These are the best NYC toy stores to find unique gifts for the kiddos in your life
Looking for a way to make a kid smile while also supporting a local New York City business? Get some toys from your neighborhood NYC toy store. Whether the kids could use some upgraded gear in the playroom, there’s a big birthday coming up, or you need a LEGO kit delivered, stat, we found several NYC toy stores (and some in the Hamptons) that are just adorable.
Shop at this classic NYC toy store and find just what you need! Famed FAO Schwarz has been in existence since 1862, and it has an extensive collection of items, especially large plush animals and a wide variety of candy. Even if you're just window-shopping, this spot qualifies as a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike. Be sure to say hello to the toy soldier and tap your feet on the iconic giant piano dance mat (you may recall it from the Tom Hanks flick, Big).
CAMP: A Family Experience has all sorts of collections, from your favorite Disney characters and even Paw Patrol. Although the Union Square outpost is the brand's flagship, you can explore the different camps—family-friendly sessions filled with interactive games, challenges, and adventures—that they have at their different locations. Popular examples include Art Camp and Cosmic Camp. Plus, parents can buy all sorts of items (we'd recommend the CAMP brand t-shirts) and lots of other apparel from their own line.
Founded in 1931, Mary Arnold Toys is a truly classic local toy store with an amazing selection. You can knock off every young one on your holiday gift list at this toy store, and if you end up buying more than you can carry, the store offers free local delivery and free gift wrapping.
Chelsea's go-to toy store is a great spot for sustainable and wooden toys from companies like Plan, Haba, and Hape, as well as cute and cuddly stuffies, PLAYMOBIL, creative kits, STEM toys, and more. You can also shop by age, category, and collection. Unlike many modern toy stores, Kidding Around will remind most parents (and grandparents) of toy stores from when they were young.
Can't make it to downtown Manhattan's Boomerang Toys? Not to worry. The business, which has been in operation since 2002, is delivering! Just peruse the Tribeca toy store's website, which features everything from puzzles to scooters to LEGO and building kits to lots of trains, and place your order.
Yet another Brooklyn-area toy store (hey, there are a lot of kids there!), Norman & Jules specializes in chic and modern-looking toys, STEM activities and sets and wooden toys from brands like Grimm and Grapat. Your kiddos will be stylin' and having a blast with the adorable toys from this store.
For toys for the tiniest of New Yorkers, check out Piccoliny. The hip downtown store is stocked with super hip NYC-centric onesies, T-shirts, and baby toys (as well as lots of other cute clothes and gifts). Know someone with a newborn? Here's where to go for the classic, every New-York-baby-must-own "I LOVE NYC" tee.
Away to the Hamptons for the weekend and need a last-minute gift? Stevenson's Toys can hook you up. The store is also taking orders online for shipment, local delivery, and curbside pickup. They are stocked up with puzzles of varying degrees of difficulty, LEGO kits, board games, and lots of toys for outdoor fun. (You can even order up a trampoline if you need one.)
When you arrive, trust us that you're going to need a moment to stop and take this store in. Little Things Toy Store has got oodles of puzzles, crafting and activity kits, games, and Micro Kickboard scooters. The store also carries a wide range of LEGO. In fact, Little Things is a LEGO Gold Standard Store. The status, given to only a select few stores throughout the country, allows for new and exclusive LEGO sets and events you won't find anywhere else.
If you are itching to get out of the house and bring baby along, we have all the best things to do around Chicago
Along comes baby and life as you know it stops. Right? Not in Chicago! We know that once the baby comes along you need some time to adjust to your new “normal” and routine. But if you find yourself going stir-crazy and longing to get back out and about you may be wondering, what are the best places to go with a baby in tow around Chicago? Let this guide help you discover the best spots for a “Chicago baby” and perhaps some newfound appreciation for a longtime favorite.
This is one of our top recommendations to new parents, new residents, and even visitors who will be in town for an extended stay. With more than 70 unique branches throughout Chicago, not only can you visit your local branch, but you can make it an adventure and scope out branches in other parts of the city. The Chicago Public Library is a great place to duck out of the weather to change a diaper, have a snack, or nurse a baby. Be sure to get a library card for you and your kids as well, because not only are there tons of great books to borrow, but so much more like STEM Activities, Grab ‘n Go Activity Kits, Chromebook Kits, and (our favorite) the Museum Passports!
