11 Things to Do in Boston over Labor Day Weekend

by Allison SutcliffeAugust 20, 2022

If there’s one thing that Labor Day weekend signals, it’s the end of summer and a last chance to check off all those Boston summer activities you haven’t quite gotten around to yet. For busy Boston families it’s also about having a reason to gather with friends one last time before school starts and we return to our weekly routines. Whether you’re staying local or hitting the road for one last adventure before the leaves start to change, now’s the time to find all the great things to do in Boston Labor Day weekend.

Exciting Things to Do in Boston Labor Day Weekend

Knights joust and hit poles as the horses pass by each other at a renaissance faire — Connecticut Renaissance Faire

Head to a Renaissance Faire

The 24th annual Connecticut Renaissance Faire is an enchanted recreation of a 16th-century harvest festival as one might have been in the days of yore. Here you can feast like a king on turkey legs and local craft brews, shop like a queen in New England’s largest Medieval Marketplace or laugh like a fool at continuous shows performed on ten stages throughout the village. All the kingdom is a stage with performances on stage and in the street. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. Come as you are or as you wish to be. Event details.

It’s the 41st anniversary season of King Richard's Faire, New England’s Renaissance Festival. Bring the kids to experience entertainment, exciting rides, and skilled games on the enchanting 80-acre site. Hundreds of talented entertainers perform non-stop throughout the day, and there are eight vibrant stages where acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, minstrels, comedy acts, fire eaters, and puppeteers perform. You’ll gasp as the King’s mounted knights battle on horseback, and laugh as bawdy beggars compete in mud. Parking is free. Kids 3 & under are free also. Event details.

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Find Lanterns & Lights

Boston Lights will once again illuminate Franklin Park Zoo with sparkling new lantern additions, plus a few returning favorites. Experience the wonder of over 55 magnificent displays of hundreds of lanterns spanning over 72 acres. Luminous scenes from the rainforest, whimsical ocean displays , glowing corridors of lotus and bamboo, and traditional Asian lanterns are just a glimpse of what you'll see. Go while you can as this delightful exhibit leaves on September 24. Event details.

Check out the Chinatown Lantern Festival along the Greenway over Labor Day weekend. Auntie Kay and Uncle Chin Park is where this Mid Autumn Lantern Festival is taking place. Expect vendors, lion dance, martial arts, opera singing, and much more. Event details.

A gazebo on Martha's vineyard with houses in the background — Aubrey Odom-Maybe via unsplash

Skip Out of Town

Marolborough has lots to offer families over the three-day weekend. Why not plan a trip north to enjoy the Greek Festival; be sure to time it with New England's largest Labor Day parade, taking place on September 5. Event details.

A weekend getaway is one of the best things to do in Boston Labor Day weekend, and not just because of all the scenic spots and activities the island has to offer. It's also when local artists display their work at the Labor Day Weekend Festival. Unique experiences and live local music await. Event details.

A mother and son play with LEGOs at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston — LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston

Play, Play, Play

It's your last chance to build and play at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston before it closes down for a serious facelift on September 6, 2022 (don't worry, it'll be back in 2023). Be sure to check out the Space Mission exhibit while you're there. Event details.

Bring the kids to a Confidently Me! Workshop. This fun and interactive workshop teaches kids about confidence, courage, self-care, and self-esteem, as they learn how to identify feelings associated with low-esteem and ways to conquer those feelings. Event details.

Check out your favorite exhibits at the ICA. Admission is free for everyone, and it's one of our favorite things to do in Boston Labor Day weekend. They'll have tons of cool things for families to experience when they visit. Event details.

Supersized Creatures are on display at Stone Zoo, but not for much longer. This incredible exhibit features 30 life-size animal sculptures made from millions of colorful bricks. It's where you can see the world’s small but mighty predators like never before as you come face-to-face with a 370-pound praying mantis (composed of over 38,000 bricks) and slither past a 932-pound spitting cobra (made from 92,000 bricks). Event details.

Go to the movies on National Cinema Day (September 3) for just $3 per ticket. Major chains like AMC and Regal Cinemas, along with college campus theaters and some smaller independent theaters, are set to participate. Check the website to find a participating theater near you. Event details.

