March Madness is right around the corner with 68 teams (and fans) eager for upsets, buzzer beaters, and bragging rights. If you and your family want in on the action, visit our top sports spots that are kid, parent and basket ball friendly. Read on to find out where the best spots to watch March Madness in Portland are.
The Independent is located in the historic Broadway Lights District. Everything about The Independent screams “BASEBALL”, as it was inspired by the Portland Mavericks. But, with 32 flat panel TVs and a projector screen, you will always find your game on, no matter which sport you love. Locally owned and operated by the same people that brought us The Station, this spot loves kids as much as they do sports. There’s a Little Leaguers menu, and they serve Football Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9-11. I mean, what kid doesn’t love TV and breakfast?! The Independent is proud to offer every fan a great seat, however parking can be a bit tricky so use the parking garage next door or get there early for street parking!
If you’ve ever been to a Punch Bowl Social location (and there are many), then you know why it’s on the list. PBS Portland is the biggest one yet, with 32,000 square feet of fun and entertainment for all ages. There are flat screen TVs throughout the space, for your viewing pleasure, but you don’t just have to sit and watch the game. Choose from bowling, shuffleboard, karaoke, billiards, ping pong, giant Jenga…the list goes on and on. There are also a variety of spaces you can rent, if you want to thrown your own Game Day bash. Kids are welcome until 10 p.m., and the Kid’s Menu features fun classics like Sloppy Joes, hot dogs, and spaghetti and meatballs. Speaking of which, the food at PBS is a cut above your typical sports bar. They use only grass fed, hormone-free beef, and hormone- and antibiotic-free chicken. Breakfast is served until 3 p.m., and you won’t want to miss the Mile High Granola or Chicken and Waffles. I’m getting hungry just writing about it.
340 SW Morrison St., Portland
503-334-0360
Online: Punch Bowl Social
Giving you the opportunity to play, party and watch all in one location, Big Al’s is a great place to bring the whole team. Between 42 bowling lanes, shuffleboard, billiards, and even a 7,000-square-foot arcade, Big Al’s is a mainstay that entertains children and adults of all ages — even if they don’t have the attention span for an entire b-ball game game.
14950 SW Barrows Rd.
Beaverton
503-748-6118
16615 SE 18th St
Vancouver, WA 98683
360-944-6118
Online: I Love Big Al’s
Ladd Taphouse
Portland’s destination for sports, Ladd House has TVs circling the entire bar and superior service so you won’t miss a thing. With shuffleboard, pool, pinball, arcade games, and a 360 degree fireplace table there’s fun for everyone. Swish! They boast 50+ different craft beer and cider on draft including local award winning craft brews.
Migration Brewing is all about making moves towards your dreams and your beer. This neighborhood favorite is the spot for families to enjoy not only March Madness but Timbers and Blazers games. They rep straightforward pub grub (mac n’cheese and chicken sandwiches) that will appeal to all ages. If the weather is in your favor when you go, they have an extensive patio. Minors are welcome until 8 p.m.
2828 NE Glisan St.
Portland
503-206-5221
Insider tip: Happy hour takes place weekdays 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and offers beer, wine and food specials.
Online: migrationbrewing.com
Named for the spirited 1977 season the Trail Blazers had with Bill Walton leading the legitimization of Portland as a sports city, this is a great spot to watch others make history this season. We recommend you bring bigger kids (who’re old enough to safely navigate the tall bar stool seating) to enjoy the game with you. From The Buzzer Beater Basketball Arcade to skee-ball, and pinball to “Baby Foot” foosball there’s plenty to do if kids get a little restless. Minors are allowed until 10 p.m., so go ahead and cheer for overtime.
500 NE MLK Jr. Blvd.
Portland
503-232-9977
Insider tip: Happy hour takes place weekdays 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and offers drink specials.Online: spiritof77bar.com
Lovingly called B-Dubs by regulars, BWW is a premier spot for sports fans of all ages. They even support kids’ sports with their Team Up for Kids program. Each venue has a line-up of football food favorites that let you and your family go all out, no matter what you and your little buffalos are craving. They have highchairs galore, plus cute little crowns for kids (or adults feeling like having some fun). With 30-plus flat screen TVs across the dining room and bar, you can catch all the action. There are eight locations in the Vancouver-Portland area, so you’re sure to find one near you.
Is your home team in Sellwood? Since 1999, this neighborhood staple has been the go-to sports bar. They come with a stacked lineup featuring a non-smoking, friendly atmosphere just three blocks from Westmoreland Park; 20 beers on tap and more than 18 TVs, including 92-inch and 102-inch projector screens. While they do not have a kid specific menu, everyone in your party is bound to find something they love with a classic menu that includes everything from burgers to sandwiches to salads (plus breakfast on weekends!).
7995 SE Milwaukie Ave.
Portland
503-731-6399
Insider tip: Happy hour takes place weekdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. offering drink and food specials.
Online: skyboxpub.com
This friendly neighborhood gastropub transforms into a sports bar in a moment’s notice. Located in the historic Northwestern Electric Company building, they are the go-to place to watch your favorite local NW teams. The Station is more than welcoming to all the short stops on your team, with a dedicated “Kid’s Zone” that has chalk boards, magnet toys, games, and more. Parents can watch their little players while enjoying a pint anywhere in the restaurant, and still follow the game on one of six large flatscreen TVs and two enormous drop-down projector screens. For the home field advantage, reserve your private table to get in on all the Super Bowl LIII action! Starting at $20 for a 2-person table, your reservation includes guaranteed seating, your choice of Super Bowl food specials, and beer from Rogue Ales. Raffle prizes will be given each quarter, and a Grand Prize package awarded to one lucky winner!
2703 NE Alberta St.
503-284-4491
Online: Station PDX
Insider tip: Happy hour takes place weekdays from 4 p.m. to 6p.m. and daily from 9:30 p.m. to close and offers drink and food specials
Online: stationpdx.com
Spring break will be here before you know it, and booking a trip in advance will not only afford you the best rates and availability but also, you’ll have something to look forward to as you make your way through the chilly winter months. From beach vacations to urban escapes to mountain top romps in the sunshine, we’ve got you covered. Read on for vacation inspiration as well as for trends in travel for the new year.
Splurge on a Brand-New Resort in the Northern Maldives
A splurge-worthy island adventure awaits you at the brand-new all-inclusive resort, which is also home to the largest kid’s club in the Maldives.
Play: The wraparound reef at the Emerald makes it easy for families to enjoy water sports like kayaking and kite surfing, and scuba enthusiasts can take advantage of the on-site Diving Centre, which is staffed by PADI-certified instructors. Kids ages 3-12 can spend time in the Dolphin Club. Spread out over 1500 square meters, there’s an outdoor playground with mini pool, a splash park, slides, climbing structures and even a kid-sized zip wire. Indoor activities are diverse and plentiful: cupcake making, movie nights, Zumba lessons, fruit cocktail mixology and more.
Sleep:
Eat: This is an all-inclusive resort, so there’s plenty of food and treats to be had at the signature buffet restaurantAqua, which offers menu items from all over the world including Mediterranean, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, vegetarian and even plant-based options. There are two concept restaurants worth sampling as well. The rainforest-inspired Amazònico is a fun dining experience for the whole family,Le Asiatique offers live cooking shows on a teppanyaki grill. If you’re down at the beach, theBeach Club Grill and Pool Bar has kid-friendly, to-go pizza and pasta, and for parents, be sure to try the grilled lobster and seafood platters.
