When the weather doesn’t agree with outdoor play, it might take a little creativity and maybe a delivery or two from Amazon to mix it up. From inspiring and imaginative toys to creative craft kits, there are plenty of fun toys to order on Amazon to keep your kiddos active and learning, and having a grand ol’ time.


this doodle mat is a fun toy to order on amazon

Large Aqua Doodle Mat

$17 BUY NOW

Because laying out butcher block paper for your sweet tot isn’t always on your to-do list, there’s Miserwe’s Doodle Mat. Spread it out, fill the included six pens with water, and let your tot have at it—drawing with stamps, stencils and rollers to create a memorable masterpiece. The best part? It dries to a clean slate in just 10 minutes, making creating and cleaning up is easy as pie.


Melissa & Doug have lots of fun toys to order on Amazon.

Shape Sorter

$12 BUY NOW

Melissa & Doug's classic shape sorter helps little ones with colors and shapes—a great screen-free option. The engaging toy is made from sturdy wood and is perfect for kids ages 2-4.


indoor forts

Fort Boards

$100 BUY NOW

Indoor afternoons just got a whole lot more fun! Fort Boards are the perfect open-ended building toys that combine imagination and STEM skills and will keep littles busy for hours. Construct domes, vehicles and various-shaped forts with these colorful and BPA-free pieces that can build up to 20 square feet of construction but fold down for easy storage.


Longest Hidden Pictures® Puzzle Ever

$15 BUY NOW

Possibly the coolest hidden pictures book ever, Highlight's 16-ft. fold-out puzzle is fun for the entire family. Made on sturdy paper and featuring 280 hidden objects, this unique activity can be used on the go, completed in sections or spread out all at once!


brain flakes are a fun toy to order on Amazon for kids.

Brain Flakes

$17 BUY NOW

Kids don't just use their imagination when they play with brain flakes, they are enhancing their spatial thinking, too! With over 500 pieces per container, the possible creations are endless. It's a perfect STEM activity for future engineers!


an egg and spoon game, a fun toy to order on amazon.

Egg & Spoon Relay Game

$18 BUY NOW

Simple and oh-so-fun, this egg and spoon relay game will have your littles burning off energy in no time! The classic game comes with coordinating wooden spoons, eggs and a carrying case. Play a simple relay back and forth or make it interesting by creating an obstacle course.


Yuckology! Slime Lab

$16 BUY NOW

Your little scientists can create their slime concoctions with this easy-to-use kit that gives preschoolers their first lesson in early chemistry and making observations. The kit comes packed with all the tools you need to make slime from common household ingredients. The plastic tools can easily be washed to use again and again.


Looking for a fun toy to order on Amazon? Try LEGO!

LEGO Classic Bricks

$28 BUY NOW

With 484 pieces, there's plenty of creativity to be had with the LEGO Classic Bricks set. The multi-colored collection has tons of classic pieces, tires, mini-windows and propellers to keep kids entertained for hours.


Goodminton

$11 BUY NOW

Don't worry about balls in the house when your kids play Goodminton! This two-paddle game comes with two different speed birdies and is great for indoor fun.


Picasso Tiles are a fun toy to order on Amazon

PicassoTiles

$48 BUY NOW

When it comes to fun toys to order on Amazon, these are on the top of our list. Let little imaginations soar with STEM-friendly magnetic tiles. The multi-colored tiles let kids learn with their hands and get a grasp on 3D forms.


This indoor camping set is a super fun toy to order on Amazon

Pretend Camping Set

$34 BUY NOW

So you're stuck inside? Bring the outdoors in with this adorable camping set. It comes with a tent, faux fire, canteen and other camping supplies your little will need to survive the great indoors.


Fashion Plates are a fun toy to order on Amazon.

Fashion Plates

$14 BUY NOW

You kids may not be able to strut their stuff because they're stuck inside, but they can still dream up dressy duds. Classic Fashion Plates come with 15 interchangeable plates for countless outfits, plus paper, crayons, a drawing tablet and more.


Eat2Explore Box

$16 BUY NOW

Each box from Eat2Explore transports you to another country, with three unique recipes and essential spices and sauce mixes. Help your kiddos experience the great world with recipes that feed four each and include a shopping list. Choose from destinations like Greece, Brazil, China, India and Japan, to name a few.


