker Beach. If the kiddos need to make a pit stop or take a break along the way, there’s plenty of places to stop and even an awesome playground near the entrance of Seward Park.

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8. Memorial Day Ceremony

Pixabay

Teach your kids the importance of Memorial Day by taking them to this annual ceremony held at The Museum of Flight. The Museum will honor military service with patriotic music from The Boeing Employees Concert Band, followed by a ceremony with local officials and US Military personnel. Psst! All veterans and active US military personnel will receive free admission with ID.

9. Wild Waves Theme & Water Park Opens

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

Those looking for a nearby thrill should head to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in Federal Way, opening for the season on Memorial Day weekend. Thrill rides, family rides and kids rides will keep everyone entertained throughout the day. Be sure to grab your tickets online to save some dough before heading down.

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10. Kitsap Forest Theater: Beauty & the Beast

Gala Lindvall

A day-long excursion that includes a ferry ride to Bremerton will make this Memorial Day weekend one to remember. Add in a trip to see Beauty & the Beast at the Kitsap Forest Theater's opening weekend and the distance is totally worth it. A treasured family tradition in the greater Puget Sound area, The Mountaineers Players bring quality outdoor theater under the forest's conifer canopy. This spring step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. This beloved story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. 

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—Allison Sutcliffe & Kristina Moy

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Chicago has a rich roller skating history rooted in the James Brown “JB” style, known for elaborate footwork. It’s also the birthplace of roller derby. While rinks are few and far between, you can still get your glide on at select retro-fun spots that have stood the test of time. Introduce your kids to this slick part of Chicago’s history and impress them with your 8-wheeled dance moves at these local hangouts.

Glenwood Roller Rink 

Roll into Glenwood and you can easily transport yourself to the 80s, skating with hair scrunchied in a crimped high pony, jeans perfectly pegged and the smell of Electric Youth wafting behind you. Spritz the family with Aqua Net and take a few turns around the rink.

You’ll dig the polished hardwood floor and colored lights gleaming overhead. It sets the scene for open family skate on Wed. 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Sat., 12:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.-11 p.m. and Sun. 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. If you have first-timers in your group, lessons are offered for all ages, Sat., 10:30 a.m.-noon.

656 Holbrook Rd., Glenwood; Online: glenwoodrollerrinkinc.net

MLK Skating and Bowling Center

MLK Skating is a city icon and a popular destination for birthday parties and school field trips. It's just one part of the Chicago Park District’s Dr. Martin Luther King Park and Entertainment Area opened by Mayor Daley in 2003. The rink is open for all ages Tues.-Sun., with Glow skating every Saturday. Once you’ve gotten your fill of skating, you can swap your wheels for bowling shoes or hit the arcade for gaming.

1219 W. 76th St., South Side; Online: unitedskates.com

Aurora Skate Center

Music, games and pizza, pizza, pizza make for good old-fashioned fun at this west suburban hotspot. Glide your way around the rink to sounds of the top 40 every Sat. and Sun., 1 p.m.-4 p.m. This family-friendly skate intersperses freestyle skating with the hokey pokey, backward skating, races and buddy skating, where two or three people are encouraged to hold hands and do their best to not pull each other to the floor. Beginners can take lessons every Sat., noon-1 p.m.

34W113 Montgomery Rd., Aurora; Online: skateaurora.com

Lombard Roller Rink

Family-owned Lombard Roller Rink offers a clean, friendly environment to introduce kids to skating. Families are invited to take a spin, Fri.-Sun, and classes are offered for kids every Sat., noon-12:45 p.m. They also offer an artistic skating club that competes in several disciplines and at all levels. 

201 W. 22nd St., Lombard; Online: lombardrollerrink.com

The Rink

The Rink was first opened in 1974 by then-husband and wife duo Carmen Clark and Nate Simpson. The idea was born from a desire to bring entertainment options a little closer to home, as they were always driving to the suburbs for a family night out. Although it has recently changed ownership, the new owners, Ramona and Curtis, are committed to keeping this Chatham neighborhood staple as it's always been. A place that's boiling over with positive energy and a focus on community building. Note: due to planned renovations along with vandalism in November, The Rink is closed with a re-grand opening planned for March. 

1122 E. 87th St., Chatham; Online: therinkchicago.com

Fleetwood Roller Stating Rink

Located just outside Chicago in Summit, Fleetwood is celebrating nearly 65 years of showing families a good time. Slide-in for open skate on Wed. and Fri.-Sun. Wobbly skaters can beef up their skills with lessons, Sat., noon-1 p.m. Kids who take lessons can skate for half-price, Sat., 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 

7231 W. Archer, Summit; Online: fleetwoodrollerrink.com

Coachlite Skate

Coachlite has open skate Fri.-Sun. and discounted sessions on Wed. You can also book Dart Dasher Nerf where kids engage in nerf gun wars while a light show and music play in the background. These 2-hour private sessions that include pizza and game referees are a great high-energy birthday party idea. 

1291 W. Berwyn Ave., Roselle; Online: coachliteskate.com

Tinley Park Roller Rink

Tinley Park Roller Rink believes the fastest path to happiness is found on skates. Who are we to disagree? Visit them for family skates on Sat., Sun. and Wed. They also typically open on school holidays, so follow them on Facebook to stay up-to-date on schedule changes. 

17658 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park; Online: tinleyrink.com

Maggie Daley Park

Infuse a bit of fresh air into your skate session at Maggie Daley's Skating Ribbon. The outdoor ribbon is open Apr. 30-Sep. 26 for rollerblading and mico-scootering. Rentals are available for both. Open skate times vary depending on the month, so check the website before making a plan to visit. 

337 E. Randolph, Loop; Online: maggiedaleypark.com

Family Fun Zone

This place is great for families with young kids because it's designed for ages 14 & under. Skate sessions are held Tues., Wed. and Fri.-Sun. Plan a family date night on Wed. when the price of admission also gets you all-you-can-eat pizza. For a budget-friendly option, go on Tues. when admission is just $2. 

2333 Theodore St., Crest Hill; Online: familyfunzone.com

Lynwood Sport Center

Lynwood Sport Center has a cinematic history as the rink was featured in the movie Roll Bounce released in 2005. The best time for families to check out this sweet rink is Sat., Sun. and Tues. On Tues., order a large pizza, a pitcher of soda and your skate rentals for up to 4 people for $38. 

2030 Glenwood-Dyer Rd., Lynwood; Online: skatelynwood.com

Chicago Athletic Association

Turn skating into a date-night (or day) opportunity with Chicago Athletic Association hotel's pop-up skate events. On select weekends, they host skate programming on the historic Stagg Court. Afterward, visit the Fine Arts Display Case on the 2nd floor to catch a glimpse of the hotel's vintage skates. Keep an eye on their website and Instagram for future announcements. 

12 S. Michigan Ave., Loop; Online: chicagoathleticevents.com

— Maria Chambers

Featured photo: Alexander Belyaev via Pixabay

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