Good to know: If you book now, you’ll receive 20% off the best available rate for a minimum of 7 night’s stay for a maximum of two adults and two children, applicable for all bookings received before 20th December 2020. Offer includes deluxe all-inclusive package, complimentary 60 minutes massage for two adults and 1 x in-room family breakfast. Terms and conditions apply.
The largest of the four Aspen-area ski mountains, Snowmass is one of the most family-friendly mountains with all kids skiing free up to age seven.
Play: This resort comes in at over 3,300 acres of terrain with 91 trails of groomies, halfpipes, terrain parks and more. Families flock here for their state-of-the-art Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center, a gigantic childcare facility for kids ages eight weeks to four years old. With a nurse on staff and themed rooms, this is where your kids will get introduced to skiing. And, once your kids turn two, they’re welcome to enroll in Snowmass’ Cubs on Skis program, a mix of early childhood education and skiing based out of this nature-themed adventure center.
There's also the brand-new Snowmass Base Village Plaza, which opened in December 2018. Families will be able to ice skate, enjoy fire pits, pop-up activities and casual dining. Kids of all ages can also try their skills on the rock climbing wall that adorns the front of the new Limelight hotel built across from the plaza.
Good to Know: The Treehouse at Snowmass isn’t the only spot your kid will love. Pay a visit to nearby Buttermilk Mountain to experience The Hideout, a 7,500 square foot facility just for kids. Don’t blame your kids if they forget they’re in the mountains and get lost in The Hideout’s custom-designed play features like a lookout tower and interactive play room.
Take your brood to Northwest Costa Rica to revel in the warm weather and lush landscape, full of animals, markets, and family-friendly beach parties.
Play: Consider volunteering for one of the select Service Days while visiting Peninsula Papagayo, with an outreach program that benefits local school children. Visit Costa Rica, and you’ll be rewarded with big adventures that your family will remember and talk about for years to come.
Sleep:Peninsula Papagayo, home to the luxury Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and Andaz Costa Rica Resort, is a private community spanning over 1,400 acres. Surrounded by Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll see thousands of protected plant species and hundreds of multi-hued bird and butterfly types.
Wander the Windy City - Chicago, IL
Wendy Altschuler
Play: Spring in Chicago is a lovely time to visit. From museums with activities designed with littles in mind to spring break kids’ camps at Lincoln Park Zoo and The Second City to baseball season to children’s theatre, the Windy City has much to offer families. Eat your way through Chicago’s neighborhoods, sampling diverse cuisine and fan favorites like Chicago-style hot dogs and deep dish pizza.
Sleep: Hotel Zachary, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is right across from the famous Wrigley Field as well as within walking distance to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Run around Gallagher Way, across the street from the hotel, go to a Chicago Cubs game, and hit some balls in Sluggers World Class Sports Bar’s batting cages.
Root for Your Home Team at Spring Training — FL or AZ
Daydreaming of hot dogs and Crackerjacks? Take your baseball-loving family on a memorable (and thematic) trip to see spring training in action. Catching a game at Arizona's Cactus League or Florida's Grapefruit League means you can root, root, root for your home team at smaller stadiums before Opening Day. To figure out which teams play where — and when — check out the Cactus League and Grapefruit League websites.
Play: Make sure all of your kiddos are baseball fans because Spring Training is all about the game. The major advantage to seeing teams play pre-season is that you get see games on a much smaller scale. In other words, better seats, cheaper tickets, and the opportunity to see your favorite players up close and personal.
Tip: Get there early, and be sure little ones bring their gloves and/or clean baseballs for scoring autographs
Sleep: Where you shack up depends on your favorite teams. Florida's spring training is spread across the state, with teams playing in four regions: Tampa, Fort Myers, Orlando, and the east coast between Jupiter and Port St. Lucie. If you’re Cactus League-bound, keep in mind that most games are played within a 40-mile radius of the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.
Eat: Pack a picnic! Most Spring Training stadiums offer (cheap!) lawn seats, so the whole family can spread out on the grass while keeping score of the game. The view isn't as good, but you may catch a glimpse of your favorite players as they head in and out of the stadium.
There’s more to these islands than bright azure water and fine white sand—travel here, and you’ll be rewarded with rich cultural experiences that come with the conveniences of the U.S. dollar and English language. When the kids return to school, they can tell their teachers that they traveled to where Christopher Columbus first hit land in the Americas and where pirates used to hide out within the 40 small islands and cays.
Play: Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay are the best for kids because of the calm waves and shallow water. Go snorkeling for an afternoon at Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef and see an array of colorful little fish and coral. Visit Little Water Cay, also called Iguana Island, and see loads of Rock Iguanas basking in the hot sand. Long Bay Beach is where you’ll see kiteboarders, a shipwreck marooned in the shallow water and beaches full of huge spiny conch shells. For a truly unique island experience, that you can’t find anywhere else, visit Potcake Place, a charity in Providenciales that rescues dogs and finds them forever homes. Volunteers can take a puppy for a walk in the morning and give them love and socialization—not to mention, fresh air and sunshine. Everything will be provided for your day out, and if you fall in love, you can adopt the puppy and bring her home.
Sleep: Ocean Club Resorts (Ocean Club and Ocean Club West), located on Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, are perfect for families that want an affordable option with lots of choices. Plus, the pink umbrellas that line the beaches will be great backdrops for your family photos. The two properties are located 15 minutes from each other along the sand, and if you stay at one, you can play at both. Kids can take part in the interactive exploration game, Seafari Kids, where at check-in they’ll be given a kit that encourages them to find and identify indigenous plants and species that are located around the resorts—prizes are awarded for completing the adventure. Tip: Check out the Mangrove Tour.
Eat: Pop into Crackpot Kitchen, where Chef Nik will serve up authentic local Caribbean dishes, passed down from his father, Aulden “Smokey” Smith. Order family style and try a selection of favorites like the Salt Cay Fully Loaded Stew Conch or Smokey’s Loaded Peas and Grits and dine on the rooftop full of locals doing the same.
Island Serenity - Captiva and Sanibel Islands, FL
Wendy Altschuler
Sometimes less is more, and on Captiva and Sanibel Islands, where nothing is built higher than a palm tree and tchotchke shops are few and far between, your family will easily settle into a schedule that revolves around sunsets and searching for seashells. These islands are the sort of places where people laugh easily, wave at each other freely and collectively gasp at dolphin and manatee sightings.
Play: When you’ve explored your home-base beach enough, take a boat excursion with Captiva Cruises to Cayo Costa Island, a state park that is known for excellent shelling. In Sanibel, visit Gene’s Books, a fabulous store full of so many titles that they don’t all fit on the shelves. Kids can get lost in the children’s section, with stacks of books in every direction, which will make finding the perfect book an absolute adventure.
Sleep: Rest your head at the historic Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva Island, which is located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Pine Island Sound. You’ll have access to the beach as well as the marina while staying in one of the brightly colored cottages, named after the resort’s famous past visitors—Anne Morrow Lindbergh, J.N. “Ding” Darling, and Theodore Roosevelt have all stayed here. Borrow a free bicycle and take a ride into town, or paddle in a free kayak around the mangroves.
