These free Thanksgiving printables are the perfect way to keep them busy on such a long day

So you’ve already run through all your tried-and-true Thanksgiving games and activities. How about a few free Thanksgiving printables? Not only are they perfect for the kids’ table, but they’ll help your family achieve an unplugged Thanksgiving. From coloring turkeys and matching fall leaves to thoughtful lists and connect-the-dots, these Thanksgiving activity sheets are fun ways to keep the kids busy as you finish up the cooking.

Printable Thankful Poem

Thankful poem Thanksgiving activity sheet
Doodle Art Alley

Let your kids get creative while thinking about what they're thankful for with this printable "Give Thanks" poem prompter, and then, let them read it out before digging into the Thanksgiving meal. Download it at Doodle Art Alley.

Happy Thanksgiving Coloring Page

thanksgiving coloring pages
Education.com

Your kiddo can color this adorable Thanksgiving picture and turn it into a greeting card or just something fun! Find it at Education.com.

Thanksgiving Writing Activity

thanksgiving coloring pages
Education.com

if your kid loves to write, they'll love this Thanksgiving activity page from Education.com!

Pumpkin Maze Activity Sheet

This pumpkin maze is a fun Thanksgiving activity sheet.
Education.com

Even the youngest members of the family will enjoy this pumpkin maze! Download the printable over at education.com.

Thankful Turkey Placemat

Crafts By Amanda

Gobble, gobble! Little hands stay busy coloring this terrific turkey before the big meal. Even more, if you print it on card stock paper, you'll have instant placemats. Printing these placemats is as easy as pie over at Crafts by Amanda.

Words for the Day Thanksgiving Printable

Free Thanksgiving printable
My Mini Adventurer

It’s a Thanksgiving word-fest! Little hands stay busy and learn about all things Thanksgiving by coloring in these terrific turkey day words. Head over to My Mini Adventurer for these word printables, grab crayons and you have happy little pumpkins while you finish cooking the meal.

Thankful Activity Placemat

This thankful placemat is a fun Thanksgiving activity sheet
Saving Dollars & Sense

Turn over a new leaf this year and print out these perfect placemats for half-pints to use. Your little pumpkins will have a fun time matching the shapes. Hop over to Saving Dollars & Sense for this free Thanksgiving printable.

Thoughtful List

Give Thanks free Thanksgiving printable
Teacher Karma

Whether it’s what little diners are thankful for or their favorite Thanksgiving memory, this list will keep their minds busy. A special shout out to Jen over at Teacher Karma for this creative idea.

Related: The Thanksgiving Tradition the Whole Family will Love

The Ultimate Thanksgiving Activity Sheet

fun Thanksgiving activity sheet
Real Life at Home

Activities galore! From a word scramble to coloring a cornucopia, there is plenty to do with this free Thanksgiving printable. We are thankful to Angie over at Real Life at Home for providing these. All you need to provide is the crayons!

Match Colors

Thanksgiving activity sheet
Rock Your Homeschool

Can you get the right color? We love this Thanksgiving activity for the kids' table. A high five to mom Amy who gives you the free printable. Head over to Rock Your Homeschool; print it out and your little ones will stay busy while you finish up dinner. Just make sure you have all the crayon colors!

Pumpkin Mandala Coloring Sheet

Don’t Eat the Paste

Little diners will scoop up the chance to color these pretty pumpkins. Head over to Don’t Eat the Paste to print out these gorgeous gourds. 

Free Thanksgiving Printable

Thanksgiving activity sheet
Artsy Fartsy Mama

This fun page from Artsy Fartsy Mama has a little bit of everything: coloring, a word search, a place to write what they’re thankful for, and tic-tac-toe.

Give Thanks Activity Sheet

Thanksgiving activity sheet
Hello Moments

Remind your little ones what Thanksgiving is all about with this printable from Hello Moments. In addition to a word hunt and tic-tac-toe, they’ll get to write a poem and jot down what they’re thankful for.

Doodle Time

photo: 1 1 1 = 1

We love this cute coloring page from 1 + 1 + 1 = 1, especially since it has enough details to keep kids busy for quite a while. Get the printable, plus another adorable page with a turkey to color in.

Related: 9 Mermaid Coloring Pages Your Kid Will Love

Amazing Thanksgiving Maze

free Thanksgiving printable maze
Brainy Maze

If your kiddo loves mazes, they’ll definitely have a ball with this Thanksgiving activity sheet from Brainy Maze. They can also color it in when they’re done.

Connect the Dots Turkey

Turkey connect the dots Thanksgiving activity sheet
Big Activities

Kiddos can get some quiet time in while filling in this turkey connect-the-dots page from Big Activities. There’s also another version available that uses the alphabet instead of numbers.

A Cornucopia

Thanksgiving coloring page of a cornucopia
Doodle Art Alley

The tots can color in this overflowing cornucopia from Doodle Art Alley as they wait for the Thanksgiving feast.

Gratitude Cards

What We Do All Day

Challenge your kids to write something they’re thankful for on each of these cute cards from What We Do All Day. Or you can have them make personalized place cards for the table.

Thanksgiving Printable Memory Game

free Thanksgiving printable memory game
Mama’s Learning Game

Print out, cut up, and pass out this easy memory game from Mama's Learning Corner to keep kids busy during prep time.

Word Scramble Placemat

Thanksgiving printable placemat
Jinxy Kids

Because all fine dining establishments have kid-friendly placemats, right? These particular mats come with a word scramble activity that's just right for little learners. Download the printable at Jinxy Kids.

Thankful Turkey Activity Sheet

Thanksgiving activity pages
How to Nest for Less

This activity is a great way to immortalize your Thanksgiving meal—have the kids write and draw the most memorable parts of the day. You can even print the same page next year and compare. Get the printable at How to Nest for Less.

Autumn Leaves

Make and Takes

As the kids tackle this autumn coloring page, talk about how leaves change color in the fall. Get this printable at Make and Takes.

Related: 11 of Our Favorite Stegosaurus Coloring Pages

Snoopy & Charlie Brown

Peanuts Thanksgiving Activity sheet
Best Coloring Pages for Kids

Happiness is a warm puppy and a fun Thanksgiving coloring page. We love this page that features everybody's favorite comic strip pup. Get this printable (and more!) at Best Coloring Pages for Kids.

Paint-by-Number Turkey

Paint by Number Turkey Thanksgiving free printable
Nicole’s Free Coloring Pages

This paint-by-numbers coloring page is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Little artists who like to get their artwork just right will like the easy-to-follow idea. Get this printable at Nicole's Free Coloring Pages.

Thanksgiving Mad Libs

Thanksgiving Mad Libs printable
Happiness Is Homemade

For a giggle-inducing Thanksgiving activity, try a round (or two!) of festive Mad Libs. Get the printable over at Happiness is Homemade.

Harvest Fruit and Vegetable Word Search

This harvest fruit and veggie word search is a fun Thanksgiving activity sheet
The Kidz Page

We love a good word search, and this version features all of Fall's bounty. Download it over at The Kidz Page

Give Thanks - Dog and Cat

Thanksgiving activity pages
Coloring Pages for Kids by Mr. Adron

Animal-loving kids will have a blast with this coloring page that gives a dog and a kitty the spotlight. As they color, talk about what your own pets might be thankful for—and why you're thankful for your furry friends. Get the printable at Coloring Pages for Kids by Mr. Adron.

Pilgrims and Giant Feast

Pilgrim Thanksgiving free printable
Raising Our Kids

Your own Thanksgiving turkey may be more modest, but the kids will get a kick out of the giant feast on this coloring page. Will they color it a delicious golden brown or go for something a bit flashier? (Blue turkey, perhaps?) Get the printable at Raising Our Kids.

Thank You For ...

Thanksgiving activity pages
Living Creatively

What are your youngsters most thankful for? Crayons? Books? Discuss and share as they decorate this fun list. Get the printable at Living Creatively.

Adorable Pilgrim Boy

Thanksgiving activity pages
familyholiday.net

How cute is this pilgrim boy coloring sheet? This tiny guy just needs your little one's colorful attention. Download your own pages at familyholiday.net.

Related: 10 Exciting T-Rex Coloring Pages for Kids

Thanksgiving Decoder Puzzle

This decoder puzzle is a fun Thanksgiving activity sheet
All Kids Network

Do your kids love figuring out puzzles? Give their thinking caps a mini-workout with this fun decoder puzzle. Get the printable at All Kids Network.

Pumpkin Connect the Dots

Thanksgiving activity pages
Bigactivities.com

Once your kiddo connects all of the dots, they'll have the chance to color in the pumpkin picture. It's a 2-in-1! Find the worksheet on Bigactivities.com

Turkey Color by Number

Education.com

Follow the numbers to find the colors to create this exciting Thanksgiving picture! It'll be such a festive way to celebrate the holiday. Get the worksheet from Education.com

 

Test their keyboard skills with fun typing games (most of them are free!)