Stein of the Times: Beer Gardens Where Kids Are Welcome

by Wai Sze ZaraJune 21, 2022

Looking for good food, great beer and plenty of space for your kids to roam free this season? New York City is brimming with beer gardens, taprooms and breweries with large, open spaces indoors and outdoors. Most welcome kids, many welcome pets and you can even enjoy a hearty or healthy meal with your beverage of choice. Each one has its own personality and vibe, so read on for the best kid-friendly beer gardens in NYC, and then get set to chill. For more places to eat with kids in NYC, try these spots for brunch, these places where your kids can run a little wild and our favorite places to dine outside with kids.

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Bronx Beer Gardens & Breweries

Bronx Brewery
The founders of the Bronx Brewery hope to foster a place of diversity, culture and inclusivity. Visit the Bronx location (there is also a small outpost in the East Village) for the brewery, taproom and large backyard space featuring vibrant murals. Enjoy a full menu of beer and homemade empanadas, from their food partner, Empanology, as well as vegan options. Children and leashed dogs are welcome.

Bronx Brewery
856 E. 136th St.
Bronx
(Brewery, Taproom and Backyard)

64 2nd Ave.
East Village, Manhattan
Online: thebronxbrewery.com

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Brooklyn Beer Gardens & Breweries

Greenwood Park
Once an old gas station and mechanic shop, Greenwood Park is now a large and welcoming business with indoor and outdoor seating, a restaurant and three bocce ball courts. Choose from as many as two dozen beers on tap and enjoy a seasonal menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options. This is a popular spot for local families, and children are welcome until 7 p.m.

Greenwood Park
555 7th Ave.
Windsor Terrace
718-499-7999
Online: greenwoodparkbk.com

Radegast Hall and Biergarten
Radegast Hall will give you that authentic, Old World Biergarten feel, with a big and open interior in dark wood; steins of Bavarian, German and European imports, and grub like sausages, pretzels and schnitzels. Hang out in the main hall or head to the open-air Biergarten with retractable panels. Visit on Tuesdays for a special beer tasting at the hall’s Bier Haus. Libe music is a big thing here. Check its website for upcoming events which attract kids and adults of all ages. Note: kids are welcome until nightfall, at which time the space becomes 21 and over only. No strollers are allowed on Saturdays after 2 p.m. but are OK otherwise.

Radegast Hall and Biergarten
113 N. 3rd St.
Williamsburg
Online: radegasthall.com

Spritzenhaus33
This place is huuuge. Located on the border of Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Spritzenhaus33 is especially great for big groups. While it’s technically “inside,” large, the space’s many industrial doors are flung open, letting breezes flow through. The food menu is mostly beer hall standards like bratwurst, Belgian fries and giant pretzels, but you can choose from a lengthy list of tasty dipping sauces. In addition to a robust selection of beers (including gluten-free) Spritzenhaus33 serves wine and cocktails too.

Spritzenhaus33
33 Nassau Ave.
Greenpoint
Online: spritzenhaus33.business.site

Pig Beach BBQ
In the mood for the “Best BBQ in town?” Pig Beach’s original location along the Gowanus Canal is a large converted warehouse with an outdoor space and both kids and pets are welcome. It has earned all sorts of accolades for “best burger,” “best brisket tacos,” and “best wings” to name a few. Perhaps one of the reasons for success? Sustainably and locally sourced meats are cooked over a wood fire. For the kids who don’t like BBQ, there’s mac and cheese, fries and even Rice Krispie Treats. Beers and wines are from local makers, and you can get fancy cocktails here, too. You’ll find another Pig Beach in Long Island City, and a Florida location is coming soon.

Pig Beach
480 Union St.
Gowanus, Brooklyn

35-37 36th St.
LIC, Queens
Online: pigpeachnyc.com

Gowanus Yacht Club Brooklyn
Don’t be fooled by the name. This petite, but welcoming (and popular) spot serves beer, burgers, hot dogs and kielbasas for $5 or less. It’s a great local hangout blocks from the Gowanus canal. Kids and dogs are welcome, but it’s small so leave the strollers at home. Pro-tip: Bring cash.

Gowanus Yacht Club
323 Smith St.
Carroll Gardens
718-246-1321

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Manhattan Beer Gardens & Breweries

Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten
With a garden decor that changes with the seasons, Loreley offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with an indoor beer hall, an outdoor beer garden and a patio. It proudly offers “the largest heated outdoor beer garden” on the Lower East Side, so you can visit year-round. Imported seasonal and craft beers on tap include their specialty, brewed in Brooklyn. For food, we recommend the schnitzel and eggs and the potato pancakes. Or try the “sausage party,” with different sausage varieties and beer-marinated sauerkraut.

