Los Angeles has been labeled the city of dreamers for decades, and while the sentiment continues to ring true, it’s beginning to take on a new persona amongst younger generations. For mini trailblazers in the area, the Southern California metropolis is space for innovation, art and science that’ll help shape the future.

This shift is giving way to exciting local events that help budding scientists, engineers and creators flourish and grow. Most notably, the City of STEM, LA’s largest festival of science, technology, engineering and math, and the Los Angeles Maker Faire, the region’s biggest family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness.

On Saturday, April 1 at the Los Angeles State Historic Park, both gatherings are joining forces to bring forth one massive extravaganza—that’s free! Happening all day, the event will bring together innovators from all over the world and provide hours’ worth of activities for aspiring doers of all ages.

The fun and excitement don’t stop there, as the City of Stem continues with an entire month-long celebration of STEM experiences. Local museums and partners across Southern California will continue to offer activities throughout all of April to help keep little ones’ wheels constantly turning. You can check CityofSTEM.org for a full calendar of these upcoming events.

Keep reading to discover why you need to save the date for this major festival right now!

3 Reasons City of Stem + LA Maker Faire Is a Must-Visit

1. Inspire Your Kids with Day-Long Activities

From 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., explore 200 unique experiences that bring ideas to life. Interactive learners will appreciate the events’ hands-on activities and workshops, while your tiny da Vinci’s can create fun masterpieces during crafting sessions and meet with maker exhibitors.

Young thinkers will light up during live demonstrations and expert presentations hosted by NASA and major museums as well as leading scientists, engineers, artists and tech companies. When you’re in need of fuel to keep the learning going, stop by any of the food trucks—we promise, you won’t want to skip out on any of the excitement.

2. Meet Bill Nye IRL

Sorry, kids, but make room for all millennial parents who spent Saturday mornings watching the original Bill Nye the Science Guy episodes. Get the chance to meet the epic science educator and, of course, snap a photo for Instagram.

Stick around for live music and additional appearances from surprise special guests!

3. Unite with Future Thinkers from All Over the State

While LA may be the meeting ground for local makers, the festival will bring in families across the Golden State. Your kiddos can connect with others who share similar interests and learn more about their favorite subjects.

To further reflect the diverse profile of the state, City of Stem & LA Maker Faire will also include experiences in Spanish, so todos son bienvenidos or everyone is welcome!

Mark Your Calendar with These Event Details

  • Who is hosting the special event: Columbia Memorial Space Center & Los Angeles Public Library
  • What is the name of this awesome gathering: City of STEM Festival + LA Maker Faire
  • When should I be arriving: Saturday, April 1 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • What address should I put in my GPS: Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
  • How much does it cost: The event is free for all ages. Be sure to bring cash for food vendors

 

Head to City of STEM to keep up with even more free STEM experiences throughout the month of April, and learn more about their commitment to providing exposure to LA’s youth by uniting industry experts, museums, specialists, celebrities, and area STEM experts.

Need an impromptu family plan? Our list of things to do in Boston this weekend will save you

Boston is a worthwhile family destination any time of year, but it’s especially fun to get out and explore when the winter doldrums set in. Rich in culture and full of historic sites, this bustling city offers an endless array of family fun. From ice skating through the country’s oldest public park to visiting world famous, interactive museums that engage kids with hands-on learning, there’s always something to do. Whether you’re visiting or you live here, these are the best places in Boston to explore with kids when you have a free weekend.

1. Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Come explore the beautiful Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The building itself is a work of art, but it is also full of wonderful art of all kinds. To get the kids excited about your visit, learn about the theft that happened in 1990 which is still an ongoing investigation. Reserve your tickets in advance as it is a popular spot to visit in the winter months.

What to Do This Weekend: Saturday Open Studio is an on-going, weekly drop-in art program offered at the museum. You'll find it in the Bertucci Education Studio. Programs change based on the season and the museum's current exhibits. But no matter when you go, you and the kids will always be able to spread your creative wings and try something new. This activity is included with admission.

25 Evans Way
Boston
Online: gardnermuseum.org

2. Explore The Mapparium

Weekends are a great time to explore the world's largest walk-in globe—The Mapparium. Located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library, this epic three-story, stain-glassed model of the world in 1935 is built to scale and its sphere is 30-feet in diameter. You can walk across this marvel via a glass bridge. Once you've wandered through this marvel, check out the "Our World: Mapping Progress" exhibit in the library.

210 Massachusetts Ave.
Boston
Online: marybakereddylibrary.org

3. Play at Boston Children's Museum

Founded in 1913, the Boston Children's Museum is the second oldest children's museum in the world! This hub for hands-on learning through play and engaging activities is designed to spark kids' imagination and curiosity. In addition to their collection of 50,000 items from all over the world, the Museum's exhibits include a kid-sized Construction Zone play space, an authentic Japanese house, a life-size animatronic Dilophosaurus, and a seemingly endless amount to learn and explore. Burn off energy by letting kids scale the three-story, enclosed vertical maze climbing structure. Parents should note that tickets must be purchased in advance and there are morning and afternoon sessions to choose from. 

What to Do This Weekend: We love that there are always different programs going on around the museum, so whenever you visit, you and the kids can find something new to do. But during the weekend, you can count on STEAM Lab programming, an art activity, and something exciting going on in the Japanese House too.

308 Congress St.
Boston
Online: bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Related: Boston's Best Museums for Kids That You'll Love Too

4. Spend Family Time at ICA Boston

There is always something going on at the ICA Boston. Right now, see 'To Begin Again: Artists and Childhood' about understanding the past and exploring the future. This exhibit is on view until February 26. Families with kids 12 and under get free admission on the last Saturday of the month (except in November and December). 

What to Do This Weekend: Saturday Family Play Dates at the ICA are what it's all about here. What you and the kids will find here changes monthly, but the Family Play Dates always coincide with the free last Saturdays. Be sure to get your tickets in advance, and consider a $5 donation to support the program if you're able.

25 Harbor Shore Dr.
Boston
Online: icaboston.org

5. Visit the Museum of Science

Indulge curious minds with a visit to the stellar Museum of Science. See a space science show in the amazing Charles Hayden Planetarium, behold a full-size Tyrannosaurus Rex model, and marvel at 'Cliff,' a 65 million-year-old fossil––one of only four nearly complete Triceratops on public display anywhere in the world! Kids will love getting hands-on in the Discovery Center where they can touch real fossils and get a close view of live animals. There's something to explore and learn about at every turn.

What to Do This Weekend: Weekends at Museum of Science are pretty much a kid's dream. IMAX films, planetarium shows, live demonstrations, and Omni films abound. Although the content changes every so often, you can count on kid-approved selections alongside programming that will engage parents too.

1 Science Park
Boston
Online: mos.org

6. Dive into New England Aquarium

Dive into exploration at the Aquarium's Giant Ocean Tank, a four-story, 200,000-gallon tank that contains a coral reef and hundreds of Caribbean Reef animals, including sting rays and sea turtles (bonus: look out for Myrtle the Turtle, who has called the space home since 1970). Get your hands wet at the shark and ray touch tank, visit a colony of over 80 penguins and two families of harbor seals and watch northern fur seals put on a show. Kids will love taking the plunge into this adventure.

What to Do This Weekend: Take in a show at the Simmons Theater on the weekends. Get there early or come later in the day to avoid the crowds.

1 Central Wharf
Boston
Online: neaq.org

7. Go Skating at Frog Pond at Boston Common

During the winter, families can glide across the glorious outdoor ice rink at Frog Pond at the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country. Rent ice skates, and even take skating lessons from coaches from The Skating Club of Boston Skating Academy. An adorable 'Bobby the Skating Seal' is available to rent for young skaters who need support on the ice. 

What to Do This Weekend: Grab your skates and plan to hit the ice with the kids. Get your tickets in advance.

38 Beacon St.
Boston
Online: bostonfrogpond.com

Related: Ice, Ice Baby: Where to Go Ice Skating in Boston

8. Spend Time at the USS Constitution Museum

Climb aboard "Old Ironsides," the oldest commissioned warship in the world that's still afloat. It was built under George Washington's command to protect America's ports. Kids will learn how to fire a cannon, scrub the deck, furl a sail, or haul a Billie goat onto the ship. This educational museum is sure to teach kids about what life was like at sea hundreds of years ago.

Good to Know: The Ship and Museum operate separately, so be sure to coordinate your visit to see both. 

What to Do This Weekend: Check out the USS Constitution—for free.

Building 22
Charlestown Navy Yard
Charlestown, MA
Online: ussconstitutionmuseum.org

9. Plan a Trip to the Museum of Fine Arts

You'll find over 450,000 works of art in the vast, global collections at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. Appreciate one of the largest collections of Monet's work outside of France, and study ancient coins, gems and jewelry, musical instruments, and stunning Egyptian art. On weekends September through June, the Museum hosts activities designed for kids aged 4 and up to indulge in art and uncover new discoveries throughout the Museum. 

What to Do This Weekend: Sign the kids up for a Studio Art Class. They take kids as young as 3 and as old as 11 for multi-week classes that meet quarterly. Our tip? Sign them up ASAP as these popular classes sell out quickly.

465 Huntington Ave.
Boston
Online: mfa.org

10. Go to the Harvard Museum of Natural History

Located on the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, you'll find an impressive array of mounted specimens and taxidermied animals for an up-close look at creatures big and small. David Rockefeller's collection of over 150,000 beetles is now on display as are rare rocks and gems for little rock-collecting enthusiasts. The Great Mammal Hall will be a standout, granting kids awe-inspiring looks at animals they may never see up close otherwise. Check the website for family programming which include taxidermy workshops and drawing birds.

26 Oxford St.
Cambridge, MA
Online: hmnh.harvard.edu

Our Favorite Free Things to Do in Boston Any Time

11. Hurry to the Boston Fire Museum

You'll find the Boston Fire Museum, which resides inside an old firehouse, just a block away from the Boston Children's Museum. Stop in to see firefighting artifacts and equipment and different types of fire engines and vehicles used by firefighters throughout America's history. Kids can get hands-on with fire hoses and sit in an old fire truck––and a highlight will be meeting Sparky, a real-life firehouse dog that's you guessed it, a Dalmatian. 