2. Get comfortable with that new stroller
From miles of walkable paths along the lakefront to what feels like endless greenspace and urban sidewalks, Chicago is a very walkable town! Check out your own neighborhood, or favorite park, stroll along the 606 or check out this guide to walking downtown with kids or this one for best hikes in the Chicagoland area.
3. Must-Visit Kid-Friendly Museums in Chicago
Museums are wonderful places to take a baby for a visit! Not only are most of Chicago’s museums free for kids three and under, but they also each have a little something special for the youngest of visitors. From special areas designed with kids at heart, such as the Crown Family Play Lab at the Field Museum, or a special low-sensory time to explore like at the Museum of Contemporary Art visiting these museums while the baby is young can be rewarding for the parents. You can still control the pace at which you explore, minus those essential stops for a feeding or diaper change, and feel as if you did something for yourself.
If you are looking for a museum that is fully designed with kids and play at heart, then take a visit to the Chicago Children’s Museum. CCM offers play and fun for kids up to about age nine, and they have Priztker’s Playspace which is just for babies and their caregivers to explore and connect through play.
If you want to visit the museums and save, be sure to check out the Free Admission Days offered throughout the year for Illinois and Chicago residents or you can check out one of the Museum Passports from the library for free admission for four guests to many great museums and attractions! For more ideas on museums to explore, check out Chicago’s Best Museums for Curious Kids.
Exercising after a baby can feel daunting but the effects for mom’s physical and mental well-being are undeniable. It’s also a great way to meet friends! Fit4Mom classes, such as the popular Stroller Strides, are offered all over the city. Plus many local gyms, such as the YMCA Chicago, YogaSix, Midtown Athletic, and Lakeshore Fitness, offer child-care so parents can focus on a great workout without worrying about the kids.
5. Visit Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
Going out to eat with a baby can feel daunting, but starting when they are young will help them learn how to dine out and open them to trying new flavors and foods as they grow older. Chicago has no shortage of great restaurants, even some that cater to families by offering space to wiggle, entertainment such as balloon artists, local musicians, over the top themes, and even dine-in movies. Other restaurants have families in mind with special menus for kids and special pricing too! So go ahead and enjoy a meal with your kids—without any stink eyes from other customers.
6. Get Baby Water Safe
Getting your baby used to the water early is one of the best things you can do, especially for babies in a city with 26 miles of lakefront and dozens of free beaches. Swim programs like Goldfish Swim School offer lessons at four months to get the tiniest tadpoles, and their adults, water safe! To find a school right for your family, check out our list of swim schools in Chicago.
7. Practice Your Yoga & Namaste with Mommy and Me Yoga
Regular yoga classes with your children have so many positive benefits beyond stretching and moving your bodies. Yoga has been shown to teach mindfulness, and self-awareness and working together with their grown-up can deepen their connection. It also helps to reduce stress! You and your Little Buddha can join Buddha Belly Kids Yoga at locations throughout Chicago for classes – such as Zen Yoga Garage or the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
8. Learn about Baby Wellness from the Experts
Babies are hard at first—they communicate in ways that are foreign to us with cries, and other mystifying noises and expressions. Enter Chicago’s premier infant wellness practice, Metta Baby which is on a mission to provide a support system for parents and infants as young as two weeks old. Here you can engage in activities that not only promote the baby’s physical well-being but also which will help to create a strong bond between parent and child.
9. Visit these nearby Chicago Beaches
With two dozen free beaches along Lake Michigan and a summer season that is as close to perfection as you can get. A visit with your baby is a great way to spend the morning. Early mornings are a quieter time if you want to avoid a crowded beach on those late summer days, but no matter the time, just be sure you have shade to keep you all protected.
10. Attend a Breastfeeding Class in Chicago
Just because something is described as “natural” doesn’t make it necessarily easy. For new moms looking for support with breastfeeding, there are multiple places to reach out for help! Our favorite resources are the La Leche League, Baby Bistro Group from UChicago Medicine, and Chicago Family Doulas. Moms can ask questions and find answers via their websites. One-on-one help can also be arranged either via zoom or in person. Groups and classes also provide new moms a chance to connect with other moms, build their offline support group and create friendships.
11. Nurture a Love of Reading
Beyond our amazing Chicago Public Library system, Chicago is home to the American Writers Museum which allows children to enjoy books in their cozy Children’s Literature Gallery. One of the best things about reading is that it can be done just about anywhere. From the family room to the park, or even on the “L” train, so keep some books handy and read a little every day with your baby.