Eat: T2 Traders, located at The Village Shops on Periwinkle Way in Sanibel, has great sandwiches, flatbreads and salads. The location is ideal because you can do a little shopping afterward. On Captiva Island, be sure to visit the Bubble Room, where kitsch reigns supreme. Order a slice of their famous orange cake, try their bubble bread and bring your camera—you’ll want to walk around and take pictures of the interior. Tween Waters also has great restaurants, namely Old Captiva House, Crow’s Nest and the Oasis Pool Bar.
Enjoy Big Views at Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Kate Loweth
In 2019,Grand Canyon National Park celebrated the centennial. This park, full of colorful layers of geological wonders, cliff dwellings, animals, and even waterfalls, is something every family should see together.
Play: The folks at Austin Adventures appreciate history and geology and they will educate travelers about the natural history of the Grand Canyon while also acknowledging the cultural history of the native tribes that call this national park home. Adventuresome kids can hike around with an Austin Adventures’ day pack, which is full of national park keepsakes and treasures, inspiring kids to learn more and explore the park. The trip includes rafting, hiking and biking around the South Rim, Flagstaff, Williams, Prescott, Sedona and Coconino National Forest—what fun!
Sleep: Select trip dates are available for families for this six-day Grand Canyon Family Vacation Package with the expert guides at Austin Adventures. Accommodations include a wide variety of lodges and hotels over the week, including a stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, located next to the train depot, one block from downtown Williams and historic Route 66.
Eat: Dining ranges from high-quality restaurants to picnic lunches to dinner made at a campfire—you’ll enjoy healthy food and snacks all along the way.
Sail the High Seas with the Disney Dream - Port Canaveral, FL
Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Play, Sleep & Eat: Disney is synonymous with the feeling of wonder and treating your family to a Disney Cruise, aboard the Disney Dream, is an experience that your children will always remember. From live shows to thematic restaurants to luxe accommodations to swimming pools and waterslides, Disney goes big when it comes to magical fun. You’ll also notice the high quality of service, which is the bread and butter of the whole adventure. The ship will drop anchor in Castaway Cay, a private island reserved for guests to enjoy, and the Bahamas, creating extra opportunities for exploration. Find out more from our insider's guide here.
Denver sits one mile above sea level, giving the city its moniker. There is no shortage of things to do here for families and you can expect to have a panoramic view of the mountain ranges while exploring the parks, museums, and attractions.
Play: Visit the Denver Zoo, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Downtown Aquarium and take a ride on the Denver Trolley to learn about Denver’s gold rush history. Of course, there’s also the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, the Denver Art Museum and the Children’s Museum of Denver. Take a trip just outside of the city, and hike around Dinosaur Ridge at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre—you can see Allosaurus and Stegosaurus bones and touch real dinosaur footprints preserved in the sandstone. If a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is on your travel wish-list, and it should be, make sure you spend some time in Estes Park, the gateway to RMNP.
Sleep: One of the best places to stay is AC Hotel Denver Downtown, a stylish boutique hotel with top-notch staff that will help your family with anything you may need. The property is well-located, making it easy to get where you need to go on foot and, bonus, you’ll earn Marriott points with your stay. If you have Fido with you, the hotel is pet-friendly as well.
Eat: Enjoy outdoor dining at Corinne Restaurant and be sure to check out the views from the 54thirty alfresco rooftop, the highest one in the city. The AC Kitchen is a great breakfast option. Union Station has James Beard award-winning chefs, Jennifer Jasinski and Alex Seidel, at the helm of Stoic & Genuine, Ultreia and Mercantile (grab and go options also exist).
There’s so much to do in the consistently warm country of Panama, and with Panama City—the capital and largest city in the country—as your takeoff point, you’ll have access to popular landmarks and attractions.
Play: Don't miss a visit to the Panama Canal, a 50-mile waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean, a feat that is one of the most difficult engineering projects ever completed. Kids will love watching the ships raise up in the canal and pass through Miraflores locks, bringing their cargo with them. Visit Casco Viejo “new Panama”, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Spanish colonial architecture, historic churches and plazas with boutiques, restaurants and colorful markets. Make time for a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary and the Gamboa Rainforest. Ride above the tree canopy in an aerial tram, where you may spot a white-faced capuchin monkey or hear the deep guttural sounds of a howler monkey.
Sleep: The Westin Playa Bonita, located only twenty minutes from Panama City and thirty minutes from the Miraflores Locks, is a great place to start your adventure. Romp around on Bonita Beach and cool off in the Pacific Ocean, hike in the nearby rainforests and swim in one of the three infinity pools. Free activities for kids are available every day. Kids can splash around in the Children’s Pool or parents can take kids out on a complimentary kayak.
Eat: Ocho y Media is a garden-style restaurant that serves global cuisine. Sit outside and enjoy the strung lights overhead while noshing on a slice of warm baked apple pie with vanilla ice cream. Karimar Restaurant serves up traditional Panamanian fare, by the symphonic sea—you won’t want to leave. Take advantage of The Westin Playa Bonita’s restaurants as well—there are six to choose from. For authentic Panamanian cuisine with kid-friendly entertainment, try Diablicos in the Casco Viejo district.
Resort Road Trip: If it's an all-inclusive experience you seek, head for the Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort, which lies about two hours outside the city limits and is accessible by boat and car/shuttle service. With 12 pools (eight of them are for everyone), a kids' club with activities like overnight campouts and cookie making, this 400-acre resort has something for everyone. There's a playground, free bike rentals, a climbing wall, zip line and wildlife zoo, stables, a sports club that have both private lessons and camps like an aquatic camp or a soccer camp, two beach clubs, 10 restaurants and even a world-famous 18-hole golf course that is the crown jewel of PGA Latin America. Rooms are ample size, the smallest being 527 sq. feet, and there are five suits with connecting rooms and a half-bath in the living room. For multi-gen travel, consider one of the four-bedroom villas that line the pond.
Play: Numero uno on the list of best places to play in St. Louis no doubt goes to City Museum. It’s an all-ages, city-inspired fun house that will inspire you and get the creative juices flowing as you climb, burrow and snake your way through passageways and shafts. With no maps or any real sense of direction, you’re forced to explore, touch and interact with everything . . . and you’ll be glad you did. Plus, St. Louis boasts more free chief visitor attractions than anywhere else in America, outside of the nation’s capital that is. The Saint Louis Art Museum, Zoo, History Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Citygarden and more are free of charge and perfect for families that want to see a lot, but not spend a lot.
Sleep: Located in the heart of all St. Louis has to offer, the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis makes a perfect home base for your family getaway. Mini road trippers will be greeted with a Radio Flyer wagon full of toys and a plate with their names written in chocolate and handmade solid chocolate arches standing tall alongside sprinkle-covered marshmallow treats.
Eat: University City and Delmar Loop is about 20 minutes northwest of St. Louis. Here, in this old streetcar suburb, you’ll find Blueberry Hill Pub and Restaurant for American cuisine and pop culture memorabilia, Fitz’s Restaurant and Bottling Company known for their delicious pub grub and house-made soda that churns out on a visible bottling line (a bottle a second!) and Blueprint Coffee with in-house roasted beans when you’re ready for a little caffeine jolt (don’t leave without grabbing a jar of their canned jelly for home).
Nestled between the world’s second-largest barrier reef and an expansive nature preserve lies the tiny fishing village of Puerto Morelos.