What to Do This Weekend: Visit. The only time the museum is open to the public is on Saturdays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

344 Congress St.
Boston
Online: bostonfiremuseum.com

12. Walk around Arnold Arboretum

The Arboretum will teach you all about the amazing world of plants. Kids will especially enjoy the StoryWalks and other self-guided activities like wildlife bingo. Family hikes are offered throughout the year or organize a group of your own friends to meet up (with cozy clothes for the winter weather). 

What to Do This Weekend: Check out a Discovery Pack from the Hunnewell Visitor Center and then get out to explore. Choose from one of three packs (Living Museum, Science Lab, or Be an Engineer) then put your discovery skills to the test as you work to complete one of the activities (there are multiple options to choose from). With so many packs and options to explore, you've got tons of reasons to make this one a return visit.

125 Arborway
Boston
Online: arboretum.harvard.edu

Related: Boston's Best Hikes for Kids for When You Need to Get Outside

13. Shop at Quincy Market

Families will love shopping and eating their way through the historic Quincy Market. This treasure trove of 18 restaurants and 35 colonnade eateries has everything from Boston Cream Pie and baked beans to lobster rolls and Boston clam chowder. Be sure to pop into Quincy's Place ice cream parlor/candy shop for your sweet fix. Kids will also get a kick out of comparing their shoe size to Boston Celtics basketball legend Larry Bird's shoe plaque just outside the Market.

206 S. Market St.
Boston
Online: quincy-market.com

 

Celebrate all things autumn by getting out into the country to enjoy some fabulous fall festivals

Autumn leaves are falling and the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air. That’s right – fall is here and with it comes a bevvy of family-friendly fall festivals. In the Portland area, we’re lucky to be surrounded by agriculture of all kinds, from the apple orchards of Hood River to pumpkin patches on Sauvie Island. All you need to do to get in on this autumn action is pick a weekend in October and get ready to press cider, pet goats, fly kites, and watch a pumpkin boat race that’s like no other around.

Families mill around bouncy houses during a fall festival in Bend, oregon

photo: Brian Becker

Bend Fall Festival

For a full weekend of fall fun, head to this three-day festival in Bend to celebrate the best of the autumn season with art, food, and music. Here you’ll find more than 80 artisans and craftspeople displaying their beautiful handiwork, design, and artistry in the heart of downtown, plus an Art in Action Avenue with live demonstrations, a Harvest Market teeming with seasonal, local produce, and a family play zone with everything from pumpkin painting to a bounce house.

Dates: Sep. 30-Oct. 2, 2022

Downtown Bend
N.W. Wall St. & N.W. Bond St.
Bend, OR
Event details

Related: Fuel Up! Fall Road Trips Portland Families Should Plan Now

Packer Orchards Fall Festival

You’ll find a ton of autumn fun at this fall festival that started mid-September and runs through October. Get lost (but not for too long) in the family-friendly corn maze or grab a burlap sack and slide down a giant hay slide. There are also cute farm animals to visit, your own pumpkin to pick, and an activity field to play in. With so many choices, you might have to visit on multiple days.

Dates: Thu.-Sun., now through Nov. 5, 2022

3020 Thomsen Rd.
Hood River, OR
Event details

Related: Get Lost! Family-Friendly Corn Mazes to Visit This Fall

The Fall Kite Festival

Take flight into the fall season at this kite festival in Lincoln City. Expect exciting kite demonstrations by experts, kite-making, a parade, and of course the colorful, giant kites floating above the beach. The Fall Kite Festival is an event like no other, with brilliant shapes and colors filling up the sky for the whole weekend.

Date: Oct. 1-2, 2022

D River State Recreation Site
101 US-101
Lincoln City, OR
Event details

Related: Fuel Up! Fall Road Trips Portland Families Should Take Now

Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

For the classic fall festival experience, with all the fresh produce, pumpkin-carving contests, and apple cider you could ask for, this is one of the region’s best. Your kids will enjoy the bouncy house and rock wall, along with other kids’ activities, while you can browse from a wide range of goods created by local artisans, and sip on local wine and beer. Extend your trip with a visit to any of the area’s many farms along the historic Fruit Loop, most of which will be offering harvest specials of their own.

Dates: Oct. 7-9, 2022

Hood River Event Site
North of Exit 63 off Interstate 84
Hood River, OR
Event details

people dressed in Halloween costumes float in giant pumpkins on the river at this fall festival outside of Portland, Oregon
City of Tualatin

photo: courtesy City of Tualatin

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Come to the silliest of the annual thrills to watch costumed competitors paddle giant pumpkins on Tualatin Lake. (Like, actual pumpkins, hollowed out into actual boats. Who’s with us?) The Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers supply the enormous gourds for this annual pumpkin boat race, open to paddlers 18 and older, chosen during a pre-event selection process. Besides cheering on the racers, there’s plenty for little ones to do, with children’s costume contests, pumpkin races, giant pumpkin weigh-offs, live music, and great food.

Dates: Oct. 15 & 16, 2022

Tualatin Lake of the Commons
8325 S.W. Nyberg St.
Tualatin, OR
Event details

Related: Oh My Gourd! Where to Pick the Best Pumpkins around Portland

Flock and Fiber Festival

For something off the well-beaten corn-maze path, head to Canby and check out this craft-centered weekend festival honoring the art of natural fibers. Visit the sheep, goats, and llamas; participate in a make-and-take workshop; and wander the marketplace to admire a wide range of handmade goods, from felted clothing to woven baskets. Kids’ activities, a cook-off, and a goat obstacle course round out the weekend.

Date: Oct. 15 & 16, 2022

Clackamas County Event Center
694 N.E. 4th Ave.
Canby, OR
Event details

carved pumpkins glow from within during Halloween, fall festivals
iStock

photo: iStock

Killer Pumpkin Fest

Killer Pumpkin Fest is back from the dead as Rogue’s signature event celebrating all things Halloween with storytelling, pumpkin beer, costume contests, ax throwing, pumpkin smashing, and many more activities for a full day of spookiness and fun. This event takes over the streets around the Eastside Pub with REI & Yeti, and you can expect prizes and swag, delicious brews, non-alcoholic drinks, and plenty of eats and treats. Bring the kiddos and pets in costume, and be ready for some autumn excitement, rain or shine.

Date: Oct. 29, 2022

Rogue Ales & Spirits
928 S.E. 9th Ave.
Portland
Event details

Related: Boo Ya! Amazing Halloween Events for Portland Kids

additional reporting by Dhyana Levey

Fall fairs in LA! From the largest corn mazes to the best photo-ops imaginable, discover the best fall festivals in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, with its plentiful palm trees and summery temperatures, may not feel like fall, but there are still plenty of chances for you and your kiddos to experience some of those classic autumn experiences aka: the fall festival (if you’re looking specifically for apples and pumpkins and leaf peeping—check out all the best places to go apple picking around LA, where to find your perfect pumpkin and all the nearby fall foliage spots we love around LA).

What makes the SoCal fall festival different from a regular pumpkin patch? There are loads more to discover than just the gourd—learn about and explore farm goods, wander fields and pick your own flowers, veggies (and yes, pumpkins), get lost in corn field mazes, ride an amusement park ride or two, and eat your way through loads of fall-friendly fare—all this and more at our favorite fall festivals in LA, SoCal, Orange County, Ventura and everywhere in between.

The Best Fall Festivals in Los Angeles County

Pumpkin Festival at Cal Poly: Cal Poly's College of Agriculture grows 40,000 pumpkins for this annual event, a smorgasbord of fall harvest traditions, including (obviously) a massive pumpkin patch, horse and pony rides, a petting zoo, duck races, a sunflower field, live music, games, a food court, and two corn mazes. What makes this festival different than some of the others is the focus on education (it's a college, after all). Families can wander down "Ag Discovery Lane" to check out various live demonstrations of things like blacksmithing, soap-making, beekeeping, sheep shearing and live cow-milking (which'll make your kid either appreciate—or abandon—their daily cup of milk). New this year: Pumpkin Land, a garden “gallery” of uniquely decorated pumpkins. And for an additional entrance fee, little bug-lovers will want to get a ticket for the festival's Insect Fair, which has 500,000 live and preserved insects from around the world.

Dates: Oct. 1-30
Cost: Thurs. & Fri.: Adults, $6; children 3–12, $5; kids under 3 are free. Sat. & Sun.: Adults: $10; children 3–12, $7. Certain events require additional tickets on the weekends

AGRIscapes Center
4102 S. University Dr.
Pomona
Online: cpp.edu

LA Fall Fair: The largest Fall Festival in Los Angeles County, you'll find 12 acres of amusement rides, live music, games, arts & crafts, and an international food court. Fair-goers can purchase a presale unlimited ride wristband for $25 that allows the fairgoer to ride all the rides as many times as they want for any one day of the event from open until close.

Dates: Oct. 21-Nov. 6
Cost: $5 per person; Under 12 and over 65 are free

1600 Rosemead Blvd.
South El Monte
Online: lapradaevents.com

Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery: For a different direction than farms and pumpkin patches, head to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for their spectacular Día de los Muertos event. Tour over 100 vibrant altars, uniquely decorated in honor of community members’ ancestors and loved ones; awards are given at the end of the day to the most memorable altars and best-dressed Calacas (skeletons). Many event goers arrive in magical costumes (best costume is awarded $500!). At the Children’s Plaza, kids can participate in art and crafting activities, face painting, and performances by the Bob Baker Marionettes. Families can also watch the procession featuring hundreds of Aztec ritual dancers, listen to music on five different stages and sample food from LA vendors.

Date: Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $35 (under 5 don’t require a ticket)

6000 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: hollywoodforever.com

The Best Fall Festivals in Ventura County

Underwood Family Farms: Celebrating its 21st year, Underwood Family Farms is the best-known fall festival in Los Angeles—and it's no wonder why. The (slightly steep) ticket price gives families a whole day's worth of activities, including a massive corn maze, a tractor-drawn wagon ride, an animal center with a menagerie of adorable farm animals, a chicken show (!), a farm-themed playground, pig races, and acres of open space for kids to sprint their sillies out. Shell out additional bucks and you can add more to your day, including pony rides, kid-drivable mini-tractors, and a train ride. There's also Moorpark's amazing farm stand, and enough pumpkins in the patch that you'll be sure to find one that's Jack-O-Lantern-worthy.

Dates: Oct. 1 through 31. The festival is open seven days a week, but the major programming, live music and shows happen on the weekend.
Cost: $22-$28 on the weekends; $14 on weekdays; kids under 2 are free. (Hint: Online tickets are required for weekends; for certain weekends, you can buy advanced tickets online for a discounted price.)

