21 Fun Toys to Order on Amazon Perfect for Indoor Days

by Karly WoodJuly 19, 2022

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.

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

$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.

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

$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.

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A New Book Series Your Kiddo Will Love Fur-Ever

by Kenzie KramerOctober 28, 2021

Waffles and Pancake aren’t your average kitty siblings. Even a trip to the science museum is an out-of-this-world, cat-tastic adventure. In Waffles and Pancake: Planetary-YUM, two cool cats learn all about space as they navigate an unexpected journey within the museum…

Waffles and Pancake: Planetary-YUM is the first book in a new early graphic novel series from Drew Brockington, the creator of CatStronauts. He takes readers back in time to when Waffles (everyone’s favorite CatStronaut!) was just a kitten. One special Saturday, Dad-Cat takes Waffles and his sister Pancake to the science museum where they see extraordinary things like 4D hairballs (cough, cough!) and the awe-inspiring planetarium. But while they’re busy learning about constellations and Neil Pawstrong, they get separated from Dad-Cat. How will they find their way through the big museum and back to their dad?

Young readers (ages 6-9) will enjoy following along on Waffles and Pancake’s adventures in this early graphic novel series, packed with educational facts about space. Purr-fect for new readers, books are short, engaging, and promote independent reading with an approachable comic-style format. Plus, this series brings a great balance of silliness and scientific information.
Fans of beloved duos like Narwhal and Jelly and Elephant & Piggie will soon be hooked on this fun, feline pair.

Ready to blast off on an adventure? Launch a love of CatStronauts and snag a copy of Waffles and Pancake: Planetary-YUM.

-Jessica Solloway

DC’s Top 10 Free Things to Do This Summer

by Meghan Yudes MeyersJuly 13, 2021

Give your wallet a much needed day off with these 10 fun activities in and nearby the District that won’t cost you a single dime. From smelling the roses to traveling back in time, there’s something for every frugal family member.

1. Sit Front Row

All summer long., REACH will be hosting a number of films, event and performances on the outdoor Millennium Stage and the price for admission is, you guessed it, free! There's opera, jazz, Indigenous dance...basically anything you can think of. For the perfect picnic, use the money you saved on tickets for a cool glass of wine and some nibbles at Victura Park.

2700 F St. NW
Foggy Bottom
Activity details.

2. Catch a Flight

Pint-size aviation buffs will love hanging out at Gravelly Point Park, which is conveniently situated just off of the George Washington Parkway. It's there where they're able to watch planes take off (right above their heads!) from Reagan National Airport. Pack a picnic or bring popcorn to make plane watching a serious spectator sport.

George Washington Pkwy.
Arlington, VA
Online: virginia.org

3. Smell the Roses

DC has a number of public gardens and parks that won't cost you a dime to visit. One of our absolute favorite's is Bishop's Garden at the National Cathedral. It's stocked with beautiful roses, fun exploring pathways, a tiny pond with goldfish and frogs, a shady stone gazebo, and a big open lawn to run around in or spread a picnic blanket on.

Massachusetts and Wisconsin Aves. NW
Woodley Park
Activity details.

4. Meet a Working Artist

Stroll the halls of the Torpedo Factory, a former munitions factory turned art space. Creative kiddos get a sneak peek at any one of the 82 artists with working studios in the Factory. From painting to ceramics and fiber to printmaking, the creative types love to chat with families about their gigs. Bonus: There are elevators and wide hallways, making this ideal for strollers.

105 N. Union St.
Alexandria, VA
Online: torpedofactory.org

5. Spend a Day at a Museum

One of the biggest perks about living in the District is that many of the museums are federal institutions, which means admission is free. This includes the National Gallery of Art, Planet Word and the Smithsonian's museums (think: the kid-approved National Air and Space museum). Find one that the whole family will enjoy and go explore.

Editor's Note: Check your favorite museum's website prior to visiting; many are now requiring timed entry tickets.

6. Up Your Insta Game

If you're looking for a cool backdrop to snap kiddo's next pics for grandma, look no further than DC's outdoor art scene. Not sure where to start? We rounded up some of the boldest murals here. Bring a camera and some snacks for the littles, but leave your wallet at home; there are no down payments or studio fees involved with these sittings.

Activity details.