Play: Home to just 1,200 year-round residents, this quaint spot is merely 11 miles away from downtown Cancun. Fresh seafood restaurants line the beaches, and there’s live music on the weekends. Stroll down the dock over clear waters to view catamaran sailboats, wander and shop the charming avenues, burn off steam at the playground in the center square and admire the leaning lighthouse that has survived nearly one-hundred years of coastal storms. Book a snorkeling adventure with Lighthouse Tours. Their two-hour guided tour is easy even for young kids. A highlight for families is nearby Crococun, a local wildlife center filled with crocodiles, parrots, turtles, iguanas, spider monkeys and more. Each tour is guided by a biologist; kids will be able to hold a baby crocodile, feed deer and turtles, plus there’s picnic/playground area that’s perfect for fueling up after seeing all the animals.
Sleep:Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a five-star resort that feels more like a home than a hotel. If you want a truly relaxing location for your mid-winter break, spring break or beyond, this is your answer. The resort is made up of all suite-style rooms, which means you have choices: You can book anything from a one-to three-bedroom suite that comes equipped with everything from a small kitchenette to a full kitchen/laundry with extra murphy beds in the living room. There’s even a four-bedroom presidential suite that sleeps up to 13 (ahem, multi-gen vacation). You can book your stay as an all-inclusive or as an a la carte, and here’s a huge perk: kids ages 12 and under stay for free. It doesn’t take much to keep yourself entertained here, and there’s a definite wellness vibe for those who like to be active. The Grand Residences has four pools (one is a lap pool), tennis courts with thrice-weekly clinics, bike rentals, and even the option to charter a sailboat for an extra charge.
Eat: When you tire of El Faro Grill and Flor de Canela at the Grand Residences, head for downtown Puerto Morelos. For an early lunch with access to docks, try Pelicanos for excellent nachos and ceviche. For dinner, we recommend Boquinete, one of the newest restaurants to line the beachfront of Puerto Morelos. The tacos are plentiful and fresh, as is the ceviche and reef fish. They have a beachfront, which can be helpful for parents with wiggly kids or be a memorable dining spot for an adults-only night.
Looking for a healthy dose of outdoor adventure on your spring break trip? Anakeetsa, an activity and nature center in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the perfect destination for your family. Not only will you be able to take in the beauty of the nation’s most visited national park, but Anakeetsa is jam-packed with activities for visitors of all ages.
Play: You’ll have a hard time deciding what to tackle first at Anakeetsa, as the outdoor opportunities are endless. In addition to hiking and ziplining, kids will have a blast walking across connecting bridges, exploring treehouses, and trying their hand at gem mining. If you’re looking to get out and explore the area, there’s world-class skiing in nearby Ober, Ripley’s Aquarium, and a variety of entertainment shows.
Sleep: If you want to stay nearby, the Greystone Lodge offers spacious rooms (and free hot breakfast) on the river in downtown Gatlinburg. Cottages are also available at the Greystone for families who are looking for a little more space and privacy.
Eat: Stroll around and stop for a bite to eat in Firefly Village, which is nestled among the treetops in the heart of the Smokies. Depending on what you’re in the mood for—a quick bite or a hearty southern meal—there’s Pearl’s Pie in the Sky, which offers baked goods, ice cream, and (of course) pie; and the Anakeetsa Summit Smokehouse, where you’ll get a dose of mouth-watering barbecue.
Bring Your Brood to Bimini
Resorts World Bimini
One of the hottest destinations for 2020 is Bimini, a family-friendly island off of the Bahamas. You won’t have to travel far, as this island is only 50 miles off of the coast of Florida, but you’ll feel like you’re in a far-flung destination as soon as you poke your toes into the hot white sand and peer out onto the azure horizon.
Play: Taste Bimini Bread, made fresh in the colorful town; fill up on conch salad from one of the shacks along the beach, and learn about the culture from local Biminites. Chanel Ernest Hemingway, a resident of the island in the '30s, and go fishing or spend the day in the sea.
Sleep: The Hilton at Resorts World Bimini, a luxury beachfront resort that caters to families. All guest rooms, designed with a contemporary aesthetic, have either a terrace or balcony. Suites are large in size and complete with high-quality amenities. You’ll have many choices for dining as the resort: The Tides, The Sushi Bar or the Oasis swim-up bar. Resorts World Bimini also has multiple swimming pools and access to Paradise Beach. For fun, take a golf cart to any of the island’s other beaches to explore a different landscape. Shop at Fisherman’s Village, a market along the marina. You’ll find that for your family, there’s plenty to do, see, and eat in Bimini.
For Great Scenery & Small Town Charm - Mammoth, CA
If you're not looking for warm weather just yet, Mammoth Mountain is the ultimate spring break destination for families who want to hit the slopes. And for those times when you just want to kick back and relax, Mammoth is packed with tons of restaurants, kids' activities, and even incredible natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierra.
Play: When you go to Mammoth, you go for the skiing. But even if your kids aren't up to speed on the slopes just yet, with the help of the lessons offered, they just might be by the time you leave. Here, patient pros will help guide the most novice of skiers in small group lessons, as well as kids and adults with disabilities in their Adaptive Ski School. In addition to the skiing, Mammoth has a ton more to offer in terms of winter sports, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and letting loose at Wooly's Tube Park and Snow Play, where kids of all ages will have a blast.
Sleep: For cozy accommodations after a day on the slopes, look to the splurge-worthy Sierra Nevada Resort, which has been a longtime local favorite. The 149-room hotel has a super rustic feel and almost all rooms are appointed for families (with heated bathroom floors and fireplaces!). There's also a shuttle that regularly runs from the hotel to the mountain lodges, as well as to the airport.
Eat: For nights when everyone is exhausted from playing in the snow, Sierra Nevada Resort's Rafters—and all of their local, organic produce—is a fantastic option. When you want to venture out, there are tons of restaurants featuring all sorts of fare to choose from, including Jimmy's Taverna for seafood lovers, Campo to satisfy your hankering for Italian, and The Stove for an unforgettable home-style breakfast.
Check Maui Off Your Bucket List
courtesy Hyatt Regency Maui
Maui offers many adventures for families, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or you want to toss in some intrepid experiences for good measure.
Play: Begin your trip at one of the world’s best aquariums, Maui Ocean Center, to get an idea of what you might see while snorkeling or during a boat cruise. Arrange for a luau experience to learn about the Hawaiian culture—most hotels can assist with planning. Take a family-friendly surfing lesson. Make time for a hike in Iao State Park, which is rich with history. Visit Maui Tropical Plantation and see a lush landscape full of fruits, produce, and flowers.
After touring the working farm, dine at The Mill House for a culinary experience like no other. Plan early, and see the sunrise at Haleakala National Park. Drive the Road to Hana to see rainforests, lava tubes, caves, waterfalls, and all of that jaw-dropping scenery that Maui is known for. Take lots of photographs—likely, one will make your holiday card for next year.
Sleep: The Hyatt Regency Maui's stunning oceanfront property has something for everyone. From swimming pools with water slides to penguin tours at the local wildlife center and even stargazing to the Regency Club, where for an added fee there are snacks, food and amenities all day long, this resort is ideal for your dream vacation.
Waterslide Heaven — Wisconsin Dells, WI
Wendy Altschuler
No sun? No problem. At Wisconsin Dells, every day is waterpark weather. A buzzing Midwestern tourist's destination that's located midway between Chicago and Minneapolis, Wisconsin Dells is the self-proclaimed "Waterpark Capital of the World" (21 waterparks and counting!)—and it's got a slew of indoor parks for when the weather isn't exactly bathing suit friendly.