Weekend programming highlights include:
Oct. 1-2: "Friends of the Farm Weekend," a public safety-themed weekend, when the fair will be filled with all sorts of real-life superheroes including Bomb Squad and SWAT members, police K-9s, a Disaster Action Response Team display (DART)—plus police cars and police motorcycles that your kids will love getting to see up close.
Oct. 15-16: "Antique Tractor Weekend" where dozens of old tractors will be on display and their owners available to answer all your littles’ burning tractor questions. Plus, tractors go on parade at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 22-23: "Wild West Weekend," filled with cowboy entertainment including stunt ropers, a gold miner, a covered wagon, music, and more.

3370 Sunset Valley Rd.
Moorpark
Online: underwoodfamilyfarms.com/fall-harvest

The Best Fall Festivals in Orange County

Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch: Tanaka's 30-acres of Irvine farmland are open to the public year-round via U-pick and guided walking and wagon tours, but the farm ups its game during the Halloween season. This Fall Harvest Festival features carnival-style games, ATV and wagon rides, a pumpkin cannon, a corn maze and pumpkins as far as the eye can see. While you're there, pick up some farm-fresh veggies (straight out of the ground via U-Pick or from the farm stand), grab lunch from the Tanaka Farms Grille, or let the kids have some QT with the critters in the petting zoo. Note: There is no public drinking water, so bring your own water (or be prepared to buy drinks there) because it can get hot.

Dates: Weekends, Sept. 17 through Oct. 31
Cost: $10, with various activities costing additional fees

5380 3/4 University Dr.
Irvine
Online: tanakafarms.com

Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch: You’ll find this pumpkin patch just behind the Irvine Park Railroad station in Orange County. There’s a wide mix of classic fall activities. Free-of-charge ones include a haunted house, a hay maze, hay pyramids for kids to climb and photo stations. Buy tickets for pumpkin decorating, John Deere racers (the mini-sized versions, whew), panning for gold, hay and train rides, carnival games and more. And on Sept. 24, starting at 9 a.m., bring your best estimating skills to The Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off where prizes will be awarded to the biggest pumpkins.

Dates: Sept. 17-Oct. 31
Cost: Entrance to the pumpkin patch is free. Activity tickets are $7; pack of 15 tickets is $90. There is also a park entrance fee per vehicle of $3 on weekdays, $7 on weekends

1 Irvine Park Rd.
Orange
Online:
https://www.irvineparkrailroad.com/events/pumpkin-patch/

The Best Fall Festivals in the San Fernando Valley

Forneris Farms Fall Festival: Forneris Farms' annual fall festival boasts a four-acre cornfield maze that is so big that it takes about an hour to complete—and kids under 12 aren't allowed without a parent. Which is to say, it's super big, super fun and super worth it! Festival-goers can also enjoy pony rides, a tractor-pulled train ride and a tractor ride around the farm. Your littlest celebrants will be in Halloween heaven at the "Farm Frolic" area, which includes a giant pumpkin jumper, a hay bale pyramid, a hay bale mini-maze and more.

Good to Know: All attractions are cash only; there is an ATM on site.

Dates: Sept. 30 through Oct. 31
Cost: Entry is free to the farm and pumpkin patch, but attraction passes—which include the corn maze, train ride and Farm Frolic area—are a separate fee (ages 2 and under are free)

15200 Rinaldi St.
Mission Hills
Online: fornerisfarms.com

Calabasas Pumpkin Festival: Did you know that Calabasas comes from the Spanish word ‘calabaza’ meaning ‘pumpkin’ or ‘gourd?’ So, it makes sense that Calabasas would go all out for its annual weekend-long Pumpkin Festival, a Halloween-time tradition that been holding strong from more than 40 years. This year, festival-goers can expect a slew of fun seasonal entertainment, including live music, food booths (orange flags signify vendors with pumpkin-based treats), tons of vendor stands, spooky squash sculptures, a beer garden (with pumpkin beer!), pumpkin carving with Peculiar Pumpkin Portrait's Doug Goodreau, and kids' games. Admission price includes all inflatables, a giant slide, Halloween carnival games, reptiles and bug shows, and a Saturday morning costume parade.

Dates: Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $10-15, kids under 2 are free

3701 Lost Hills Rd.
Calabasas
Online: cityofcalabasas.com

The Best Fall Festival in Riverside County

fall festival corn maze los angeles
Anderson Schmig via Unsplash

Big Horse Corn Maze: Speaking of corn mazes, if you really want to get lost in the crops, it's worth the hour-ish drive out of town to test your navigation skills at the Big Horse Corn Maze & Harvest Festival, where its whopper of a maze is ranked as the biggest in all Southern California. We're talking over 11 acres of corn stalks to navigate, which is no easy task, especially with little ones in tow. (FYI: If you give up, there are emergency exits along the way. And your bigger Harry Potter fans will love how much like the Tri-Wizard Tournament's final task this feels!)

Dates: Oct. 1-3; Tues.-Fri. 1-5 p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $15 (ages 5 and under are free). Each group must have a parking pass as well, parking $5

33320 Temecula Pkwy.
Temecula
Online: bighorsecornmaze.com

Myrtle Beach is a destination renowned for its beaches and sunshine, but there’s a lot more than meets the eye. With historic neighborhoods and an active arts community, you’ll also find plenty to keep the culture and history buffs in your crew busy for days. Here are five ideas for finding family-friendly arts and culture in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

1. Go on a Museum-Go-Round 

Pack up a sketchbook and head to The Burroughs and Chapin Art Museum a.k.a the Myrtle Beach Art Museum to discover art exhibits in a variety of mediums, from watercolor to textile arts. Check their calendar for Saturday KidsArt programming and Community Family Days. Don’t forget to replenish your art supplies at the gorgeous gift shop. For an active local history museum, check out the North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum, free for kids 5 and under and just $3 for kids five to 12. 

2. Discover Hidden Gems in a State Park

Located at Murrells Inlet, a historic area where you’ll also find Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, head to Huntington Beach State Park. In addition to three miles of breathtaking beach, you’ll also find the historic Atalaya Castle. It is also the site of an Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival held each September. While you’re at the park you’ll also have a chance to see loggerhead turtles and other endangered plant and animal species. They frequently have family-friendly programming in the summer and on weekends. 

3. Get Lost in an Art Lover’s Paradise 

Not all art is hanging in museums. Explore the ruins of what was once a Spanish-inspired winter home for the founders of Brookgreen Gardens. As the largest outdoor sculpture garden in the world, Brookgreen Gardens is a sprawling display of beauty both man-made and natural. In addition to touring the works of art, you can marvel at the botanical gardens, check out the Lowcountry Zoo, take a pontoon boat ride, visit the butterfly house, and discover native plants and animals. All in a golden afternoon.

4. Celebrate Gullah Culture

Visiting a plantation with the kids can be a tangible hands-on way to help children understand slavery and the complex history of race in the United States. When you visit Hopsewee Plantation, you will see firsthand what life was like for an enslaved person on a southern plantation. But you will also celebrate the African experience and their contributions to society on both a local and national level.

Through live demonstrations, classes, tours, displays, and storytelling, you will learn about the Gullah Geechee people and the special significance of their creolized culture and language, directly from members of the Gullah Community. Every Thursday, Vera Manigault, an eighth-generation Gullah descendent, teaches sweetgrass weaving, a tradition that originated among the first enslaved people from West Africa. Hopsewee also has on-site dining featuring regional Lowcountry cuisine, ghost tours, and acres of beautiful gardens. 

5. Be a Farmer for a Day 

Head to the Horry County Museum in nearby Conway to check out the L.W. Paul Living History Farm. Kids can experience what life was like on a family farm from 1900 to 1955 through guided tours, demonstrations, and various events throughout the year. Don’t forget to check out the freshwater tank aquarium to see local fish. Bonus: the museum is free. And for even more area history, hop on one of Myrtle Beach History Trolley Tours to learn all about the area’s rich past from ghosts, pirates, movies, military, and famous who’s-who. The bus, which departs from Market Common, is air-conditioned, making it a welcome and entertaining rest for the wary. 

To learn more about Myrtle Beach’s storied past through its art, history and culture, head to visitmyrtlebeach.com!

—Amber Guetebier

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From artwork from the great masters to the ingenuity of crafters, Seattle’s ever-changing museum scene is great for families. It means you and the kids can visit your favorite Seattle museums again and again and still find new things to do, touch and see. Here are the newest museum openings for 2020, coolest perks for families and hot new exhibits we can’t wait to show our kids.

Asian Art Museum

Asian Art Museum
Asian Art Museum

It's here! And we couldn't be more excited about the Asian Art Museum's reopening. The new building and museum's approach feature a radically different point of view. Instead of grouping art by nation, exhibits are now grouped by a dozen intersecting themes including, “Worship and Celebration,” “Visual Arts and Literature” and “Clothing and Identity.” If you weren't one of the lucky 10,000 Seattlites to score free tickets to the weekend re-opening Feb. 8, you've still got time to check out new family-friendly exhibits like...

What's Hot: The Free First Saturday program with Sammy the camel, who invites families to get inspired in the new galleries and make their own masterpieces in the studio. The monthly three-hour event is free, but you need to reserve tickets ahead of time. Look for the reboot Mar. 7, 2020.

Volunteer Park
1400 E. Prospect St.
Seattle, WA  98112
206.654.3210
Online: seattleartmuseum.org

Seattle Selfie Museum

Seattle Selfie Museum
Elyse S. via yelp

More of a paean to pop than a traditional museum, the just-opened Seattle Selfie Museum is located near the Gum Wall at Pike Place Market. It's a different type of art museum—a place where the art is you! “Built for the 21st century digital nomad” this place is filled with room upon room of different props for you and your little guys and gals to create the ultimate selfie. (Is too early to plan for a Christmas card photo?) There is a lot to see here, but you should be able to see it all within 30-45 minutes.

What's Cool: Everything here is “selfie-ready” and unlike other stuffy museums, you can touch anything you want. Just don’t jump into other people’s pictures.

