Want to give your kids a hands-on nature experience with a dash of beach day thrown in for good measure? SoCal tide pools are teeming with colorful, interesting, fun-to-touch creatures that your kids will delight in discovering. Sea stars, sea urchins, crabs and anemones are just some of the tiny residents tucked-away in the shallow pools up and down our beaches and coastlines and they can’t wait to show off their fun features to curious toddlers and big kids.
For those who don’t mind a road trip to Laguna (um, yes please?), consider a tide pool trip to one of the best (and most breathtaking) places for spotting sea life in Orange County. There are a variety of tide pool options here with Pelican Point and Little Treasure Cove being two of the most popular (and gorgeous) places to check out.
Good to Know: It cost $15 to park in one of the lots for the day but from here you can walk down beautifully scenic paths to the water’s edge where marine animals are plentiful here, but dolphin pods and the occasional whale spout are often observed just past the pools.
The rocky shores and off-the-beaten-path feel make this beach ideal for traversing tide pools. Once a spot for natural sulfur hot springs, this space now gives life to vibrant sea stars, urchins, sea cucumbers and a large variety of marine life that show themselves when the tide is low. You'll see so many crabs skittering across the rocks, it'll feel at times like the floor is moving (don't worry—they're harmless!).
Good to Know: With a (paid) parking lot on site as well as clean public restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, and the stroller-friendly White Point Nature Preserve right across the street, this beach makes aquatic exploring a conveniently fun experience for the whole family.
Another Malibu gem (this one is part of the trio of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beaches) is a local favorite for photo shoots (you really can't beat the scenery) but it's also a fantastic place to explore ocean caves, pools and rock arches. During low tide, the pools fill with colorful sea creatures and the rocks are blanketed in mussels, clams and barnacles.
Good to Know: Plan to park either along PCH or in the small metered lot at the top of the stairs (the lot fills up fast so best to arrive early). The stairs down to the beach are a bit steep, so it's good idea to hold onto little hands.
Adored by families near and far, this Malibu beach at low tide really shows off its rocky underworld where sea stars, anemones, sea urchins and crabs delight sea-life seekers of all ages. Your small scallywags can really tap into their inner pirate while they climb under rock arches, through tunnels and inside small coves.
Good to Know: Park along PCH for free or pay $3 per hour (or $12 per day) to use the day-use parking lot.
The best part about visiting this rocky shoreline is that if you do end up coming at the wrong time (i.e. high tide), you can still see everything SoCal tide pools have to offer next door at the Cabrillo Aquarium—a free aquarium showcasing all that swims, crawls, floats and sticks in the area's waters, guaranteeing you'll see sea stars and moon jellies by the dozen.
How to Find the Tide Pools near Cabrillo Beach: Park at the aquarium and walk north through the grassy field (past the sandy beach) until you see a wooden walking path. This will take you right to the tide pools, which (as long as you go at low tide) are an easy, walkable collection of flat rocks with tons of watery crevices to explore. The total walking time is just about 5 minutes each way.
Good to Know: Parking is $1 per hour.
3720 Stephen M White Dr. (This is the address for the Cabrillo Aquarium, where you'll park) San Pedro Online: laparks.org/beach/cabrillo-beach
San Pedro: Point Fermin Park Beach
Your nature lovers will be in sea creature heaven during low tide on this beach! It’s certainly rocky, but pretty flat for the most part, making it easy to check out the treasures revealed when the tide is out. Beautiful green crabs, mussels, anemones, sea stars and even the occasional sea slug come out in full splendor in and around these tide pools.
Access this beautiful beach via a scenic walk from the parking lot (the first 30 minutes are free, max $12 for the day). The payoff is a gorgeous strip of coastline with views for miles (look for Catalina Island in the distance) and tide pools crawling with ocean animals.
While the tide is out, your adventurers will feast their eyes on scurrying crabs, fish, colorful anemones and (luckily) get a glimpse or two of the abalone that gives the cove its name.
Good to Know: Getting to these tide pools involves a 10-minute hike with hills both there and back—and the tide pools are quite rocky so grippy water shoes are a must. This outing might be better suited for the slightly older set and may not be as toddler-friendly as some...but the bonus is this beach tends to be less crowded than others which is certainly a peaceful plus!
5970 Palos Verdes Dr. South Rancho Palos Verdes Online: rpvca.gov
When to Go Tide Pooling around LA
The first thing you should know about seeing tide pools? You can't always see them! This is because they're formed only when the tide is low enough to leave pools of water inside rock crevices and shallow areas near the shore. Go at the right time, and you'll be able to spot legions of hermit crabs nestled on sandy floors, blankets of mussels stuck to rocky undersides and sticky sea anemones stuck to surfaces everywhere—all without getting your feet wet. Go at the wrong time? Not only will you miss out on your seaside safari, but it can also be dangerous, since rogue waves can easily knock little explorers off their feet.
To make tide pool exploration a success, you need to schedule your visit for when the tide is as low as possible (aim for a tide level less than 1 foot high). To find the latest tide times, check out this chart from Tideforecast.com.
What to Bring on Your Tide Pool Adventure:
A good pair of shoes—sneakers you don't mind getting wet or sturdy water shoes (no flip flops!).
A hat
Sunblock
A bucket for (temporarily) collecting your finds for observation. Everything you find must be returned to the tide pools before you leave
A picture chart of what to look for—and makes a great scavenger hunt, too!