Your kids are probably really good at tapping away on a phone or iPad. But how are their old-fashioned typing skills? It matters. After all, they’re not going to be typing their future term papers on a mobile phone (we hope). Thankfully, there is a slew of fun—and free!—typing games that’ll teach them to know their way around a QWERTY keyboard. Read on to learn more about these cool online games for kids.

Tommy Q: Zombie Defender

Tommy Q: Zombie Defender is a typing game
Typing.com

There's a zombie apocalypse, and the first responders need your help! Become Tommy Q with his baseball launcher, and type the right letters in order to take out the zombies wandering through your backyard. Use the arrow keys to move up and down and line up with the approaching monsters. Type the letters to launch the balls and put the zombies down. Choose from easy to hard (zombie pace) and easy-to-challenge letter sequences (from easy to hard words, top row to bottom row). 

Play it here.

Keyman

Keyman is a typing game for kids
typinggames.com

This maze-based puzzle typing game will have your kids guiding the world's top scuba divers through three different levels. Somewhere along the way is a treasure chest, but to open it, players have to type the number they see on the screen to move Keyman in the direction indicated by arrows (think Pac-Man but with letters). You'll face letter-eating Pirhanas, red barriers that require players to think and type ahead of time, and once you grab the treasure, there's one minute left to collect all the gold coins you see. You can select different levels of difficulty, so even the youngest kids can practice typing. 

Play it here.

TypeTastic.com

typetastic has typing games

This is, in our opinion, the best typing game site available without a subscription. The site features 13 fun games, all of which were "created in real classrooms together with teachers." The approach is simple: Instead of making kids start their typing lessons using all 10 fingers right off the bat, the lessons focus on three or four keys at a time, and kids are encouraged, in the beginning, to just use one finger to type the letters. The idea is that once they know where all the keys are, they'll naturally become better typists. 

The games are split into three sections: "Let's Build a Keyboard," which focuses on showing kids where the keys are on the keyboard. The first lesson, for instance, is a construction-themed game that asks kids to type three adjacent letters at a time—QWE, for instance—then guide a crane to drop the letter blocks into the keyboard grid.

The next section, "Let's Hop on the Keys," asks kids to enter specific keys, one at a time, to make something happen (there's a ducky maze game that is super fun!).

The last section, "Keyboarding Kickstart" finally asks kids to use all their fingers to type away (each game shows kids which fingers go on which keys).

All in all—we still can't believe this site is free. 

Play the games here.

Type-A-Balloon

type-a-ballon is a popular typing game for kids

What'll keep kids playing this game (at least for a little while) is the simple satisfaction of popping a balloon. Over and over. Typists simply have to type the letter beneath the balloon before it floats away. Then—POP! There are three levels and four different keyboard regions to practice before taking on the whole keyboard. 

Play it here.

Keyboard Ninja

Keyboard Ninja is a fun typing game

Slice up fruit ninja-style by typing the letters that are shown beneath each fruit. The tricky part of this otherwise simple game is that if you accidentally hit the letter shown above a lit bomb, it's GAME OVER. So pay attention! The game has three levels of difficulty (parents, we invite you to TRY the most difficult level; it's hard!) and allows players to pick which section of the keyboard they'd like to practice. 

Play it here.

Spacebar Invaders

If you can get past the pop-up ads, this "Space Invaders"-style typing lesson is super fun! To play: Type the words shown beneath each alien invader to blast them out of the sky before they reach the ground. There are 40 variations of the game, each of which emphasizes a different skill on the keyboard. Typists won't just learn their letters, they'll also have to practice typing punctuation marks, capital letters, and numbers. Bilingual? There are also Spanish, German, and French ways to play the game.  

Play it here.

Nitro Typing Racer

You have to watch an ad before you can start the game, but if you've got kids who enjoy race car games, this will be their go-to typing training. To play, maneuver your car around other cars as fast as you can by typing the words that appear in whichever lane you want to take. It's a lot to think about in very little time so brand new typists may want to steer themselves elsewhere. 

Note: This game is made for typists who already know their way around a keyboard.

Play it here.

Dance Mat Typing

This BBC-sponsored typing program starts at the beginning by showing kids basic hand positions for typing and which fingers to use for which keys. It then lets them build on their skills slowly with the help of singing cartoon animals who act as personal coaches. At the end of each level, typists can print out a special certificate of accomplishment to reward their hard work. 

Play it here.

Alpha Munchies

The alien Alpha Munchies want to eat your food! The only way to stop them? Type, type, type! Kids will love blasting the bad guys out of the sky by punching letters on the keyboard. The simple game, which pays homage to '80s-themed arcade games, lets kids practice specific sections of the keyboard before finally using the whole keyboard as their typing progresses. 

Find it here.

Related: The Very Best Online Games for Kids

 

 

Open through Mother’s Day, the Flower Fields are fun for the whole family

Need an instant mood booster? Take your little “buds” to see the amazing colors of the ranunculus bloom at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. You’ll have a bushel of farm-related fun on a wagon ride through a sea of blossoms (on a clear day you can see the ocean from your wagon ride, which is pretty spectacular) and at the sweet pea maze and U-pick blueberry field. Read on to learn how to get the most flower power out of your visit and where to go for the best food and shopping near the Fields, which are open through Mother’s Day, May 14.

Kate Loweth

Blooming Flower Fields From March-May
The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers are the showstopper at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. They’re in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year so a visit during this annual burst of color is such a treat. Introducing your kiddos to nature’s official way of announcing the arrival of spring in Southern California can help them appreciate the beauty and bounty of Mother Earth. In addition to the ranunculus flower, roses, orchids, poinsettias, petunias, sunflowers, and petunias are planted in stages so there is never a shortage of blooming plants. Kids can run around the spacious garden checking out the fields of flowers, visit the artists’ gardens, and find their way through a living maze of sweet peas.

Insider’s Tip: Tickets are only available online so make sure you snag those before you head over. Wear close-toed, comfortable shoes to make it easy to walk on the dirt pathways, and be sure to check out the full event calendar for other happenings (ahem, sunset wine tastings!) going on throughout the season.

photo: The Flower Fields

Wondrous Wagon Ride
Make sure you bring pocket money for an open-air wagon ride through The Flower Fields. The tractors will take you and the kiddos right through the gorgeous flowers. Rides are $4 for little ones (ages 3-10) and $8 for adults. This is truly the best way to experience the rainbow of blooms right in front of you and a view of the Pacific Ocean in the background. Tickets can be purchased after you enter The Flower Fields on a mobile device or with a credit card. Cash will not be accepted.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t leave without checking out the full-size American Flag created completely out of red, white, and blue petunias. It’s hidden from the main flowers, but worth the view.

Photo: Aimee Della Bitta

Activities for Kids

"Eight Flags" Treasure Hunt
Boredom will not be a complaint when you take the kids to The Flower Fields. Aside from the thrill of a tractor ride, little explorers should make sure to pick up a copy of their Flower Fields passport when they enter the site. They will then embark on a "treasure hunt" to find eight flags hidden throughout the Field. At each flag is a stamp that goes into the passport.

Carlsbad Mining Company
The Flower Fields is also home to the Carlsbad Mining Company. Kids will love using the miner’s old method of sifting sand in water to find polished gemstones. 

Butterfly Garden
Wander and wonder in the renovated garden celebrating the butterflies that help make flowers bloom. Be sure to get a photo on the colorful butterfly bench.

U-pick Blueberry Field
This year, the U-pick blueberry field is available. When open, you can purchase your 1-pint baskets for $8 each at the blueberry stand to enjoy the U-Pick experience. 

Sea of Sunflowers
Escape in the 5-acre sea of sunflowers.  The test patch features all colors, shapes, and sizes. Some are as big as small moons and others over 12’ high! The best time to visit and see the sunflowers is mid-April.

santa village flower fieldsPhoto: Leah Singer

The last stop of the day should be Santa’s Playground. Yes, we said Santa! Nestled in The Flower Fields is a playground that’s home to whimsical playhouses and gigantic mushrooms that were part of Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead years ago. Come see the dollhouse and crooked treehouse, and play on the structures to get those last-minute wiggles out.

Insider’s Tip: The Flower Fields is family-friendly with plenty of restrooms, picnic areas, and lots of free parking.

Where to Eat and Shop-In and Around the Flower Fields

There are plenty of food and drink options in and around The Flower Fields. If you’d like to stay within the fields you can start your day with a lavender latte from Rollin’ Beans Coffee Co. located right at the ranch and then enjoy lunch at The Pizza Trolley. The Pizza Trolley serves only the best authentic artisan pizzas and fresh salads. Everything is made from scratch on the trolley from dough to sauce. Close out your day with a cool treat from The Strawberry Shack which serves soft-serve ice cream, strawberry shortcake, and strawberry cannolis. Yum!

Or you can walk a short distance to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets where you’ll find lots of great places to eat and shop. We love Blaze Pizza, the perfect restaurant for families who have picky eaters and/or a variety of preferences. Each person orders their own inexpensive pie and can pick their own perfect toppings. There’s also a gluten-free pizza crust option.