Play: Families with wee ones will want to hit the Great Wolf Lodge or the Wilderness Resort, both of which cater to smaller visitors.
Note: You'll have to stay at these resorts to use their water parks.
Family tapped out on water? There are plenty of other options. Hop on the saddle for a trail ride at the Canyon Creek Riding Stable, speed across 6,000 feet of cables with Big Foot Ziplines (kids must be above 43 inches to zip), or give the kids a fun glimpse at the history of the circus at Circus World.
Sleep: There are so many choices when it comes to kid-centered lodging that it's hard to find a place that won't blow your kids’ minds. But the Great Wolf Lodge, the Kalahari Resort, and the Wilderness Resort top our list because of their sheer number of kid-friendly attractions (think arcades, mini-golf, kids crafts, theatrical shows, etc.) and the special attention both resorts pay to little ones.
Eat: Want your dinner delivered by miniature train? Head to Buffalo Phils, which serves up burgers and BBQ in a bustling Wild West-themed atmosphere. It's also under the same roof as Knuckleheads Bowling & Trampoline Park and right next door to the Outlets at the Dells (with over 75 shops!). It sounds like a play date to us.
Google "ranch vacations" and you’ll find a whole heap of ‘em. But the rustic-yet-luxe Tanque Verde Ranch in Arizona tops our list because it’s open year-round and has loads of fun activities for little cowboys. Like horses? Your kids can spend all day at the kids club (activities for kids under four are available by request), where they’ll enjoy riding lessons, trail rides, arts and crafts and more. For folks who aren’t keen on giddying up in the saddle, there are other activities including yoga, swimming, fishing, hiking, and a spa.
Play: Besides the plethora of activities at the ranch, you can also venture out into the Tucson area and enjoy downhill skiing, golfing, cave exploring, shopping, and more.
Sleep: After a long day of activities on the ranch, you and your kids will be happy to nestle down in Tanque Verde's modern adobe casitas, all of which boast stretching views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
Note: In keeping with the rustic theme, there aren’t TVs in any of the rooms and the WiFi can be a bit spotty.
Eat: All-inclusive means you and your kids will get three meals a day of award-winning Southwestern cuisine. Want to dine in the Great Wide Open? Sign up for a breakfast ride and feast on blueberry pancakes and ranch-style eggs amid the cacti and tumbleweeds. On Wednesdays and Sundays, the ranch has “cowboy cookouts” that include a tasty barbecue buffet and live entertainment.
Take the Kids to Tuscany
Gabby Cullen
Italy, and more specifically, Tuscany, is famous not only for the Italian Renaissance but also for the countryside. Families can explore at their own pace, traveling from Siena, known for its medieval streets, to San Gimignano, where you can stroll cobblestone streets and order gelato in one of the squares. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is also fun to see, and kids will recognize it right away.
Play: Of course, Tuscany has kid-centered activities that any major city has: zoos, theme parks (Pinocchio Park is one), waterparks, and museums, but there is so much more to experience here with your family in tow. UNESCO has declared seven World Heritage Sites in Tuscany, there are amazing underground cave and grotto systems, 120 protected nature reserves, and families can learn how to make pecorino cheese in Cugusi, the area between Pienza and Montepulciano.
Sleep: Snuggled in the Serchio Valley, between the Apuan Alps and the Tuscan Emilian Apennines, conveniently about an hour from Lucca, Florence, and Pisa, sits Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa. A stay here rewards families with easy access to medieval towns, market tours, onsite cooking lessons, an outdoor pool with mountain views.
Eat: It’s no surprise that Italians like to eat well and spending time with family is a big part of the culture. Dining out is part of the experience and kids are welcome—and celebrated—in eateries all over Tuscany. Further, many restaurants have gardens or lovely piazzas where it’s entirely appropriate for kids to run around and play while waiting for dinner to arrive. Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa has a wide variety of dining options as well—La Veranda has traditional favorites available or, better yet, arrange for a day with the chef. Shop in the local market and indulge in a private cooking lesson—you will eat your meal with pride having made it yourself. Kids can also join a cupcake making class and provide the dessert for your family table
With May being National Bike Month, it’s the perfect time to dust off your bikes, trailers and training wheels and hit the trails. To help you get off on the right foot er pedal, we’ve mapped out nine fantastic stops along the Burke Gilman Trail—from Ballard to Kenmore—to keep you and your little cyclists happy and fueled. Read on and get ready to plan a day on Seattle’s best urban bike trail.
It's the perfect place to begin your journey: the sandy beaches of Golden Gardens lie at one end of the trail. Forgot to pack a picnic? Miri's got you covered. The popular spot specializes in local, organic breakfast and lunch goodness, with an emphasis on poffertjes. Poff-what? As owner Miri Plowman says, "Tiny Dutch pancakes, the little ones love them." Open Thurs.-Sun. and Mon.-Sun. starting in mid-June.
8498 Seaview Pl. N.W. Seattle, WA 98117 360-317-8530 Online: mirisseattle.com
The Hiram Chittenden (aka Ballard) Locks provide endless fascination for kids of all ages watching the boats go through. The Lockspot guards the entrance, making sure no visitors will go hungry or thirsty. With a kids' menu and a large flowery patio, put this spot on your summer bike map. Is it too early for a fish sandwich? Never.
Hale's Ales and the Burke-Gilman go together like beer and bicycles, sharing the same corner of the path in Fremont since the 1980s. Order yummy Mexican food from on-site food truck fave El Camion. Hale's hosts a full roster of live events as well; don't miss The I Hate Children Children's Show, a very funny magic show starring...you guessed it, kids!
4301 Leary Way N.W. Seattle, WA 98107 206-782-0737 Online: halesbrewery.com
Ivar's Salmon House
Ivar's
A Seattle icon, Ivar's makes a perfect stop just off the trail for epic water views. Lock up your wheels and enjoy the back patio. Birds, boats and kayaks rush by to entertain while the Space Needle and skyline shine in the distance. Don't forget to show the kids the incredible First Nations art collection inside the restaurant. Another option is to grab some grub from the easy to-go window right in front. Baby prawns, fries, clam chowder and salmon Caesar salad make the perfect picnic to take to Gasworks Park.
Need a bike—or several—for the family? Recycled Cycles has bikes of all shapes and sizes for the little ones. The Trail-a-Bike allows kids to pedal along while still safely attached to your bike, while the Burley Bee is a tiny trailer for the smallest of cyclists. The friendly shop also has air, parts, new and used bikes...everything to make your day on the Burke-Gilman a huge success.
1007 N.E. Boat St Seattle, WA 98105 206-547-4491 Online: recycledcycles.com
Agua Verde Cafe & Paddle Club
Agua Verde
Looking to add some aquatic fun to your epic day on the Burke-Gilman? Agua Verde rents stand-up paddleboards and kayaks to landlocked cyclists of all ages. They also have a full Mexican restaurant with tacos, nachos, and—that's right—margaritas!
1307 NE Boat St Seattle, WA 98105 206-545-8570 (ext. 2) Online: aguaverde.com
Two great stops in one! After a long day pedaling in the sun, sometimes only a burger, fries and a Northwest IPA will do. Great State Burger has joined the Renee Erickson restaurant empire with a satisfying, inexpensive burger.