Tips for Upgrading Your Tide Pool Adventure
If your budding marine biologist wants to take their discoveries to the next level, download the iNaturalist App, and bring your phone or tablet down to the tide pools and join a community science effort. Using the app, you can explore the tide pools and discover what various animals and sea life are called and you can snap and share photos of all marine life you find—the data you contribute will help give a “snapshot” of species populations in Marine Protected Areas (MPA).
Good to Know: The app isn’t just for marine areas—you can also search “Nearby” and find groups to join—from nature centers to wildlife hunts at museums like the Natural History Museum, there’s a whole community of wildlife observers waiting to welcome you.
When it comes to places to ride trains in Atlanta, young and old alike often have a one-track mind. Luckily, Atlanta has plenty of options for anyone who loves locomotives. You can spend the day as a mini engineer or book a night in one of these train cars you can sleep in for the ultimate train experience. All aboard for an amazing adventure!
The SRM is where all locomotive showgirls (and trains and busses) retire. Located on 35 acres in Duluth, the SRM is a treasure trove of restored double-decker busses, Pullman cars, diesel and steam locomotives, and cabooses. Check hours online and train schedule to catch a ride on the “big” train (an engine with a passenger car or caboose attached). Still, since its operation is subject to operator availability, your best bet is to call in advance. Also, take water, apply sunscreen, and wear tennis shoes.
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
If you know anything about Civil War history, you know that the General put the loco in the locomotive. Train-jacked, so to speak, by Northern spies posing as Confederate soldiers in Marietta, the General’s theft set in motion a race to sabotage Confederate communication lines. Recently, the conflict ended with a Federal custody lawsuit in 1978 between Tennessee and Georgia. Talk about some train drama. Whether your train buff will fully appreciate the backstory might be up for debate; however, there is no question that the exhibit will leave your fan reeling.
Note: This exhibit does not have a train to ride, but you’ll be blown away by the memorabilia and train history here.
If it’s a ride your kids are after, then it’s to the Stone Mountain Scenic Railway you must go. This 1940s restored train sports open-air passenger cars, which offer a much-needed breeze during the swelter of the Atlanta summer. The ride takes passengers on a 30-minute loop around the mountain’s base. Not interested in the other attractions at the park? You can purchase tickets to the train only and enjoy your picnic lunch at the playground inside the park grounds after your ride. However, be aware that all cars that enter the grounds are subject to an entrance fee.
The animals are great, but the train ride is what your kids will remember about their first trip to the Zoo. Located in the Children’s Zoo, you can meander through the animal exhibits until you (finally) reach it, or you can cut to your right when you enter the Zoo and go directly there. In addition to the Georgia Natural Gas Blue Flame Express Train, a replica of an 1863 locomotive, the Children’s Zoo is also home to a petting zoo, carousel, rock wall, and playground. The train runs every 15 or 20 minutes during regular Zoo operating hours, except in the case of rain or frigid temperatures.
If you’re looking for a fast, cheap, and easy train fix for your kiddos, MARTA is SMARTA. Let’s be honest. Trains are extraordinary, complicated, and nuanced marvels of engineering, but the allure of a train to your three-year-old boils down to two things: 1) it moves quickly, and 2) it makes all sorts of exciting noises. So, while a trip on MARTA may lack a conductor’s “all aboard” call, it is still an exciting train experience that won’t break the bank or kill your afternoon plan to run errands. Or, you can make a day of it by consulting the website for tourist attractions accessible by MARTA on the website.
Take a ride along the Boulevard with the little ones. Avalon Express Train runs every weekend and putters along (on wheels) at a reasonable pace that will make even your youngest comfortable taking a lap behind its engine.
Get ready to tell your kids they’re going to eat dinner on a real train. The restaurant sits inside an old train car on top of original train tracks. Choose from Chinese cuisine, Sushi or Hibachi, including a kids’ menu with chicken, beef or shrimp options. Even though the train doesn’t move, it is guaranteed to be a dining experience you won’t soon forget.
Finally opening their second floor for the first time in 23 months for a full re-opening, the Children’s Creativity Museum lives up to their name by encouraging and fostering creativity. From the way children think, the emotions they have, how they communicate and how they express themselves—all of it is investigated at this incredible museum. It’s time for little creative thinkers to get busy and explore!
First Floor
Through September, a special exhibit entitled XOXO: An Exhibit about Love and Community is in residence on the first floor. This exhibit invites kids ages two through 12 to engage in hands-on activities to share emotions, play and spark conversations.
Christine Lai
Some of these activities include creating silhouettes, speaking into tone phones that change the tone of the voice and writing down negative thoughts and then shredding them using a large shredder (therapeutic for adults, too). There is also a community wall in which questions about love and community (“what makes you feel safe?”) can be answered and shared on the wall.
Christine Lai
We loved the beautifully decorated and cozy Storybook park with its welcoming bean bags, plethora of books and creative sensory alphabet signs. Next door, a set of see-saws were also very popular in which we worked together on creative balance.
Christine Lai
Have expressive littles? The Early Childhood Zone is suited for the five and unders and encourages play through soft blue blocks, train tables and will soon have painting at the outdoor patio.
Christine Lai
Second Floor
At the Making Music Studio, kids can make musical instruments with their own creativity or by following cards with inspiring ideas. Little percussionists will love performing their musical pieces and marching to the beat of their own tune at the Drum Pad and Sound Effect stations—headphones included!
Christine Lai
Next door is home of the Animation Studio where kids can try their hand at stop-motion animation and produce an original animated film. Figures and scenes are created with LEGO bricks with interchangeable back drops to match and the completed film can even be emailed to share with friends and family.