12. Take Baby for Their First Haircut
The time will eventually come for your baby to get their first haircut. To make it a memorable experience, some salons offer special packages. Rock Hair Scissors in the Edgewater neighborhood even offers a little first-cut certificate, keepsake lock, and balloon. Does the idea of mini-meltdown stress you out? Then consider TLC Family Hair Care, Chicago’s premier mobile salon for families. TLC comes to you and offers a low-stress appointment whether it is your first cut or your hundredth.
13. Shop the Farmers Market
Get your baby used to a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables by visiting a local farmers market. They’re colorful, and smell delicious and many vendors offer samples. You can event find live music, puppet shows, and other kid-friendly entertainment. Most outdoor markets run from about May through October before the indoor markets pop up for the winter months of November through April. The markets often are held near playgrounds and can be a great spot for an impromptu meet-up or playdate.
Chicago may be a large urban area, but there are still plenty of green spaces to explore and enjoy with your baby. These are also great spots to try out that baby carrier and give the stroller a rest. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an all-season favorite with the combination of outdoor spaces to explore and indoor fun such as the Butterfly Haven and the new Nature Playspace. Also great for little ones to explore (and a great place for laying on a blanket and reading!) are the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Chicago Botanic Garden. If you are looking for a little adventure out of the city, head to the Morton Arboretum which is home to one of the best child-focused gardens and offers miles of trails for walking.
15. Take a Baby Class Together
Join up with other parents and their babies to sing, dance and play. Bubbles Academy (Mag Mile/Lincoln Park/Highland Park) is a one-stop shop for all things baby classes. Since Chicago is a music-loving town there are also tons of great options for music classes throughout the city, plus Stages Chicago has created a unique curriculum to blend song, movement, and musical theater into classes for kids from birth to high school.
Free and open to visitors all year long is the Lincoln Park Zoo. Recently the zoo has built a new home for its growing lion pride and has also updated the play structure within the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. The Farm-in-a-Zoo is also a wonderful place to explore for kids of all ages, as well as the Lionel Train Adventure and Endangered Species Carousel. With a nearby playground, miles of park to explore, and one of the city’s best farmers markets, entire days can be spent here!
17. Take a Boat Cruise through Chicago with Your Baby
Okay, maybe you won’t need to actually ROW the boat, but with the lake to the east and the river flowing through the city’s heart, by water is one of the best ways to take in the Windy City. Our favorite for families is the Chicago Fire Boat which is one part tour, one part floating museum, and a whole lot of fun! Another great way to explore during warm weather is to hop on theChicago Water Taxi—either as a mode of transportation or just for fun!
18. Visit a Nearby Chicago Farm
If your trip to the Farm-in-the-Zoo has you looking for more fun down on the farm then Chicagoland has you covered! Check out these seven Chicagoland spots where you can get more animal connection time and maybe even go for a tractor ride or pick berries in season.
19. Discover the Wonderful World of Splash Pads around Chicago
In the warm months, the city turns on hundreds of splash pads, fountains, and water features which offer a perfect way for little ones to cool off on a hot day.
And if Baby has older siblings, we have a fantastic list of thebest things to do in Chicago with kidsto help you out! Don’t worry, many of the places that are great for baby are also great for those older kids.
Looking for where to celebrate New Years 2022 in the Bay Area? We’ve gathered 14 family-friendly New Year’s Eve 2022 events all in one place—most of which don’t require staying up late
Instead of googling “New Year’s Eve events for kids” take a look at our list below to see all the fun things to do in San Francisco and the Bay Area on the very last day of 2022. Depending on your kids, you can ring in the New Year with your little ones with loads of mid-day celebrations (and avoid those close-to-midnight meltdowns) or opt for some nighttime adventures if they can hang late night. Ready to check out our favorite Bay Area spots for New Years Eve events for kids and get ready to say hello to 2023? Insider Tip: Some of our favorite Bay Area holiday light displays are only up through New Year’s Day so you can always pull a two-for-one on your winter bucket list by adventuring to one of our must-go experiences.
Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events near Me
1. First Night Monterey
This year's theme celebrates 30 years of First Night Monterey! First Night Monterey and Kids' Night Out kicks off at 3 p.m. and then continues with 9 hours of fabulous art, music and New Year's fun all the way into the New Year! Be part of this family friendly, alcohol-free celebration ringing in 2023!Event details.