7. Hang with the Animals

Bring a stroller and lace up your sneakers to walk the 163-acre animal park. Home to popular exhibits such as the panda house, there are plenty of lesser-known must-see stops. For instance, there’s the Kids’ Farm, where llamas and cows are neighbors with rare breeds like San Clemente Island goats and Ossabaw Island hogs. Educational programs are available throughout the day and include Amazon fish feeding, elephant training and meetings with panda or ape keepers.

Editor's note: The zoo is still free, but you must have a timed-entry ticket upon arrival. Get them here.

3001 Connecticut Ave. NW
Woodley Park
Online: nationalzoo.si.edu

8. Travel Back in Time

Go back in time without spending a dime at this Fairfax County park. Dating back to 1726, the park imitates a 1920s through 1950s farm, including agricultural process, rural community life and landscape. In the Kidwell Farm area, check out horses, chickens, rabbits, sheep, goats, cows, pigs and their babies. Then, help a farmer milk a cow. Wagon and carousel rides are available seasonally for a small charge. In the Antique Equipment Shed, visitors can look at horse-drawn carriages and early farm equipment from 1900.

2739 West Ox Rd.
Herndon, VA
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov

9. Stalk the Stars

Rock Creek Park is home to the only planetarium operated by the National Park Service, and it's free. On Wed., Sat. and Sun. nights, the image of the night sky is projected onto a large, dome-shaped ceiling. You'll hear more than one "coooool" coming from the kiddie corner.

Editor's note: Ms. Seymour, the planetarium projector, is currently out-of-service. We will update this story when Ms. Seymour is working again!

5200 Glover Rd. NW
Rock Creek Park
Online: nps.gov

Cool Your Jets

Many of the District's spray pads and splash parks are completely free (check out our ultimate guide here). For a park experience that feels worthy of an entrance fee, Head to Our Special Harbor Spray Park in Franconia, VA. There are boats to climb, bubblers and even a beach.

6601 Telegraph Rd.
Franconia, VA
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov

—Meghan Yudes Meyers and Ayren Jackson-Cannady

featured photo: iStock

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A Love Letter to Chicago: Things We Can’t Wait to Do Again

by Maria ChambersApril 30, 2020

The creativity of Chicago families—with the help of museums, playspaces and local business—with home-schooling solutions and stay-at-home adventuring has been quite impressive. But truth be told, we’re missing being hands-on with our city, a ton. Here are the things that top our agenda when the gates swing open and we can hit the city streets once again.

There are zero doubts to be had, we are a sports town. We've got massive spirit . . . and infinite amounts of patience. Soaking up the sun at the historic Wrigley Field, cheering on the south side at a Sox game, standing for the iconic National Anthem performed at a Hawks game (no one does it better), bundled up and shivering in the seats at a Bears game and sitting on the edge of our seats at a Bulls showdown—we want to do it all!

Imagine one of those Chicago summer days that are perfection—the ones we mentally hold on to all 6 months of winter.

Cruising Lake Shore Drive with the windows in the down position, music on as max as the kids will allow it, singing-along-ish to the lyrics we know well enough to butcher, legs sticking to the leather seats from the sweltering heat. Warm breeze tangling your hair made wretched by the humidity, sun's rays skipping off the lake, bikers, walkers and runners bringing life to the path, beach volleyball game in full swing, families with day camps set up in the sand, the city's flowers along the drive in full glory bringing vibrance to LSD. . . heaven at its best.

Such a simple pleasure, but we really just can't wait to sit outside on a patio and linger over a meal, sipping a cocktail at dinner or mimosa at brunch. People-watching, or boat-watching at the riverwalk restaurants, and in no hurry to be anywhere but in that exact moment.

Chicago has consistently been ranked as one of the most fun places to spend St. Patrick's Day, and deservedly so. Every single Chicagoan is Irish on March 17 (and many days before and after). Covid-19 robbed us of our celebrations this year, but we like to think the luck of the Irish is on our side and we'll be back at it next year with pop-up Irish bars, green beer, corned beef and cabbage, Irish festivals and parades, and our super fancy green river.

Hit up a local library, book store, museum or shop—wherever you prefer to get in touch with your literary side—for a storytime.

Raise your hand if you thought you'd ever see a day where parks were off-limits? Bueller? Bueller? No one? Necessary craziness, but, holy moly. Skip over to your favorite park, hop on a swing, squeal down the slide and cherish hearing your kid plead for just 5 more minutes as the sun sets on the day.