Post Alley
92 Union St.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-487-4500
Online: seattleselfiemuseum.com

The Museum of Flight

Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight

Just about every type of flying machine can be found here, but why just look at the planes when you can fly them? Virtually of course, but still…The Museum of Flight offers The Pilot Experience during certain weekends each month. These one-hour sessions will test you and your co-pilot (kids 10 & up) to see if you’ve got what it takes to fly a real Cirrus SR20. It is an extra $20. Younger pilots will appreciate the Kid’s Flight Zone where they can check out the hang gliding simulators, send an air balloon to the ceiling, play with aircraft instrumentation, sit in cockpits and more.

What's New: The veteran U.S. Army Boeing CH-47D Chinook helicopter has just arrived as a new addition. “The Old Lady” was the oldest flyable Chinook in the world-wide Army inventory when it was taken off of flight status in 2017 after 54 years of service.

9404 E. Marginal Way S.
Seattle, WA 98108
206-764-5700
Online: museumofflight.org

Museum of History & Industry

MOHAI
Mojdeh S. via yelp

The Museum of History & Industry collects and preserves artifacts and stories from all over the Puget Sound celebrating our diverse culture. MOHAI offers unique perspectives with their exhibits like the Bezos Center for Innovation, which highlights creative solutions that were invented in Seattle; True Northwest, diving into the Puget Sound's history from the 1790’s to today; and Maritime Seattle, which highlights the various maritime activities around the Sound.

What's New: MOHAI's Kid-Struction Zone, for kids ages 2-7, is open for the season. This temporary exhibit encourages little minds to learn through fun, hands-on interactions while stimulating curiosity and creativity. Now through August 31, 2020, kids can explore the different rotating elements including a Duplo table, a tool bench, reading stations, historic photograph viewing, magnet boards, a felt table and graphic panels with ideas for building structures with blocks. And guess what? Kids get in free!

860 Terry Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-3245-1126
Online: mohai.org

Seattle Children's Museum

Seattle Children's Museum
courtesy Seattle Children's Museum

Located in the shadow of the Space Needle, the Seattle Children's Museum boasts over 18,000 square-feet of play space, designed for kids up to 8 years of age, and it's where you can find plenty of hands-on exhibits to explore as well as daily educational programs, story times and art activities that are free with the cost of admission. Exhibits include the Dunn Lumber Construction Zone, Sound Transit, The Market, COG City, Discovery Bay, Global Village, Imagination Studio, Eye Clinic, Mountain and Tribal Tales.

What's Cool: The Bijou Theatre at the museum recently got an upgrade including new theatrical lighting, light faders, sound effects, new curtains and a bright and shiny dressing room. Your little “American Idol” or “America’s Got Talent” star needs to take a look!

305 Harrison St.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-441-1768
Online: thechildrensmuseum.org

Pacific Science Center

PacSci seattle, museums, indoor playspaces
courtesy Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is always a fun destination with their IMAX movies, laser shows, planetarium, tropical butterfly house and more. You can enter the 4th dimension and then enter realities that you have never experienced before. These immersive experience are something PacSci says you need to see, feel and even smell to believe.

What's Hot: Regardless of what exhibits draw you in, don’t miss out on the live demonstrations. Admit it. You are just as interested in things that go boom as your kids.

200 2nd Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-443-2001
Online: pacificsciencecenter.org

Museum of Pop Culture

MoPOP
Colby D. via yelp

The Museum of Pop Culture is an ever-changing museum offering insights on everything from music and video games to movies, sports and more. While there is something for everyone here, we recommend MoPOP for families with older kids who can appreciate Sci-fi wonders and Fantasy worlds. Just about every kid (and parent who wished that they had become a rock star) will love the Sound Lab where they can actually learn to play different band instruments in a matter of minutes! Currently, they feature these exhibits: Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Magic, Minecraft: The Exhibition, Infinite Worlds of Science Fiction, Sound Lab and a lot more.

What's Cool: It’s amazing what you’ll find here including the Cowardly Lion costume and the Wicked Witch of West’s hat, as well as items used in the making of The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. There's so much pop history to explore!

325 5th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-770-2700
Online: mopop.org

Burke Museum

burke museum seattle free days
courtesy Burke Museum

The new Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture is housed within a 113,000 square-foot building that's 66-percent larger than its old facility, and with it comes a lot of new changes and additions. First of all, you'll see scientists at work—they're actually on display! Little white boards posted at the large windows will tell you what they are up to and in same cases, you'll be invited inside. New family spaces have been designed allowing your little guys and gals to climb, crawl, look, touch and ultimately learn as they explore. Here, kids can also climb on an orca whale, investigate a large log, explore a tide pool, board a Northwest Indian canoe, check out a research tent and dress up like animals to see how well they blend in at the "camouflage corner."

What's Hot: The new museum also has a new dining venue called Off the Rez, an offshoot of the local food truck featuring handmade frybread, Indian tacos, wild rice bowls, salads and espresso beverages. So good!

4300 15th Ave. N.E.
Seattle, WA 98105
206-543-7907
Online: burkemuseum.org

Seattle Art Museum

SAM
Tony J. via yelp

The Seattle Art Museum is a more traditional art museum that features an extensive collection of works including, oil paintings, photography, watercolor, sculpture to name a few. While some of it may be a little too “high brow” from the younger set, there's plenty for kids to enjoy and interact with. Be sure to check out the Chase Open Studio, where you'll find everything you need to create your own piece of art inspired by major themes in SAM's current special exhibition, and the Ann P. Wyckoff Education Resource Center, which has been considered a "launchpad to explore works of art and spark creative learning".

What's Cool: SAM’s Olympic Sculpture Park is a must-see and is free for everyone. Follow the trail through this nine-acre park to find amazing sculptures, giant art and fun, interactive beauty. The trail is equipped with ADA accessible ramps and wide paths.

1300 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-654-3100

Olympic Sculpture Park
2901 Western Ave.
Seattle, WA 98121
Online: seattleartmuseum.org

KidsQuest Children's Museum

KidsQuest museum
KidsQuest via yelp

What makes this children’s museum in Bellevue stand out is its emphasis on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math). All of the exhibits are geared toward kids age 10 and under, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself playing alongside your kids. Exhibits include the Atrium Climber, Bellevue Mercantile, Train Table in Cityscape, Connections Gallery, Big Rig on the Go, Sticks and Stones, Story Tree, Tot Orchard and Water Gallery. Plus, the souped-up daily programming means there's always something interesting and engaging going on whenever you visit.

What's Cool: While the Atrium Climber is pretty cool, we can’t get past the fact that this museum features the front half of a real semi truck for kids to climb inside and let their imagination take them wherever they want to go.

1116 108th Ave. N.E.
Bellevue, WA 98004
425-637-8100
Online: kidsquestmuseum.org

Bellevue Arts Museum

Bellevue Arts Museum
courtesy Bellevue Arts Museum

For over 70 years, the Bellevue Arts Museum (or BAM) has been celebrating artists and the people who love their work. From the ornate to the whimsical, there is much to appreciate here. Even if you don’t like what you see initially, just turn the corner and you might be surprised by what you might find.

What's Hot: Well worth the wait is BAM's upcoming “America’s Monster, Superheroes, and Villains” opening Sept. 4, 2020 and running through Jan. 4, 2021. The exhibit will be set up using five different themes: Unintended Consequences; Truth, Justice, and the American Way; Innocent Monsters; With Great Responsibility Comes Great Power; and Myths and Legends. From Superman to robots to the Universal classic monsters, they’ll all be there.

510 Bellevue Way N.E.
Bellevue, WA 98004
425-519-0770
Online: bellevuearts.org

National Nordic Museum

National Nordic museum, seattle, free days
Mark M. via yelp

If there’s a Viking in your family, check out the Museum's Nordic Journeys exhibit which is a hands-on, kid-friendly display about the immigration story from the "old country” to the United States, then to Seattle and on to Ballard. For your preschooler, he or she will delight in the free Nordic Stories programs which involves a Nordic story and a related craft. Check out more fun events here.

What's New: Family Fun Thursday happens the 2nd Thursday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Drop in for special activities. The first one involved a craft projects using LEGO bricks. What will it be next month? No reservation is required and the program is free with museum admission.

2655 N.W. Market St.
Seattle, WA 98107
206-789-5707
Online: nordicmuseum.org

Children's Museum of Tacoma

Children's Museum of Tacoma

While this museum is not as large as some of the others on this list, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma has gotten Goldilock’s approval: its size is just right. This is a bright and cheery place, where “play is celebrated every day.” Here you’ll finds a large (and very clean) water table, a fantastically fun art studio and a variety of interactive playscapes to spark kid’s imagination. This is a “pay as you will” museum which relies on donations but also allows everyone to come in and have fun.

What's Cool: Check out their small Café Play when the Littles get hungry or parents need a pick-me-up of the caffeinated variety.

1501 Pacific Ave.
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-627-6031
Online: playtacoma.org

LeMay’s America’s Car Museum

LeMay's Car Museum
LeMay Car Museum

LeMay’s is full to the brim with Cadillacs, Chevrolets and NASCAR cars (and everything in-between). As if looking at great cars wasn’t cool enough, LeMay’s America’s Car Museum features “The Family Zone” which is a place where kids of all ages can take the Road Trip Challenge, learn how cars work, drive an ACM virtually, race pinewood cars and design your own car at the Art Station. Also be sure to check out the Learning Lab.

What's Hot: LeMay’s offers special Drive-In movies in summer. Grab dinner at one of the picnic concessions and watch the 40-foot outdoor screen from your car, a blanket or chair. The movies are free!

2702 E. D St.
Tacoma, WA 98421
253-779-8490
Online: americascarmuseum.org

Frye Art Museum

Frye Art Museum
courtesy Frye Art Museum

Check out the Museum's Small Frye: Storytelling + Art, which bring local actors and musicians to present fun and inspiring performances for the littlest art lovers. Other activities include counting, recognizing sizes, shapes, colors and patterns as well as enacting animal activities and identifying weather. The program is designed for kids ages 3-5 and their caregivers and occurs on the first Friday of the month from 10:30 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Note: Seating is limited and attendance at storytelling is required for art activity; reservations are recommended. Admission is free.

What's Cool: The Frye’s Café Frieda makes for a great place for a snack or lunch. The kid’s menu includes a Nutella & Raspberry Jam Sandwich and a Kids Board which contains Nutella, sliced apples and Tillamook cheddar cheese. Hmmm. Maybe we’ll take one as well!