2. 'Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!' at the Schulz Museum
Celebrate the New Year with the Peanuts Gang! Enjoy fun crafts for kids, make a balloon Snoopy, and watch Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! on the big screen. Plus, do your best Snoopy dance and ring in 2023 with an Up Down Balloon Drop and Baby Balloon Drop (for children 4 and under and their families) at noon, and a second Balloon Drop at 3:00 p.m. Doors open at 10:00 am, and capacity will be monitored; admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Event details.
3. 23rd Annual Balloon Drop at the Chabot Space & Science Center
Ring in the New Year without staying up all night! Celebrate strokes of midnight around the world at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Kids will count down and celebrate with hundreds of colorful balloons dropping from above. Insider Tip: This popular annual event regularly sells out, so be sure to get tickets early. Event details.
4. Noon Year's Eve at the Bay Area Discover Museum
Ring in the new year without keeping your family up past bedtime. Celebrate the start of 2023 at Bay Area Discovery Museum with this beloved annual affair. This kid-friendly celebration is where you can enjoy the countdown without the midnight meltdown! Watch the ball drop at noon, enjoy a live DJ and join in a dance party, plus explore more winter festivities and new programs at Bay Area Discovery Museum, including iceless skating! Event details.
5. City of Piedmont’s Noon Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year with Piedmont Recreation Department at a family-friendly hour! Celebrate with music, magician show, a countdown to noon, balloon drop and a whole lot of fun! Event details.
6. Noon Year's Eve at the Hiller Aviation Museum
Music, dancing, puppet shows, and giant balloon drops at noon will are sure to bring excitement into the new year. Event details.
7. New Year's Eve Celebration at Gilroy Gardens
Ring in the new year at Gilroy Gardens! You'll find ice skating under the stars, sparkly light displays, dance parties, and festive food throughout the park. Event details.
8. 37th Annual Bell Ringing Ceremony at the Asian Art Museum
The first in-person bell-ringing ceremony since 2019: after two years of ringing the bell virtually, one of the museum’s most popular and long-running annual events is happening in person again. Ring in the New Year by taking a swing at a 2,100-pound, 16th-century Japanese temple bell. Led by Reverend Gengo Akiba, this inspiring ceremony will include a purification ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart Sutra. Reverend Akiba will begin the bell-ringing, and then it’s your chance to ring the bell to leave behind any unfortunate experiences, regrettable deeds or ill luck from the previous year.Event details.
9. Noon Year's Eve at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
The countdown to midnight may (typically) belong to the adults, but Happy Hollow’s Noon Year’s Eve celebration is all about outdoor fun for the little ones. Event details.
10. New Year's Eve Kid's Party at Kid's Play Zone
Celebrate the New Year at Kid's Play Zone, an indoor children’s play space with a glow party and balloon drop. Entry includes a glow necklace, apple juice for the kids (cider for the adults), plus pizza for all to enjoy. Event details.
11. 2022 Grand Finale at The Lawrence Hall of Science
Join the annual New Year's Eve celebration with confetti cannons. With several daily launches, you’ll be showered with joy and laughter as you close 2022. Event details.
12. New Year's Eve Party at Swings & Wings
This cute New Year’s Eve party will have music, play, a photo booth and yummy treats for kids. Event details.
13. Noon Year's Eve Family Storytime at the Danville Library
Families can enjoy stories and songs, festive favors, even a celebratory bubble wrap stomp on the floor at the Danville Library. Event details.
14. Winter Wonderland Walk with East Bay Regional Park Disctrict
On Dec. 31, discover what animals and plants do to prepare for cold months while you warm up with apple cider and walk a one-mile wintry trail. Event details.
Families will love these Boston museums where kids can learn about science, art, fire history, and the American Revolution
January can be a stuffy, cold month, but these Boston museums have just what you need to shake the winter blues away. Get out into that cool, fresh air and find what fun family adventures await you. Play at the Discovery Museum, marvel at the art in the Gardner Museum, or do some experiments at the Museum of Science. Get the scoop below and support your local family museum.
Explorers of every age will love the hands-on Museum of Science where you can learn about dinosaurs, New England habitats and even nanotechnology. Investigate how our world works in the Science in the Park exhibit and see inside the human body in the Hall of Human Life. You'll especially love the exhibit, Arctic Adventure: Exploring with Technology.
For 100 years, Boston Children's Museum has offered exhibits that focus on science, culture, environmental awareness, health & fitness, and the arts. They have a PlaySpace for kids age three and under where little ones can engage with parents while developing important cognitive, physical, emotional, and social skills. Older kids especially love the STEM activities and the three-story climbing structure.