Netflix's Tiger King has us all appreciating the integrity of legit zoos, and we can't wait until our two favorites swing open the gates again. Brookfield Zoo welcomed two new male African lions, Brutus and Titus, that we can't wait to meet in person and meandering the Lincoln Park Zoo paths that sit in view of the city skyline and sing-a-longs with Mr. Singer are family-memory-making highlights.

Grab your highest-capacity reusable bag and head to your favorite neighborhood farmers market—or try a new one! Some favorites of farmers market connoisseur are the ones in Andersonville, Lincoln Square, Logan Square, Green City Market, Wicker Park and Chicago French Market. Try 'em all!

Chicago's culinary game is so dang strong. It rivals any city in the world for the quality and diversity of restaurants.

Never again will we take for granted physically eating in a restaurant. Having someone else prepare a meal enjoyed as a family—or on a date night. We'll even overlook the sibling arguments over which restaurant to go to and the noisiness and over-the-top-ness of the ones the kids typically prefer.

Space, dinosaurs, science, art, aquatic life—no matter your kid's interest, a day exploring at a Chicago museum is a day very well spent! The creative forces behind Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, MSI, Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium give us access to so much coolness and we can't wait to get back at it!

Speaking of museums. We've seen a wave of experiential pop-up museums come through Chicago and they're oh, so fun for the family! We can't wait to visit a favorite that's made themselves a permanent fixture in the West Loop, wndr.

We're hoping for a sweltering hot summer where neighborhood pools and splash pads can welcome us for a much-needed cooldown.

Featured photo: Maria Chambers

— Maria Chambers

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Visit Chicago’s Brightest & Best Cultural Gems. . . Virtually!

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Visit Chicago’s Brightest & Best Cultural Gems. . . Virtually!

by Amy BizzarriApril 28, 2020

Stuck inside? Aren’t we all! As Chicago remains on lockdown, our city’s best and brightest museums have stepped up to the virtual plate with online opportunities galore. Gather the fam, get comfy on the sofa, and pay a (virtual) visit to Chicago’s always immersive museums.

things to do with kids in chicago dinosaur at field museum — Field Museum, Maria Chambers

Chicago’s beloved Field Museum stands as one of the world’s great museums of natural history. Thankfully, kids can online chat or text message the museum’s very own titanosaur, Máximo: Ask him what life was like during the Cretaceous Period, how he came to be at the museum, and even his favorite color or what he likes to eat. Send Máximo a message using the button on this page or text him at 70221.

The Art Institute of Chicago has digitized more than 40,000 of their masterpieces, so you can tour the collection from the comfort of home. A good place to start is with some of the museum’s essential works — zoom in to see each tiny dot in a A Sunday on La Grande Jatte or admire the brushstrokes in Monet’s Water Lilies. See the digital collection and explore more ways to visit virtually here. Newly homeschooling parents will want to pay a visit to the virtual classroom resource library for art-focused lesson plans and activities.

Bring the lab to your little scientist and spark curiosity and encourage exploration with the Adler Planetarium’s Let’s Do Science video series. Designed for families and educators, these engaging at-home experiments use household materials for fun hands-on, minds-on science activities. Experiments range from floating an egg in water to building a space-age lava lamp, and more.

Delve into Chicago’s rich history with the Chicago History Museum: Learn about the Great Chicago Fire, the life of Abraham Lincoln, the Haymarket riots, and the evolution of Chicago’s culinary scene. One of their coolest digital experiences is the Chicago θθ Project, which offers free virtual reality experiences of defining Chicago moments like the SS Eastland Disaster and the 1933 World’s Fair. Explore online exhibits, and check out the museum’s list of classroom resources that you can easily adapt for your newfangled homeschool curriculum.

Embrace your inner Indiana Jones by exploring a treasure trove of artifacts from the most ancient days of Egypt, Persia, Mesopotamia, Syria, and beyond at The Oriental Institute. The museum’s virtual tour lets you explore many of the objects uncovered during the University of Chicago-led excavations, from early pottery to a massive statue of King Tut.

The National Museum of Mexican Art is home to one of the country’s largest Mexican art collections. The museum’s staff and their families are finding creative ways to stay busy and entertained during the Covid-19 crisis and have compiled a list of their favorite activities to enjoy at home, including coloring pages, word searches, and even a tutorial on how to make papel picado.