Good to know:
Thursday and Friday hours are from 10 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. for preschool playtime on the first floor only (reservations not required). Saturday and Sunday hours are from 10 a.m.- 4.p.m. (reservations recommended).
The LeRoy King carousel is open on weekends from 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. $5 for nonmembers, $3 for members.
Stop by the amazing Yerba Buena playground next door to complete the epic day
Metered street parking is difficult; consider using Spot Hero to find a nearby garage
And just like that February is coming to a close. Turn the page on the month with exciting events around the Emerald City. If you haven’t taken advantage of Northwest Trek’s Wild Child Weekends, there’s no time like the present. Beyond those wilds, we’re eyeing: kitchen chemistry, a walk that’s for the birds and a chance to sound off. Here’s how to make this weekend count.
Seattle
Sound Off! 2022
Make sure this weekend rocks when you take the kids to see Sound Off! 2022 at MoPOP. Sound Off! gives local up-and-coming artists the chance to showcase their original music in the iconic Sky Church venue. The second in a three show series, this all ages-event features four musicians. Tickets required.Sat. Event details.
Birds of the Duwamish Walk
Spend time outside in the city this weekend when you learn about the birds of the Duwamish River Valley. Families are invited to sign up for this walk with Elaine Chuang, hosted through the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center. The early bird get the worm, and can get into the first group going out, before the programming in the Longhouse begins. If early rising isn’t your thing, come for the walk later that morning. No registration necessary. Sat. Event details.
NAAM Night at the Sounders Match
In celebration of African American athletic achievement, the Northwest African American Museum is thrilled to partner with RAVE Foundation and Seattle Sounders FC at their opening season home match this weekend. NAAM will feature a pop-up exhibition on Black history and art of the Pacific Northwest, and give away children’s books and soccer balls too. Plus the beginning of the game will be kicked off when NAAM’s African American Cultural Ensemble sings the Black National Anthem. Tickets are required.Sun. Event details.
Eastside
Kids Bake: Cookie Chemistry
Whether crispy or chewy, nutty or gooey we can all agree that cookies are a treat enjoyed by all. Join Cam Zorcone at the PCC Market in Bothell in this edition of Kitchen Chemistry as she introduces young chefs to what makes different methods and ingredients work the way they do. Along the way, kids will learn skills to build their kitchen confidence as they make Chewy Chocolate Cookies and Crisp Sugar Cookies. Registration required.Sat. Event details.
Take a Winter Train Ride
All aboard! As we close out the month and look to sunnier days, why not enjoy the scenery of the Snoqaulmie Valley? Grab tickets to this winter train excursion where passengers will travel west from North Bend through Snoqualmie to the top of Snoqualmie Falls, a sacred site to the Snoqualmie People. Then it’s time to head back east to North Bend and view the scenic sites in upper Snoqualmie Valley on this 90-minute round trip. Tickets also mean you can explore the Train Shed Exhibit Hall. Sat. Event details.
Story & Stroll
Bring your preschoolers to this outdoor program that proves when rain falls in the forest there is so much to discover. During the program, kids ages 3-5 will find out what the woodland creatures do to occupy their time, as they wonder what they would you do if they were forest animals in the rain. Registration is required.Fri. Event details.
Nicknamed the “Heart of Screenland” (movie classics like Gone with The Wind, The Wizard of Oz and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial were filmed here) Culver City still feels like a place out of a movie. Even though big, new neighbors like Amazon Studios, Apple, and TikTok have moved in, Culver City has maintained that charming, small town feel thanks to a blend of thoughtfully-designed, urban spaces for gathering and carefully-restored, nature preserves for walking and hiking. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in America—eating here is like taking your family’s tastebuds on a mini trip around the world! Scroll down to explore our must-visit list of local gems and to see how you can spend a full day of fun in Culver City with the kids.
Located just south of the 10 freeway, Culver City is tucked between Venice and Mid-City although you don't need a car to explore this neighborhood. You can easily come by bus, metro train, and even bike and leave your car at home. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll see (and enjoy) how pedestrian-friendly Culver City really is.
If you do decide to drive, there are loads of parking options downtown that include public structures, meters, as well as some residential side streets—just make sure to read the parking signs as a lot of residential streets are permit parking only.
Where to Get Breakfast in Culver City
If you've arrived in the morning, it's time to grab some coffee (and food for the kids). These cafés and patisseries are just the caffeinated jump you need to start your day.
If you need a good nosh, follow the intoxicating aroma of pastrami and corned beef and head straight to Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen on the corner of Irving and Washington Blvd. The good news is, they serve breakfast all day so you know everyone (including the under 5 set) will be happily fed and more than satisfied (even if you land here closer to dinnertime). Don't miss the Challah French Toast for the kids and the Manny's Breakfast Burrito for yourself (eggs, pastrami, caramelized onions, roasted peppers, potatoes, melted cheese and smashed avocado served with house-made tomatillo salsa).
This corner shop not only offers specialty coffee or tea (vanilla bourbon latte, anyone?) but you can treat the little ones to a “babyccino” —a hot chocolate with mini marshmallows and rainbow sprinkles. The cycle-themed café also carries a particularly wide array of dairy alternatives like soy, oat, hemp, and even, pistachio milk.
Insider Tip: The shop sits catty corner to the city’s iconic Rainbow art installation—a symbol for imagination and optimism as well as a cultural nod to The Wizard of Oz (it was originally filmed on the old MGM studio lot which is now the home of Sony Pictures). This dazzling steel arc, rises almost 100 feet into the air and can be seen from all over town. For visitors interested in an up-close look, Sony Pictures’ long-running studio tour program is open to the public, with tickets available at sonypicturesstudiostours.com.