Burke Gilman Brewing Company opened last July, causing hundreds of cyclists to screech on the brakes to check it out. They specialize in the beers sweaty cyclists crave and hop-forward ales. Their mantra: "Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, also we are quite friendly."
Feeling fancy? Erickson's Bistro Shirlee just opened in the same bike-friendly complex.
Great State Burger 3600 N.E. 45th St. Seattle, WA 98105 206-775-8990 Online: greatstateburger.com
Burke Gilman Brewing Company 3626 N.E. 45th St. Seattle, WA 98105 206-268-0220 Online: burkegilmanbrewing.com
Magnuson Cafe & Brewery
Magnuson Cafe & Brewery
Take N.E. 65 Street—with a fully protected bike lane—off the trail down into Magnuson Park, then head north. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery is a peaceful oasis with gorgeous views overlooking Lake Washington. Featuring beers from the team behind Mollusk, it's the place to recharge before visiting the park. Make the pilgrimage to Cascade Bicycle Club, right next door, to find out about the latest group family rides. For extra credit, head out to A Sound Garden, part of the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration complex. The wind-activated sculpture art installation once upon a time inspired the name of—you guessed it—Soundgarden.
7801 62nd Ave. N.E. Seattle, WA 98115 206-525-0669 Online: magnusonbrewery.com
What started as a 192 square foot brewery has become a vast urban beer garden and event space right on Lake Washington in Kenmore. Kids and dogs are welcome, and there is a full menu for all ages, from pub grub to falafel. Psst...don't miss the Sunday afternoon Blues Jam, the perfect way to end the weekend before heading home on the bike path, under the roar of the seaplanes on one of those endlessly bright summer nights.
7324 N.E. 175th St. Kenmore, WA 98028 425-424-2337 Online: 192brewing.com
Baseball is back! After the snowiest February ever, spring is more than just a welcome season–it’s the bridge between “hope” and “eternal” when it comes to our beloved Mariners. And with the Sounders march to the MLS Cup underway, you know what you need to do: grab the kids and head to one of these kid-friendly sports bars to catch all the action. Scroll down to learn more!
Ballard Loft
Ballard Loft
Down at the southern end of Ballard Avenue lies this rocking sports joint which has a kid's menu, table activities and all the games, drinks and bar food our winter-escaping heart's desire. Oh, and happy hour is seven days a week. Minors welcome until 9 p.m., which is bedtime anyway. Batter up!
5105 Ballard Ave. N.W. Seattle, Wa 98107 206-420-2737 Online: ballardloft.com
Kids and baseball go together like beer and baseball, so--transitive property!--kids and beer go together. Nowhere is this truer than at Chuck's Hop Shop which has close to 1000 beers to choose from and nearly that many kids and dogs in a giant cornucopia of fun. There are two locations: the Central District and Greenwood, so take your pick. Maybe both? That's called a Chuck's doubleheader.
2001 E. Union St. (Central District) Seattle, Wa 98122 206-538-0743 Online: chuckscd.wordpress.com
Less than five years old, Giddy Up is already an institution in its Frelard neighborhood. To call it a sports bar, or a burger joint, or a kid-friendly restaurant somehow misses the point. It's more like a gigantic romper room filled with kids, suds, sports and burgers. And saddles, leather saddles everywhere. Yee-haw!
4600 Leary Way N.W. Seattle, Wa 98107 206-782-2798 Online: giddyupburgers.com
All the cool kids are going to Georgetown, but what about the under-aged minors? Be the hippest mom, dad, aunt or uncle and take 'em to Lowercase Brewing. They've got the games, award-winning beers and ciders and the kids are welcome to run around and play all day.
This place looks like a small town village football pub in England, and even though football here could mean Sounders or Seahawks, that's the essence of Madrona Arms. The whole family is welcome, with a kid's menu and smashing pub grub. Keep one eye on the Mariners, and the other on the Sounders, they've got plenty of screens.
1138 34th Ave. Seattle, Wa 98122 206-739-5104 Online: madronaarms.com
Great bar food, a rockin' kid's menu, 12s, Huskies and Cougs everywhere. This friendly Phinney Ridge neighborhood tavern is where everyone might not know your name, but they will—just as soon as you become a regular.
The Huskies are gone from March Madness--boo!--but that doesn't mean the whole family shouldn't wear purple and gold to The Ram, a rite of passage for students and parents visiting U-Dub. Be sure to check ahead for daily specials, but little kids can eat for as little as $1 with an adult meal purchase. Combine that with screens everywhere and...go Dawgs!
2650 N.E. University Village St. (University Village) Seattle, Wa 98105 206-525-3565
Even in a city filled with breweries, walking into Reuben's always feel like an event. It's the go-to taproom for Sounders games, and they open early to make sure fans catch every minute of the action. With a rotating roster of food trucks, and discounts on dine-in deliveries, neither parents nor little ones need ever go hungry. Invite all the parents, order a Crikey and make your own party—you won't be the only ones.
5010 14th Ave. N.W. Seattle, Wa 98107 206-784-2859 Online: reubensbrews.com
Some of the venues on this list are brewhouses with TV screens, or kid-friendly restaurants that also go sports crazy. Rookies is a sports bar, period, end of sentence. And they love kids! Put a Ken Griffey Jr. jersey on your wee one, pick out a vintage Edgar Martinez for yourself and head to Columbia City. With 14 flat screen TVs and happy hour Monday through Friday, you can't go wrong here.
3820 S. Ferdinand St., #101 Seattle, Wa 91881 206-722-0301 Online: rookiesseattle.com
The Westy Roosevelt
The Westy
Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose, such is the nature of being a sports fan. Win or lose, shouldn't we be at The Westy Roosevelt, which has numerous beers on tap, craft cocktails and over 120 whiskies? Whether celebrating or commiserating, this is the place to be. All ages are welcome until 10 p.m., so stay for the extra innings.
1215 N.E. 65th St. Seattle, Wa 98115 206-402-5518 Online: thewestyseattle.com
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to treat yourself to some end of winter comfort food and a steaming cup of tea or cocoa (or maybe something stronger). Luckily, Portland has an abundance of Irish pubs and eateries that specialize in simple, delicious fare from the Emerald isle. Here’s our guide to filling your whole family’s bellies, and tipping your glasses, in fine Irish style this March 17th. Read on to find out more.
Raven and Rose
For a meal steeped in history head for one of Portland’s most celebrated restaurants the Raven and Rose. Housed in a beautifully restored historic landmark, the 1883 Ladd Carriage House, the Raven and Rose prides itself on authenticity and innovation and not just in the architecture, their menu has received rave reviews from such heavy hitters as the New York Times and Food and Wine Magazine. Breakfast and lunch offer the widest selection of Irish fare, ranging from steel cut oats to shepherd’s pie (and even rabbit!).
1331 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97201
503-222-7673
Online: ravenandrosepdx.com
Paddy’s Bar and Grill
Not to be outdone, Paddy’s Bar and Grill, also located in downtown Portland has been serving Irish fare for over 35 years from inside the historic 1878 Powers Building. They serve a variety of pub grub with an Irish slant (Irish Nachos anyone?) in addition to kid-favorites like mac and cheese. On St. Patrick’s Day this year they will host a tented street party with live music and an attempt to reclaim their 2011 Guinness Book of World Records title for the World’s Largest Irish Coffee. Kids are welcome until 6 pm.