Keep up-to-date on the daily lives of the Shedd Aquarium's animals on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter; create learning experiences for early learners through their Sea Curious YouTube series; check out live views from the Underwater Beauty special exhibit, and dive deep with 360-video views to Keep Sharks Swimming, visit Shedd's penguin exhibit daily using the Virtual Reality Penguin Expedition tool and more.

Every day, even without a pandemic, Museum of Science & Industry has an Experiment tab on their website with games, videos showing a virtual tour of their massive submarine and of baby chicks being born in their Hatchery, and hands-on science experiments that can be conducted at home.

These non-profit institutions rely on membership and daily admission purchases in order to continue their rich programming. Please consider donating, purchasing a membership or paying them an in-person visit once the doors to Chicago are open once again. They all would appreciate the reciprocal support.

— Amy Bizzarri

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Miami’s Best Museums for Kids & Families

by Kate LowethFebruary 10, 2020

When the heat is on and you need to get out of the house, head to one of these museums in Miami, Florida that are perfect for kids. They can explore the solar system, learn about Miami’s colorful history and see works of arts in many different forms. Scroll through to find your next museum adventure!

Frost Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a leading science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder and investigation and fueling innovation for the future. Located in Downtown Miami’s waterfront Museum Park, Frost Science is divided into four buildings: the Frost Planetarium, Aquarium, and North and West Wings. Here, guests can learn about the core science behind living systems, the solar system and known universe, the physics of flight, light and lasers, the biology of the human body and mind and much more.

1101 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL
Online: frostscience.org

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Miami Children’s Museum

Kids 10 and under will love Miami Children’s hands-on exhibitions including a play cruise ship, supermarket, and a kids-sized television studio. “Fishing” off the boat is a local favorite.

980 MacArthur Cswy
Miami, FL
Online: miamichildrensmuseum.org

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Featuring beautiful gardens and fairytale architecture, this 10-acre waterfront villa is built in Italian Renaissance style. The kids will be fascinated by the magic of this place, which feels like a castle.

3251 S Miami Ave
Miami, FL
Online: vizcaya.org

Pérez Art Museum Miami

Pérez Art Museum Miami is a modern and contemporary art museum dedicated to collecting and exhibiting international art of the 20th and 21st centuries. They offer many programs for families including an art camp, art day for kids and after school programs.

1103 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL
Online: pamm.org

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A post shared by HistoryMiami Museum (@historymiami) on Feb 5, 2020 at 5:02am PST

HistoryMiami Museum

Learn about Miami's history at this museum that's fun for all ages. On the second Saturday of the month they offer free admission and special family programming.

101 West Flagler Street
Miami, FL
Online: historymiami.org

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A post shared by ICA Miami (@icamiami) on Apr 12, 2019 at 8:29am PDT

Institute of Contemporary Art Miami

This museum in Miami's Design District offers free admission and lots of art that the kids will love exploring. Large scale sculptures, a 15,000-square-foot garden and interesting works of art by local artists are particularly interesting for kids.

61 NE 41st St
Miami, FL
Online: icamiami.org

—Kate Loweth

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Things to Do with Kids in Providence

by Kate LowethJuly 2, 2019

The capital city of Providence, RI is full of history and perfectly combines both city and beach to make it an excellent destination for visiting families. We’ve rounded up a number of our favorite family attractions below and our Providence events calendar is packed with daily story times, museum exhibits and movie nights. Book your time in Providence today!

photo: Providence Children’s Museum via yelp

Providence Children’s Museum
This museum offers hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore arts, culture and science, technology, engineering and math. The museum’s hands-on learning environments and programs are designed for children ages 1 to 11 and their adult caregivers. Explore ice, mist and discover the swirling, whirling ways of water in an all-new water play environment! Explore a garden of native plants, a perfect place for a picnic lunch and for active outdoor play.

100 South St.
Providence, RI
Online: childrenmuseum.org

Providence Performing Arts Center
The Providence Performing Arts Center is one of the most visually-stunning venues in the country as well as one of the most prestigious destinations for performing artists and companies.