704 Terry Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-622-9250
Online: fryemuseum.org

Museum of Glass

Museum of Glass
Keo N. via yelp

Tacoma’s Museum of Glass is dedicated to glassmaking as well as glass displaying. It is the West Coast’s largest and most active museum glass studio around. You will be just as mesmerized as your kids watching glassmaking performed right in front of you. Not only that, but you can give it a try yourself. The museum offers education studio workshops all the time and believe it or not, there are some hands-on projects geared for kids! Every day that the museum is open, there will be something to do. From fusing to mosaics, you’ll find it here.

What's Hot: The Kids Design Class program for kids age 12 and under allows kids to think outside of the box and put their inspiration to paper. One drawing is selected each month and will be blown into glass art that kids get to keep!

1801 Dock St.
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-284-4750
Online: museumofglass.org

Hands On Children's Museum

Hands On Children's Museum
courtesy Hands On Children's Museum

With the goal being a premier provider of “hands-on” science and art, we can attest that Olympia’s Hands On Children’s Museum has succeeded. There is so much fun stuff to do and see here including these exhibits: Arts & Parts Studio, Build It!, Emergency!, Our Fabulous Forest, Good for You, Move It!, Outdoor Discovery Center, Tides to Trees Climber and Snug Harbor for wee ones ages 4 and under. Long story short, this children's museum is popular for a reason.

What's New: Ahoy there land lubbers! The “Megan D” is a vintag56’ schooner exhibit at the museum's recreated Puget Sound Beach. While onboard, kids can use the rope climb to reach the top deck high above ground, navigate the ship's rope ladder to the lower deck, explore the crow's nest, learn about wind power and even walk the plank!

414 Jefferson St. N.E.
Olympia, WA 98501
360-956-0818
Online: hocm.org

—Jeffrey Totey

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They say the quickest way to a kid’s heart is through his tummy. That’s true where gummy bears and ice cream are concerned, at least. Get your family curious about where their food comes from by taking a factory or warehouse tour. There is a lot of food and drink made in the Chicago area and some manufacturers will take you behind the scenes. Flip through our album to discover tours for fans of candy, coffee and beer (both root and the grownup varieties).

Jelly Belly Warehouse Tour

Quinn Dombrowski

Hop on the Jelly Belly Train (yes, it's a thing) to tour the warehouse and learn through videos how candy corn, jellybeans and gummies are made. Shop the store to enjoy the sample bar, where visitors can taste each flavor as well as any favorite or new confection on the day’s menu. If you find yourself there at lunchtime, small bites are available at the Jelly Belly Snack Bar. Guided tours are scheduled 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and groups of visitors are taken around every 10-15 minutes. 

10100 Jelly Belly Lane, Pleasant Prairie, WI (866-TOUR-JBC or jellybelly.com)

Intelligentsia Coffee

K Tao via flickr

Show your kids what happens behind the scenes to create the lifeblood of exhausted parents everywhere by taking them on a tour of Intelligentsia Coffee. Visitors will learn every aspect of coffee making with live demonstrations of the roasting process and discussions of everything involved between the farmer growing the beans and the coffee being savored in the mug. Enjoy all the freshly brewed coffee you can drink while on the tour and leave with the shakes and a free 12 oz. bag of freshly roasted coffee. Tour admission is $30 for adults and free for children under the age of 13. Tour availability is limited and reservations are highly recommended.

1850 W. Fulton St., Chicago (312-521-7976 or intelligentsiacoffee.com)

Long Grove Confectionery

Long Grove Confectionary

This local gem is a wholesale supplier of more than 300 gourmet confections sold throughout the country, their signature confection being the Milk Chocolate Pecan Myrtle. Tours of their facility are offered for groups of 10 or more, but sometimes you can join an existing tour if you’re short a few people. Kids will get a kick out of the 2,500-pound chocolate Statue of Liberty and 500-pound Santa sculptures that greet visitors. The tour starts with a video explaining how chocolate is made and moves on to the kitchen viewing area, were depending on the production schedule, you’ll see anything from caramel being cooked in copper pots to cream and butter filling churning in huge mixers. Watch as staff hand paints colored chocolate into the molds prior to filling, resulting in what looks like miniature pieces of art.

Tours cost $2 per person and are available Monday-Friday. Reservations are required and live production is not guaranteed. Stick around after the tour to shop for treats in their factory store.

333 Lexington Ave., Buffalo Grove (847-459-3100 or http://www.longgrove.com/factory-tours/)

Filbert's Root Beer

Filbert's

Filbert’s doesn’t offer a scripted tour of their facilities, but their friendly staff is always more than happy to show customers around their bottling facility. They’re most known for root beer, but they produce 25 soda flavors in total. Before you go in to buy your mixed case or keg of soda, call ahead to see if they’re bottling that day so you can see the operation in action.

3430 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago (773-847-1520 or filbertsrootbeer.com)

Two Brothers Brewery

Gerry T. via Yelp

Here’s a tour that the grownups will get excited about. Two Brothers was started in 1996 by — you guessed it — two brothers with a passion for microbrews. They open their doors for guests of any age for 45-minute tours, just check their online calendar for dates and times. Reservations are not required and guests are treated to the sights, smells and, for those 21 years and older, tastes of the brewery. Come hungry so you can enjoy the extensive menu at Tap House.

30W315 Calumet Ave., Warrenville (630-393-4800 or twobrothersbrewing.com

Albenese Confectionary

Albanese Confectionary

Not only does Albanese make gummies as pretty as they are delicious, they welcome visitors to take a peek into the manufacturing process for what have become known as the “World’s Best Gummies.” Tours are designed for all ages and consist of viewing the Gummi Factory through eight separate windows and watching videos explaining the creation of gummies and Gold Label chocolates. Free self-guided tours take about 5-15 minutes and are available any time during normal business hours (Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.); no reservations required. You’re rewarded at the end with samples of the freshest gummi and chocolate samples you’ll ever eat.

5441 E. Lincoln Highway, Merrillville, IN (855-272-3227 or albanesecandy.com)

Plant Chicago

Jason B. via Yelp

The Plant is a 93,500-square-foot former pork processing facility that has been transformed into a collaborative community of small businesses focused on growing, producing and sourching a variety of food products. It is currently home to over a dozen small businesses, including indoor and outdoor farms. Take a self-guided tour Saturdays between noon-2 p.m., to learn more about circular economy principles, view their waste museum, hear from interns, and explore and explore a demonstration aquaponic system. 

1400 W. 46th St., Back of the Yards (773-847-5523 or plantchicago.org)

— Maria Chambers

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Spring is finally in the air, and this year L.A. will be super blooming with special events, activities, and more to help you and your family enjoy the season. We’ve put together a list of our fun-filled favorites, making sure there’s something that everyone can do. Grab your planner and get ready to scroll through all the fantastic weekend outings March has to offer.

Super Blooms

Descanso Gardens

All these rains are most likely going to result in a spectacular show of flowers from the coast all the way to the desert. If you missed the flowers two years ago, now's your chance to see how amazing the mountains and hills look covered in a blanket of yellow, pink and red. Throughout Mar. 

Check state park websites for up to date information as well as some of our favorite local botanical spots.

Online: descansogardens.org

Online: malibucreekstatepark.org

Online: theabf.org

Online: antelopepoppyreserve.gov

Have a Whale of a Time

Michael Dawes via flickr

Every Mar., 40-50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, earning its reputation as the “Whale Capital of the West.” Take in the city’s annual Festival of Whales, which includes whale watching boat tours and a whole host of other activities for kids of all ages. Browse art shows featuring works from local award-winning artists and high school art students or watch the 4th annual Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash featuring a beach of captains racing in the harbor with nothing but a paddle and their cardboard ships. 

Budding artists can help to paint a life-sized whale, and if you’re feeling lucky, compete in the Diamond Dig and to search for buried treasure ranging from toys and prizes to one beautiful piece of diamond jewelry. Don’t forget about the Festival of Whales Parade, which kicks off the whole event with sea-themed floats and more.

Good to Know: The festival encompasses two weekends, multiple locations and individual events. Be sure to plan your visit in advance with the help of the website. Mar. 2-3, Mar. 9-10. Event Details

Learn About Man's Best Friend

California Science Center

On Mar. 16, the new, highly anticipated and interactive science exhibition called Dogs! A Science Tail highlights the dynamic nature of the bond between humans and dogs finally opens! Explore the world, from a dog's point of view, through a variety of hands-on exhibits—from listening to sounds that only dogs can hear to better understanding how pets strengthen our communities.

Make sure to catch the daily, live demonstrations of dogs in various roles showing rescue, agility, sensory and service skills. Dog lovers will also have a chance to share personal stories and photos of their own precious pooches on a photo wall. AW!

Good to Know: Want to make a day of it? Purchase tickets to Superpower Dogs, a 3D IMAX. It’s a live-action family film about extraordinary real-life dogs who save lives, protect us from danger and make our world a better place. Opens Mar. 16. Event Details.

Go Fly a Kite

The Pier at Redondo Beach

Send the whole family’s spirit soaring at the Festival of the Kite on the Redondo Beach Pier. Celebrating its 45th year, the longest-running kite festival in Southern California plays host to both expert kite flyers and novices alike. If your little one has ever asked you to fly a kite, this is the perfect place to do it while picking up some pro tips along the way. But getting your own kite airborne isn’t a must to enjoy the fun—get artistic creating your own kite or simply enjoy the view and the sand beneath your toes. Mar. 10.  Event Details.

Good to Know: There’s lots more to enjoy at the Pier—check out our guide to family fun along the Redondo Beach Pier.

Go for the Gold

Bill Abbot via flickr

What kid hasn’t dreamed of finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Pack up your four-leaf clover hunters for a morning of St. Patrick’s Day fun in Malibu that includes a search for a pot of gold. This event will delight the littlest leprechauns who can take in a story, craft an art activity and nibble on snacks. There’s also a special surprise guest and giveaway planned. Two gold hunt times are available (10:15 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.); sign-ups will be offered at the check-in booth at 9:45 a.m. Mar. 15. Event Details.

Flower Power

Descanso Gardens

Celebrate Cherry Blossom season at Descanso Gardens. Skip your morning treadmill and take the kids on a spring bloom walk where you can learn about cherry blossoms, flowering trees, and other seasonal favorites. Budding artists will be delighted to take in one of the origami hands-on demonstrations where they can even try their hand at it with the help of seasoned pros. Throughout Mar. Event details.

Good to Know: Before you go, check out our family guide to exploring Descanso Gardens.