Loreley Beer Garden
7 Rivington St.
Lower East Side
Online: loreleynyc.com

Harlem Tavern
Walking distance from Central Park and Morningside Park, Harlem Tavern can please a lot of people in a group. The outdoor Biergarten delivers with umbrellas and brews; the menu is extensive, with salads, soups, mac and cheese a dozen ways and entrees, and you can watch the game or have brunch here. has a bar, restaurant and beer garden. Kids are welcome here, but it’s popular, so reservations are recommended.

Harlem Tavern
2153 Frederick Douglass Blvd.
Harlem
212-866-4500
Online: harlemtavern.com

The Standard Biergarten
The perfect place to stop off before or after visiting The High Line or the Whitney, The Standard Biergarten offers a street-level beer garden that serves up German eats. Order sausages, pretzels and beer, then play a game of ping-pong. If you swing by during Happy Hour, enjoy 25-cent wings and beer for $32! The restaurant opens at Noon from Friday through Sunday; it’s open Wednesday and Thursday starting at 2 p.m.

The Standard Biergarten
848 Washington at 13th St.
Meatpacking District
Online: standardhotels.com

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Queens Beer Gardens & Breweries

Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden
An NYC summer institution, this landmark beer garden has been around since 1910. Established by Czech immigrants, the garden serves Czech and Slovak favorites like potato pierogies, sausages and “smazak,” fried Muenster cheese as well as lighter fare. The beer menu includes both Czech and craft beers. Children are welcome, but patrons under 21 must vacate by 9 p.m. The beer garden is open year-round and during the warmer months it hosts live music and special events.

Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden
2919 24th Ave.
Astoria, Queens
Online: bohemianhall.com

ICONYC Brewing
ICONYC began operating out of a small basement setup on Northern Boulevard. The popularity of its signature brew soon required a bigger space. It now has a permanent home in LIC— complete with a brewhouse, a taproom and an open-air beer garden near LIC’s 12th Street Pedestrian Plaza. In addition to an ever-changing menu of beers, they serve cider, wine and non-alcoholic options. Order up some tasty Mexican fare from the on-site Sobremesa, grab a bite at a nearby food truck or bring your own grub. And not only is this place kid-friendly, it’s also dog-friendly. Follow their instagram stories for daily updates on what’s pouring.

ICONYC Brewing
43-63 11th St.
Long Island City
Online: iconnycbrewing.com

Nowadays
Big, leafy, lots of umbrellas and little twinkling lights. What’s not to like? Opened by two resident DJs excited to bring music to the people of Ridgewood (and well beyond) Nowadays hosts ticketed dance parties in the evenings. But you can come on by for just food and drink starting at 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Noon on Saturdays. Kids and dogs are welcome. If you have a big group, make a reservation, and skip Sundays because you have to pay to enter before 5 p.m. The eclectic menu offers salads, Japanese fare, veggie options, BBQ and more. For drinks, choose from 12 beers on tap along, margaritas, wine and many non-alcoholic options.

Nowadays
56-06 Cooper Ave.
Ridgewood
Online: nowadays.nyc

Free & Discounted Museum Days to Jot Down

by Maria ChambersFebruary 6, 2020

Did you resolve to visit more museums this year? Any resolutions about staying on a budget? Good news: You can tackle both at once. We have the skinny on upcoming free or discount museum (and zoo and garden) days right here. (Psst. . . you can also stop at a Chicago Public Library to check out a free admission pass to select Chicago museums.) Click through for the scoop on where and when to get your free culture fix.

The Field Museum

Free & Discount Days: Hurray for free basic admission for Illinois residents the entire month of February! (You can upgrade to see a special exhibition.) Throughout the year, the museum adds discount days for basic museum admission. Chicago residents also save $5 on their basic admission ticket every day with proof of residency. When you have a day you're itching to get out of the house, check their calendar to see if exploring the Field for free is an optional boredom buster.