Travel back in time to this era in American history when you visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Historical interpreters, interactive exhibits, full-scale replica 18th century sailing vessels, historic artifacts, and the film, “Let It Begin Here”, are just a taste of what you’ll experience during your visit.
Just outside of Boston you'll find the kid-favorite Discovery Museum with open-ended play experiences like the Sound Gallery and Train Room. Kids especially love heading outside to Discovery Woods, an outdoor museum exhibit about nature play and choosing to take “just right” risks.
There's so much to explore at the Gardner Museum both inside and out. There are activities for families to enjoy together and kid-friendly programs like Saturday Drop-in Art Activities in the Bertucci Education Studio. Spend some time exploring the gardens and fountains after enjoy the works of art.
The historic Congress Street Fire Station is home to this museum that's the perfect spot for little ones who want to be fire fighters someday. Check out the fire fighting memorabilia including a number of fire engines. The museum is open on Saturdays and admission is on a donation basis.
Spend the day learning about birds, check out a 1,600-pound amethyst geode and find out the latest information about global warming at this awesome museum. Kids will especially love visiting the marine life exhibit, especially the Glass Flowers—an exhibithighlighting the process and beauty of glassworking.
Winter getaway near Seattle, anyone? These 11 destinations go all out for families
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And there’s no better place to experience it than in the PNW. We have everything from storytime by the fireplace to storm watching, northern food festivals to mountain shushing, and from crafting gingerbread houses to sipping hot cocoa on a sleigh ride, depending on where you travel in Washington. Find something special for your family to do by taking a winter getaway near Seattle soon. So grab those skis, sleds, and mittens, and dive into powdery adventures at any of these eleven fairy tale destinations.
Winter is a great time to plan a family weekend getaway to a nearby destination
Winter Play Bainbridge Island has something for everyone from tiny tots to the merry at heart. The magic begins with a ride on a Washington State Ferry, a unique escape unto itself. First stop, Pleasant Beach Village, with a glide around the winter wonderland skating rink. Mix in a Gingerbread House party, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and sumptuous après skate fare from Joe’s Restaurant and your group will burst into “Deck The Halls” from holiday cheer. A complimentary shuttle runs from the ferry terminal to Pleasant Beach Village and back so families can bed in town or treat themselves to a luxurious stay at The Inn at Pleasant Beach (a real vacation within your vacation).
Bainbridge has wonderful parks, views, and inlets to explore. Bloedel Reserve is a peaceful place of solace and natural beauty. Take your group on the slow, easy one-hour walk through this serene garden, where you’ll spot the former home of the Bloedels, straight from a fairy tale, and the gorgeously groomed Japanese Garden. Dress warmly and participate in Bloedel's Winter of Wonder—meandering along the reserve’s illuminated trails.
Kids Discovery Museum hosts the Holidays at KiDiMu in December. Ditch the ice for sock skating and special winter and holiday-themed STEM activities from November 25 to January 1. Back by popular demand, ring in the new year by joining the KiDiMu Noon Year’s Eve Party from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 31. Don your finest and bring your tinies for a pre-2023 confetti and countdown soiree.
While on Bainbridge, visit book and record stores like Eagle Harbor Book Co. and Backstreet Beat as well as specialty stores like Dana’s Showhouse and the popular Calico Toy Shoppe. Wind down at Eagle Harbor Wine Co. at their winery (tastings available by appointment) or hop over to Bainbridge Brewing Alehouse. Winslow Way is a smorgasbord of indie shops, so pop in and support local during this season.
Where to Stay Stay at The Marshall Suites, named after the juicy Marshall strawberries that used to cover the island. It’s perfectly placed near chic, walkable Winslow Way. The large, comfy suites are family-ready and the staff is very welcoming. As always, guests get 10% off at partner restaurants including the kiddo-tested Plate & Pint directly across the road.
Winter Play British Columbia is bigger than California, but Seattleites are ready for the challenge. It’s been some time since Washingtonians have been able to hop the border and enjoy some snow-filled, Canuck-style fun and there are wonderful winter wows awaiting families throughout the province. For the adventurous group head to Northern BC from November through March for a chance to see the aurora borealis and drive on parts of the historic Alaska Highway. Fancy a downhill shred? BC’s 13 major ski resorts are waiting along with snowshoeing routes, cross-country ski tracks, and trails for wintery walks. Tofino is known for surfing and in the winter its storm watching is truly epic. Haida Gwaii islands are a special place where kids can learn about the local culture and the people who have been stewards of the place since time immemorial. Engage with locals and explore the Haida Heritage Centre and Haida Gwaii Museum.