220 Weybosset St.
Providence, RI
Online: providencetheater.com

Museum of Natural History and Planetarium
The Museum of Natural History is Rhode Island’s only natural history museum and is home to the state’s only public planetarium. For more than a century the museum has served as a unique educational, scientific and cultural resource by offering exciting exhibits and programming that provide ways for children and families to learn about our world and its people.

1000 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
Online: providenceri.gov

India Point Park
Located at the confluence of the Seekonk and Providence Rivers where they widen into Narragansett Bay, the Park is the only broad expanse of Bay shoreline in Providence accessible to the public.

India St.
Providence, RI
Online: riwaterfrontevents.com

photo: Shayna G. via yelp

Roger Williams Park Zoo
Located amid 40 acres of beautiful woodlands, the Roger Williams Park Zoo provides visitors the opportunity to see animals from all over the globe, some more than a million years old. Naturalistic surroundings are home to more than 100 species of animals including a Komodo dragon, as well as zebras, red pandas, African elephants, Masai giraffes, snow leopards, bears, flamingos, sloths, and more! Kids from two to 102 have the opportunity to feed giraffes and harbor seals, as well as an array of farmyard animals.

1000 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
Online: rwpzoo.org

Historic Federal Hill
Sip a strong espresso at an outdoor cafe, grab a quick pizza for lunch or dine in style at a gourmet Italian restaurant in this historic section of the city, also know as Little Italy. You’ll know you have arrived by the huge arched gateway, with a bronzed pine cone, which marks the entry to the neighborhood.

Providence, RI
Online: federalhillprov.com

Gondola Rides
Take a gondola ride through the Providence waterways with your family to see the sights of the Renaissance City like never before.

Online: gondolari.com

The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Providence
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Providence events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, and Christmas tree farms.

—Kate Loweth

A Stellar Temporary Adler Exhibit: What Is a Planet?

by Maria ChambersFebruary 20, 2019

Why is Pluto no longer a planet? Thanks to the International Astronomical Union (what a mouthful!) declassifying Pluto as a planet in 2006, this is yet another question our kids can ask that some of us might not know how to answer. This is when it’s good to be a Chicagoan because we have places like Adler Planetarium to turn to when we need our kids to think we’re all-knowing. Read on to hear how their temporary exhibit What is a Planet? is providing simple answers to a big question.

Our definition of a planet has changed a lot in the past 500 years. Actually, there wasn’t an official definition until 2006—can you believe that? The word itself has been used along the way to describe the Sun, the Moon and asteroids. And Earth, our most favorite planet of all, wasn’t even considered a planet at one point.

The mission of the exhibit
Who knew people were so passionate about Pluto? They are. And scientists found that out when they demoted Pluto, the last planet to be discovered, from a full-fledged planet to a dwarf planet. People, kids in particular, felt Pluto was being picked on because of its meager size. Letters were written to the voting body who made the decision in defense of this little guy, but its label remained the same – dwarf planet. The purpose of the What is a Planet? exhibit is to explore the reasons behind developing the new definition of what makes a planet and explain why Pluto just didn’t fit the bill. We could give you the answers, because of Adler we know them, but we’ll let you explore the exhibit yourself to find out.

Why we love it
You can walk in virtually clueless about how astronomers classify planets and within minutes have a pretty solid understanding of the definition. And, more importantly, be able to explain it to your littles when they ask. What’s also cool is you can walk in with very little interest in the topic and walk away with a newfound appreciation for the world of astronomy—which, the same could be said with any exhibit you visit at Adler. It’s a pretty fantastic resource we have at our fingertips.

Things to look for
Visitors can cast a vote on how they feel about Pluto’s demotion in an interactive voting poll that shows results in real time. Also, explore artifacts from the Adler collections that illustrate the ever-evolving definition of a planet.

Don’t miss out!
Take note! What is a Planet? is only on display from now through August 18, 2019, so pencil in time soon to check it out!

While you’re there
Save time for a visit to the Community Design Lab. Visitors can test different materials to find out which would survive the journey to 100,000 feet above Earth’s surface, build a DIY telescope-mount for smartphones and become an instant astrophotographer by testing it on real telescopes and explore daily scientific challenges developed by Adler experts. With 600 ounces of marshmallows, 10,000 popsicle sticks, 12,000 yards of duct tape, 120 ounces of shaving cream and a steady supply of bubble wrap and cardboard, the design possibilities are endless!