What Kids Love: From Sue the T.Rex, newcomer Titanosaur Máximo and mummies to special exhibits, kids get their curiosity fix at this Chicago classic. A kid favorite is Underground Adventure, where they'll get a bug’s-eye view of the world. Your crew will magically shrink to 1/100th of your actual size to explore an immersive environment of worm tunnels and soil chambers. Until Apr. 19, the Fantastic Bug Encounters exhibit gives kids a hands-on opportunity to discover how bugs’ incredible adaptations are changing the world,

Located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; (312-922-9410 or fieldmuseum.org).

Museum Science + Industry

Free Days: There is free general admission for Illinois residents on Feb. 3-6, 10-13, 18-20 & 24-27. Museum entry does not include parking, special exhibits and events, Omnimax movies, Coal Mine or U-505 on-board tours.

What Kids Love: In a beautiful building built for the World's Columbian Exposition of 1892, this stunner is the end-all, be-all for curious kids. They'll especially love the Science Storms, an exhibit hall that tackles questions like: Why does lightning strike? and Why does a flame burn? Don’t miss the Numbers in Nature: A Mirror Maze exhibit that explores numbers and patterns found in nature and culminate with a mirror maze guaranteed to elicit giggles.

Located at 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., Hyde Park; (773-684-1414 or msichicago.org).

Museum of Contemporary Art

Free Days: Every Tuesday there is no admission for Illinois residents. Because they believe art should be accessible to everyone, no exceptions, the MCA always has a pay-what-you-can policy everyday so no one will be turned away.

What Kids Love: The museum’s permanent collection includes video, visual and audio art leading to a great post-visit conversation about what you saw and what is art. It also offers experiences that redefine the way kids and families explore and create art together. Every second Saturday MCA hosts Family Day, a free monthly program where Chicago artists transform the museum and you can take part in workshops, open studio sessions, gallery tours and performances from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Located at 220 E. Chicago Ave., Streeterville; (312-280-2660 or mcachicago.org).

Adler Planetarium

Discount Days: Several days a year, the Planetarium offers free general admission to Illinois residents. Upcoming dates include Feb. 4-6, 11-13 & 17-20; Mar. 9-12; Apr. 20-23; May 10-16; Jun. 2, 9 & 16; Aug. 22-23 & 31; Sep. 1-4; Oct. 12-15; Nov. 11 & 17-19; Dec. 4-6. The Adler Planetarium sometimes adds discount days throughout the year, so check their website under Special Offers.

What Kids Love: You'll see stars even on the sunniest day and aspiring astronauts can discover a new planet in the Planet Explorers exhibit, where kids take the helm in a modern-day space adventure and climb, crawl, play and learn what it takes to be a part of a space mission. Scientists are often on hand to answer even the most difficult space questions. The newly opened Community PlayLab emphasizes learning through play by providing materials and experiences that encourage young kids to make sense of the world around them.

Located at 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; (312-922-7827 or adlerplanetarium.org).

Chicago Children's Museum

Free Days: There is discounted admission for everyone on Play Late Thursdays, when up to 4 people can enter the museum for $20 from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Also, kids ages 15 & under can enter the museum for free the first Sunday of each month for First Free Sundays. Veterans and active military receive free admission every day.

What Kids Love: What’s not to love? Little ones can climb, bang, create, splash and dance at the Chicago Children’s Museum. Through May 10, in the temporary Castle exhibit, young imaginations are invited to play in a castle with secret tunnels, a rope bridge, tower, dungeon, throne room, wizard's room, kitchen, feasting table, market and more. And the new Cloud Buster is a 30-ton, 37-foot-tall steel dreamscape that celebrates adventure and risk-taking, qualities that are inherent to childhood

Located on Navy Pier at 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; (312-527-1000 or chicagochildrensmuseum.org).

Shedd Aquarium

Discount Days: Enjoy Illinois resident discount days on Feb. 3-7, 10-14, 17-21 & 24-28. General admission for Chicago residents is discounted to $19.95/adults and $14.95/ages 3-11 everyday.

What Kids Love: Welcome to an underwater adventure — without getting wet. From clownfish (aka: Nemo) to penguins (aka: Happy Feet), kids love seeing the familiar and discovering new underwater creatures big and small. Oh, and, the baby otters are cuteness overload and worth a visit. In Underwater Beauty, you'll see 100 species from around the world come together displaying a variety of adaptations and characteristics of aquatic beauty including: Shimmer, Color, Patterns and Rythm.

Located at 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; (312-939-2438 or online at sheddaquarium.org).