Run for It

Channone Arif via flickr

With 24,000 participants, thousands of volunteers, hundreds of thousands of spectators (and numerous road closures), the Los Angeles Marathon is hard to miss. The scenic “Stadium to the Sea” course spans the city, starting at Dodger Stadium and finishes near the Santa Monica Pier.

While 26.2 miles isn't something to tackle on the fly, consider walking the kids down to the route to cheer on participants as they run. You might also be lucky enough to see one of the dozens of bands that play along the course, or lift your spirits at Cheer Alley, near Mile 18 and home to over 600 local cheerleaders encouraging runners to the finish line. Mar. 24. Event details.

 

Magical Tea Party

Meghan Rose

Imagine Queen Elizabeth meeting Harry Houdini and that, in a nutshell, is the best way to describe the Langham Hotel’s Imagine Tea. Aspiring mini magicians will enjoy close-up magic courtesy of famed Magic Castle junior performers as they sip on pink lemonade and fruit-infused caffeine-free tea while nibbling on tea sandwiches and whimsical desserts. Presented quarterly, this spellbinding tea party benefits local children’s non-profit organizations with The Langham Huntington, Pasadena donating a portion of each tea party’s proceeds to such charities. Mar. 3. Event Details.

Chow Down

Smorgasburg via flickr

If you haven't gone yet, no more excuses! Eat your way through downtown L.A.’s legendary Smorgasburg at ROW DTLA. Sample delicious delights from over 70 vendors including goa-taco, Amazebowls, Shrimp Daddy, Lobsterdamus, Big Mozz and more. Once your bellies are full, browse special popup vendors, experience unique shopping and take in all that this market has to offer. Every Sun. Event Details.

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to this weekend, follow us on Instagram!

—Jenny Heller & Andie Huber

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Winter’s not always easy, especially when you’ve stir-crazy kids on your hands. The next time cabin fever sets in, escape to an amazing museum that caters to kids. You’ll spend the day cozy and warm inside while also learning about science, history and art: a win-win! These children’s museums are totally worth a visit—read on to get all the details about the best one in every single state.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

1. Alabama: McWane Science Center, Birmingham
Since opening its doors in 1998, McWane Science Center has welcomed millions of visitors to learn about all things STEM through exciting hands-on experiences. Permanent indoor exhibits include Itty Bitty Magic City (a play area perfect for kindergarteners and younger tots), Alabama Dinosaurs (featuring fossils discovered in the state) and NatureScope (discover birds and creepy crawly things).

Online: mcwane.org

2. Alaska: Fairbanks Children’s Museum, Fairbanks
The Fairbanks Children’s Museum is all about play-based learning, and kids have a blast with all the awesome hands-on experiences and programs. You can get messy with hands-on art programs, mingle with other parents and tots during special meetups and scale a rock wall, just to name a few.

Online: fairbankschildrensmuseum.com

3. Arizona: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Phoenix
With over 48,000 square feet of play space, there’s enough to do at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix to keep your tots busy all day long. There are more than 300 play experiences spread over three floors, in addition to a range of classes about everything from fossils to art. Be sure to check out the Schuff-Perini Climber, a tree-like sculpture that gives kids a bird’s-eye view of the museum’s atrium.

Online: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

4. Arkansas: Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville
Your crew will love the Amazeum, an awesome interactive museum with a focus on art, science and Arkansas culture. Be sure to check out the climbable tree canopy, indoor cave and tinkering hub, in addition to daily activities like DIY workshops, day camps, and playgroups. There’s even a Cloud Theater that gives you space to relax with calming music and time-lapse images of clouds.

Online: amazeum.org

5. California: Exploratorium, San Francisco
With more than 650 exhibits, you need at least a day or two in order to see and try everything at San Francisco’s Exploratorium. Truly a hands-on interactive experience for ages 4 to 12, kids can take a sensory-loaded trip through a tactile dome, experiment in a tinkering studio and play in an eye-catching shadow box, and that’s just scratching the surface. The hundreds of exhibits are built in-house and are constantly evolving, which makes every trip unique.

Online: exploratorium.edu

Jenifer O. via Yelp

6. Colorado: Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, Denver
The Children’s Museum of Denver offers a nine-acre campus for kids of all ages to explore. Highlights include Altitude, where mini mountain climbers will make their way up and around over three levels of Colorado heritage to reach the lookout at the tippy top, and Box Canyon, an indoor mountain range for the small set. Don’t miss out on The Teaching Kitchen, Fire Station No. 1 and Art Studio, too.

Online: mychildsmuseum.org

7. Connecticut: Kidcity Children’s Museum, Middletown
Kids ages 1 to 7 will have a blast exploring Kidcity’s one-of-a-kind, hands-on exhibits, all of which are built by in-house artists. There’s a Fishery, where you’ll use conveyors to bring in the catch of the day; a Space Age Roadtrip, where friendly aliens take a trip on Route 66; and a medieval village called Middleshire, where kids can build a castle and keep watch for Vikings. Be sure to block out a good chunk of time for your visit—they’ll be entertained for hours!

Online: kidcitymuseum.com

8. Delaware: Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington
Your little explorers will have the chance to discover the worlds of science, math and technology at the Delaware Children’s Museum. Monkey around in the Stratosphere, a cool climbing structure that overlooks the museum’s lobby; learn what an architect does and how buildings take shape, and let your tiniest tots play on a model train in the transportation-themed area.

Online: delawarechildrensmuseum.org

9. Florida: Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa
During your visit to Glazer Children’s Museum, kids will have the chance to set sail on a cruise ship, become a firefighter for the day, build a pillow fort and explore an indoor playground. Psst ... they offer free admission on the first Tuesday of every month, along with bimonthly events for kids with special needs.

Online: glazermuseum.org

10. Georgia: Atlanta Children’s Museum, Atlanta
You’re bound to have a blast at Atlanta’s go-to destination for little learners. Gateway to the World invites mini explorers to climb through the layers of the earth and enter a one-of-a-kind, child-powered, rotating globe, while Step up to Science hosts a permanent lab with experiments conducted on a daily basis. Babies and toddlers can cast a line, enter a magical forest and even climb a tree house in Leaping into Learning, while older kids can work the farm, flip burgers in the diner and shop till they drop in Fundamentally Food. Don’t forget to look for the art studio in Let Your Creativity Flow, too!

Online: childrensmuseumatlanta.org

E K. via Yelp

11. Hawaii: Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center, Honolulu
Whether you’re an island dweller or just on Oahu for vacation, the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center is definitely worth a visit. Kids are encouraged to use their senses of touch, sight, hearing and smell to gain a better understanding of the world around them. Highlights include Tot Spot (a special play zone for your tiniest ones), Fantastic You (an up-close and personal look at the human body) and Rainforest Adventures (an exploration of rainforests and our precious natural resources).

Online: discoverycenterhawaii.org

12. Idaho: Museum of Clean, Pocatello
For a seriously unique experience, you’ve got to check out the Museum of Clean. There’s not just one focus here—everything from clean air to clean water to clean language is covered. Kids will love exploring the museum’s play areas and interactive features (and looking at a massive collection of vacuum cleaners is pretty fun, too!).

Online: museumofclean.com

13. Illinois: Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview
To folks living or vacationing in the greater Chicago area, Kohl Children’s Museum is just what the doctor ordered for beating back the winter blues. With 17 permanent exhibits, kids are able to expend tons of extra energy when they become veterinarians, nature explorers, chefs, mechanics and even Whole Foods employees, all in one day! It does get busy when the wind chill drops, but seeing your littles get in a full day of imaginary play is worth the crowds. Don't want to leave for lunch? Stop off at the Cosi in the museum’s entryway for food and drinks.

Online: kohlchildrensmuseum.org

14. Indiana: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis
Worthy of a vacation in itself, lucky families who visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis are in for five floors of energy-zapping activities and fun. The granddaddy of all children’s museums has almost 500,000 square feet of exhibition space, 11 permanent exhibits and over 120,000 real artifacts in the museum collections. Kids can discover prehistoric beasts in Dinosphere, visit the International Space Station, travel far and wide in Treasures of the Earth, or take a virtual ride on the steam engine designed to tackle the steepest railroad grade in the country in All Aboard!

Online: childrensmuseum.org

15. Iowa: Iowa Children’s Museum, Coralville
The Iowa Children’s Museum is all about inspiring kids to learn and grow through play, and their multi-sensory exhibits hit it out of the park. Aspiring chefs get to work in a pretend pizzeria; tots can learn basic physics lessons with race cars, tracks, and mazes; and train-obsessed kids will have the chance to play with model trains weaving their way through Iowa. In case that’s not enough to tire them out, there are also special events for art-making, STEM learning and more.

Online: theicm.org

Elizabeth L. via Yelp

16. Kansas: Cosmosphere, Hutchinson
Go on a space odyssey at the coolest museum in Kansas, a 105,000-square-foot space and science center that’ll keep your whole crew entertained for hours. Watch a jaw-dropping show in their state-of-the-art planetarium (you can even get a preview of what the sky will look like that very night), browse the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts in the world and watch live demonstrations of science experiments.

Online: cosmo.org

17. Kentucky: Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Louisville
A visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is sure to be a home run, especially if you’ve got sports fans in your family. You’ll get to see how baseball bats are made (and you’ll get a miniature bat to take home), crawl through a giant glove, try your hand at a simulated pitching experience and hold bats that were used by baseball legends.

Online: sluggermuseum.com

18. Louisiana: Louisiana Children’s Museum, New Orleans
With a visit to the Louisiana Children’s Museum, little ones will have the chance to learn about everything from reading and math to architectural ideas and the nuances of grocery shopping—all through super fun, hands-on activities and exhibits. Find out how to use a fulcrum or a pulley with the Simple Machines exhibit, head to Art Trek to explore a range of different media and techniques and go back in time to check out the recreated courtyard of one of New Orleans’ oldest buildings. With a fun mix of science, art and Louisiana-inspired activities, there’s really something for everyone.

Online: lcm.org

19. Maine: Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, Portland
Kids 10 and under will love spending the day playing and learning at this gem of a museum in Portland. The hands-on exhibits range from an exploration of the camera obscura to a kiddie-style farmers market (complete with bakery and fish market) to a special area that’s perfect for your tiniest tots. And since this is Maine, after all, there’s even a replica lobster boat where kids can learn about the state’s working waterfronts.