Head-to-Toe Human Body Science Lab

$40 BUY NOW

This fun kit comes with a six-page illustrated storybook lab guide, eye chart, eye patch, tooth chart, toothbrush, stethoscope, dry erase marker, magnifier, washable ink pad, slime, red foil confetti, blue foil confetti, white foam balls and mixing container. Kids will learn from 10 activities all about science and first aid concepts.


this Discovery Kids Planetarium is a super fun toy to order on Amazon.

Discovery Kids Planetarium Projector

$43 BUY NOW

Discovery Kids Planetarium Projector is double-sided and comes with two different modes: stationary and moving. Settle down for a night of looking at the stars with 32 different images!


Arts & Crafts Jar

$13 BUY NOW

This 1000+ piece set is bound to keep the kids happy for a while. Choose from pipe cleaners, pompoms, sequins, googly eyes, foam letters, flowers, plastic beads, wooden sticks, paper scroll and more––all in a handy plastic bucket.


Made By Me Create Your Own Window Art

$10 BUY NOW

Create up to 20 gorgeous pieces of window art that will make the world a little brighter. Each set comes with suncatcher shapes, cords and suction cups to hang your work with pride.


Brio's Tabletop Pinball Set

$65 BUY NOW

Get your arcade fix with this tabletop version of pinball that's easy for kids as young as six to play.


Creatto Moonlight Elephant Safari | Light-Up Crafting Kit

$12 BUY NOW

Creatto kits require only two building components but offer countless results. The beautiful sets not only put creative juices to good use but also double as a work of art to keep on display.


smArt Pixelator

$51 BUY NOW

Steam learning and creativity come together with the smART Pixelator. Kids can learn to pixelate any design and build 2D and 3D projects using Bluetooth connectivity, lights and creative tools. Start with the included 50 step-by-step designs!


The Gravitrax is a fun toy to order on Amazon

Ravensberger's GraviTrax Marble Run

$60 BUY NOW

This might be one of our favorite fun toys to order on Amazon! The marble run of the modern age, this incredible STEM toy from Ravensburger will keep the kids entertained while they learn a little something, too. There are 122 pieces included in the starter set, which makes it possible to design unique marble runs, which in turn helps kids learn about engineering, gravity, magnetism and kinetics.

 

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


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The Seattle Chinatown-International District—affectionately known as “the C-ID” to locals—is a historic, cultural destination and a gastronomic mecca. It is also a wonderland for kids, filled with unique things to do including parks, curio and toy shops, plus the famous food that has nourished local families for decades. The Seattle Chinatown-International District is so user-friendly that’s it is easy to enjoy on a whim, but its historical complexity calls out for expert advice.

We were lucky to have Tyler Moriguchi—grandson of Fujimatsu and Sadako Moriguchi, founders of neighborhood anchor, Uwajimaya—guide us through the area’s most kid-friendly aspects. Moriguchi has been a part of this vital Seattle community his entire life. “The Chinatown-International District has always had a special place in my heart and connection to my family,“ he said. “It is a dynamic, vibrant neighborhood, and it’s been amazing to see it grow and evolve over the years.” If you’re ready for a new adventure, read on for the most kid-friendly places to eat, play and shop in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District.

Where to Play & Learn in the Chinatown-International District

Kids looking at chicken coop at Denny Woo Park in seattle chinatown international district
Natalie Compagno

Danny Woo Community Garden and Kobe Terrace
Imagine a park where the locals are also farming. Meet the community as they tend their chickens, grow their flowers, and farm vegetables. There is also a Children's Garden in which 265 K-12 children go through Interim's Seed-to-Plate program, focused on raising sustainable foods, promoting better nutritional choices and teaching children the science behind food production. Kobe Terrace, replete with Mt. Fuji cherry trees, is a must-visit, especially in spring.

620 S. Main St.
Seattle, WA 98104
Online: interimcda.org/danny-woo

Hing Hay Park
When it comes to this C-ID Seattle park, the name says it all. Hing Hay means "Celebrate Happiness Public Park." Bring your junior kung fu and karate practitioners for outdoor fun. Hing Hay Park is the spot to work on these and other martial arts or practice Tai Chi or gentle meditation. Enjoy a lunchtime serenade from the local musicians.