Art Institute of Chicago

Free Days: Admission is always free for Chicago teens under the age of 18 and free for all kids under the age 14. For all others, admission is free for llinois residents every weekday, Jan. 27-Mar. 4.

What Kids Love: Given the size of the Art Institute, there is definitely something for everyone. Dollhouse lover? Head to the Thorne Miniature Rooms. Ever get the urge to touch things at a museum, but know you can't? Well, here, you can! Head over to The Elizabeth Morse Touch Gallery where visitors have the opportunity to experience how the sense of touch can enrich their appreciation of art.

Located at 111 S. Michigan Ave., The Loop; (312-443-3600 or online at artic.edu).

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Discount Days: Thursdays are suggested donation days for Illinois residents, which means they can enjoy free admission. It's always free for children under 3!

What Kids Love: Butterflies — the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is home to more than 1,000 butterflies (and flowers, ponds and trees) and gives spring-starved Chicagoans a chance to feel like it's not quite so cold outside. If you're in the museum at 2 p.m., you can experience the wonder of the First Flight Butterfly Release. The size of the Peggy Notebart Nature Museum makes it manageable for families with kids of all ages. When the weather is warmer, take your museum experience outside with the Nature Trails exhibit.

Located at 2430 N. Cannon Dr., Lincoln Park.; (773-755-5100 or naturemuseum.org).

Morton Arboretum

Discount Days: Every Wednesday there is discounted $10 adult admission ($15 otherwise), $9 seniors admission ($13 otherwise) and $7 youth admission ($10 otherwise). Children ages 1 & under are always free. Admission includes free parking.

What Kids Love: This is a spot you'll want to visit more than once to experience how the Morton Arboretum changes with the seasons. For kids, a trip to the Children’s Garden can’t be missed as they'll love exploring, learning and playing right alongside nature. Through Jun., Troll Hunt features 15- to 20-foot tall trolls made of reclaimed wood who are trying to make sense of the human world and make us think about our impacts on the planet.

Located at 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle; (630-968-0074 or mortonarb.org).

Brookfield Zoo

Free Days: General Zoo admission is free Tues., Thurs., Sat. & Sun., Jan. 1-Feb. 29 and Tues. & Thurs., Oct. 1-Dec. 31.

What Kids Love: Animals, of course! Everyone has their favorites so we won’t tell you which animals to see. Whether pretending to be a zookeeper or creating an animal-themed craft, kids learn to appreciate animals and nature just a little bit more. Covering just over 3-acres, Brookfield Zoo’s Hamill Family Wild Encounters features unforgettable hands-on experiences that includes opportunities to touch and feed animals.

Located at 8400 E. 31st St., Brookfield; (708-688-8000 or czs.org).

Chicago Botanic Garden

Free Days: Every day! The Garden is always free; parking fees apply ($25 per car + tax).

What Kids Love: This North Shore destination is 26 gardens in one — and each has a different feel and plenty of vibrant color. They include the Japanese Garden, where you can pose and play amidst striking bonsai plants. And don’t miss the English Walled Garden, where you can make like you’re in the Cotswalds. Also, make sure you look into their schedule for storytime and weekday family class.

Located at 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe; (847-835-5440 or chicagobotanic.org).

Lincoln Park Zoo

Free Days: Every day! The zoo is always free; parking fees apply.

What Kids Love: We shouldn’t take for granted that our city is home to one of the few free-admission zoos in the U.S. Almost all of its wildlife exhibits are stroller accessible, including the outstanding Regenstein Center for African Apes. Go for a Sing-A-Long with Mr. Singer every Wednesday and Friday at 9:15 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the Farm-in-the-Zoo.

Located at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive (312-742-2000 or lpzoo.org).

Ed Paschke Art Center

Free Days: Every day! This museum is always free -- and there are even free coloring books for kids.

What Kids Love: The Ed Paschke Art Center features the artist’s work as well as art inspired by Ed Paschke’s style. Influenced by animation and Chicago, the colorful art connects with kids. We suggest having that post-visit conversation over a plate of ribs at the nearby Gale Street Inn.

Located at 5415 W. Higgins Ave., Jefferson Park; (312-533-4911 or edpaschkeartcenter.org).

International Museum of Surgical Science

Free Days: Admission is free to all Feb. 3-7, 10-13 & 17-21; Nov. 30-Dec. 4; Dec. 7-11 & Dec. 14-18 and always free for kids ages 3 & under.