Online: kitetails.org

20. Maryland: Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore
With loads of options for purposeful play, Port Discovery Children’s Museum is undoubtedly one of the best indoor spaces in the Mid-Atlantic region for kids ages 0 to 10. It’s currently under construction, with new exhibits due to open in spring 2019, but in the meantime, you can still get your play on in their Construction Zone exhibit. Little ones can design their own robots, build with giant blocks and launch rockets toward a mini-moon.

Online: portdiscovery.org

Joel Haskell via Boston Children’s Museum

21. Massachusetts: Boston Children’s Museum, Boston
There are 88,000 square feet of hands-on engagement at the Boston Children’s Museum. The focus on science, culture, health & fitness and the arts make this an ideal destination when it’s just too cold to be outdoors (or anytime, really!). Locals and tourists alike benefit from the scores of programs and activities developed by museum educators, and a few attempts to make it to the top of The Climb, the three-story climbing structure in the center of the museum, will leave your kids tired and happy.

Online: bostonchildrensmuseum.org

22. Michigan: Impression 5 Science Center, Lansing
In 1972, Impression 5 became one of the first hands-on science centers in the country, and they’ve been a Michigan favorite ever since. With a focus on dynamic, interactive activities that encourage kids of all ages to play, create and challenge their understanding of science, it’s well worth the trip. Learn about oral health with giant dental tools, step into a full-size body bubble, become a naturalist for the day and more.

Online: impression5.org

23. Minnesota: Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul
The Minnesota Children’s Museum’s mission is to spark learning through play, and you’ll see what they mean after one visit. Kids will love exploring The Scramble, a four-story vertical adventure with a spiral slide and a netted catwalk. Let them get creative making their own stories at Imaginopolis, and spend some time in Our World, a mini-city with everything from a post office to a farmers market.

Online: mcm.org

24. Mississippi: Mississippi Children’s Museum, Jackson
Kiddos will have a blast playing the day away at this Jackson gem. The 40,000-square-foot museum houses five galleries of educational, interactive exhibits and weekly programs that focus on everything from literacy to science to Mississippi heritage. Learn about healthy eating in a cute kitchen, make a masterpiece in the art studio and find out about the state’s agriculture.

Online: mschildrensmuseum.org

25. Missouri: City Museum, St. Louis
We recommend wearing comfy clothes for your day at the City Museum because you’ll definitely be crawling, sliding and climbing. With lots of interesting architectural features like old chimneys and salvaged bridges, it’s captivating for kids and adults alike. Venture through hidden tunnels, monkey around on fun jungle gyms and zoom down indoor slides—your little explorers will love it all.

Online: citymuseum.org

Children’s Museum of Bozeman via Yelp

26. Montana: Children’s Museum of Bozeman, Bozeman
Offering hands-on exhibits, summer science camps, after-school activities, and educational programs, the Children’s Museum of Bozeman is a cultural hub. Kids can make slime in the science lab, collect eggs from chickens on the farm, tinker with electric circuits and more. Even your tiniest tots will love their special zone that offers plenty of space for rolling, crawling and climbing.

Online: cmbozeman.org

27. Nebraska: Lincoln Children’s Museum, Lincoln
Spend the day exploring the Lincoln Children’s Museum’s three floors and 23,300 square feet of hands-on exhibits and imaginative programs. Check out Cuckoo Construction, the museum’s largest exhibit yet, which gives kids a chance to help build walls and watch foam bricks fall. Chill out in the Grow Zone, an interactive indoor garden perfect for tiny tots. Cruise over to the water exhibit, where you can watch the rain fall from the clouds above and build dams to hold the water back.

Online: lincolnchildrensmuseum.org

28. Nevada: DISCOVERY Children’s Museum, Las Vegas
The three-story DISCOVERY Children’s Museum opened in 2013 and is home to nine themed exhibition halls totaling 26,000 square feet of interactive hands-on core exhibits. It’s hard to miss The Summit, a 70-foot tower covering 22,000 square feet with 12 levels of engaging, hands-on play. Kids can lift a car with a lever and (if they make it!) take a peek at the amazing roof at the very tippy top. Check out a mini Hoover Dam in Water World, walk into a Dr. Seuss book in Young at Art or watch your crawling cuties wander around Toddler Town—a desert-themed space complete with trains, tunnels and an art zone.

Online: discoverykidslv.org

29. New Hampshire: Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, Dover
The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is all about hands-on discovery, and you’ll get what they mean when you see their amazing exhibits. Engineer a flying machine and launch it from a 30-foot tower, venture into a cave to read glow-in-the-dark books and find secret paintings, dig for Triceratops fossils and more. Between the exhibits, STEAM Lab drop-in sessions and junior science classes, there’s enough to keep you coming back for more all year long.

Online: childrens-museum.org

30. New Jersey: Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
Inspire your budding scientists and engineers with a visit to Liberty Science Center, home to 12 museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, giant aquariums, a 3D theater and lots more. Catch a planetarium show, check out views from the Hubble Space Telescope and meet some of the animals that live in the Hudson River. Young learners can even don a white coat and perform checkups in the Doc McStuffins exhibit.

Online: lsc.org

Emari H. via Yelp

31. New Mexico: Explora Science Museum & Children’s Museum, Albuquerque
Spend the day learning about science, technology, engineering, art and math through fun hands-on activities at Explora. Experiment with balls and ramps to slow down the effects of gravity, make a masterpiece out of recycled materials and discover the unique characteristics of water. Be sure to check out their events calendar, offering everything from music jams to adults-only evenings.

Online: explora.us

32. New York: The Strong Museum of Play, Rochester
With roots dating back to wealthy Rochesterian Margaret Woodbury Strong's extensive doll and toy collection, the museum has grown into an impressive 100,000-square-foot destination. While the entire facility is worth exploring, stellar permanent exhibits include Can You Tell Me How to Get To Sesame Street? (featuring all of the series' popular characters, as well as a 123 Sesame stoop for sitting and photo ops); the Wegmans Super Kid Market, a hyper-realistic replica of a grocery store sponsored by the boffo hometown chain; American Comic Book Heroes: The Battle of Good vs. Evil; and Reading Adventureland. The museum is also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, and when you add on-site restaurants, a carousel and easy-as-pie parking, it's a destination worthy of a family road trip!

Online: museumofplay.org

33. North Carolina: Discovery Place Science, Charlotte
A visit to Discovery Place is a must for opening little eyes to the wonders of science. From World Alive, where guests can wander through a rainforest and an aquarium, to Think it Up, a “thought studio” of multisensory colors, sights and sounds and back to Project Build, where anyone can be an architect for a day, every inch of Discovery Place is dedicated to making learning fun and interesting. The tiniest family members have their own special place for discovery in Kid Science, and the Discovery 3D theater screens family-friendly movies and short films perfect for all ages.

Online: science.discoveryplace.org

34. North Dakota: Dickinson Museum Center, Dickinson
Science-loving kiddos will enjoy learning about dinosaurs and more at the Dickinson Museum Center. Check out fossils that were discovered in the area, see their collection of rocks and minerals and play in an augmented reality sandbox. You can even peek inside the fossil laboratory to watch paleontologists at work preparing recently discovered fossils for research and display.

Online: dickinsonmuseumcenter.com

35. Ohio: COSI: Center of Science and Industry, Columbus
With over 300 interactive exhibitions, a seven-story extreme theater, the country’s only high-wire unicycle, and Little Kidspace, created just for kiddos ages 0 to 5, there’s enough educational fun to keep the entire family entertained for days at COSI. Encounter Poseidon at Ocean, the playground depicting the mysteries of the sea. Check out the Energy Explorers exhibit, which teaches families about energy and making smart choices, or get up close and personal with a T. rex in the Dinosaur Gallery. With their range of traveling exhibits and classic features, every COSI visit can be a different adventure.

Online: cosi.org

Kristi L. via Yelp

36. Oklahoma: Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, Seminole
Since 1993, the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum has been a favorite destination for Oklahoma families. The museum is based on an imaginary town, where kids can explore many careers, all from a pint-sized vantage point—they can become a judge, doctor, artist, news anchor, meteorologist, actor, pilot, EMT or firefighter for the day. Plus, you can get lost in the 12,000-square-foot Castle Maze, see aquatic life native to the state and take a ride on a miniature train.

Online: jasminemoran.com

37. Oregon: OMSI: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland
OMSI is a can’t-miss museum in Portland, where kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in all things science and technology. Use “human power” to take a virtual trip through Portland, craft your own world using an augmented reality sandbox and experience the sights and smells of the world’s only permafrost research tunnel. Be sure to check out their cool camps and classes too, on topics ranging from kitchen chemistry to web design.

Online: omsi.edu

38. Pennsylvania: Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia
The name says it all. What other place has the singular mission of encouraging young visitors to touch everything? Start a visit to the Please Touch Museum in Hamilton Hall, at the huge “monument to play”— a 40-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty’s Arm and Torch (made out of toys). Move toward Roadside Attractions, where engineers can repair cars, collect tolls, and take a trip to the future. Be sure to say hello to the Please Touch puppets: Pinky, Pickle, Melita, Dr. Penny and many more, who pop up and perform daily.

Online: pleasetouchmuseum.org

39. Rhode Island: Providence Children’s Museum, Providence
Kick cabin fever to the curb with a visit to the Providence Children’s Museum, home to hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore culture and all things STEAM. Check out Play Power, where you can send objects soaring through air tubes and construct magnetic mazes; The Climber, a kid-favorite two-story-high climbing maze; and Coming to Rhode Island, an interactive time-traveling adventure that introduces kids to people who immigrated to the state. Their events calendar also has loads more fun in store, including live theater and art sessions.

Online: childrenmuseum.org

40. South Carolina: The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, Greenville
Spark your kiddo’s curiosity with a visit to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. With 19 interactive exhibits, there’s enough to keep any kid entertained for hours. Build dams and learn about water in Reedy River Bend, report the news or weather in the 7 News Studio and monkey around on a multi-story climbing structure. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a tasty meal at the museum’s in-house cafe.

Online: tcmupstate.org

Creative Discovery Museum

41. South Dakota: Children’s Museum of South Dakota, Brookings
Make a day of it with your whole crew at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota. In the exhibit Our Prairie, kids can learn about the region’s past and role-play the daily tasks of living on the land over one hundred years ago. Head to Sensations to experiment with patterns, textures, shapes, and colors and collaborate on hands-on activities. Then cruise over to KidStreet to pick up your mail, tune up your car and make sandwiches and ice cream sundaes. There’s also a cozy MiniExplorers area that’s perfect for your tiniest tots.