If your group loves food booths, entertainment, and mingling with merrymakers than check out these festivals and book your trip accordingly. The Rossland Winter Carnival January 27–29, 2023 is Canada’s longest running winter carnival. Learn to luge, sip a beverage at an ice palace, and watch the signature bobsled race. The High On Ice Winter Festival February 17-20, 2023 in Fort St. John boasts intricate ice carvings, winter sports (hello, hockey), and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Wine country calls. Okanagan’s oldest community hosts hundreds of events at the Vernon Winter Carnival February 3-12, 2023. Sip and taste, join a guided snowshoe tour, or have an aerial view from one of the many brightly-colored hot air balloons that float in the sky during the festival. For something brag-worthy, head to the Cariboo region for the annual Sled Dog Mail Run from February 24-26, 2023. These competing sled dog teams become official Canada Post mail carriers during the race. How cool is that?
Where to Stay The SilverStar Mountain Resort is the hub for the Okanagan region’s winter entertainment. Skiiing, skating, tubing, dining, a spa, fireworks shows, snowcat tours, night skiing, comedy shows, and too much more to list are on the calendar. In Vancouver, stay at the covetedFairmont Waterfront, a luxury hotel with children-specific perks like kids’ robes, babysitting services (advanced notice required), plus 5 year olds and younger eat for free off the kids menu. Granville Island Hotel is conveniently located on Granville Island surrounded by parks, and the colorful Aquabus provides fun transfers to downtown, Stanley Park, and Science World.
Winter Play Consider a mystical and moody winter escape. The stormy waters off the coast of the Pacific Northwest have been called the Graveyard of the Pacific, and Ilwaco’s lighthouses still brave the night and fog to keep sailors safe. Ilwaco is rich in seafood, friendly locals, and untamed natural beauty along with fantasies of adventure on the high seas. The subtle charm of this harbor town draws visitors in and allows families to have quiet together time, while still having plenty to do. Stroll the waterway and check out the quaint shops. Start with an espresso and a sweet treat of baked goodness at Ilwaco Bakery & Cafe.
Time Enough Books is a well-stocked indie gift and bookstore, RiversZen fitness offers yoga (psst…Peggy can tailor private sessions for most ages), Don Nesbitt Art Gallery has lovely souvenirs, and Sportsmen’s Cannery II offers excellent canned Pacific albacore tuna, smoked oysters and more.
Take a picnic to Cape Disappointment, weather permitting. It’s one of the most impressive state parks in Washington. The site overlooks the confluence of the world’s largest ocean and the West’s largest river. Walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, see an installation, and gaze upon the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast. From there, active families can hike trails to another lighthouse, or bring bikes and ride the Discovery Trail. We recommend bundling up to watch the sunsets by the interpretive center. You just might see a bald eagle swoop overhead while the sun plunges into the Pacific. When the storm clouds roll in, head to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum. Both have hands-on displays and activities to engage young ones and oldsters alike.
Where to Stay Stay at the Salt Hotel & Pub. Salt is delicious and offers little tummies grilled cheese and chicken strips while adults sip on craft cocktails. Adrift Hotel slightly further afield has a wonderful heated pool, beach views, and fabulous service. If your family happens to be 18-plus we can’t say enough about At The Helm, a boutique hotel with incredible food right on the marina of Ilwaco. Cue the New England setting and romantic movie score as soon as you check in.
Winter Play Is it Suncadia or Snow-cadia? This family-favorite resort is a top spot for winter sports, and it’s just a short drive from Seattle. In fact, Suncadia has so many activities and fun there is no way a group can do it all. If you’re up to the challenge…better start checking off that list now. Rent a snowmobile or cross-country skis and hit the blustery trails. Nelson Farm is where you’ll find winter axe throwing for budding lumberjacks, winter archery, winter tie-dye classes, and more snow than your little city dwellers will know what to do with. It’s also the place to wow your kiddos when they see the elk herds passing through. For more traditional winter wonderland adventures Suncadia offers skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sleigh rides. December hosts Santa’s Workshop with more arts and crafts than at the North Pole, and the Intro to Winter Fly Fishing class is one of a plethora of unique outdoor experiences.