What Kids Love: Budding medical professionals will be fascinated by seeing the evolution of medicine and medical equipment (don’t miss the X-rays). This is definitely a museum for older kids, though, as the museum does not sugarcoat the way medicine was in the past, torture devices and all. Definitely make time for a stop at the gift shop where you will find some of the most unusual take-home items. Common cold plush toy, anyone?

Located at 1542 N. Lake Shore Dr., Downtown; (312-642-6502 or imss.org).

— Maria Chambers and Anli Chen

Free Admission! (& 13 Other Reasons to Visit Field Museum)

A Visit to the World’s Largest Starbucks. . . with Kids

Neighborhood Guide: All Day in Arlington

by rtstephaniekanowitzMarch 29, 2018

Just a short drive over the bridge – or a few bridges, depending on where you’re headed – sits Arlington, Va. Founded in 1801, Arlington has grown into a bustling urban area in its own right. With most of the action huddled around Metro stops on the Blue and Orange lines, some of the most densely packed and walkable areas are in the Ballston-Clarendon-Rosslyn corridor. Its 25.98 square miles are full of family-friendly activities, educational experiences and history. Here are some not to miss.

Photo: Sean O’Neill via Flickr

For the outdoorsy types
Mix a little history with your nature by walking through Arlington National Cemetery, known as the nation’s “most hallowed ground.” Open year-round, it’s the final resting place for 400,000 people. Find the graves of soldiers from as far back as the Civil War, the gravesites of President and Mrs. Kennedy, and more than 20 memorials. Stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where volunteer sentinels of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment stand guard and change every hour in a somber ceremony. Arlington House, former home of Robert E. Lee, commander of the Confederate States Army, is also on cemetery grounds and open for tours. For something lighter and daresay more thrilling, head to Gravelly Point along the George Washington Memorial Parkway to watch the planes take off and land at Reagan National Airport, or do a memorial tour, stopping at the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, Marine Corps War Memorial and U.S. Air Force Memorial.

Photo: Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce

Play and learn
History isn’t the only lesson kiddos can learn in Arlington. They can study the stars at the David M. Brown Planetarium, which offers weekend programs including the “Magic Tree House Space Mission” on Sundays. Or they can learn to play hockey like the pros at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, home of the Washington Capitals Practice Facility. Camps, youth leagues and classes are available. It’s located at the Ballston Common Mall, which is being transformed as you read into Ballston Quarter, a 589,000-square foot walkable urban village with one of the largest food halls in D.C., a bowling alley and shops.

Photo: Boccato Gelato

Shop and eat
Head down Wilson Boulevard to Clarendon and take in a story time at Kinder Haus Toys and grab a sweet treat nearby at Boccato Gelato and Espresso. If the kids are too antsy for sitting, sign them up for a class at JW Tumbles, which has movement options for littles ages four months to nine years, plus a separate open play area. Then stop at Pie-tanza in the same strip mall for Neapolitan-style pizza. Play those carbs away at one of Arlington’s 158 parks. The recently renovated 4-acre Quincy Park has six tennis courts, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court and tons of offbeat playground equipment, while Upton Hill Regional Park offers the Ocean Dunes Waterpark, mini golf, batting cages and walking trails.

What are your favorite Arlington hot spots? Tell us in the comments.

—Stephanie Kanowitz

It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane…It’s the Space Shuttle Endeavour

by writerredtriJanuary 4, 2013

Not so long ago, in a galaxy called the Milky Way, a space shuttle was built in a town about an hour outside of Los Angeles (Palmdale). It flew over 100 million miles and spent almost a year of its lifetime in outer space. This dynamic little shuttle wanted nothing more than to retire to its sunny hometown, delighting and educating school kids for generations to come…

Image courtesy of Renata Kanclerz.

You might have heard a little something about the space shuttle Endeavour recently! It was kind of hard to miss all the excitement, as it flew over major landmarks in the city and school kids lined up on school playgrounds, at the airport or at the beach for a view of the historic flight. Then a few weeks later the shuttle was met with fans and crowds at every turn as it made its way along the streets of the city. (Check out an amazing time-lapse video of that trek here.) And then it arrived home at the California Science Center, where it will live at the Sam Oschin Pavilion. What are you waiting for? Get your tickets today and go see it up close and in person! But first… let us give you the scoop on getting the most out of your visit.