People in-the-know flock to this pastry shop to get their hygge-fix and experience the true taste of Denmark’s featherweight, just-sweet-enough pastries (although with over 1200, 5-star reviews the secret is definitely out). Favorites include the almond-y Kringle, the Copenhagen (described by some as “sunshine caught in a pastry”), adorable Napoleon Hat cookies, and, for adults—the Rumkugle (cake meets truffle with dark chocolate and rum).
Stoneview Nature Center: Ready to really run around? Head to free-to-the-public, Stoneview Nature Center, where your kids can explore five acres of fruit trees, art gardens and stroller-friendly paths. You can sample edible plants from their hydroponic garden, observe butterfly habitats, and learn about a bee hotel. You can even borrow an “Everybody Explores” backpack from the visitor center, packed with discovery tools to further your little ones’ connection with nature.
Insider Tip: There are clean public restrooms here and a touch-less water bottle refill station inside the visitor center.
Culver City Park: This park has something for everyone—an undulating skate park, multitiered playground, rollicking dog park and expansive grassy areas. While you’re there, be sure to explore the epic, zig-zagging boardwalk that connects visitors to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook for beautiful vista views.
To get to this small adventure: From the playground, follow the path of blue dog prints, painted on the sidewalk (like a real-life Blue’s Clues trail!) until you see a crosswalk to a small parking lot, where the path to the wooden ramp begins.
Village Well Books & Coffee: If you need a spot to catch your breath with a snack or just a coffee, stop by this book and coffee shop. While you're there, you can shop the latest staff picks and buy something in the children’s section, which features a Spanish language shelf and handwritten book reviews by kids from neighboring schools.
Good to Know: There is a free parking lot in the back of the store.
Platform Park: Bring your nibbles and drinks to this jewel-sized park and set up a picnic with a view that’s sure to delight train-loving kids in LA. Platform Park is a slice of zen at the corner of Washington and National Blvd. and may be Culver City's best kept secret. It’s tucked under the MTA Expo Line, which will punctuate your hangout with the chug-CHUG chug-CHUG of morning commuters, riding overhead. There’s often a tasty rotation of “pop-up” food trucks at the east end of the park and the park itself is connected to Platform Los Angeles, an open-air retail space with trendy boutiques and even more good eats. Fun fact: All the materials for the park were sourced within 100 miles of the site, including the sculptural benches, fashioned from trees that were salvaged from landfills.
Bonus? A fence around most of the park keeps traffic out and toddlers in!
Hang out in the four-block stretch of Culver Blvd. (between Duquesne Ave. and Main St.) that brims with small town charm. Play at The Culver Steps or stroll along the corridor where you’ll encounter historical sites like City Hall (beautifully lit at night) and the storied Culver Hotel (Fun Fact: The actors who played the munchkins during the filming of The Wizard of Oz stayed there!). And if you're lucky, the Lion's Fountain, located outside the Culver Hotel, will be on—allowing the kids to run through the random water sprays until it's ready to say goodnight.
Insider's Tip: Turn your walk into a scavenger hunt and challenge your crew to spot the beloved Lucy and Desi mural (Hint: It’s across from Honey’s Kettle Fried Chicken.); and Moving Pictures, a series of seven unique zoetropes installed throughout downtown to celebrate the origin of cinema and Culver City’s film studio history.
Where to Eat in Culver City with Kids
Your kid-friendly eating options for lunch and dinner are almost endless in Culver City. And if you need help deciding—here are some of our favorite restaurants in Culver City with kids:
While some taco diehards might say Titos Tacos is a must, we think this modern taquería, that offers fresh, healthy takes on SoCal’s Mexican street food scene is the place to go. From the moment you arrive, the Latin beats and fun, retro vibe make you want to dance! Their food is a feast for the eyes and tummy—standouts include slow-braised steak, fish, and even, jackfruit; along with mouth-watering quesadillas and nachos.
They offer “kid style” versions of many dishes; and their Deep Dish Taco, akin to a cheesy Mexican lasagna, is also a popular choice! Your kiddos will love how the food comes neatly packed in their own “chicas chic” pink food trays, which echo the playful palette of yellow, green and pink that fills the space. Round out the family fiesta with a libation from their extensive drinks list and top it all off with some churro bites for dessert!
Iron Teapot Dim Sum & Bar: When it’s time to refuel, head over to Iron Teapot for some dim sum. Dim sum is like Chinese tapas (or small plates), traditionally served with tea. Each dish comes in its own covered, bamboo steamer basket; and opening each course feels like unwrapping a delicious gift! Whether you’ve never tried it or you grew up on the stuff, Iron Teapot is sure to win over the whole family—they even have vegan twists on the classics!
Their shaded patio seating and contactless ordering make this the best time to come feast on rainbow soup dumplings, sweet rice wraps, and steamed dessert buns. Combine this with colorful matching tea sets and a Robot Cat Cart. Yep, you read that right—a cheeky, talking cart that resembles a robotic cat brings your order straight from the kitchen to your table—everyone will be left clamoring for more!
Good to Know: Reservations are required. Visit their website for more info, including how to sign up for a “Parent & Me Bao Making” class!
Honey's Kettle Fried Chicken: If you’re in the mood for some down-home Southern cooking, then you’ve gotta try Honey’s. The gravitational pull of their golden fried chicken and honey-coated biscuits have been drawing crowds to Culver City for over twenty years. Don't miss the vat of warm honey where you can pump that sticky, liquid gold and take it back to your table to drizzle over your chicken and biscuits. YUM.