Where to Stay Stay at The Lodge at Suncadia or rent a condo or home. For a quieter experience, couples stay at the charming Inn at Suncadia. Dine with a view of the Cascades from Portals Restaurant or of the golf course from The Stovehouse. For an escape from your escape, visit the nearby City of Roslyn, a cute village with shops and restaurants.
Winter Play The iconic Mt. Rainier peeks out from behind the clouds on a few occasions to awe and inspire this region. Our area’s unofficial mascot, this mountain is more than just a pretty face. Winter is surprisingly great time to hit the National Park and Crystal Mountain’s ski slopes to take in the full majesty of the park and peaks. But wait, there’s more. Dine at the Summit House, Washington’s highest restaurant at 6872 feet, with fresh PNW ingredients and flavor plus a stunning view of Mt. Rainier. Cross-country skiing, elk feeding, horseback riding, sledding, snowshoe dinner tours and Mt. Rainier Winter Scenic Gondola rides round out your snow-filled weekend escape.
Where to Stay Bring your gaggle of gigglers to the pet-friendly Alta Crystal Resort. The closest accommodation to the Sunrise entrance, this resort is ready for your group to frolic and explore. We recommend the spacious lofts with two private sleeping areas for families, or the cabins with a private hot tub on their deck. Evening bonfires with s’mores, free movie rentals, pool and hot tub, and a huge meadow for building snow people and igloos are all on the agenda at Alta Crystal Resort.
Winter Play Bellingham bursts with beauty—water views, food, beer, friendly locals, plus the main part of town is easily accessible and filled with shopping and sights. To get a taste of the town’s rich and colorful past we recommend taking a walking tour with The Good Time Girls. Kids love the enthusiastic costumed guides and their enthralling stories. Take a self-guided history tour, or embark on a Whatcom County Culture Crawl, a family-friendly adventure that promotes the region’s art and cultural venues. What’s new? Tweens and Teens will love the all ages music/art venue downtown called The Blue Room.
Stroll and peruse downtown Fairhaven where you’ll find Village Books, a fantastic general bookstore with a huge kids section, and the Old Independent Coffee House, a local legend. The new Farm to Table Trail pass is available and a fabulous way to savor and sip throughout the region. With 14 breweries for just 90,000 people, Bellingham has become a beer mecca. Boundary Bay was the first, and families can enjoy relaxed outdoor seating with individual fire pits that truly warm the entire table. Bellingham is for foodies, too. Whether you enjoy vegan food, have someone who is gluten-free, or just want a good deal, Bellingham has you covered.
Insider Tip: We recommend coming in or out of Bellingham by the Chuckanut Drive scenic byway for gorgeous, winding ocean views.
Where to Stay Dine or stay at lovely The Chrysalis Inn & Spa, with views of the bay and easy access to Taylor Dock, the walking-on-water trail which connects Fairhaven to the Bellingham Farmer’s Market area, two miles north. A notable side trip? Washington's iconic Mt. Baker is a small and accessible ski resort with powder stats that make snow-lovers swoon.
Winter Play Want a Western-style winter escape? Grab the little cow pokes and head to Winthrop for a snowy rodeo. The whole town is straight out of the movie, High Noon. Wooden sidewalks, saloon-style entrances, and old-timey fun make this destination unique. First stop: Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe for the small fry sweet tooth. Enjoy a scoop of ice cream or suck on old-fashioned candy. Locals love coffee and cinnamon rolls at Rocking Horse Bakery or a greasy spoon breakfast at Three Fingers Jack Saloon. Peruse the town, Trails End bookstore is a must. Then eat at Old Schoolhouse Brewery by the river or at the renowned East 20 Pizza. Afterwards, go ice skating at the Winthrop Ice Rink. The NHL regulation ice hosts a variety of events—like free skate, figure skating, and hockey—and the 6,000-square-foot changing room has rentals, hot showers, and even ping pong tables.
Where to Stay Stay at Sun Mountain Lodge, the largest cross-country skiing resort in the country, with 60 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails just outside your resort room door. Their ski shop is open and there is snow. The Methow Valley Trails are groomed, and many are already open. Strap on those skinny skis (rentals available on-site) and get out there. After the snow angels are made, grab some hot cocoa and plan the day. Choose from snowshoeing, sledding, on-site sleigh rides, Alti Hok (a cool import from Northwest China), and downhill skiing at Loup Loup Ski Bowl. Don’t forget to check for Sun Mountain Lodge’s game room where you’ll find ping pong, foosball, and pool tables for indoor amusement. For an in-town experience, hunker down in a cozy cabin at Rivers Edge Resort.