Image courtesy of Craig Deitrich via Flickr.

Super cool facts about our very own space shuttle
Our space program has had 5 orbiters—Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis and Endeavour—and together they have made a total of 135 missions. Endeavour was the final orbiter to join the shuttle fleet. Endeavour’s final mission took place in May 2011. More fun facts:

Is the first (and only) shuttle named by kids.
Is the first shuttle to service the Hubble Space Telescope.
It carried the first African-American female astronaut into space (Mae Jemison), the first Japanese astronaut in the shuttle program (Mamoru Mohri) and the first married couple to fly on the same space mission (Mark Lee and Jan Davis).
And on Endeavour’s first spaceflight, four spacewalks were completed in a single shuttle mission, which had never been done before.

What to do when you visit
Endeavour is currently on display in the Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Endeavour Display Pavilion. (Until a new addition to the Science Center called the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is completed).

Image courtesy of Renata Kanclerz.

Endeavour: The California Story is the first stop on every visit – it’s a companion exhibit featuring pictures and artifacts (like Endeavour’s potty, galley and tires) that relate the shuttle program to California, where the orbiters were built

You may have to forewarn your kiddos that this is a “looking not touching” exhibit. To preserve the spacecraft, they will not be able to actually enter it. But they will be able to get as close to Endeavour as possible and examine it from many perspectives and elevations.

Don’t forget the IMAX tickets
Two space IMAX movies will be showing to round out your day. Choose between Hubble 3D, where the audience goes along with space-walking astronauts as they attempt one of the most difficult and important tasks in NASA’s history- repairing the Hubble Space Telescope; and Blue Planet, which features footage taken by crews during five space shuttle missions (including a breathtaking “earthrise”). Or better yet, don’t choose, see both!

Image courtesy of Renata Kanclerz.

Space shuttles and astronauts and meteors, oh my!
Did this just whet your appetite for more outer space encounters? You’re in luck: Los Angeles is a great place to explore the final frontier! Not only do we have Jet Propulsion Labs in Pasadena (and did you know, you can book a private tour there at any time), there is the Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey, the recently renovated Griffith Observatory, with wonderful programs for kids, public star parties and an awesome planetarium, and finally, the Mount Wilson Observatory is open to the public from April 1 – November 30.

The 411
Because you’re not the only family who can’t wait to see the shuttle, a visit requires a timed ticket, which you can reserve in advance online. The tickets are free, but there is a $2 service charge per ticket. If you’ve got youngsters who aren’t good at waiting, you may wish to make your trip during non-peak times (peak viewing times are weekday mornings and weekend afternoons), as even timed ticket entry may be delayed during those times.

The California Science Center is located at 700 Exposition Park Drive, right in the middle of Exposition Park (adjacent to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and across the street from the University of Southern California). There is plenty of on-site parking for $10, or leave your car at home and take public transit! Take the Metro Expo Line and exit at the Expo Park/USC Station.

Food Tips
If you don’t want to eat McDonalds, Taco Bell or a cafeteria style option, pack a picnic and eat in the beautiful Rose Garden behind the museum. Something is usually in bloom and kids delight in running around the giant fountain!

Let us know about your trip to see the Endeavour. Any tips you’d like to share with our readers?

— Meghan Rose

3-2-1, Glow: A Sweet Glow-in-the-Dark Astronaut Party

by laurie halterAugust 29, 2012

If you can’t handle another Princess party and the very idea of putting on another Star Wars bash makes you want to jump in front of the nearest car, take heart. Below we’ve set out the perfect plan for an out-of-this-world space party. This bash is perfect for both boys and girls, and is sure to launch your little party animal straight into space!

Invites

It’s easy to set the tone with these fun invite ideas. You can go all “Martha Stewart-style” on your guests and make these awesome homemade rocket invites with Rolos, compliments of SkiptoMyLou.

Photo courtesy of SkiptoMyLou

Or if you want the homemade look, without the ”home”, check out these customizable rocket invites from CreationbyCB on Etsy.

Photo courtesy of CreationbyCB

Decorations

Once the invites have been sent, it’s time to plan the “wow” factor by unleashing your creative genius on party-goers with starry decorations. Using black lights, glow-in-the-dark spray paint and adhesive stars and planets, and turn any dark room into a galaxy far, far away. (Or just down the hall).