Another family favorite is the 1940s-themed Ruby’s Diner. Kids will be captivated by the trains that move overhead and they’ll marvel at the airplane models hanging throughout the restaurant. Each young diner also receives a cardboard train or automobile they can assemble and decorate at the table.

After lunch or dinner, indulge in some retail therapy at The Disney Store Outlet, Carter’s, Baby Gap, Sketchers, Stride Rite, OshKosh B’gosh, and more.

Insider’s Tip: Carlsbad Premium Outlets offers stroller rentals and has clean bathrooms with changing tables.

The Flower Fields
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA
Online: theflowerfields.com

Additional reporting by Kate Loweth & Beth Shea

Bring your family to one of these authentic corn mazes in and around Washington, DC

Corn mazes are a great fall tradition, and if you haven’t experienced one yet, it’s time to get lost in a field as a family! From a toddler-friendly straw bale maze at Greenstreet Gardens to a hard-core, no-map maze at Liberty Mills Farm, there is a corn maze to meet most family’s skill level on this list. So, if you’ve already brought home bushels of apples and picked your pumpkins, it’s time to tackle the obvious next stage of fall fun and find yourself in one of our favorite corn fields to explore near Washington, DC.

Wayside Farm
Located directly off Route 7, this 10-acre corn maze traditionally has an easy path and a hard path, and past years have seen aerial shots depicting Sonic the Hedgehog and SpongeBob SquarePants. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this farm also offers hayrides, pig races, slides, and playgrounds. In addition to providing its fair share of entertainment, this working farm grows the prettiest pumpkin varieties in the area on their expansive u-pick pumpkin patch.

5273 Harry Byrd Hwy.
Berryville, VA
Online: waysidefarmfun.com

Summers Farm
Billed as one of the largest corn mazes in the country, this farm attraction includes 2.5 miles of paths and secret challenges. You'll also find a pumpkin patch, giant slides, hayrides, and more at this Maryland farm. From Sep. 30 through Oct. 29, weekends feature firework displays starting at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting. Make the night complete with a campfire rental (Fri.-Sun. only). All tickets are strongly encouraged to be purchased online in advance to guarantee admission.

5620 Butterfly Ln.
Frederick,
MD
Online: summersfarm.com

Related: Carve Out Some Fun With Pick-Your-Own Pumpkin Patches

Liberty Mills Farm
For the most dedicated of puzzle people, the largest corn maze in the country—a whopping 33 acres—is two hours outside of DC in Somerset, VA. And for hard core sleuths, the most challenging trail has no map! Sound daunting? There are three other trails to choose from, ranging from one that takes roughly 30 minutes to complete to another that spans two hours! After all that walking (and, no doubt, getting lost), take some time to pick a pumpkin and check out the antique tractor collection.

9166 Liberty Mills Rd.
Somerset, VA

Online: libertymillsfarm.com

Greenstreet Gardens' Fall Festival
At only five acres, this “cozy” corn maze is one of the smallest around, making it a winner for families with little ones barely taller than a stalk of corn. Think of it as “maze lite”—perfect for those prone to meltdowns or needing a quick exit strategy. There’s also a Straw Bale Maze ideal if your little one would like to see over the hedge. While you’re visiting, check out the rest of the 55-acre Lothian farm (east of Upper Marlboro), with lots of fall festival activities involving pumpkins, an underground slide, a jumping pillow, and more.

391 W. Bay Front Rd.
Lothian,
MD
Online: greenstreetgardens.com

Winterbrook Farms
Come check out Maryland's largest corn maze, which features three corn mazes with a combined total of five miles of fun! Last year's theme, "Save the Family Farm," was an a-mazing adventure, and fans will have fun zipping through trails covering more than 12 acres at Winterbrook Farms this season, too. If you can fit more in, check out some of the farm’s 20 other fam-friendly features, including an apple canon, mini zipline, a pedal-cart speedway, and more. Pro tip for parents waiting upwards of several hours for kids to make their way through the maze? Cozy up with a campfire rental, available by reservation until 6 p.m. 

13001 Creagerstown Rd.
Thurmont,
MD
Online: winterbrookfarms.com

Belvedere Plantation
Here you’ll find eight acres of twists and turns and even a few bridges to keep you disoriented in the Maize Maze.
There’s also plenty more to do at Belvedere’s Fall Festival, including hay rides, pedal tractors, and pig races. If you want to add pumpkin picking to the mix, this farm also offers pumpkin painting and "punkin plunkin'" activities, too.

1410 Belvedere Dr.
Fredericksburg, VA
Online: belvedereplantation.com

Related: Frightfully Fun Halloween Games They’ll Talk About All Year

Montpelier Farms
The seven-acre interactive corn maze at Montpelier Farms is free with admission, but only open on weekends. For a less crowded, tot-friendly experience, check out “Spookley The Square Pumpkin” maze on a weekday (this mini maze is also open on weekends). Afterwards, attend a scarecrow making workshop for an additional fee or hit up the duck races, pumpkin painting tables, hay rides, and more.

1720 Crain Hwy. North
Upper Marlboro,
MD
Online: montpelierfarms.com

 

 

 

Discover all the kid-friendly spots to get lost (and found) thanks to these San Diego corn mazes that are designed for fun

‘Tis the season to get lost in a corn maze or two! These cool, sometimes creepy, life-sized puzzles are a spooktacular good time when these farm-fueled fun spots pops up all over the city. Little ghouls and goblins can try their luck at winding their way through corn mazes near San Diego that range from simple to ones that are downright corn-fusing. Of course, if you’re looking to explore all the fall activities around San Diego, don’t miss our insider’s guide to fall foliage guide around SD, our fall festival guide to San Diego, and where to pick up a pumpkin (or two) nearby.

Rancho Bernardo Pumpkin Farm

This eight-foot-tall farm-fresh corn maze is perfect for little farmers as it only takes about ten minutes to wind through. You'll spot this maze planted between the sunflower field and the pumpkin patch. Have your littles grab a partner and work through this labyrinth that has a few dead-ends. When done, take a tractor-hay wagon ride, pick a pumpkin and meet furry friends at the petting zoo. You can even cut your own bouquet of sunflowers.

Dates: Sept. 30-Oct. 31

13421 Highland Valley Rd.
Escondido
Online: rbpumpkinfarm.com

Frosty's Forest

This giant, four-acre corn maze is good for older kids, as there are plenty of dead ends among the twisting, winding trails. Only one trial and good decision-making will lead you out of the maze. This year's corn maze theme is Hocus Pocus!

Afterward, celebrate your maze achievements with pumpkin picking, target paintball shooting, a sunflower labyrinth, carnival games, and more. 

Good to Know: There's a haunted corn maze on Thurs.-Sun. evenings for those who want a fright. 

Dates: Sept. 30-Oct. 30

14861 Ramona Ave.
Chino
Online: frostysforest.com

Carlsbad Strawberry Company

You'll be out of your gourd winding through this cool corn maze that boasts miles of trails. Mom and Dad will want to go in with little runners. The corn stalks are tall, but you'll find hints to help out. When done, you and your little kernels can get a giant Cinderella pumpkin, go for a tractor ride and head to the bounce land to exert some extra energy. 

Dates: Now-Nov. 8

1050 Cannon Rd.
(near I-5 Fwy)
Carlsbad
Online: carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com

Bates Nut Farm

Weaving through this sweet hay maze at Bates Nut Farm is perfect for little pumpkins. Then continue to get a little nutty on a tractor hayride and enjoy the farm zoo and pumpkin picking (from Bic Macs to Jack O’ Lanterns). 

Dates: Now-Oct. 31

15954 Woods Valley Rd.
Valley Center
Online: batesnutfarm.biz

Mountain Valley Ranch

Little farmhands may get a little corn-fused before finding the right path in this 2.5-acre cornfield. A marvelous maze (about 15 minutes worth of fun) for giggling, running and discovering your way. When done, dig into these farm-friendly festivities: pumpkin picking, corn cannon shots, hayrides, pony rides and a petting zoo. Free parking, but bring some cash for other activities. 

Dates: Now-Oct. 31

842 Highway 78
Ramona
Online: mountainvalleyranch.com

Summers Past Farms

This pretty little corn maze is perfect for young ones to navigate. There's also a fun hay fort for tiny explorers to play in while you sit and admire the beauty that surrounds you at this idyllic farm. Stroll the grounds and find the chickens and make a stop at the on-site store for freshly made soaps and pick your pumpkin too. Your little fairies are sure to love this spot.

Dates: Now-Oct. 31

15602 Old Hwy. 80
El Cajon
Online: summerspastfarms.com

Bonita Pumpkin Farm

You can bet the farm that this corn maze will require little farmhands to put on their thinking caps. In-and-out in about ten minutes, yet it can be tricky. We recommend Mom or Dad go too! After finding your way, cover more ground with the tractor-hay wagon ride, train ride and pumpkin patch to finish-up an awesome day of fall fun.