When the chilly days arrive, there’s something so restorative about cozying up by a fire with your family. These yurt Airbnb rentals offer that exact vibe and more. Unplug, breathe in the fresh air around you and head to one of these family-friendly yurt rentals that have awesome amenities like fire pits, hot tubs, hiking trails and stargazing galore. You’ll find these glamping rentals all over the U.S. from Joshua Tree to the Ozarks to the Florida coast. Bring the zen back home with you!
Mahal Yurt—Williams, AZ
Airbnb
This yurt is totally off the grid and we love it. Expect to have dark nights with stars brighter than you have seen before. It's just 40 minutes from the south rim of the Grand Canyon and can sleep up to 8 people. Cook on camping-style equipment and enjoy the fact that there's no WiFi in range.
Truly off the beaten path, you'll find this magical yurt near Joshua Tree. Stay in this adorable, comfortable and surprisingly spacious space. Grab warm blankets and experience stunning sunsets and stargaze at night. You'll find peace, quiet and desert fun. Head to Joshua Tree in the day (20 minutes away) to enjoy beautiful landscape and great hikes for the half-pints.
Experience the next generation in luxury yurts that overlook the Arkansas River on this property with a number of yurt rental options. At 20' in diameter with cozy upper-level lofts, you will find plenty of space to stretch out and relax. You will have access to the entire grounds including riverfront access for fishing, rafting, kayaking and anything that floats your boat. Guests may use the pavilion area and all bathrooms and showers.
Stay among fig and orange trees in this Los Angeles neighborhood. Glamp and explore the local sites of LA during the day. This yurt sits on a half-acre lot shared with a 1920's farm. Enjoy a wood burning stove and outdoor hot shower. Even more, there's a fire pit that's great for a campfire sing-a-long.
Your family will love these brand-new yurts at East Zion Resort. Each yurt on the property has been designed with its own private bathroom, kitchenette, fire pit, gas grill and air conditioning. The yurts are elevated on an incredible hillside that spreads out over 12 acres of beautiful Southern Utah countryside. Invite some friends and rent yurts next to each other.
Come prepared to relax, unwind and explore the wonders of the north woods in this yurt that's nestled in the middle of the Bayfield County Forest. This rustic yurt has direct access to miles of non-motorized rec trails (mountain bike, cross-country ski and hiking). Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior, including all of Pike's Bay, four of the Apostle Islands (Madeline, Basswood, Stockton and Michigan) and the U.P. The view of Michigan Island also includes the lighthouse.
A glamping bohemian yurt in Paradise Hill (just 10 minutes from downtown Los Angeles). Families dig that this yurt's on an urban farm. Moreover, you can visit goats, chickens and a pig next door. You'll find a full outdoor kitchen, claw foot garden (solar) bathtub with hot running water.
Good to know: There are steps, so for toddlers, this yurt may be a challenge.
Your family will love spending some time at this scenic property that's close to Chattanooga, Gatlinburg and Nashville. Spend time outdoors on the deck and enjoy s'mores in the fire ring. This property shares a bathroom and community room with tons of gear for kids to borrow.
Families looking for more glam with their glamping will love the big screen TV, hot tub and fire pit. You are surrounded by beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains and all the fresh air you desire.
Mere steps from the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Dome Home offers a unique architectural experience. The open floor plan boasts wonderful views with round skylights in each room, and the wrap-around deck offers panoramic views of the ocean. Nearby activities include bicycling, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.
Cozy, Private Yurt on 27-Acre Horse Farm—Accord, NY
Airbnb
This scenic property will be your favorite as the kids will love seeing the horses, chickens, goat, pigs, puppies, kittens roaming and fenced in around the yurt. Located in the Hudson Valley just two hours north of New York City, the yurt has a bedroom, living room, sleeping loft and deck. In winter the property is a winter wonderland where you can cross country ski or snowshoe on the property.
Sweeping views are part of the dream that comes with a visit to this Stowe, VT yurt. Warm yourself by the fire pit or indoor wood stove when the days get cold. Kids will love all of the wildlife on the property including birds, moose, deer, fish, frogs, salamanders and owls at night.
Head to the Ozarks to experience some time in this spacious yurt. 30 acres of woods are available for exploring and the kids will love seeing what creatures they can find. You'll love that this spot has a real bed. Feel free to bring your dog with you as this spot is pet friendly.
Recently added to your family but still hoping to cover some ground this season? You don’t have to stop hiking just because you now have a baby in the mix. We found lots of stroller-friendly trails and hikes near NYC, to help keep your family active and outdoors. From city parks to scenic waterways, within the city and further afield, these are the best places to take a hike with your baby on board!
Stroller Hikes in City Parks
Prospect Park Loop
Wikimedia Creative Commons
This is less of a hike and more of a nice leisurely stroll that winds around the park. The paved road is wide and perfect for joggers and cyclists, of which there are often many — though there are designated lanes for bicycles and joggers, so you can walk safely. (Still, remain alert!)
Enjoy sights of trees, flowers (in spring) and the lake (and the many water birds that flock to it) and take breaks as needed with the benches that line the loop. Water fountains can also be found along the trail.
Watch out for some hills that may prove difficult with a stroller — cyclists certainly find them a bit challenging! If the loop is too long for you and your little one, you can always cut across the park halfway through to form a smaller circle.