423 Maynard Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-684-4075
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/hing-hay-park

Nihonmachi Alley
Nihonmachi translates as "Japantown," one of the many names for the area. Learn about the inspirational local history with murals featuring four neighborhood businesses that continued courageously by families returning from World War II incarceration: Kokusai Theatre, Maneki Restaurant, Sagamiya Confectionary and Uwajimaya Grocers. You'll find Nihonmachi Alley on the north side of Jackson Street between 6th and Maynard Avenues.

Kids outside the Wing Luke Museum in seattle chinatown international district

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience
May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, and Wing Luke Museum is an invaluable source of Asian history, both local and abroad. More than a museum, it's an interactive part of the community. Check out their Chinatown Discovery Tour or Seasonal Food Tour for in-depth experiences. For exhibits, the kids will love A Dragon Lives Here, the continuation of their popular Bruce Lee series, focusing on his time in Seattle.

719 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-623-5124
Online: wingluke.org

Seattle Kung Fu Club                
For 60 years the Seattle Kung Fu Club has been teaching local adults and children to develop "discipline for your health and to learn respect, not just how to fight.” Sign up for classes or stock up on supplies and gifts.

658 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-624-3838
Online: seattlekungfuclub.com

Seattle Pinball Museum
Pinball wizards can play to their little heart's content at this C-ID marvel. One admission price unlocks over 50 machines dating back to the 1960s. Kiddos need to be least seven years old to play.

508 Maynard Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-623-0759
Online: seattlepinballmuseum.com

Where to Eat in the C-ID

Kids eating rice hot dogs in seattle chinatown international district
Greg Freitas

Uwajimaya
Start off your Chinatown-International District tour with a local legend. Uwajimaya provides 35,000 square feet of Asian specialties, with roots in the region since 1928. Grab regional delicacies for a picnic in the area, stock up on groceries for later or get a hot snack to go. For adventurous little eaters, take a world tour of Asian cuisine inside the brand new food court. The tinies will love Bean Fish—waffles shaped like fish, stuffed with savory or sweet goodness. Try the “K-Pop” with Roi Choi’s Kogi Korean BBQ Beef or “Elvis” with (of course) peanut butter and banana. Other wonders in the magical food hall include Dochi–crafted mochi donuts, Aloha Plates–Hawaiian plate lunches and Jardin Tea–warm, liquid happiness in a mug. Arrive hungry!

600 5th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-624-6248
Online: uwajimaya.com

Chungchun Rice Hot Dog
Chungchun Rice Hot Dog sells the best dogs on sticks in Seattle. They serve to-go only, so take a number and stand in line patiently with the other dedicated patrons. Trust us, these Korean-style hot dogs are worth the wait. The kids will dig the bazillion flavors, including Cheddar, Volcano Dog and Original—which is chewy on the inside, crispy on the outside and everyone’s fave. The Sweet Potato, a sweet and salty treat with gooey cheese surrounded by yams is another cool twist. You can also add powdered sugar to just about anything. Just up the street, Hing Hay Park is the perfect place for the kids to enjoy their treats.

502 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-682-1300

Panama Hotel and Tea House
If there is a historical epicenter to the Seattle Chinatown-International District, it's the Panama Hotel and Tea House, which received recognition in the novel Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, by Jamie Ford. The charming 1910 hotel still operates as a hotel and teahouse (with pastries and a full bar), and the assortment of international travelers lend an aura of intrigue. Echoes of the past still reverberate strongly in the antique rooms. Locals leaving for internment camps left their belongings behind in the basement, which visitors can view through a clear floor. Some of them never returned. Ask owner Jan Johnson about the National Historic Landmark's rich past. She restored the hotel to its previous condition before internment, giving a historical peek into pre-WWII Seattle and paying homage to the community.

605 S. Main St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-223-9242
Online: panamahotelseattle.com

Three kids drinking boba tea in seattle chinatown international district
Natalie Compagno

Oasis Tea Zone
Go beyond boba at Oasis. Slurp Taiwanese-style hot, iced and blended bubble teas with oodles of flavors, from honeydew to chrysanthemum. Be prepared for a wait—the lines can be long to enjoy these tasty treats. Kids know this is the place for that perfect sweet drink. Make new friends with other boba fans or play pinball at the machines in the back.