Stars , Planets and Black lights

Cut out stars, planets and rockets from white or neon paper and spray them with glow in the dark spray paint. Stick the stars on the walls of the garage and hang them from the ceiling at various heights with fishing line. In addition, many craft stores like Michaels sell glow-in-the dark star stickers and planets that can add an awesome “space” effect. A black light hung from the ceiling helps amp up the glowing factor. And, while the parents and their kiddos just look like they’re hanging out in a garage, they are in fact hanging out in a totally transformed glow-in-the-dark universe. It was just our camera flash that ruined the moment, but believe us, the kids were totally enchanted.

Photo courtesy of Laurie Halter

Neon Leis, glow necklaces and glow sticks
Set out a variety of glow necklaces, wands and bracelets from any local dollar or craft store, and make it part of your guest’s “mission” to add to their outer space wardrobe.

Photo courtesy of Karaspartyideas

Glow Jars
Make sure you add glow jars to the room for a really cool effect. These are easy to make and, depending on the age of the guests, you can add them as a craft activity for older kids. Simply cut the end of glow sticks, pour the contents out into the jar, add the lid on and shake. Check out these cool examples from Planningwithkids.com.

Photo courtesy of planningwithkids

Glow in the dark balloons
Grab some glow in the dark balloons, blow them up and leave them on the floor of your space room to represent comets and asteroids. Guests will love running and avoiding these “comets” as they come whizzing by their heads.

Photo courtesy of mooreminutes

Activities and Games

With decorations in place, you can move on to planning launch-worthy party games. Games don’t have to be time consuming, with just a few simple activities, your spacemen and women will be ready to blast off.

Photo courtesy of Laurie Halter

Stomp Rockets:
Before launching your guests into outer space, it’s important for each guest to take a few practice runs. One easy way to do this is having them practice their launch abilities by taking a turn at the stomp rocket ($16).

Photo courtesy of Nabeel H via Flickr.

DIY Rockets and Flying Saucers:
After each pilot has had a chance to blast off, it’s time for them to create their own rocket or space ship to help rip through the galaxy. There are some fantastic craft ideas for making creative rocket ships and flying saucers by Kids Crafts Weekly.

Photo courtesy of Kidscraftweekly via Flickr

Space Goo
A flubber recipe can easily be manipulated into space goo using green food coloring. For an easy flubber recipe, check out this one from food.com.

And finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: Entrance to Outer Space

Line your space walkers up, along with their glow sticks and homemade rockets, and prepare them for a space odyssey. Have them all count down from ten and then open the door to the garage. Watch as the party guests “ooh and ah” over the asteroids, comets and galaxy created just for this space mission.

Photo courtesy of Laurie Halter

Food

Even astronauts need to eat! While healthy snacks like carrot sticks and fruit are an important part of this mission, delight your party guests with these fun-filled and unexpected additions to the snack table.

Rocket pops
These awesome corn flake meteorites –no baking required!
Jell-O jigglers cut into stars, moons and planets
Real astronaut food, found at astronautfoods.com
Try cutting up a melon like cantaloupe or honeydew into rings. Stack the rings from largest to smallest and fill the space in the middle with watermelon balls to make a ringed planet with cool colors.
Top english muffins with pasta sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni to make flying saucer pizza bites.

Cake
This super fun moon cake, compliments of Mermaids Purse, is just perfect for space cadets.

Photo courtesy of mermaidspurse

Party Favors

These outer space crayon roll-ups by Etsy artist, artisticsouldesigns, are sure to be a hit with party guests.

Photo courtesy of artistsouldesigns via Etsy

Glowing silly putty makes the perfect giveaway.
Let kiddos take home their homemade rockets and UFOs as party favors.

Thank you cards or notes

Little space walkers can show their appreciation by downloading this rocket card and customizing it with the name of each guest.

Photo courtesy of SweetMilkPrints via Etsy

This party will definitely take your kiddos and their friends for an adventure beyond their dreams! What’s the last theme party that you’ve thrown for your kiddos? Let us know in the comment section below.

—- Laurie Halter

ML Interest Tag: space-mission

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3-2-1, Glow: A Sweet Glow-in-the-Dark Astronaut Party

Invites

Decorations

Activities and Games

And finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: Entrance to Outer Space

Food

Party Favors

Thank you cards or notes

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