Though Central Park has many trails that you can follow, the path around the reservoir is one of the best choices for parents with strollers who are looking to get fit. The 1.58-mile path, officially called the Stephanie and Fred Shuman Running Track, is a popular choice for runners, though it doesn't get too crowded most of the time. Due to its popularity, the path is well-maintained and smooth all around.
The trail leads all the way around the Central Park reservoir and offers great views of the water as well as the cityscape surrounding the park. It's also a good spot for bird watching, so long as you stay out of the runners' way.
If you visit this path, be sure to follow it in a counter-clockwise direction, to keep the foot traffic all going in the same direction.
If you'd rather walk than run, Central Park has many stroller-friendly paths all across the park.
You can walk around the Great Lawn Oval, a paved path that'll take you around the lawn, allowing for some great people-watching (and some chance encounters with friendly dogs, if that's something you enjoy!).
The 1.7-mile path around the southern tip of the park features a wide variety of views as well as great spots to take a break and let the kids play, like a carousel and playground. You can also follow the path up the sides of the park from the southern end to the reservoir, if you're looking for a longer walk.
The north end of the park is a bit less maneuverable with a stroller — though some paved paths do exist along the perimeter of the park, much of the North Woods is better for actual hiking than stroller walks.
This lengthy and popular path will take you all the way from Pelham Bay Park to Van Cortlandt Park, passing through the Bronx's Mosholu Parkway on the way. Due to the length of the path (a whopping 10+ miles!), we recommend taking just one end of the path at a time.
Whether you start in Pelham or Van Cortlandt, the Greenway offers a paved path for stroller-wielders to follow. You can enjoy the walk itself, across the Bronx's great parks, or use it as a starting point for more adventures, as the trail veers off into playgrounds, golf courses, Orchard Beach and City Island, and much more.
Enjoy a two-mile gorgeous, scenic path through Staten Island's Clove Lakes Park. Although the path is wide and stroller-friendly, it's surrounded by wild flora and fauna, making it a great way to leave the bustle of the city behind for a bit.
The path will take you through winding but accessible paths, bridges, lakes and ponds, as well as some impressive rock outcroppings. The path is fairly flat and easy to maneuver. You're going to want to stop to smell the flowers — whether literally or figuratively. Keep an eye out for turtles and water birds in the park's waters!
While you're here, don't forget to stop by the northwestern part of the park, where a 107-foot tall, 300-year-old tulip tree holds the prestigious title of the oldest living thing on Staten Island.
This paved, relatively flat path is fairly long at 5.6 miles, but multiple access paths make it easy to start and stop your walk at any point in the park.
Though this is a nice scenic path to take with a stroller, there are a few things to watch out for: There's often some flooding near the water after it rains, the bridge near the Unisphere, the park's famous globe, is a bit steep for stroller wheels, and some sections of the path are cracking or bumpy, so watch your step.
Aside from those caveats, this is a path on the wilder side that isn't that heavily trafficked and has some opportunities to explore the history and culture of the area, mainly the site of the 1964 World's Fair.
Though it's a fairly small park (even by NYC standards), we'd be remiss not to mention the 1.45-mile High Line. This elevated park is situated on a piece of an old NYC railway and is now home to plenty of greenery and artwork.
The High Line can be reached via elevators, making it easy to access with a stroller. Although the straight boarded path is well-maintained and even, note that it's very narrow in many sections and you might get caught in foot traffic.
Though a wildlife refuge may seem like it would be too, well, wild to navigate with a stroller, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is actually suitable for a stroller-accompanied walk on the wild side.
Grab a map and borrow a pair of binoculars at the visitor's center at the start of the refuge, then head down the under two-mile West Pond walk. This path is paved with even gravel, making it the easiest to traverse with a stroller. You can also ask a park ranger at the visitor's center for their advice on the best path to take.
Along your walk, you'll encounter, of course, many birds — the large variety in the vegetation and landscape type means that nearly half the bird species in the northeast can be viewed at the refuge throughout the year. Depending on what season you visit, keep an eye out for nesting ospreys and, if you're really lucky, some baby turtles making their journey to the water!
Be sure to cover the stroller with a bug net, wear long pants and bring bug spray in the warmer months, since the many plants along the trail make this spot pretty buggy.
Little Island opened in May 2021, making it NYC's newest island. This man-made floating park is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers (though strollers aren't allowed in The Amph, where many shows are held).
The island features gently sloping pathways, many plants and flowers to enjoy, as well as performances and artworks by local artists.
Please note that through September 30, Little Island requires a timed entry ticket after 12 p.m., with times available every half an hour.
Governors Island
Trust for Governors Island
Just a seven-minute ferry ride away from the city, Governor's Island is a car-free getaway. Once you get off the ferry (at either end of the island), extremely wide paved paths wind their way around the entire island with plenty to do along the way. The streets are specially designed with bicycles and pedal buggies in mind, so they're incredibly easy to navigate with a stroller — even on crowded days, there's still plenty of space to move around.
There are some gentle slopes, though nothing too difficult for a stroller. If you're willing to step off the path, there are many attractions to visit, like little museums and art houses, three-story-tall slides, unique play spaces, a historic fort and military prison and much more. There are also often events and music playing in Nolan Park, which you can enjoy as you stroll through the area.
For a spectacular view of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty, as well as a bit of challenge with the stroller, head to the long ramp up to the outlook point in The Hills.
Another one of the city's accessible islands, Roosevelt Island is a nice place for a quiet walk. The paths are wide and paved, and though some areas do have some unpaved spots, there's always a way to stick to the pavement with your stroller. Be ready for some uphill climbs, as the path gets hilly in some sections — though it's easy going for the rest of its span.