519 6th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-447-8098
Online: oasisteazone.com

Fuji Bakery
This Japanese artisan bakery provides hungry customers with the highest quality ingredients, many imported from around the world. The window shopping is amazing, and taking a bite is even better. Order the Azuki buttery brioche doughnut with organic red bean paste. You'll thank us later.

526 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-623-4050
Online: fujibakeryinc.com

Tai Tung Restaurant
This is the part where you can teach the kids that not only did Bruce Lee have roots in Seattle, but also yes, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar co-starred with him in a martial arts movie. You've arrived at Seattle's oldest Chinese restaurant and still one of the best. The food and atmosphere are throwbacks in the best possible way to the Chinese restaurants you might have enjoyed as a kid. Tai Tung has been serving regional dishes from the Middle Kingdom for over 75 years.

655 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-622-7372
Online: taitungrestaurant.com

Can’t-Miss Shops

Kinokuniya bookstore interior in seattle chinatown international district
Kinokuniya

Kinokuniya Seattle
This must-visit Japanese bookstore is also located inside Uwajimaya. It's the place to stock up on art books, anime, magazines, K-POP CDs, Japanese stationary and a whole lot more. Find gifts for everyone for every occasion.

25 S. Weller St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-587-2477
Online: usa.kinokuniya.com/stores-kinokuniya-seattle

Sairen
Beautiful dolls, jewelry from local designers, kimonos for kids, dim sum magnets, and interactive kids' toys from Hawai'i fill this stylish shop. Stop in to browse, but be prepared, you're kids will definitely find a few "must-haves" when you do.

600 S. Jackson St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-588-6144
Online: shopsairen.com

Kobo
Next door to Sairen, Kobo at Higo is the place to find that perfect gift. The gallery-style mercantile is full of fine crafts, decorative items and jewelry, both from Japanese and local artists.

604 S. Jackson St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-381-3000
Online: koboseattle.com

Daiso
Don't call it a dollar store; it's a 100-yen store. And it is stocked with thousands of Japanese, Chinese and Korean items, most of which cost about a dollar. Founded in 1977, Daiso now has over 5,000 locations worldwide.

710 6th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-623-3312
Online: linktr.ee/daiso_usa

International Model Toys
Seventies flashback alert! Find puzzles, figures and Gundam mecha warriors galore at this family-owned modeling and hobby passion project.

524 S. King St.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-682-8534
Online: facebook.com/International-Model-Toys

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If you’re like most parents, you’ve heard the phrase “I’m bored!” a lot over the past few days. But boredom doesn’t have to be a daily occurrence in your house. KiwiCo creates interactive crates that are both entertaining and educational, and keep kids engaged without screens. They’re perfect for learning at home and staying indoors.

Every month, KiwiCo delivers a craft kit that includes different activities and projects. KiwiCo has eight unique subscription lines​ to fit different ages and interests, and each kit is designed by experts and tested by kids. So if you have an 8-year-old budding Picasso artists, rest assured another young artist helped test every activity in the crate to make sure they are engaging and fun. Let’s face it— what’s the point of having an enriching project if the kid doesn’t want to do it? And the best part? All of the materials are provided in each crate. So busy parents don’t have to make dozens of trips to the store to buy craft supplies.

Here are the different crates available and their themes:

Panda Crate (0 – 24 months) — Even the littlest minds can explore and discover with this kit that includes age-appropriate kit subscription options.

Koala Crate (2 -4 years) — Kids will play and learn with high-quality materials and activities to inspire creativity at a young age.

Kiwi Crate (5-8 years) — This kit is focused on science, art and engineering. Kids create their own pinball game, kits and more.

Atlas Crate (6-11 years) — This geography and culture kit helps kids get globally inspired with projects and activities to explore different cultures. The Atlas Adventure books comes with the crate and includes collectible cards and stickers for a passport keepsake book.

Doodle Crate (9 – 16+ years) — Kids create and craft awesome projects such as a DIY clock, soap and stained glass stencil kits.

Tinker Crate (9 – 16+ years) — This awesome create includes all the materials and supplies to create science and engineering projects. Kids learn and make the science of slime and create their own animation.