Other ways to explore Adler
Take your fun to the next level by scheduling an Astro-Overnight where kids can participate in hands-on activities and see sky shows. Your kids will be over the moon if you sign them up for summer camp to discover new worlds, engage in eye-opening experiments and play next to Lake Michigan.

What are you waiting for? Show your kids science can be fun!

Adler Planetarium
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus
Online: adlerplanetarium.org

— Maria Chambers

Photos courtesy of Adler Planetarium

Explore the Cosmos at the Griffith Observatory

by Jennifer O'BrienFebruary 19, 2019

The City of Angels may be chock full of stars, but the Griffith Observatory gives families the best opportunity to see the ones in the sky. Between the mesmerizing planetarium shows that take kids on a journey of cosmic exploration and discovery, fascinating exhibits, and telescopes that provide the most amazing views of LA and the stars above, the Griffith Observatory is the perfect pitstop for all the astronomers in your family.

photo: Griffith Observatory

Samuel Oschin Planetarium
The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a truly magical and memorable experience for families. As the Zeiss Star Projector and digital projection system transform the dome into the night sky, visitors are transported to worlds beyond their wildest dreams.

Presently, the planetarium offers three shows to choose from that are presented by a live and engaging storyteller: Centered in the Universe takes visitors on a journey of cosmos; Water is Life leads the audience on a search for water and possibly life beyond Earth while Light of the Valkyries (their 75^thanniversary show) reveals the magic of the Northern Lights.

Live presentations are scheduled every 60-to-90 minutes. Note that children under 5 are only admitted to the first show each day (12:45 p.m. on weekdays and 10:45 a.m. on weekends).

Insider Tip: It gets quite dark in the planetarium at the beginning of the show, so prepare your astronomers, especially those that may be afraid of the dark. Tickets may only be purchased on-site at the Observatory for that day’s shows—no advance purchases are available.

photo: Griffith Observatory

The Exhibits

Within the Griffith Observatory, there are two floors of incredible exhibits waiting to spark the imaginations of visitors and encourage them to ponder their own relationships to the universe.

Don’t miss: Scales that tell guests how much they would weigh on each planet and our moon, the Foucault Pendulum—one of the largest scientific instruments in the world that proves Earth is spinning on its axis, and the Tesla Coil which discharges sizzling lightening sparks to the walls of its alcove.

photo: Griffith Observatory

The Telescopes

The main highlight for every Griffith Observatory visitor is getting to look through the famous Zeiss telescope on the roof. More people have looked through this telescope and learned about the movements of the heavens than any other telescope on Earth! After checking out this viewfinder, make sure to check out the other telescopes located on the vast terraces that provide more earth-bound, breathtaking views like the Hollywood sign, DTLA, and the Pacific Ocean.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Observatory Events

Special events occur all year long at the Griffith Observatory, but little ones will especially love the “Let’s Make a Comet” presentation in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater during holiday breaks and summertime. During the 30-minute show, visitors help create a comet out of household ingredients.

Once a month, the Observatory hosts a Star Party where kids of all ages can look through dozens of telescopes on the lawn and interact with astronomy enthusiasts from local astronomy clubs, as well as Griffith Observatory employees.

Insider Tip: If you plan on visiting the Griffith Observatory on a Sat. or Sun., try to arrive right as close to 10 a.m. when they open to the public. Crowds will be lighter, and there should be available parking (with the exception of holiday weekends which can get a little crazy to say the least). If you become a member of Friends Of The Observatory, you can reserve parking ahead of time and even book tickets to the planetarium shows.

Where to Eat: Hungry star watchers can grab a bite on the lower level of the Observatory at Wolfgang Puck’s Café at the End of the Universe. A vast menu (including meals for kids) is available with everything from soups and salads to sandwiches and sweet treats. Visitors will find plenty of seating inside or outdoors on the terrace with stellar views of the city and Hollywood sign.

2800 E. Observatory Rd.
Los Angeles
213-473-0800
Online: griffithobservatory.org

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–Jennifer O’Brien

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An Insider’s Guide to the California Academy of Sciences

by Kate LowethMay 12, 2018

Did you know that San Francisco is home to an aquarium, planetarium and natural history museum, all under one “living” roof? Right in the heart of Golden Gate Park is the California Academy of Sciences and it is full of animals, art, science and more—all waiting for your visit. Peruse our guide to getting the most out of your Cal Academy visit and plan your day there ASAP!