Dates: Now-Oct. 31

5354 Sweetwater Rd.
Bonita
Online: bonitatpumpkinfarm.com

Underwood Family Farms

Did somebody say family fall road trip? Sure, it's a three hour drive, but it's tons of fun. Admission to their annual Fall Harvest on the Farm includes everything from a corn trail ride through and hay pyramid to the pumpkin house and wagon rides. 

Dates: Now-Oct. 31

3370 Sunset Valley Rd.
Moorpark
Online: underwoodfamilyfarms.com

Related: Guide to San Diego's Greatest Pumpkin Patches

Get your corn maze fill at any of these amazing Chicago corn mazes that’ll entertain the family for hours

Local farms know that if they build it, we will come. And by “it,” we obviously mean acres of intricate corn mazes to maneuver through—and get lost in—with your kids. If that isn’t enticing enough, a lot of the maze locations have added bells and whistles like petting zoos and pumpkin doughnuts. Plus, you can check off plenty of fall activities at once as most have options to pick apples or pick pumpkins to complete your fall experience. So lace up those walking shoes and check out this year’s crop of Chicago corn mazes.

Konow’s Corn Maze
A huge indoor western-themed playland, 2 corn pits, gem mining, straw playgrounds, animal barn, tractor-pulled grain train and more make this Homer Glen attraction a fall favorite. The keystone, however, of the operation is the corn maze. Depending on how much stamina your kids have, you could spend a chunk of the day winding your way through the miles-long behemoth.

16849 S. Cedar Rd.
Homer Glen
Online: konowscornmaze.com

Kroll's Fall Harvest Farm
Each year, the cornfields at this farm are cut into elaborate circuits and the activities are designed to entertain your entire clan, Kroll’s has hayrides, a petting zoo with goats, donkeys, sheep and turkeys and a pumpkin patch. Timed entry tickets are required on weekends to help control numbers, so be sure to book online before visiting. The maze is open Sep. 17-Oct. 31.

13236 W. Town Line Rd.
Waukegan
Online: krollsfarm.com

Richardson Farm
Home to the world’s largest maze, it’s go big or go home at Richardson. This sprawling attraction includes 4 separate mazes that make up 9-10 miles of trails winding through 28 acres of live corn. The trail includes games that range from solving puzzles to map reading that keep the littles engaged. In addition to the corny fun, kids can glide on zip lines, cheer for pig races, mosey through pumpkin patches, go for wagon rides and loads more. The maze is open Sep. 10-Oct. 30. 

9405 Richardson Rd.
Spring Grove
Online: richardsonadventurefarm.com

Related: Walk This Way! Colorful Spots for Fall Strolls in Chicago

Odyssey Fun Farm
Romp around 110 acres in Tinley Park and enjoy a pumpkin patch, inflatables zone, zip line, hay rides, a petting zoo and the crown-jewel 15-acre Pac Man-themed corn maze. In case that seems like a lot walking for little feet, the farm also features a pint-sized hay maze. Brave souls may also be interested in the twilight flashlight maze, wherein visitors peruse the maze at night. Don’t worry . . . it’s not haunted . . . or is it? (It's not). The farm opens Sep. 24.

19111 S. Oak Park Ave.
Tinley Park
Online: odysseyfunfarm.com

County Line Orchard
Just over the Indiana border lies an awe-inspiring orchard complete with pumpkin doughnuts, concessions, apples galore and corn mazes. Along with a larger maze, there is also an Albanese gummy bear-themed maze that's perfect for the little ones. Once you’re all maze-d out, pick apples and peruse the massive barn to get your fill of fudge and other farm essentials.

200 S. County Line Rd.
Hobart, IN
Online: countylineorchard.com

Jonamac Orchard
This apple-picking oasis is also home to one stellar corn maze. While mostly renowned for its extensive apple orchards, the 10-acre corny adventure should not be overlooked. And with three miles of pathways and two bridges, it’s almost impossible to ignore. There’s also a nighttime haunted version on Friday and Saturday evenings for the brave corn stalkers. The maze is open Aug. 27-Oct. 30.

19412 S. Shabbona Rd.
Malta
Online: jonamacorchard.com

Related: 100 Things to Do in Chicago Before the Kids Turn 10

Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up

Looking for a corn maze, but don't want to leave the city? You're in luck! Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up has the city's largest family-friendly corn maze (before 7 p.m.), carnival games, a pumpkin patch, and so much more. It's recommended that you buy your tickets in advance, but they do accept walk-ups. They are open everyday from Sept. 22 - Oct. 31.

1265 W. LeMoyne St.
Chicago
Online: jackspumpkinpopup.com

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm
With 30 attractions on hand, Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Crest Hill, truly is a solid catch-all for kids of all ages and interests, whether said interests include pumpkin-picking, pony rides, climbing walls, jellies and jams, hay rides, or even “zombie” paintball. Then, of course, there’s the corn maze, open weekends through October 31. Spanning 15 acres, the corn maze contains 5 miles of winding pathways.

17250 S. Weaver Rd.
Crest Hill
Online: ourpumpkinfarm.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch
Through October 31, the farm opens its gates to visitors clambering for homemade fudge and caramel apples and those eager to ride the ponies and take a run through the mazes. The mazes here come in two varieties: a larger corn maze good for slightly older children and a “munchkin maze” ideal for younger kids.

42W813 Reinking Rd.
Hampshire
Online: goebbertspumpkinpatch.com

 

 

 

 

Get lost (and found again) at one of these epically fun corn mazes all located in the Bay area

Getting lost in a corn maze or a hay maze is practically a childhood rite of passage (along with a road trip to leaf peep some nearby fantastic fall foliage) and with these locations in the Bay Area, there’s so many fun mazes to choose from. Try your navigation skills at a world-record holding maze that (might) take you and the kids hours to find your way out. Or, for something a little less intense, check out the assortment of mini mazes created especially for shorter legs.

And don’t forget, there are night mazes and a minotaur maze that will increase the fall fun factor. A bunch of these spots also double as u-pick fruit and veggie spots, pumpkin patches as well as your go-to source for festive fall activities so if you want to get your fall fix all in one spot, these family-friendly farms featuring corn mazes and hay mazes were made just for you.

The Best Hay Mazes in San Mateo County

Webb Ranch: Haunted house inside the corn maze? Yep, this spot has that plus more! In addition to the maze, there is over 30 acres to explore, and kids can let off steam in the jumpy houses before picking their pumpkins. They also offer train rides, hay rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, a bird zoo and a reptile zoo. Weekend visits are by reservation only. 

When: Sept. 23-Oct. 31
Hours: 10 am.-6 p.m.

2718 Alpine Rd.
Portola Valley
Online: webbranchinc.com

best hay maze near san francisco
Arata's Pumpkin Farm

Arata's Pumpkin Farm: See if you can beat the Minotaur's Labyrinth two-acre hay maze! A visit to Arata’s Farm in the Bay Area's pumpkin capital, Half Moon Bay, is a whole day event with train rides, a petting zoo, pony rides and more. Combine all the attractions in an all-access pass or pay for individual tickets but make sure to take a pumpkin home.

When: Oct. 1 through the end of the season
Hours: Sun.-Thur. 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

185 Verde Rd.
Half Moon Bay, CA
Online: aratasfarm.com

Related: Fall Road Trips from the Bay Area

The Best Hay Mazes in Alameda County

G & M Farms: Nestled in gorgeous Livermore Valley, G & M Farms has a 6-acre corn maze plus an enormous pumpkin patch and fresh produce you can take home. Weekend activities include pony rides, a cow train, pedal cart and jumping pillows (think: large, inflatable pillow the kids can jump on till they’re tired).

When: Oct. 1-31
Hours: Wed. & Thurs. 3-8 p.m; Fri. 3-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

487 East Airway Blvd.
Livermore
Online: gmfarms.com

Related: The Bay Area’s Best Pumpkin Patches

The Best Hay Mazes in Santa Clara County

Spina Farms: This spot is a South Bay tradition and for good reason—it has something for everyone. Pick a sunflower, get lost in the corn maze (according to the site, “This year our maze has doubled in size and features an all-new layout to find your way out of!”), ride their Spina Double Express Train for the whole family, let a pumpkin rip from their Pumpkin blaster cannon or let your littlest pumpkin have their own ride in their barrel train.

When: Sept. 26-Oct. 31
Hours: 9 a.m-5 p.m and then later hours as the it gets closer to Halloween

Corner of Laguna Ave & Santa Teresa Blvd.
Morgan Hill
Online: spinafarmspumpkinpatch.com

Gilroy Ostrich Farm is currently closed for renovations. Will update once we have more information.
Gilroy Ostrich Farm: This spot is the only only one on this list that involves ostriches—and the largest farm of ostriches in the state of California to boot! Make sure to see the ostriches, get your pumpkin and let the kids run through the hay bale maze.

5560 Pacheco Pass Hwy.
Gilroy
Online: gilroyostrichfarm.com

The Best Hay Maze in San Benito County 

Swank Farms Fall Experience: If there were ever a one-stop shop for fall festivities, this would be it! In addition to a corn maze and pumpkin patches, you will find pig races, a hay jump, gem mining, bouncy houses, a jumping pillow and…. beer!  Still looking for fun? Try the family-friendly Trail of Lights & Field of Frights which is a magically light journey through the farm. 