Maker Crate (14+  years) — Using art and design, kids create amazing projects that are unique and useful. Past projects include pillows, hanging plants and sewing projects.

Eureka Crate (14+  years) — This kit includes an engineering project with high-quality materials and step-by-step instructions. Kids also receive a Maker’s Guide that lets them explore the science and technology behind the design.

How does KiwiCo work?

To order your KiwiCo crate, here’s what you need to do:

1. Pick a line based on your kiddo’s age and stage.

2. Your crate will be delivered monthly. And your first kit is shipped in two days! And you pay no shipping fees.

3. Have fun! Watch your kiddo enjoy their create and see their imagination grow as they start exploring immediately.

You also have the option to skip the subscription and shop directly from the KiwiCo store.

Ready to give KiwiCo a try? You can cancel or pause your subscription anytime. Save 30% on your first crate with code REDTRI!

—Leah R. Singer

Mid-winter break is almost here, and you know what that means, parents…hasta la vista routine. Take advantage of these different days with late night adventures you wouldn’t dare try on a school night. From go-karting to skiing to late night museum programs, read on for details about what to do after dark.

Race Around the Track

andyround62 via pixabay

As the area’s only indoor, electric go-kart track, K1Speed is the place to be after hours. They’re open until 10 p.m. every day of the week (and even later on weekends), so you and the kids will have plenty of time to race the night away. Plus, driving is as easy as walking in, signing a waiver and hitting the track (hint: call ahead on weekends to check possible wait times). Kids need to be 48 in. to drive. The only question left is who’s going to win?

Carve the Mountain at Night

Pexels via pixabay

Your kids have raced down these runs when the sun is up. Maybe they’ve even outpaced you. But when the sun sets, The Summit at Snoqualmie is a whole different brand of awesome. They’re open until 10 p.m. weekdays for Night Skiing and Galactic Tubing Night Sessions all season long. That means you and the kids can take in more runs, with less wait time once the sun goes down. And the lift ticket prices? Let’s just say they’re hard to beat.

Play a Mean Pinball

Greg W. via yelp

Punctuate your Friday night with the dinging bells and flashing lights of classic pinball machines at Seattle’s very own Pinball Museum. All the machines are set to free play so your kids can play till their hearts’ content. Join in or watch them win at this retro evening activity. The Pinball Museum is open until 8 p.m. on Friday nights. Kids 7 & up are welcome.

Strike Up Fun Bowling

10 pins. One ball. Enough said. Bring the kids for some evening bowling hours over break. From Monday Madness deals that save some green, to X-Bowl blowouts that include fog machines and laser lights, bowling in the dark is anything but tame. Check out our favorite spots to get your roll on before heading out.

Dive in to Family Swim Night

Seattle Parks via flickr

Wait for an hour after you eat, but definitely take the kids swimming before bed. Not only is it a natural segue to bath time, but it’ll wear them out in the best way. Check out Family Swim at the Meadowbrook Pool Tues. & Thurs. from 7-8 p.m. or the Mountlake Terrace Pool with its lazy river that’s open for public swim on the same days from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Those on the south end can swim at the Rainier Beach Pool on Fri. from 7-8 p.m. or the Federal Way Community Center Pool that’s open nightly from 6:30-8 p.m. (psst… kids can try their hand at the climbing wall during these hours too). Need more info? Find a pool that’s close to you and then dive in!

Ride The Great Wheel

Matt T via yelp

You see its colorful, animated lights when you’re tooling around the city at night. But going for a ride once the sun sets? That’s a new trip. Both The Great Wheel and Wings Over Washington are open until 10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. Take the kids to see the city in a whole new light (or in this case, dark). Get the need-to-know details then plan it!

 

Take Flight

courtesy Allison Sutcliffe

Suit up because this ride goes to eleven. Make the most of your evening hours when you take the kids indoor skydiving at iFly Seattle. Open Mon.-Thurs. until 9 p.m. and Fri. until 10 p.m., the adventure never stops here. After getting fitted for your gear, skilled instructors will walk you through the flight, in the most entertaining way. Then it’s your turn to catch air. Kids 3 & up are welcome. We know what they’ll be dreaming about tonight.