65 SW Yamhill St
Portland, OR 97204
503-224-5626
Online: paddys.com
TC O’Leary’s
TC O’Leary’s serves one of Portland’s most authentic spreads of Irish comfort food around whiskey-barrel tables, cooked up by the pub’s namesake, Thomas Christopher O’Leary. With an all-Irish menu right down to the brussels sprouts and Irish-cut fries, it’s a classic slice of Ireland using all locally-sourced ingredients, at an affordable price. Little ones welcome until 10 p.m.
2926 NE Alberta St.
Portland, Or
503 477-5969
Online: tcolearys.com
The Leaky Roof
The Leaky Roof bills itself as a gastropub where high-end dining meets neighborhood comfortable, but their generous happy hour menu and kid’s offerings make this still an affordable choice. And since this modest Goose Hollow institution has been serving some of the best corned-beef and stews in the area since 1947, it’s a can’t-miss of Portland cuisine. For a tasty twist on an old favorite that will please the whole family try their Irish Benedict!
1538 SW Jefferson St.
Portland, Or
503-222-3745
Online: theleakyroof.com
Clancy’s Irish Pub
Clancy’s Irish Pub, tucked away in Sherwood’s charming Old Town opened on St. Patrick’s Day in 1988 and is still the place to go for live music and fantastic chowder and chips. Make it a day by pairing a trip out to Clancy’s with a drive through the Tualatin Valley’s scenic wine country. Added bonus: they host a St. Patrick’s Day celebration every year, so check the website for an updated event listing.
Shanahan’s Pub and Grill
Shanahan’s will warn you in advance that if you’re looking for a fine-dining experience, you’ll not find it with them. But if neighborhood casual and arcade games are to your taste and you’re looking for mainly mainstream pub food with a hint of Irish flare, then you’ve found the right spot. In the true Irish spirit though, they welcome all-comers heartily, and with 20 beers on tap and a locally-sourced, from-scratch menu with vegan options, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Townshend’s Teahouse
No day is considered complete to the Irish without (several) cups of tea. And nothing captures the imagination of kids quite like a tea party. Townshend’s Teahouses, with multiple locations throughout the area are comfortable and kid friendly with just enough old-world, cozy charm to make them the place to go for an Irish-inspired afternoon high-tea. For an authentic cuppa, try their decaf earl grey or rose petal teas.
Locations in Alberta, Division, Montavilla, and Mississippi
Grand Central
If you want the flavors but not the festivities of the holiday, bring it home with a delicious, local, artisanal bread or pastry from Grand Central Baking. With seven locations in the Portland area, there’s sure to be one close to home. Look out for their traditional Irish favorites like soda bread, scones, tea cookies, and bread pudding and call ahead for easy pickup.
Locations in Beaumont, Cedar Mills, Fremont and Mississippi, Hawthorne Blvd., Multnomah Blvd., Sellwood, and Woodstock
Online: grandcentralbakery.com
If you’re looking for something new to see by the sea, we’ve got a place you can bring the kids to meet some of the cutest critters around, and learn something while you’re at it. The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro is a hospital with a very different kind of patient: the inhabitants here are mostly baby seals who have lost their moms and cannot feed themselves, along with other sick or injured sea mammals. Your own pups will learn how these pinnipeds* are cared for and how helpers here prepare to return them to the wild.
(*Pinnipeds are all flipper footed marine mammals. See? You’ve learned something already!)
The non-profit Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort MacArthur looks small and unassuming at first glance. But keep in mind that this is a real hospital. Though the space is small, big things happen here. The whole family is welcome and it’s a wonderful place to take your time and thoroughly explore.
The beauty of this rescue establishment reveals itself as you observe the animal patients, such as 4 to 5-month-old pups, grooming themselves and frolicking with their cute flippers. Other mammals may have just arrived, suffering from malnutrition or infections. These are separated from the rest of the healthier gang lounging and playing in water basins.
Plaques explain such things as the always-confusing difference between seals and sea lions or what type of food the pups are fed. You’ll see that some need tube feeding, and they get a slurpie of glucose, electrolytes, vitamins and proteins, sometimes requiring a human volunteer to assist with the meal. But you really get the whole story from the docents. They will tell you and your own little beach babes that seal pups who lost their moms and would starve in the wild are brought here to be nurtured back to health and taught to live a life on their own in the ocean. Injured sea lions might arrive with a fishing line around their neck, unable to eat and having lost 50 pounds. At any given time, you might encounter 20 to 50 critters here, from California sea lions to Pacific harbor seals to fur seals, each with a different story to tell.
Before visiting, kids should be reminded that interaction with the patients is discouraged. The adorable pups also don’t get names. This is to improve their chances of seamlessly disappearing back into the ocean they came from. For this purpose, the pinnipeds are kept safe behind a wire mesh fence. This can be frustrating for little ones at first, as they are so darn cute they call out for a cuddle, but once you learn more about the animals’ plight, it all makes sense. It’s a great opportunity to learn not just about animal care, but about empathy, the power of volunteering and our ability to make a difference. The care center volunteers will tell you they especially love teaching kids, as they ask the most varied and interesting questions.
There’s a small gift shop selling cuddly plush toys (these are the things made for patting, touching and cuddling!), T-shirts and postcards. The center is open to visitors every day of the year during daylight hours. Admission is free but donations are encouraged. Staff to answer questions is usually around between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
photo: Sylvie Greil
Marine Mammal Care Center
3601 S. Gaffey St.
San Pedro
310-548-5677
Online: marinemammalcare.org
Now that you’re in San Pedro and have visited the seal pups, what to do next?
Cabrillo Beach: this is an excellent spot for exploring tide pools.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium: smaller than the Long Beach behemoth, this is a perfect first aquarium for kids.
School is back in session, but we promise this isn’t your normal K-8 classroom. It’s the Kennedy School, and for those of you who haven’t been to the Kennedy School in awhile or maybe ever…carpe diem. The elementary-school-turned-indoor-playground is filled with hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, a brewery, movie theater and a live music venue. There is literally something for everybody and it’s all cozily enclosed under one large and very dry roof. Heads up social calendar coordinator of out-of-town peeps; their new English Wing of twenty-two local author-themed guest rooms with king sized beds and private baths just opened to the public at the end of 2012.
Don’t Skip This School
Let’s start with the movies. These matinees are designed for moms, dads, nannies and grandfolks to bring the kiddos. No one will flinch if the wee ones cry, run, snack or jump. The movies are second run (out of theaters and likely soon to be released on dvd) and uber-reasonably priced. The theater is the school’s former auditorium, it’s large and open so you really can keep an eye on your minis, while also sitting on a comfy couch or arm chair. And if that’s not enough, the Theater Bar sells delicious nibbles that are delivered to your seat. It’s fantastic. Period.
The soaking pool is an outdoor gem in an interior courtyard. Surrounded by lush gardens, this ceramic work of art is sure to delight you and your minis. There is a small locker room with two private changing areas for a quick bathing suit switcheroo. Then head outside and get your warm water soak on. You’ll love the underwater tiled bench all along the perimeter of the pool. It’s ideal for relaxing and/or keeping your littlest ones close. Having absolutely no chlorine – just warm, steamy salt water galore – you’re afloat with the greatest of ease.