When: Oct. 1-31
Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (Fri-Sun); Various hours on other days

4751 Pacheco Hwy.
Hollister
Online: swankfarms.com/fall

The Best Hay Mazes in Sonoma County

Santa Rosa Patch: Not to be outdone by anyone, this 8-acre corn maze has two different routes so it's perfect for kids of all ages. The short route takes about 25 minutes while the longer route can take up to an hour with night mazes open until 10 p.m. on Fri. & Sat. This spot also has a pumpkin patch, inflatable jumping pillow, petting zoo, hay ride, u-pick sunflower fields to fill your day.

Good to Know: The corn maze closes 45 minutes before the pumpkin patch closes.

When: Oct. 7 through the end of the season
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-10:00 p.m; Sat. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

5157 Stony Point Rd.
Santa Rosa
Online: santarosapumpkinpatch.com

Petaluma Pumpkin Patch & Amazing Corn Maze: Farm animals, a bouncy house, pony rides and food vendors on the weekends will keep the entire family entertained. The 4-acre maze with 10-foot tall corn stalks and only one way out is open daily. If you're looking for something more challenging, check out the night maze—open on Fri. and Sat. nights (kids 15 and under must stay with an adult inside the night maze).

When: Sept. 30 through the end of the season
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; night maze is open 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

450 Stony Point Rd.
Petaluma
Online: petalumapumpkinpatch.com

The Best Hay Maze in Solano County

Cool Patch Pumpkins: Holding a world record for the largest corn maze, every year the corn maze is new and completely unique. This year they are honoring the hard work and dedication that it takes to be a modern day farmer. Did you know that in the 1800s, 90-percent of the US population lived on farms? Today it is around one-percent.

Whether your crew chooses to use a map as a guide or attempts to do it on their own, fun hours are guaranteed. Littles can tackle the mini-maze on site and enjoy the pedal cars. 

When: Sept. 24 until the season is over
Hours: 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. 

6150 Dixon Ave West
Dixon
Online: coolpatchpumpkins.com

The Best Hay Maze in Marin County

Nicasio Valley Pumpkin Patch: We love this spot up north because it has 12-acres to explore plus a massively-fun hay maze for kids age seven to age 97, plus a hay pit for toddlers. Weekends include face painting, live music, and petting zoos—all of which will work up a big appetite for their on-site BBQ and ice cream.

Good to Know: This spot is cash only. 

When: Sept. 24-Oct. 31
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

5300 Nicasio Valley Rd.
Nicasio
Online: nicasiovalleypumpkinpatch.net

The Best Hay Maze in Contra Costa County

best corn maze near san francisco
Three Nunns Farm

Three Nunns Farm: A tractor ride (for a fee) takes your family to this beautiful property with corn mazes and a pumpkin patch. The kids can then be let loose in the five acre corn maze while a mini-maze promises to be more relaxing for the younger ones. In addition to pumpkins, U-pick and pre-picked produce is also on hand for purchase. 

When: Sept. 17-Oct. 31
Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

550 Walnut Blvd.
Brentwood
Online: threenunns.com

The Best Hay Maze in San Joaquin County

Dell'Osso Family Farm: This spot is about 90 minutes east of Fremont and totally worth the drive for a day of fall fun. Your daily wristband gets you into the massive corn maze as well as on other attractions like the hay ride, Dell'Osso Express train, tire pile and more. Upgrade your day to try out the ziplines and pony ride. Don't forget to come back here in the winter to ride the snow tubes!

When: Oct. 1-31
Hours: Mon.-Fri., noon-7 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

501 Manthey Rd.
Lathrop
Online: dellossofarm.com

 

 

Take the city at their pace, and discover some accessible parks and museums in NYC that’ll appeal to everyone from the littlest tykes to their aging grandparents

Are the grandparents coming to NYC for a visit? Better get your hug muscles ready! But after the warm welcomes have been doled out, you may want to hit the city streets for some family fun. But if Grandma has a bad back or Grandpa’s hearing isn’t what it used to be, and if the kids are very likely bouncing off the wall with excitement, a New York adventure might seem all but impossible. Is there anywhere in the city that can possible appeal to both your energetic children and aging parents?

Hey, you’re in NYC. There’s something for everyone here! Read on to see the best museums and parks to visit, as well as other tips and tricks for planning the ultimate urban trip with the grandparents.

Where to Stay with Grandparents in NYC

When choosing a hotel or AirBnB for your aging parents to stay, consider two key things: location and accessibility.

If you plan to get around by train or bus (more on this in a bit!), then a central location with close access to train or bus stops is ideal.

Many hotels are accessible and ADA-compliant, but if your parents need some extra assistance, then look for hotels that offer special accessible rooms. These often come with wide doors, a roll-in shower, and buzzers for assistance. Some even have braille-based signage or hearing aids on request.

Some hotels even offer discounts for senior citizens (usually for people ages 55 or 65 and older), so make sure to inquire about that to knock about five to 10 percent off the room price.

Wheelchair Travel has a more complete list of wheelchair accessible hotels in NYC that you can consult when choosing your accommodations.

How to Get Around with Grandparents in NYC

MTA trains and buses

If you’ve lived in NYC for any amount of time, you’ll know that the MTA subway system is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it makes a majority of the city accessible from anywhere, but it can also be infuriating to use.

The subway does have accessible stations, which are highlighted on the website. Avoid traveling at rush hour in the morning or afternoon, and it’s often recommended to stay off the subways after dark. It gets very hot in there and can mean a lot of waiting. Make sure you know multiple ways to get to your destination in case of service changes, and check ahead for planned work.

Whenever possible, buses are a better option, and most have a wheelchair ramp. Drivers can also lower the bus to make it easier for people with mobility issues to get on board.

Editor’s Note: Each location suggested in this post will mention nearby trains and buses, although you can also use Google’s trip planner to find the best route to take.

Taxis and ride shares

Cabs and ride shares are also an option, but it can get expensive fast. If you have a family member who’s wheelchair-bound, Uber and Lyft both have the option to request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (or WAV) through the app.

Wheelchair rental from Thriftway

The Thriftway Pharmacy has wheelchair rentals available for residences and hotels around Manhattan. Place your order ahead of time, and the pharmacy will deliver the wheelchair to you when you need it. The service lets you choose between manual, heavy duty, and transport wheelchairs.

Scootaround mobility vehicle rental

The Scootaround service also provides rentals, with a bit more flexibility: You can get a manual wheelchair, a walker, a scooter, knee walkers, and even more, for relatively fair daily prices. Mobility Rentals will deliver your order to any location in NYC.

Museums to Visit with Grandparents in NYC

Museums are a favorite family activity with grandparents! A few tips for museum visitors (from a writer who used to work at the American Museum of Natural History):

  • Many museums have wheelchairs available to borrow if a family member of yours can’t walk for too long. These are generally first-come, first-serve, so you’re not guaranteed to get one.
  • Many museums are ADA-compliant and some have listening tours if vision impairment is an issue.
  • Since 2020, most museums have timed entry tickets available for purchase online. Plan ahead and buy tickets in advance to avoid having to wait in line.
  • Some museums have busier days that you should note. For instance, the Museum of Natural History used to get absolutely packed when the Metropolitan Museum of Art was still closed on Mondays. Today, your best bet is to avoid weekends and holidays, or visit for ticketed and timed events, which usually limit capacity. You can also call the museum to find out what times are the busiest so you’ll know to avoid them.
  • Although all the museums in NYC are fantastic, we’ve highlighted some options that are either very accessible to older visitors, or offer special services and events that may appeal to your aging parents.

The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum features Jewish art and culture throughout the years. Although this is a great museum for people from any culture, it’s especially powerful to visit if your family or grandparents are Jewish. Use the art to start a conversation between generations and bring the culture of your kids’ grandparents to life through the museum’s collections.

The museum stands across the street from Central Park, and on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the museum is surrounded by a number of open streets, allowing for safe passage to all visitors with no cars. For lunch, walk down Madison Ave. for fare that’s on the expensive side but varied, from pizza to halal.

Accessibility: The museum makes accessibility a priority, providing visitors who need them with large-print labels, captioned videos, verbal description audio tours, and the integration of hearing loops at the admissions desk and shop. Unlike most other museums, you can reserve a wheelchair ahead of time by emailing the museum.

Besides the regular accessibility features, the Jewish Museum holds ongoing programs for visitors with disabilities, like ASL tours and interpreters, family workshops for kids and adults with developmental or learning disabilities, and special exhibit programs for individuals with memory loss.

Nearby trains: 4, 6 (96th St.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M4

1109 5th Ave. at 92nd St.
Upper East Side
Online: thejewishmuseum.org

Folk Art Museum

This free museum pays homage to self-taught artists throughout the ages. Featuring folksy artworks, crafts, sculptures, and more, the Folk Art Museum is a quaint spot to take the whole fam. The bright, colorful exhibits are a treat for the eyes and different mediums and textures make the displays interesting at any age.