Go on a Night Hike

Free-Photos via pixabay

The best part about night hiking is that, short of a flashlight, there’s not much prep involved. Put on your walking shoes and bundle up, then take the kids to a local trail or park and get hiking. If you like things a bit more organized, join the monthly hikes at Mercer Slough through PacSci. Check our events calendar to get details about upcoming hikes.

Spend a Night at the Museum

courtesy Pacfic Science Center

You navigate them in the daytime with your eyes closed, but your favorite museums take on a whole different personality at night. Visit one after hours to take advantage of cool programming, like untangling octopus intelligence at PacSci and FiredUP Fridays at KidsQuest, where families can create pottery together. Many also offer free admission in the evening hours, like the Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett that welcomes families for free on third Fridays from 5:30-9 p.m. Find your nighttime favorite for a new adventure.

Go Roller Skating

Shannon A via yelp

Lace up your skates because the roller rink is calling. We love that so many rinks offer exciting nighttime skating options for families. Whether you love glow skating, games & prizes or just scoring a good deal, we’ve got just the rink for you and the kids to try.

Be Extreme

Elevated Sportz via yelp

Indoor trampoline parks, laser tag arenas and play structures that rival the size of your house are all the rage with your crew. So why not let them have at it? Test their mettle in the laser tag arena at Arena Sports’ Mill Creek location, open Tues.-Thurs. until 9 p.m. and Fri. until 10 p.m. Elevated Sportz, another north end fave, also clocks late night hours, staying open until 9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. and 10 p.m. on Friday. Families can also log airtime on the tramps at Defy Seattle. They stay open until 9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. and midnight on Friday. After all this excitement, you have to wonder, will they even stay awake for the car ride home?

—Allison Sutcliffe

 

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Calling all “pinball wizards!” Stern Pinball recently announced a new game—and it features Netflix’s Stranger Things.

The Stranger Things pinball machine features absolutely everything you’d expect from the “upside down” world of the super-popular streaming series. Not only will Stern Pinball release one supernatural-infused machine, but the company will give fans three different options. Look for Pro, Premium and Limited Edition models.

According to Stern Pinball’s website, the Premium and Limited Edition machines will feature, “A first ever video projector that displays images and animations directly on the playfield, creating dramatic interactions with gameplay action.” The Premium and Limited Edition machines will also have an Eleven-themed “telekinetic” magnetic ball lock and ramp that doubles as a screen.

Of the pinball pairing, Gary Stern, Chairman and CEO of Stern Pinball, Inc, said in a press release, “Stranger Things is one of the most successful shows of all time, connecting with people around the world and across generations. This game features action, mystery, suspense, and humor; Stranger Things is a perfect fit for pinball.”

To buy your very own Stranger Things pinball game (priced between $6,099 and $9,099) you’ll need to visit an authorized Stern Pinball dealer. Find a dealer via Stern’s website here.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Stern Pinball via Instagram

 

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Target recently announced its 2019 Top Toys List—and you can’t miss these big red bullseye retailer play-time picks!

Even though you might not have holiday shopping on the brain, Target does. That’s why the retailer is busy adding more than 10,000 new and exclusive toys in stores and online. While not all 10,000 made it onto the 2019 list, the top toys do include plenty of “exclusive” options that you’ll want to check out for yourself. The list includes toys for your child’s imaginative side:

 

  • L.O.L. Surprise! Amazing Surprise
  • Ryan’s World Treasure Chest—Exclusive
  • Animal Planet Extreme T-Rex Adventure Playset—Exclusive
  • PAW Patrol Super Mighty Pups Lookout Tower
  • PJ Masks PJ Seeker
  • Our Generation Movie Theater Playset—Exclusive
  • Barbie Malibu House

Toys for your action-loving kiddo:

  • Jetson Renegade Hoverboard—Exclusive
  • Viro Rides Vega 2-in-1 Scooter—Exclusive Color
  • Hot Wheels Colossal Crash Trackset
  • Beyblade Burst Turbo Championship Clash Battle Set—Exclusive
  • Marvel Avengers: Endgame Titan Hero Series—Exclusive
  • Monster Jam Mega Grave Digger RC
  • Fortnite Jumbo Loot Llama Piñata

Toys for the tech-savvy:

  • Fisher-Price Linkimals
  • LeapFrog RockIt Twist
  • Nintendo Switch
  • Really Rad Robots Turbo Bot