Getting Started
You can literally spend the whole day exploring the Cal Academy so plan to get there early. There is a below-ground parking lot located on Fulton Street and 10th Avenue that is your best bet if you are arriving by car. It does fill up so an early arrival is better. If you arrive by public transportation, foot or bicycle, you’ll save $3 on the admission price. Check out all the info here on what buses and streetcars are the best way to arrive.

Weekends and school holidays are the busiest days at the Cal Academy. Weekdays are often full of school field trips but those usually wrap up by early afternoon. Save some time and buy your tickets in advance online and you’ll be able to skip the big line.

photo: California Academy of Sciences

Morrison Planetarium
When you arrive at the Cal Academy, make a beeline to the planetarium ticket desk (located next to the souvenir shop) and grab your tickets to the show you want to see. The current show, Expedition Reef, will take you on an undersea adventure to learn about the delicate coral reef ecosystem and what we need to do to keep these reefs alive. With over 25% of marine life on Earth supported by coral reefs, there is much to be done to combat the threats of global warming, over-fishing and habitat destruction. Ideal for ages seven and up, planetarium shows are included in your admission price.

Osher Rainforest
Right in the middle of all the Cal Academy action is the Osher Rainforest. You enter this four-story rainforest on the ground floor and follow your way up through the canopy as you view free-flying birds, giant butterflies and loads of tropical flora. Your only way to exit is at the top where you take an elevator down to the aquarium level and exit the exhibit.

It can get a bit hot inside the rainforest so plan to dress in layers. If you arrive early in the day, plan to get in line for the rainforest after you snag your planetarium tickets as the lines do get long throughout the day (as limited numbers of people are allowed in at one time).

Steinhart Aquarium
When you exit the rainforest exhibit you will find yourself in the middle of the Steinhart Aquarium. Here you can see over 400,000 animals that represent more than 900 different species. At 25-feet deep and holding 212,000 gallons of water, the Philippine Coral Reef tank is one of the deepest exhibits of live corals in the world, housing a broad range of marine life. Check the daily schedule to make your way to this tank for the daily coral reef dive where a diver with an underwater microphone answers all your reef-related questions.

Kids will love checking out the starfish and sea urchins in the Discovery Tidepool touch tank and also watching the sea dragons glide through the water. Before you exit the exhibit, make sure you spot Claude, the albino alligator, who lives among snapping turtles and koi fish in the Swamp.

Kimball Natural History Museum
From the moment you enter the doors and are greeted by the towering T. Rex skeleton, you are in a world of wonder at the Cal Academy. The Kimball Natural History Museum includes immersive exhibits where you can learn about animal diversity, Head to the Tusher African Hall to visit with the resident penguins (check the calendar to be front and center for daily penguin feedings) and see dioramas of African landscape.

You will be mesmerized when you stop at the Foucault Pendulum, a concrete example of the Earth’s rotation. The Color of Life exhibit is a fun place to learn about animal behavior (make sure to find the corner where you can join in the animal mating dance).

photo: California Academy of Sciences

The Details
The California Academy of Sciences host the family-favorite Penguins+Pajamas Sleepover throughout the year. Kids ages 5 and up plus their parents can roll out their sleeping bags in the aquarium or one of the other exhibits and spend the night at the Academy. You can also book a behind-the-scenes tour to get the inside scoop on the exhibits and also view off-exhibit areas like the animal food prep kitchen. Private animal-encounter tours are also available with various themes.

Looking for a spot to host your next birthday party? The Academy will plan a birthday bash for your little scientist and you don’t have to do any of the work.

The Academy Cafe offers lots of options for on-site dining. Or, you are welcome to bring your own food for dining in the outdoor areas or in the indoor piazza.

photo: Tim Williamson

Parents looking for a night out on the town sans kids will enjoy the Academy’s Thursday night NightLife events where you can enjoy music, cocktails and creatures with special programming each week.

California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco, CA

Admission: $35.95/adults, $25.95/kids 4-11, $30.95/youth 12-17, kids 3 and under are free
Family membership: $249/two adults and children/grandchildren
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Opens an hour early for members
Online: calacademy.org

What’s your kid’s favorite area at the California Academy of Sciences? Share it below!

—Kate Loweth

Photos by the author except where noted.

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