It’s located just a block away from Lincoln Center, which is also worth a look and often has outdoor public events, so you can plan ahead and make a day of it.

Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available to borrow while they’re available. Visitors who are blind or partially sighted can request verbal description and touch tours, and the museum regularly hosts “Art Beyond Sight” events where visitors can get hands-on with art. ASL interpreters can be requested for tours and programs ahead of time.

It has also held a number of programs titled “Folk Art Reflections,” in which individuals with memory loss and Alzheimer’s can take part in conversations about art. All these events and accommodations are free.

Nearby trains: 1, 2 (66th St.-Lincoln Center), A C, B (72nd St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M10, M11, M66, M72, M104

2 Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square
Online: folkartmuseum.org

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Ship, plane, and rocket buffs among the family will love this museum, which is housed on a massive aircraft carrier in the waters by Pier 86. Yep, the entire museum is also one of the exhibits! The Intrepid is home to the space shuttle Enterprise, the fastest jets in the world, a submarine equipped to fire guided missiles, and other exhibits that come and go.

For lunch, you’ll have to walk over to 10th Ave., where you’ll find restaurants from a mix of cultures (Mexican, Thai, and Korean on just one block), and this writer’s personal favorite, Peruvian restaurant Pio Pio.

Accessibility: You may think that a ship isn’t the best place to take the older members of the family, but the Intrepid is actually mostly accessible by wheelchair. There are no wheelchairs to borrow, but you can borrow some lightweight stools to carry around with you for convenient seating anywhere in the museum.

The Intrepid caters to individuals who are older or disabled by providing verbal description and tactile guides, large print and braille labeling, and talking pens are available to borrow. The museum’s exhibits are equipped with induction loops for anyone who uses hearing aids, and special events have assistive listening devices for loan.

Throughout the month, the Intrepid holds programs for various visitors who may need a different kind of experience, including sensory friendly hours for kids and teens, tours for people with dementia and their caretakers, and more accessibility programs.

Nearby trains: the closest train station is W. 42nd St. & Port Authority (1, 2, 3, 7, A, E, N, R, Q and W), but it’s at least a 15-minute walk, so we don’t recommend this route
Nearby buses: M12, M50

Pier 86
W 46th St. and 12th Ave.
Hell’s Kitchen
Online: intrepidmuseum.org

Whitney Museum of American Art

Now more than ever, art in the media is shaping our world—and the Whitney Museum is a celebration of this. Wander through galleries of 20th- and 21st-century artworks, sculptures, prints, photographs, films, and more by over 3,500 artists from America’s recent history. You may discover that your kids’ love for memes isn’t as new or odd as it may seem to the grandparents at first glance!

Located in the Meatpacking District, the museum building is a work of art on its own, and has several open streets around it for a casual and relaxed meander. Continue your celebration of American art with burgers, cafes, and steakhouses within walking distance of the museum.

Accessibility: The Whitney hosts ASL tours for deaf and hard of hearing visitors. It also has verbal and touch tours of its exhibits, which also has wheelchairs, stools, and assistive listening devices to borrow. These tours are led by trained educators who’ll describe each artwork in detail, painting a mental picture of it for anyone who can’t clearly see it. Visitors will also be able to handle replicas of certain installations and sculptures.

Nearby trains:  A, C, E, L (14th St.-8th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M11, M12

99 Gansevoort St.
Meatpacking District
Online: whitney.org

Museum of Arts and Design

This stylish museum focuses on ingenuity and design, displaying artwork, sculptures, and artifacts that showcase the intersection of art and function. The museum takes a closer look at the beauty and design behind our surroundings, from the weird to the wonderful.

It’s located on the southwestern tip of Central Park, where you can follow wide, paved paths along slight hills and dips to enjoy the southern end of the park. Bring some lunch and have a picnic, or wander over to The Shops at Columbus Circle for an upscale shopping experience. Just be careful of the traffic when crossing the streets around the Circle!

Accessibility: MAD offers free or reduced-fee admissions for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers and the entire museum is wheelchair-accessible. Portable stools and manual wheelchairs can be borrowed from the front desk, and you can request an ASL interpreter or a listening device for the museum’s program and events.

Nearby trains: A, B, C, D, 1, 2 (59th St.-Columbus Circle), F, R, N, Q, W (57th St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M11, M12, M31, M57, M104

Jerome and Simona Chazen Building
2 Columbus Circle
Midtown
Online: madmuseum.org

Queens County Farm Museum

This farm and museum is a bit out of the way, but it’s well worth a visit if you have any animal and nature lovers in the family. The farm has been in use since 1697 and is still an active farm today, and you’ll find fresh produce and honey for purchase that’s grown and harvested on location. Wander around the historic farm buildings and greenhouses, or check out the old farm vehicles and tools, orchard, and herb garden. The farm also has beautiful flowers to smell and well-loved livestock to greet and feed!

The museum has plenty of activities, workshops and events for both kids and adults, and admission is free except on special ticketed days.

Accessibility: The farm’s 47 acres are a bit of a walk and there aren’t too many places to sit, so this trip can be difficult for older visitors, but the grounds and restrooms are wheelchair-accessible. There aren’t too many food options in the area, so be sure to pack lunch!

Nearby trains: the county farm is just out of reach of the city’s train system—there are no nearby train stations, so arriving by car is highly recommended
Nearby buses: Q36

73-50 Little Neck Pkwy
Glen Oaks
Online: queensfarm.org

The Cooper Hewitt Museum

A museum dedicated to design may seem high-minded, but there is plenty here to please everyone. One of our favorites is the Immersion Room, an interactive space where visitors can select digital images from the museum’s vast wallpaper selection or draw their own designs and have them projected onto the walls all around. Also popular: the beautiful birdcages collected by the Hewitt sisters, who founded the museum, and the extensive family programming.

The charming outdoor space next to the museum is a favorite hangout for neighborhood parents looking to picnic and let their little ones roam. Grab a bite at Tarallucci e Vino, the museum’s own outpost of the beloved Union Square modern Italian café, and enjoy your food outdoors.

Accessibility: The museum entrance, exhibits, and restrooms are all wheelchair-accessible. The museum also loans out manual wheelchairs and portable stools on a first-come, first-serve basis at the coat check, found by the 91st St. entrance.

Large-print labels can be downloaded from exhibit pages online or acquired at the Visitor Experience desk. There’s also an audio description for all exhibit videos. You request assistance for deaf or hard of hearing visitors by calling or emailing the museum.

Nearby trains: 4, 5, 6 (96th St.), Q (86th-2nd Ave.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M4, M96

2 E. 91st St.
Upper East Side
Online: cooperhewitt.org

Parks to Visit with Grandparents in NYC

New York City parks are more than just Central and Brooklyn’s Prospect Park—although, of course, those are lovely to visit as well. They’re also largely accessible, featuring wide, smooth paths and many places to sit and rest along the way.

But there are many more parks to explore, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorite NYC green spaces that adults and kids can enjoy together. We’ve also noted the accessibility features of each park, so you know before you go what to expect. You can find a complete list of accessible facilities—like sports courts, beaches, hiking trails, and more—on the NYC Parks website.

Socrates Sculpture Park

Imagine a museum of sculptures . . . but entirely outdoors and completely free. That’s essentially what the Socrates Sculpture Park has to offer visitors. The unique park sits on the East River waterfront and spans five acres of gently rolling grassy hills. Housed in the park are sculptures from various artists from around the city and around the world, ranging from beautiful metal contraptions to colorful billboards, functional art benches, and much more. The park has no permanent exhibits, so this is a place you can go every time the grandparents are in town and find something different on each visit.

Besides the appeal of the sculptures, the park is generally a nice place to relax and unwind, or enjoy a view of the city across the river. Plus, the park has free Wi-Fi, so if the kids need a distraction on devices while the grandparents (and, let’s face it, parents) catch their breath, the park’s got that covered for you.

Accessibility: There’s not a step or stair to be found in the entire park (except for a brief time when an exhibit features stair sculptures leading to nowhere). The park perimeter is paved, allowing for easy walking and wheelchair access. At special events, the park lays out mobi-mats on the lawn for wheelchairs, and there are listening aid devices available to borrow (although you’ll need to call in advance to request one).

It’s important to note that from November until April, the park has no public restroom facilities. (April-October has porta-potties, including an ADA/wheelchair accessible one).

Nearby trains: the closest train station is Broadway (N, W) but it’s a bit of a walk
Nearby buses: Q104, Q104

32-01 Vernon Blvd.
Long Island City
Online: socratessculpturepark.org

Wave Hill

Wave Hill is a beautiful 28-acre space with lush gardens as well as structures and artwork inspired by nature. This place has something for everyone: Kids can take part in regularly scheduled workshops and arts and crafts events, while adults can take it slow and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace.

Stop by the pergola for incredible views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, framed by green and colorful plants. The family will also enjoy the herb and flower gardens for delicious scents and colors to engage your senses.