Toys to cuddle:

  • Owleez
  • Cry Babies Interactive Baby Doll—Exclusive
  • Little Live My Real Rescue Pink Scruff-a-Luv—Exclusive

Toys for family game night:

  • Buffalo Games Classic Pinball Board Game—Exclusive
  • Pictionary Air

Toys that shine:

  • Capsule Chix Ultimix Pack
  • Poopsie Rainbow Surprise Slime Kit
  • Cool Maker Go Glam Nail Stamper Kit
  • Snapstar Pop Royalty: Echo’s Debut on the Pink Carpet—Exclusive

You can score these and more at Target.com or in the Target app!

—Erica Loop

Photos: Target 

 

 

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Despite being so small, Carolyn Soling’s little Rori is already taking on absolutely blissful escapades through her Instagram account “Life with the Little Monster.” Made from household items like cloth, ribbons and toys, every scene is flowing with creativity and love, which is evident in her momma’s heart-warming captions. Each photo, whether the theme is pirates or Paris, is filled with family memories and dreams: it’s the past, present, and future, all rolled up into a can’t-miss vignette.

 

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen 2D baby adventures. Inspired by Mila’s Day Dreams, a creative blog run by a mom who recreates her baby’s nap-dreams, Carolyn crafts each scene with a personalized touch. She talks to her little one with an eagerness to share more experiences together.

 

The end game with @roridays is to turn a year of these amazing baby adventures into a book. We can’t wait to see it!

 

Loving this little Italian story and Carolyn’s witty retort.

 

This gorgeous creation of the Golden Gate Bridge wouldn’t truly be San Francisco without some of the trademark cloud cover.

 

We have a feeling Rori will be a wizard when it comes to pinball games when she’s older.

 

This little note about singing Rori to sleep is just too cute. Your mom and dad make a great team, Rori.

 

First it was BatKid; now it’s BatBaby.

There’s more over @roridays on Instagram! Follow these baby adventures and behind the scenes moments with #roridays

— Christal Yuen

The dream of the ’70s is alive in Seattle. Right in the heart of the International District at the Seattle Pinball Museum, where pinball wizards of all ages test their mettle in a battle against the inevitability of the drain. And it’s where you’ll find all the cool kids (and their parents) this mid-winter break. So dig out that old jean jacket and warm up your flipper fingers. It’s time to play a mean pinball!

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

The Museum
If your mental soundtrack hasn’t already queued up The Who’s Pinball Wizard, it will once you walk through the doors of the museum. Between the flashing lights and those distinctive pinging bells, this is one throwback that’s not just for Thursdays. The museum was part of the 2010 Storefront Seattle project aimed at revitalizing empty storefronts in Pioneer Square and the International District. Since winning one of the coveted spots, it has become a favorite for kids and those who are young at heart. And while it’s not always crowded, count on busyness whenever you plan to go. If you’re looking for a quieter playtime, Sundays (especially on game days), Mondays, and some Fridays are the best days to get your game on.

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

Game On!
The museum has over 50 pinball machines and a few old-school video arcades. The titles range from long-ago generic games, to contemporary sports, movie and rock ’n’ roll themed machines you’ll recognize and totally love. (After all, it’s hard for Gen Xers to pass up childhood kitsch like Tron and AC/DC.) There might even be a few games your kiddos recognize, too. (Psst! Try the Flipper Football on the 2nd floor, featuring the Sounders FC). And while the history of it all may fall on deaf ears when it comes to your kidlets, there’s much for parents to appreciate in the artistry of pinball culture. Catch up on some by reading the posted placards that explain the lineage and development of each pinball game. Or scan QR codes with your smart phone for awesome in-depth descriptions to totally geek out. As for the oldest game in the museum, it’s from the early 60’s. And the newest is one seriously sweet game minted just last year—The Emerald City, Limited Edition, Wizard of Oz. Definitely bring a few dollars to try it out. It’s one that’s not on free play, but so worth it.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Just for Kids
If all of this sounds awesome, but you’re wondering if your littles will love it, we found quite a few reasons we think they will. First and foremost is that (almost all of) the games are set to free play. No quarters necessary. Just a flat entrance fee and then you get to say “yes” to your kiddo all day. Can I play this one? You bet! The littles will also love the many step stools that can be found hiding (in plain sight) under various machines. After all, it’s hard to score big when you can’t quite see the playing field. As for lines, players are pretty cool about watching out for each other. The request is that if someone’s waiting, limit play time to two games and then give her a turn. And that kind of policy means small wait times for the smallest players. Plus, it’s game time without a screen. Yes, please!