As the main walkway winds around the perimeter of the island, you'll have a chance to see some spectacular water and city views. The path will also take you through a number of parks where you can take a breather, one of which features a historic lighthouse from the late 18th century! You'll also pass by the equally historic Smallpox Hospital, for a beautiful — if somewhat sinister — view into the city's history.
This particular island is a very different style from the other two. Walk through wide roads along a very flat pathway, featuring views of meadows and a salt marsh. You'll also encounter a number of sports fields and great picnic spots. You'll also get a chance to walk under the
This path feels less "wild" than many of the others that we've mentioned in this post, so it's a nice option if you want to enjoy a walk in the city but don't want to be surrounded by buildings.
There are a few dead ends in this very long path of nearly nine miles, so be sure to bring a map if you intend to tackle it.
For the ultimate scenic water route, why not walk over the water? A stroll along the pedestrian section of the famous Brooklyn Bridge is a truly New York experience.
Along the way, be sure to take in the view, but also keep an eye out for "love locks" attached to the sides of the bridge, especially around the Manhattan tower area.
Crossing the bridge does present a bit of a challenge, as the path is very straight and unshaded, making it feel longer than its 1.1-mile length. We recommend making this walk on weekdays, as the bridge tends to get crowded with foot traffic on weekends.
This gentle walk along the west side of Manhattan has a very wide paved path perfect for strollers. The greenway spans the entire length of the island, so it's not feasible to walk its entire length in one go.
We recommend the Battery Park section for a beautiful and very green walk, with plenty of chances to veer off the path and enjoy a day in the park itself. Another good spot to enjoy the greenway is along Riverside Park, for similarly spectacular views and scenic spots. As an added bonus, both parks are often hosting special events, many times especially for kids, so they're great spots to visit along your stroller hike.
Parts of the path do get very crowded, so keep this in mind when you plan your trip.
Stretching in two parts between Queens and Brooklyn, this greenway is another chance to enjoy a nice walk along the water, stroller in tow. The northern part of the greenway isn't consistently stroller-friendly, but the bottom portion of the trail, the western edge of Brooklyn from Owl's Head Park to Bensonhurst Park, is an excellent route for strollers.
Though there's some sloping, the walkway is wide and meant for both pedestrians and bikers.
The trail has beautiful views of the water and Verrazano Bridge(which is always further away than it looks!) and some great opportunities for bird watching. Though there are benches along the way for a break, note that there's little shade.
For a very different kind of stroll, visit one of the city's boardwalks, where you're just a stone's throw away from the water. Smell the salt in the air!
The main boardwalks in NYC are located in Bridgton Beach / Coney Island and Rockaway Beach, though you can also find a partial boardwalk along the water in DUMBO's Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park.
All the boardwalks feature flat boards great for strollers (though Coney Island's can get rickety in the older parts of the walk). They do tend to get crowded in the summer and cold in the winter, but the lively environment makes for a unique power walk by the water.
Located a little under two hours from the city, the Cornish Estate Trail is a perfect day trip spot for a stroller hike. This trail is often called one of the easiest hike in the Hudson Valley, as most of the path is composed of the fully paved road leading up to the old estate.
The ruins of the old mansion and its accompanying buildings, and the surrounding forest make this an interesting walk, while the path makes it a fairly easy hike with a stroller.
This path is a partially paved and gravel-lined stroller-friendly walk around a beautiful lake in the Rockafeller State Park Preserve. It's located just about an hour from the city and is manageable for any level of hiker, with or without a stroller. The area might be a bit too uneventful for older kids, but it's perfect for a leisurely walk if you just want to enjoy the scenery.
As this is a popular path, it does sometimes get crowded. There are also plenty of paths you can follow off the lake loop, some of which are also stroller-friendly. For a further adventure in the area, check out the Thirteen Bridges loop, which does, indeed, have 13 bridges.
Without a doubt, one of the best perks of living in the Bay Area is the year-round temperate weather (also why left coast = best coast). This affords our families the opportunity to be outside no matter what the season and that means our playgrounds are top-notch! In this guide, you’ll find a playground for every kid out there who takes the saying, “Play is a child’s work” seriously. We’ve gathered our favorite playgrounds from Marin to the South Bay with brand-new all-ability playgrounds and more. Time to get to work!
Favorite San Francisco Playgrounds
Bruna Saito via Pexels
From the hilltops of Bernal to Eureka Valley to the Civic Center, there is no shortage of gorgeous playgrounds (some with spectacular views!) and we rounded up some of the best!
Not every child plays the same way but every child needs to play! These all-abilities playgrounds take into account all children—from slides created to prevent snagging of cochlear implants to swings for wheelchairs.
The transcendent of all playgrounds in the summer by far are ones with splash pads! The minis can run wild on the playground then cool off in the splash pad which makes for a quiet ride home and early bedtime. WIN.
People are beginning to plan trips for the fall. Airbnb is teaming up with MINI USA to offer guests the opportunity to book a turnkey road trip on Airbnb for $1 per night. Select stays at mini Airbnbs located outside of Los Angeles and New York will come complete with a MINI vehicle that guests can pick up in their respective city so they can get out and responsibly travel, inspiring exploration of the open roads close to home.
The rentals, which will be cleaned and prepared in accordance with CDC guidelines and consistent with the Airbnb enhanced cleaning protocol, will each open three select weekends for three-night stays that guests can request to book on Thurs., Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. PT/ 4 p.m. ET.
Enjoy all the local sights and fall foliage along the way to your mini Airbnb.