Accessibility: Many areas of Wave Hill, including all indoor spaces, are accessible by wheelchair, though some parts of the gardens are too difficult to navigate. You can plan ahead, though, as these areas are marked in the garden map, which you can access online. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow (no reservations, though), as are mobility assistance vehicles, which are driven by garden staff.

Nearby trains: 1 (Van Cortlandt Park-W. 242nd St)
Nearby buses: Bx7, Bx10

4900 Independence Ave.
Riverdale
Online: wavehill.org

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

The scenic Snug Harbor has 83 acres to explore, featuring a variety of flowers, trees and plants, historic buildings and a Scholar’s Garden based on a walled Chinese. There are also a number of museums to visit (including a children’s museum) and countless events and programs. There’s plenty of room for kids to run around and enjoy themselves while the adults take their time and enjoy the scenery.

Accessibility: Most of the gardens are accessible for wheelchairs and lower mobility individuals, with the exception of a few places in the Scholar’s Garden (though you can still see the entire garden). Visitors are encouraged to call the Rangers if you require any assistance getting around the gardens, especially the Scholar’s Garden.

The park and botanical garden is always making accessibility improvements, adding new walkways, removing uneven paving, and generally making it easier to get around.

Nearby trains: to get here by public transit, follow the directions on the Snug Harbor website.

1000 Richmond Terrace
Staten Island
Online: snug-harbor.org

Governors Island

This island, which used to be occupied by soldiers and then the coast guard, is now an oasis from the fast pace of NYC. History buffs in your family will love seeing the old fort and Castle Williams and learning the history of the island and its occupants over the ages. (If this is your cup of tea, the free tours offered by the island’s visitor center are chock-full of interesting historical information!) There’s also a farm (open only on weekends), several large natural playgrounds, giant slides, and fountain sprinklers for the kids, with lots of shaded seating for accompanying adults. Chill out on the hammocks, keep your eyes peeled for the resident,though seasonal, sheep grazing around the island, or just wander the island enjoying the artworks on display. Some of the historical houses have been converted to impromptu museums and art houses, although not all are wheelchair-accessible due to steps at the entrance.

When the fam gets famished, you can head to the mainstays of the island for tacos, oysters, or pizza—or grab something from the mobile vendors. The kimchi fries are amazing!

Accessibility: The island has very wide paved roadways that meander around to all parts of the island. Even the hills have wheelchair access, including a ramp to a lookout point, where you can view the Statue of Liberty and NYC and New Jersey skylines (the youngsters in your group will probably prefer to climb up the large rocks to the outlook instead). The island has recently started offering tram rides for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs on Fridays and weekends. Ferries are, of course, also wheelchair-accessible.

If taking the ferry from 10 S. St. Slip 7 in Manhattan:
Nearby trains: R, W (Whitehall St.) 1 (South Ferry) 4, 5 (Bowling Green)
Nearby buses: M15, M20, M55

If taking the ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 in Brooklyn (weekends only):
Nearby trains: R, 2, 3, 4, 5 (Borough Hall-Court St.)
Nearby buses: B61, B63

If taking the ferry from Red Hook/Atlantic Basin in Brooklyn (weekends only):
Nearby trains: F, G (Smith-9th St.)
Nearby buses: B61

Governors Island
Online: govisland.com

 

Little Island

Little Island is like a miniature version of Governors Island, and even easier to access. Opened in 2021, this park-on-the-water is NYC’s newest island. The park has something for everyone: children’s activities and interactive artworks, shaded tables and chairs to sit and eat or rest, gentle rolling hills (easy to traverse at any level of mobility), regular art and performances, and absolutely gorgeous greenery and plants.

While you’re here, you can hop over to the old-railroad-line-turned-park, the High Line (which is also entirely wheelchair accessible). End your adventure at Hudson Yards, where you can shop around, snap pics with the whimsical sculptures, and grab some grub.

Accessibility: All parts of Little Island are accessible, and the park has two loaner wheelchairs for visitors to borrow. Special events and performances sometimes have ASL interpreters, and you can borrow hearing aids for the duration of any performance. There are also special spots for wheelchair and mobility scooters at the Amph, the island’s performance space.

Nearby trains: A, C, E, L (14th St.-8th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M11, M12

Pier 55 at Hudson River Park
Online: littleisland.org

Other Must-Do Activities For Grandparents in NYC

Pier 25 Mini-Golf

When the weather is good, Pier 25 in Tribeca has an 18-hole mini golf course, sand volleyball courts, and a children’s playground.

Whoever gets the winning score in mini-golf can treat to lunch at the food court at nearby Brookfield Place. Located inside of the city’s own high-end shopping mall, this incredible modern eating place is a home to outposts of more than a dozen of NYC’s cult favorite foodie spots: Blue Ribbon Sushi, Black Seed Bagel, Sprinkles cupcakes, Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque, and more. Bonus: After you eat, try leaving the kids with the grandparents (the mall hosts its own kids shows and exhibitions) while you take a shop-op.

Nearby trains: 1, 2 (Franklin St.)
Nearby buses: M20, M22

Pier 25 at N. Moore St.
Tribeca
Online: hudsonriverpark.org

Dave & Busters

This fun arcade is a treat for kids and grown ups, featuring arcade games new and old for kids, and food and a bar (for the adults) with plenty of seating. Some games have seating, and there are even experiences for anyone in the family who wants to sit and enjoy a display without needing to actually provide any input.

Accessibility: The arcade floor and restrooms are accessible, but note that it does get crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends and holidays. Wheelchair-bound members of the family may struggle to maneuver around the game floor, so this may be a better option if your parents are up and about. Plus, that way, you may get to see Grandma or Grandpa break out their dance moves on a DDR machine!

Nearby trains: E, B, D, F, M (42nd St.-Bryant Park), 7, A, C, E, N, Q, R, W (42nd St.-Times Square)
Nearby buses: M20, M104

234 W. 42nd St., 3rd Fl.
Times Square
Online: daveandbusters.com

Top of the Rock

Rockefeller Center is a must-visit for anyone who’s never been to NYC before. It’s been in the media in so many forms—from the annual Christmas tree and ice skating rink coverage to the hilarious 30 Rock TV show—and your parents are sure to enjoy seeing it any time of year.

Although the bottom levels of the center are always a treat, the real draw is Top of the Rock, where you can get incredible birds-eye views of the city. Lines here tend to be shorter than at the Empire State Building, and at this spot, you actually get to see the Empire State Building itself—and clear over Central Park and across the city.

Accessibility: Top of the Rock is fully accessible by wheelchair, and you can request transcripts of the short films. Visitors also receive audio headsets during tours for clarity, and guides can slow down or speak up as needed on request.

Nearby trains: B, D, F, M (47-50th St.-Rockefeller Center), E, M (5th Ave.-53rd St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M50

30 Rockefeller Plaza
Midtown
Online: topoftherocknyc.com

NYC Libraries, and the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library

The city’s libraries are always worth a visit, even if you don’t have a library card. Check the library by your house or the grandparents’ hotel for upcoming events while they visit, and consider stopping by for laid-back community experiences. There are many activities for senior and child visitors (yes, sometimes both), library facilities tend to be accessible, and almost all events are free and don’t require a library card to participate. So, while all the adventures you have planned are exciting and fun, the kids can also enjoy a library read-along or crafting session (or magic show!) with their grandparents.

The Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is exactly what it sounds like: A fully accessible library with materials specifically for individuals who are limited in their vision and can’t enjoy books in their original written form.

Visitors can browse through books in various formats like braille, talking books and magazines, players, apps, and more. The library also hosts accessible programs, workshops, and events Best of all, you can use your own NYC library card to check out materials if your aging parents want reading material for their stay.

Nearby trains: R, N, W (23rd St.), F, M (14th St.-6th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M7, M55

40 W. 20th St.
Flatiron District
Online: nypl.org

Circle Line Boat Tours

Don’t want to (or can’t) walk but still want to check out the main sights of the city? Hop on a Circle Line boat tour instead! These tours will take you around the city from the point of view of the water, allowing a unique view of the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty (no waiting in line!), and more than 100 NYC landmarks.

It’s a relaxing way to see a lot of the city without all the walking that it would generally entail. Sightseeing cruises last 1, 2, or 2.5 hours and are fun events for the whole family.

Maybe you picked some cherries this summer, or any number of berries recently, but have you ever ventured into acres of flowers of all kinds and snipped a few stems right from the field? From wildflowers to sunflowers, zinnias, peonies and more, here are our favorite farms near NYC for flower picking.

For a Wide Variety: Brittany Hollow Farm

Head to Brittany Hollow Farm in the Hudson Valley for one of the best selections of pick-your-own flowers near NYC. Flower varieties include zinnias, cosmos, black-eyed susans, strawflowers, snapdragons, celosia, sunflowers, butterfly weed, statice, and more, and the farm is open July through early October. Flowers are $20 per bucket, and you take the bucket home with you—bring it back for $15 buckets all season long. The fields are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Brittany Hollow Farm
7141 Albany Post Rd.
Rhinebeck, NY
Online: brittanyhollowfarmflowers.strikingly.com

For "Gazillions" of Flowers, Veggies & A Winery: Terhune Orchards

A major player in the "you pick" scene, Terhune Orchards offers the chance to pick something throughout the growing season.  They offer a great selection of flowers here, available from late June to October. Planters and culinary herbs are also available on site, as are numerous other fruits and veggies—both in the fields for picking and the farm store for purchase. Terhune also operates its own winery. FYI: Leave your pets with a friend—they aren’t allowed on the farm. 