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

Good to Know
1. No outside food or drink is allowed, but there are snacks, sodas and beer (along with some killer swag) available for purchase.

2. Depending on when you plan to play, street parking may be hard to come by. Try the lot at the end of the block on Maynard to avoid parking headaches.

3. Plan to spend about 2-3 hours to take in all the games and play a few faves more than once.

Seattle Pinball Museum
508 Maynard Ave. S.
Seattle, Wa 98104
206-623-0759
Online: facebook.com/pages/Seattle-Pinball-Museum/131237786915560

Times: Sun. & Mon., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on tournament nights); Fri. 2 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 1p.m.-10 p.m.

Cost: $15/Adults; $12/Kids (7-12) for one entry. All Day Pass $20/Adults; $17. 50/Kids plus games on freeplay.

Ages: 4 & up

—Allison Sutcliffe

Arcades are scarce nowadays as our little ones are growing up in the age of PlayStation and Xbox. But have no fear! There is a special little place where you can still hear the ping, zings and tokens oozing from the change machine. An arcade that is just as cool as you remember ‘em to be, fully equipped with air hockey, skee ball, pinball…all begging for your high score. Even the pricing is retro with most games taking two to four nickels per play. Yes! Nickels. So, grab your little ones and take a trip back to your glory days at Electric Castle’s Wunderland.

Need to Know
Wunderland charges admission but hey, it’s so worth it. Adults admission is $2.75 and kiddos $2.25 (ages 5-11). After entering the arcade, your first mission is to buy your baggies of nickels you and your little ones before you can play the neon, noisy, pingy, crane-y, driving game delights.  And just as you remember from rainy summer days at the beach arcade, you get tickets as you play that are redeemable to for cool prizes your little tykes will love.

At Electric Wunderland, you can teach your little ones the ins and outs of air hockey or help them land a 100-pointer in skee ball and transform them into mini pinball wizards. Afterwards, jhop on a motorcycle or speedboat and drag race with your tiny tots. And after all that high-speed adventure, step right up to your first arcade loves – Pac Man, Donkey Kong, target action and bonking hippo heads. It’s all as it used to be and it’s still crazy fun.

If We Had a Nickel for Every Time…
Some Wunderlands even come attached with a movie theater showing $3 movies. And we’re not talking older flicks but the most current films playing in theaters everywhere. Some offer stadium seating, some offer 3D action and all offer tasty popcorn, candies and other yummy treats and a chance to sit back and enjoy the show.

No Wooden Nickels
The well-trained and ever-present gang at Wunderland could not be nicer or friendlier, always willing to help you and the family out with broken or jammed games. Plus, they will help you make choices about where and what to play, how many nickels to buy and most important of all – how to spend those tickets! The staff is also extremely dedicated to safe, clean and friendly arcades so no worries here.

Electric Castle Wunderlands are available for parties and groups. For the diehards, check out the web site for Club Wunderland details, coupons and newsletters. Currently, this awesome arcade is open Sunday to Thursday from 12:00 pm-11:00 pm, Fridays from 12:00 pm-midnight and Saturday from 11:00 am- midnight. It’s a cool way to spend a rainy afternoon with the ones you love and it’s THE best spot around to rub two nickels together!

Locations:

Milwaukie Cinema and Wunderland
11011 SE Main Steet
Milwaukie, OR 97222
503-653-2222

Gresham Cinema and Wunderland
140 NW Burnside Road
Gresham, OR 97030
503-328-8496

Gateway Wunderland
10306 NE Halsey St
Portland, OR 97220
503-255-7333

Beaverton Wunderland
4070 Cedar Hills Boulevard
Beaverton, OR 97005
503-626-1665

Salem Wunderland
1657 Hawthorne NE
Salem, OR 97301
503-399-9410

Tell us about your trip to Wunderland in the comment section below!

— Liz Overson

Thanks for the photos Electric Castle’s Wunderland Facebook page!