With a listing located in Marlboro, New York, the Orchard Views from a Light-Filled Tiny Home with a Fire Pit will provide New Yorkers with all the amenities they’ll need to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the nearby State Parks in your MINI Cooper S 4-door2.
Host Raven is offering this three-night-stay special with check-ins available on Oct. 16, Nov. 6, and Nov. 20. While in Upstate New York, explore nearby forests and farmlands, and visit the Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River, one of the last free-flowing rivers left in the United States.
If going topless is more your style, host Hillary’s Off-Grid Stargazing Cabin in Twentynine Palms, California, comes complete with a MINI Cooper Convertible2.
Completely off the grid, this listing makes for the perfect little getaway from Los Angeles and will be available for three-night stays with check-ins on Nov. 6, Nov. 12, and Dec. 4. Check out nearby wonders along the way, like the Mojave National Preserve that boasts stunning canyons, mountains, and mesas.
Bookings open on Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. PT for selected guest stay dates until sold out.
If you’re not able to snag one of these bookings but in need for some mini getaway inspiration, check out this roundup of tiny homes on Airbnb. Learn about hosting on Airbnb if you have a tiny home and want to share it with others.
You can plan your kid’s social calendar like a pro. But when it comes to ideas for date night with your spouse … eh, not so much. Get back into the swing of spending time with your partner by snagging a great idea for date night from our inspired list of everything from date night ideas for home to date ideas that are free. The good news is, some of them don’t even require a babysitter! Keep reading to see them all.
Score a skilled sitter. Having a successful date night is all about the sitter. Find one who can handle your kids’ nighttime routine, so you don’t have to wait till they’re down (and you’re totally exhausted) before you hit the town. Simply hand them off and head out, knowing they’re in safe and competent hands.
Schedule the year in advance. Your calendar is full of commitments, but is the much-needed date night on there? Approach date night the way you would any other scheduling commitment, and we bet you’ll get a lot more of them! Pick a consistent date—like the 2nd Saturday of every month, for example—then book your favorite sitter for that date every month for the whole year.
Schedule a parallel movie night. If your kids are old enough, head to the movies with them, but then ditch them … when you split up to see different movies. Drop them outside the theater showing the latest kids blockbuster before wandering down the hall to see your movie pick. Plan to meet up in the theater lobby when the movies are finished.
Have an amazing dinner, at home. If you can't get a sitter or if it's not in the budget, try creating a fancy dinner at home. A few nights before, decide on a menu, whether it's an old fave, something new you've been wanting to try (maybe it's not kid friendly), or attempt to re-create a favorite restaurant entree. Then, on the night of, feed the kids and make it an early night (for them). Cook up your meal, and enjoy it with wine and quiet time.
Hit the gym. Take advantage of your gym’s childcare center, and schedule a workout date with your mate. Go the distance with a machine workout or take a class together while you’re there. Don’t forget a boosted smoothie post calorie burn, pre-kid pickup, to add an air of romance to the whole affair.
Try a birthday party date. The next time your half-pint’s got a drop-off birthday party scheduled, take full advantage. Drop him off, then explore nearby shops, restaurants and sights with your better half.
Trade sitting duties. Barter babysitting duties with your neighbors or besties and everybody wins! Plan a date, make the kid trade and enjoy your night on the town. Next month, it’s their turn for date night. The best part? Sure, your kid-load has doubled, but they entertain each other!
Find a local Parents’ Night Out. Museums do it. So do kiddie gyms and play centers. Churches and synagogues too. Dial into your area’s Parents’ Night Out offerings and then sign up your crew. They’ll be infinitely entertained, and you’ll get some much-needed Q.T.
Try an upstairs/downstairs date. This one’s all about territory. Parents in one half of the house, kids in the other. Everyone gets to do their thing, in their space. Set a timer to help the kids figure out where they can be and when.
Develop a date night jar. If planning the date is what holds you up, wade into the creative mire once then reap the benefits every time you and your honey go out. Take time to plan out a ton of dates. Write down your zany ideas on small pieces of paper and keep them in a mason jar. Then when the date night itch hits, pull one out, and make it happen!
Go on a day date. You schedule lunch meetings with co-workers, so why not try it with your spouse? Put it in your work calendar; then make it happen. A breakfast date, after you’ve dropped the kids at daycare or school, works too. Let’s do lunch!
Meet up for a late date. Make a kitchen rendezvous with your S.O. once the kids are asleep. On the menu? A decadent dessert with drinks to match over candlelight. Shall we say 10 p.m., by the sink?
Challenge yourself with a purse dump. Planning isn’t your thing? No problem. Let the contents of your purse be your guide. Dump out your cash, count it up, then plan out an evening at that price. Only have 75 cents? It sounds like a scenic walk might be the perfect date at that price. Less than $5 in your wallet? Splitting a froyo it is! You’ll be surprised at how creative the two of you can be!
Use playdate time wisely. Sure, the dishes need to be washed and the laundry in the dryer is getting more wrinkled by the minute. But that can wait. It’s time for an impromptu date. Send your kiddo off to her playdate, then you do you—popcorn and a flick, cook a foodie fest—whatever you and your partner enjoy doing, now’s the time.
Meet in the mini-van. If your family vehicle has screens, then this is the date for you. Once the kids are asleep, head to the backseat with your favorite movie, buttered popcorn and a blanket for snuggling. Don’t forget the baby monitor in case you’re needed. Lights, camera, action!
Play a board game. This is a classic at-home date night idea that never gets old. Pick something that might be too advanced for your little kids, or play a good round of rummy, poker or any of your other favorite card or board games.