Terhune Orchards
330 Cold Soil Rd.
Princeton, NJ
609-924-2310
Online: terhuneorchards.com

For Gorgeous Blooms for the First Time: Spring Wind Farm

The stunning blooms are grown sustainably, and flowers for picking include sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, celosia, gomphrena and more. Pick for a mason jar or a three-gallon bucket; prices start at $16. 

95 Holmes Mill Rd. 
Cream Ridge, NJ
Online: springwindfarm.com

For Super Sunflowers & Farm Fun: Johnson's Corner Farm

Johnson's Corner Farm loves its sunflowers. (The farm even holds Sunflower Celebrations.) In addition to lots of barnyard fun and picking produce, you can pick sunflowers for $1 a stem here, and zinnias for 25 cents each. Entrance to the field is $5/person on weekdays, and $6/person on weekends; buy tickets online to guarantee admission. 

133 Church Rd. 
Medford, NJ
Online: johnsonsfarm.com

For Lavender Lovers: Lavender By the Bay

To be fair, you can't pick the lavender at Lavender By the Bay, but it's a must for fans of this soothing herb, and peak bloom for French lavender is happening now, and more to come late summer! Plus: you can load up on sachets and sprigs in the gift shop. This farm has two locations on Long Island, growing more than 80,000 plants in hues of purple, lilac, white and beyond. (FYI: The Calverton spot is across the street from water park Splish Splash.) It's $12 to enter the field and stroll in the fragrant fields. Tickets must be purchased beforehand. 

Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

7540 Main Rd.
East Marion, NY

47 Manor Rd.
Calverton, NY 

Online: lavenderbythebay.com

For a Butterfly Moment: Melick's Town Farm

You can pick apples and peaches at Melick’s, but from July through September its stunning gardens are open for picking as well. You'll find flowers such as zinnias, sunflowers and snapdragons here, and no appointment is necessary, but they do ask that you bring your own clippers. (They advise calling ahead to find out what is blooming before you head over.) The farm charges per stem and also has pre-picked bouquets and arrangements if you need to grab a bouquet on the go. Melick's Town Farm is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6.pm., and on a nice day, butterflies flock to the gardens, making for nice Instagram fodder.

Melick’s Town Farm
170 Oldwick Rd.
Oldwick, NJ
Online: melickstownfarm.com

For Flowers, Berries & a Side of Fresh Ice Cream: Patty’s Berries and Bunches

If you’re looking to ditch the scissors, but pick up some berries, this is the place to go. Patty's "bunches" are flowers, which are sold pre-picked and include blossoms such as sunflowers, dahlias, peonies, and zinnias. You can also pay $8 to walk through the flower fields for the perfect photo op!  The farm features an "Ice Cream Patch,” where visitors can buy scoops of seasonal flavors which are made with fresh ingredients grown on-site. This 40-acre Long Island farm is one of our favorites for U-pick berries. Open daily, 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

410 Sound Ave.
Mattituck, NY
Online: pattysberriesandbunches.com

For Evergreen & Sunflower Mazes & Lots of Produce to Pick: Alstede Farms

Alstede is a popular place for picking many, many things. Not only can you pick your own flowers at Alstede Farms, they've also added a cute evergreen maze, which is included with admission. Picking season runs mid-July through September, and flowers go for $1 a stem. The farm is packed with beautiful sunflowers ready for picking, and the farm’s annual sunflower maze is also open for navigation. This farm is also one of our favorites for “U-pick” fruits & veggies as well. Sweet Corn, vegetables (peppers, eggplant, tomatoes), peaches, cantaloupe, nectarines, honeydew and canary melon are all in season during the “cut your own flower” season, so you can pick up some "Jersey Fresh" produce while you're at it. Check this page to see if flowers are open for picking. 

1 Alstede Farms Ln.
Chester, NJ
Online: alstedefarms.com

 

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​Spring is in the air, and there’s no sweeter way to celebrate the season than to visit a local farm and pick berries (be sure to see if they participate in a CSA box while you’re at it). Visiting the farms and learning where our food comes from is a great way to spend the day and enjoy the fresh-off-the-vine sweet treats. So read on for how to navigate the u-pick scene in San Diego and make some delicious memories!

Kenny's Strawberry Farm

Kenny's Strawberry Farm

Looking for fields of juicy red strawberries? Then this is your farm! We are berry pleased to say that Farmer Kenny's main crop is strawberries. Hunt for the biggest red berries your littles can find.

Kenny's is open from now until July, and this season they require reservations to go strawberry picking at their farm. Click here to make a reservation and learn about the process of visiting the farm.

Please be sure to respect social distancing while at the farm, remain patient with others, and stay together as a family. They have 7 acres of beautiful strawberry rows, so finding space shouldn't be a problem, and they encourage you to spread out.

Buckets for berries are $17 per large and $7 per small.

953 Rainbow Valley Blvd.
Fallbrook, CA 92028
951-212-5805
Online: kennysstrawberryfarm.com

Tanaka Farms

Yun C. via Yelp

Head out to Tanaka Farms to pick some sweet strawberries and enjoy a wagon ride around the farm to learn about the importance of farming. You must register with the exact number of guests and a time to enjoy berry picking. $20 per person (kids two and under are free) includes the wagon tour, one fresh veggie picked from the fields, unlimited strawberries off the vine, one quart of strawberries to take home, plus the petting zoo and loads of photo op spots!

5380 3/4 University Dr.
Irvine, CA
949-653-2100
Online: tanakafarms.com

Carlsbad Strawberry Company

Kathy N. via Yelp

Located in Carlsbad, this fourth-generation, family-run U-pick farm is one of the oldest in San Diego County––they've been growing strawberries for over half a century. Go for the ocean view, cool breezes, and bountiful strawberries. If you walk further down the row, you may find even juicier red ones.

The fields are now open every day (weather dependant) 9 a.m.-5 p.m through July. If rain is in the forecast, call 760-603-9608 to make sure they are open. Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty as it can get muddy. Also available are the corn maze and tractor ride. Food vendors are on-site on the weekends.

Strawberry picking fees:

$5 field admission per person (admits you to strawberry picking area without the bucket).

$12 per person/bucket (about 2 lbs. of strawberries)––kids five and younger are free.

1000 Cannon Rd.
Carlsbad, CA
760-603-9608
Online: carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com

Temecula Berry Company

J C. via Yelp

Like a bolt from the blue, 9-acres of blueberries will be ripe for the picking! This family-owned and operated farm in Temecula is a berry gorgeous destination. Pick a bucket full of blueberries, and you’ve got a memorable afternoon. The blueberry-picking season is short, so the earlier in the season you get there, the better the pickings. Come early or later in the day, as it gets hot in the valley.

U-pick sessions will begin in May (exact date TBD) and will be open Sat. and Sun. from 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. and Monday mornings if there is still ripe fruit available.

Check their website or Facebook page to make sure they're open before heading out.

Prices for the picking containers are:
Small $5
Medium $10
Large $20

Good to know: Farm accepts cash or checks only.

39700 Cantrell Rd.
Temecula, CA 92591
951-225-5552
Online: temeculaberryco.com

Julian Farm and Orchard

Natalya S. via Yelp

A trip to Julian is always fun, but a trip that includes berry picking is even better! Julian Farm and Orchard is the new kid on the block in the u-pick world and will be open for berry picking beginning in June. The farm also has a petting zoo, axe throwing, tractor-pulled hayrides, and tons of photo spots. 

Open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm. Text 951-313-0166 for berry updates.
Admission is $10 per person (kids under 2 are free) and includes ten activity tickets to use on the hayride, axe throwing, or petting zoo. 

Insiders Tip: Julian Mining Company is under the same ownership and is located across the street, so plan to make a day out of your visit.

4444 State Hwy 78
Julian/Wynola
951-313-0166
Online: julianminingcompany.com

 

Tips to Have a Sweet Berry Picking Experience:

  • Wear a hat and sunscreen and pack sunglasses for sensitive eyes.
  • Wear close-toed, comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking through dirt paths on the farms).
  • Always call the farm before you visit to confirm their hours and whether there are enough berries left for picking.
  • Arrive when the farm opens to get the cream of the crop and to pick the fruit in cooler temps.
  • Only pick strawberries that are fully red and ripe, and pick them by pulling on the stem, not the berry.
  • Take along some baby wipes and hand sanitizer to clean sticky hands and faces.
  • Take your camera for plenty of cute photo ops.
  • Once you’re home, don’t wash the berries until you’re ready to eat them (otherwise they spoil more quickly).

––Kimberly Stahl, Nikki Walsh & Beth Shea

featured photo via iStock

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