Hungry? The Courtyard restaurant is large and sunny (if it’s sunny outside). The light fixtures are worth a moment’s pause for their beauty and the outdoor fireplace is a splendid mosaic of tiles. Pretty and cozy…what else do you need? Oh yeah, food. Prepare for the usual McMenamin’s fare…tater tots for all! Burgers, pizza, salads, sammies, their McMenamin’s beers and wines round out the pub grub. Full bar, too.
Or for an imaginary vacation during lunch/dinner have your vittles in the Cypress Room. They play reggae, push island-inspired specials, roll concert clips and love the rum, mon. The pipe sculpture is neither subtle nor unimpressive. If it’s warm sit outside on the back patio among the vines. Kids welcome until 10:00 pm
Catch The Bus: Thing to Know Before You Go
Mommy & Me Matinees run Tuesday – Thursday around 2:30 pm and cost $3 per person. If your kids are young and fidgety, bring toys or books to help keep them occupied. A big bag of popcorn (available at the theater) also helps. Family matinees run Friday through Monday and are the first two showings of the day. Tix are still $3 each and should be age appropriate for little scholars.
The soaking pool is open 10:00 am – 8:00 pm everyday for non-hotel guests, and costs $5 per person. Pay at the front desk on your way in and bring your own towels. If you’re there in the evening you can grab a cocktail in the Honors Bar on your way out to the water. They’ll provide the plastic cup. Oh yeah.
The Courtyard Restaurant is open for three square meals a day plus Happy Hour. Grilled cheese, burgers, pizzas and corn dogs feed the little buckaroos. Breakie of granola, eggs or French toast can start any day off right, morning glories. If it’s crowded/busy, it can be slooooow going getting your meals. Bringing snacks and entertainment is never a bad idea. Switching lunches can be pretty rad, too.
Not All Who Wander Are Lost
The Boiler Room Bar was once (wait for it) the boiler room. It is a destination in and of itself, but the ginger snaps are not welcome. If you can shimmy in for a drink or some down time sans le bebes, check out the two-floor space full of deconstructed radiators, pipes and other metal work, play a little shuffleboard, shoot some stick and crank the tunes via jukebox. They serve pub grub and a bar full o’ booze as well.
If you like bourbon, single malts, cigars, cigar smoke and being amongst adults only – make your way to the Detention Bar. It is small in size yet large in living. And just as you’d imagine by the name, this bar just begs for bad behavior. So go ahead and buy a stogie. And take a cab home. And sleep on the couch.
Rock ‘N Roll K School Thursday night meet Family Frolic. Family Frolic meet Portland families ready to get out and down. Make your way to what was once the gym (aptly named the Gymnasium currently) for bands of many genres changing weekly – honky tonk, bluegrass, 80s, country, singer songwriters, kindie rock faves like Professor Banjo among others. Shows start at either 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm and are FREE. There is a bar in the back of the room, lest you walk too far.
Passing Notes in the Hall: The Inside Dish
It can get hot in the gym when everyone has their boogie on. Leave your coats in the car. Or in a heap in the corner, you pick. Hotel guests can bring their pets for an additional $15 tacked on to the room rate and use the soaking pool anytime (another coupla selling points for your visiting BFFs). If the hotel is booked with wedding guests or a family reunion, the pool may feel tight if the guests all head for a plunge at the same time. Neighbors who live between NE 22nd and NE 42nd and NE Prescott and NE Columbia swim for free, but be sure your license has your accurate address for proof. Last but oh so far from least, you lucky duck you. Go ahead and buy McMenamin’s beers to go or ship ‘em anywhere within Oregon.
Be True to Your School
There is much to see here at the Kennedy School. Try to budget in some roaming time and check out alumni photos, posters for shows upcoming or past, or make a day of it at one of their holiday events – like the kid-heavy merriment on May Day, the St Patty’s Day family-friendly music fest or indoor trick or treating on Halloween that starts nice and early at 5:00 pm rain or shine, it’s cool to love your Kennedy school. And walking around with a libation in hand and your munchkins happily meandering along checking out the sights and stories lining the walls is nothing short of old school satisfying.
The Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd
Portland, Or 97211
Have you visited the Kennedy School Recently? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below.
As Octoberfest Activities are winding down, our friends at Seattle Magazine are here to remind us that sometimes it’s not all about the beer. Sometimes it’s all about the food. With this list of Seattle’s best pub grub, you’ll be rubbing your belly with satisfaction in no time! This list of four pubs with excellent grubs is not only delicious but true to Seattle style.
When I moved to New York City a decade ago, I couldn’t believe how bad they had it. Oh sure, they’ve got Mario Batali, Daniel Boulud and so many other of the country’s best chefs. They’ve got world-class service, a genius on every corner, yada yada. But when it comes to what’s really important in life—craft beers, on tap!—I’ve got news for you, folks: The beer selection back east was dreadful.
It turns out that I’d gotten spoiled. Seattle brews some of the best beer in the country, and our restaurant and bar owners do a knockout job of showing it off. I’d learned to expect a minimum of a half-dozen local microbrews on tap at any self-respecting watering hole. And I’d learned to expect pub food made with extra care.
With our recent resurgence of craft breweries (and their tiny little brothers, the nano-breweries), I figured it was a great time to do some more thorough, ahem, research. So I recently made my way around town in search of pubs with a stellar local beer selection and exceptional food. And I didn’t have to look hard.
Porterhouse, in the Admiral District of West Seattle, opened two years ago to little fanfare, but it’s a true gem for local beer drinkers: General manager Krista Maes oversees the 25 taps of mostly Washington microbrews (the rest are West Coast brews) showcasing local favorites such as Schooner Exact (SoDo), Georgetown Brewing, Flyers (Oak Harbor), Anacortes Brewery and American Brewing (Edmonds). Plus, there are always two nitro ales (filtered but unpasteurized) and one cask ale (unfiltered and unpasteurized) on tap.
Having gone twice now, I already recognize the regulars bellying up for pints and I can’t wait to go back; the place is easygoing and neighborly. Bartenders are quick with samples of beers on tap and they pointed me straight to the excellent lamb burger, a whopping half-pounder cooked to order, juicy and delicious on a Macrina bun ($11) and served with thick, hand-cut steak fries.
Kids are welcome in the roomy restaurant half of the pub; there’s a light-drenched bar with tall bar tables and a curving wall of windows for grownups. Either way, I recommend eating like a kid by ordering the truly great hand-dipped corndog ($6), made with a kosher dog.
If you prefer your local brews with a raucous noise level (because this place is loud), then Tom Douglas’ 21-and-older Brave Horse Tavern in South Lake Union is a terrific choice. Eighteen brews on tap—a list overseen by “beer czar” Warren Peterson—include Silver City (Silverdale), Big Al’s (White Center), Chuckanut (Bellingham), plus brews from West Coast breweries like HUB (Portland), and Bear Republic (Healdsburg, California).
You’ll have to share a table (nearly all the seating is at long communal tables), but it’s worth it for the impressive pub food: It is, across the board, delicious. Malt-boiled pretzels served with irresistibly retro pimento cheese dip ($6); outstanding burgers dripping with homemade barbecue sauce and mayo, and topped with iceberg lettuce, for only $6. Celebrate slamming the door on bathing-suit season with a bratwurst plate ($11), a snappy sausage on top of creamy mashers, with the seasonal brew (or two) of your choice to wash it down.
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