Online: prairieplay.org

42. Tennessee: Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga
Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, the Creative Discovery Museum is totally worth a visit. Their permanent exhibits include Corner Clinic (become a doctor for the day), Culinary Corner (make healthy snacks using ingredients from the museum’s rooftop garden), Little Yellow House (let your tiniest tots exercise their imaginations) and Excavation Station (grab a shovel and get digging in the sand). Be sure to check out their events calendar for the latest goings-on, from a snow day celebration to a honey harvest.

Online: cdmfun.org

43. Texas: Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston
With 14 permanent galleries and exhibits along with a cafe, library and family learning center, we are bowled over by the 90,000 square feet of play available at the Children’s Museum of Houston. Start at Kidtropolis, a play city built and run by kids from the ground up on a daily basis, and move on to How Does it Work?, where your budding scientists have access to a ton of hands-on experiments, like creating a roller coaster and sending messages via fiber optics. If there's still time, go undercover in the S.E.C.R.E.T. spy experience.

Online: cmhouston.org

44. Utah: Treehouse Children’s Museum, Ogden
Since 1992, Treehouse Children’s Museum has been a favorite for kids ages 1 to 12 (and their families, too). The exhibits encourage playing imaginatively and making new stories—there’s the Big Red Barn where you can “milk” a cow and collect eggs from chickens, plus areas based on different countries so you can dream up an international journey. There’s even an Oval Office where tots can pretend to be the president.

Online: treehousemuseum.org

45. Vermont: Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich
Founded in 1974, the Montshire is now one of the busiest museums in northern New England, and for good reason. It’s dedicated to teaching visitors about natural and physical sciences, ecology and technology through its 140 hands-on exhibits. Kids will love getting a look at the inner workings of toys; examining seeds, bones, and plants under a microscope; experimenting with different types of instruments; and playing with different types of bubbles. This one’s sure to be a hit with adults and kids alike.

Online: montshire.org

Farrah M. via Yelp

46. Virginia: Amazement Square, Lynchburg
With four floors and nine galleries of hands-on, interactive exhibits, Amazement Square is (fittingly) an amazing place to spend the day. Start off by exploring Amazement Tower, a climbing structure with slides, ladders, tunnels and a zip line that spans all four of the museum’s floor. Then get creative in the Kaleidoscope Gallery, where kids can paint on the walls and rock out on stage. Toddlers will also love playing in Shipwreck Cove, a special under-three area with a pirate ship and a coral reef.

Online: amazementsquare.org

47. Washington: Washington: Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia
The most visited children’s museum in Washington, it’s our go-to for hands-on science and art learning. With more than 150 exhibits, you’ll never run out of things to do—kids can shop in a mini farmers market, send scarves through a 25-foot AirWays Maze, make and float their own boats and lots more. Be sure to check out their events, too, including free first Friday nights and art studio sessions.

Online: hocm.org

48. Washington D.C.: National Building Museum, Washington D.C.
Go on an architectural adventure at the National Building Museum. Kiddos can learn about design, construction and engineering through the museum’s two distinct areas. The Building Zone (for ages 2 to 6) lets them stack and balance faux bricks, drive a miniaturized bulldozer and romp around a “green” playhouse, while the other area, Play Work Build, has foam blocks of varying sizes, allowing adults and children alike to build and demolish their own creations. Click here to find out more (plus get the scoop on more of our favorite kid-friendly museums in the DMV).

Online: nbm.org

49. West Virginia: Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum, Wheeling
Located in beautiful Wheeling, kids of all ages will love exploring the Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum. You’ll find interactive, operating model train layouts, along with toys you’ll remember from your childhood—dolls, dollhouses, toy soldiers, playsets, trains, planes, and ships, just to name a few. Kids will have a blast taking a peek into the past (and seeing how far toys have come!).

Online: toyandtrain.com

50. Wisconsin: Building for Kids Children’s Museum, Appleton
Foster your kids’ curiosity with a visit to the Building for Kids Children’s Museum. They’ll have the chance to climb into a 10-foot human heart, make a masterpiece using blocks, become a firefighter for the day, build boats and lots more. Check out the events calendar for more fun activities, like toddler playtime sessions, STEM workshops and story times.

Online: buildingforkids.org

51. Wyoming: Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, Jackson
The Jackson Hole Children’s Museum is all about fostering a love of learning through collaborative play and creative problem solving, and with their interactive exhibits and exciting programs, the littles will definitely be on board. Become a pilot for the day, go shopping in the Mountain Market, build a cool creation on the Magnet Wall and snuggle up for some quiet time in the Book Nook.

Online: jhchildrensmuseum.org

—Susie Foresman & Gabby Cullen

 

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Just in time for the holiday season, New York City’s famous toy store FAO Schwarz is back, with a new, 20,000-square-foot flagship in Rockefeller Center. The more than 150-year-old brand debuted its new location on November 16 to much fanfare (and fans), and we were there. Visitors can expect returning, classic favorites and fun new experiences for kids of all ages and interests. Add it to your list of things to do in New York with kids this holiday season!

The New FAO Schwarz NYC

Cindy Ord

New Yorkers (and NYC visitors) were bummed, to say the least, when FAO Schwarz's iconic Fifth Avenue flagship suddenly shuttered in the summer of 2015. (It's been a rough time for famous NYC toy stores in general, with the Times Square Toys R Us location also closing its doors.) 

But just in time for the holiday season, FAO Schwarz debuted a shiny new HQ in Rockefeller Center. Spread out over two-and-a-half floors, the store is home to a wide variety of its trademark interactive toy experiences as well as so many toys—from Hatchimals to Paw Patrol to puzzles and science kits— that your kids will flip over. 

New touches include fresh uniforms designed by supermodel Gigi Hadid, who says she fondly recalls visiting the famous toy store when she was a child. (Brand ambassador "Soldiers" are stationed outside of the 49th Street exit to welcome visitors; there is also an entrance at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.) 

A New FAO Icon

Another new element is the 27-foot tall rocketship, which shoppers encounter when they enter through the Rockefeller Center doors. The structure (which also serves as a way to get upstairs) is surrounded by stuffed animals (including teddy bear astronauts). An astronaut greets visitors at the top of the stairs/ship, as well as a cubby/control panel, which is enhanced by sound effects, including the occasional countdown to blast-off.

The Big Piano is Back

Also on the Rockefeller Plaza side of the store and at the top of the stairs, is the beloved oversized dance-on piano, famously featured in the Tom Hanks movie Big. New and improved, the piano is reflected on the ceiling overhead its “players” so that people on the plaza can see what’s happening one floor up. (The area also provides a lovely view of the Rockefeller Center ice rink below.) Piano dancers will perform shows on the big keys throughout the day, and will also be on hand to teach visitors a few songs and steps.

As Is The FAO Clock Tower

Enter via 49th Street and you’ll see FAO’s three-story, three-dimensional clock tower flanked by enormous giraffe stuffed animals. The tower serves as another way to access the upper floors, and displays bits of FAO Schwarz history on its interior walls.

Melissa & Doug FAO Mart

One of the highlights of the first floor (especially for younger kids) is the deluxe Melissa & Doug FAO Mart, where children can grab a cart and stroll the aisles shopping for groceries ranging from toy food to  faux cleaning supplies. There’s even a checkout where kids can ring each other up. So well done and lots of fun.

Baby Doll Adoption—Complete with Checkup

Don’t say you weren’t warned: the reimagined store introduces a new area, the FAO Schwarz Baby Doll Adoption Experience. Here, nurses and doctors walk children through the adoption process, teaching them how to properly care for their baby dolls. Kids fill out an adoption form and then can select their baby doll, who is then promptly taken for a checkup. Kids leave with the doll and an official FAO certificate of adoption.

For Kids With a Need for Speed: FAO Raceway

Another cool spot on the main level is the FAO Raceway, were shoppers can design their own racecar and have it assembled by uniformed trained “mechanics.

Get Scientific with Discovery #mindblown

Upstairs a “STEM Professor” conducts live demonstrations at the Discovery #mindblown 520-square-foot kiosk, which also features a giant video wall. (We saw a “volcano” be created and erupt.)

Barbie/Mattel

The Barbie/Mattel area is impressive, with a several-story Barbie townhouse front and center. The updated, more diverse collection of Barbie dolls is also on full display (although they’re all still hella skinny.)

Bunnies By the Bay: Must Stop for Baby Stuff

Move towards the rear of the second floor and enter the world of “Cricket Island”, where the Bunnies By the Bay live. Here, you’ll encounter the lovely grandma brigade (our term), FAO employees on hand to help you choose from this brand’s ultra-soft, ultra sweet handmade line of toys and gifts for babies and their parents. (The loveys are to die for.) This is definitely a place to get a special gift for the newborn in your life.  

More Than Meets the Eye

A nine-foot, two-inch Optimus Prime is in the house, thanks to Hasbro, as are the brand’s Autobots, Decepticons, collectibles, and more.

Hatchimals, Paw Patrol & More

Fans of Hatchimals and Paw Patrol will not be disappointed. “Hatchtopia” features Hatchimals from mini to super-sized, as well as a play area, and there’s a PAW Patrol Lookout Tower to play in as kids review toys dedicated to the line.

Build-A-Bear Workshop

While there is a standalone Build-A-Bear Workshop on Fifth Avenue, the FAO Build-A-Bear not only offers the Make-Your-Own Experience, shoppers can create furry friends exclusive to FAO Schwarz and outfit them accessories also only available here.

FAO  Schweetz

Also returning is FAO Schweetz, a 2,150-square-foot area of candy for sale in bulk in containers that look like a spaceship, toy train, and fire truck. Created in partnership with IT’S SUGAR, the area will also feature giant gummy bears and unicorns, make-your-own gummy work kits, and mage chocolate bars.

And So Much More

Of course there’s more. Classic Steiff stuffed animals, musical instruments from HAPE, modern dollhouses and accessories, and exclusive FAO Schwarz Swarovski crystal collectibles such as ornaments, keychains and nutcrackers.

FAO Schwarz NYC
Mon.- Sat. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (From Dec. 9 to Jan. 5, open until 9 p.m. on Sat. and 8 p.m. on Sun.)
30 Rockefeller Plaza
Midtown
1-800-326-8636
Online: faoschwarz.com

—Mimi O’Connor

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