Winter Play Sleigh bells ring, are you listenin’? Leavenworth should be on every Seattle family’s winter travel list, with not one, but three different sleigh ride offerings. Leavenworth dazzles with half a million lights that will be turned on nightly through December 24th. Aptly named Christmastown, the village houses a Nutcracker Museum, themed gift stores, a gingerbread house exhibition, carolers, festive outdoor restaurants, and a litany of libations for Littles and their parents. Don’t forget the sweets. New to town, Crepe Café Sisters offers savory and sweet mouth-watering crepes, or celebrate the season with baked yummies at The Gingerbread Factory.
With an average of 89 inches of snow every year, you’re pretty much guaranteed to enjoy the white stuff during your visit. Snow permitting, the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club has a vast array of sports for your amusement, including the only ski jumping facility on the West Coast and the uber popular tubing hill. They also host snowshoeing, sledding, and snow biking. One notable excursion is the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, open year-round. The look on the children’s faces when they see a reindeer for the first time is pure wonder.
Where to Stay After all the excitement, there is no better place to get your hygge vibe on than Sleeping Lady Resort. Dinner is a delicious seasonal chef’s menu with locally sourced ingredients, or grab quick snacks at O’Grady’s before taking a self-guided art walk around the property, listening to Icicle Creek gurgling nearby. For beds close to the twinkling lights of town, check into Bavarian Lodge or Icicle Village Resort.
Winter Play The best time to visit the San Juan Islands is whenever you can get there. This “off-season” destination is a quiet haven for families looking to connect with nature and each other. Hiking, mountain biking, storm watching, warm fireside drinks and games, and the “bustling” Eastsound are all a draw for families visiting the island. After a seaside drive, stop at family-friendly Orcas Island Winery set outdoors by a beautiful barn—it makes for a picturesque sip and savor. Take a hike up Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juans, for mind-blowing views. The Madrona Bar & Grill has great fish options, Mijitas Mexican take-out is a delicious win-win for the fam, and Brown Bear Baking is a staple for a quick sweet treat or sandwich. New notable restaurants—Norbu’s in the Orcas Hotel and Monti, a Roman-inspired eatery in downtown Eastsound. Shipbay Inn and Restaurant is family-owned and run, a lovely option for food as well as a place to stay. They have cottage-style rooms with balconies on a bluff with a great view. Shopping highlights include Forest Ceramic Gallery, Wanderlust + Wildhearts, and Island Thyme, although any boutique is sure to please.
Where to Stay Stay at the Outlook Inn on Orcas Island, overlooking the much-photographed Indian Island. Explore the secret garden in back for ball games and the private lawn deck across the street for sunset and avian viewing. Consider requesting the newer addition cabins across from the main hotel with unparalleled views. Another great option is Doe Bay Resort and Retreat, well-known for its eco-friendly ethos. Guests can partake in guided ecology hikes with general manager River Augenstein. Afterall, it’s never too early to get the kids interested in the environment and the outdoors.
Winter Play Olympic athletes, celeb sightings, and chic ski-style all help create of the mystique of Sun Valley. No wonder Seattle families have had a long love affair with this area. The snow-covered mountain provides breathless thrills with 3,400 vertical feet and over 2,000 acres of varied terrain, plus a recent 380-acre skiing expansion on Bald Mountain. The Cold Springs lift has been replaced by an express quad lift. Kids can mix it up with sledding, snowmobiling, ice biking, or cross-country skiing. Consider enrolling them in SnowSports School to improve those skills. Guests enjoy even more varied terrain this season with an additional 79 acres of gladed skiing made possible by the Bald Mountain Stewardship Project, part of the Healthy Forest Initiative.
For equipment rentals look no farther than Ski Butlers, the easiest ski and snowboard rental process in town. The ice skating rink is always a highlight, and afterwards head to Duchin Lounge for an après-ski adult bevvie.
Non-ski adventures abound as well. Try Dark Sky Watching at the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, take a stroll on the Wood River Trail, a 20-plus-mile paved, multi-use, year-round path. The Sun Valley Culinary institute offers year-round culinary classes and experiences for all palates and ages.
Insider Tip: Mark your calendar for February 4, 2023 for the Zion Bank Boulder Mountain Tour, and March 29–April 2, 2023 for the Sun Valley Film Festival. Both are great reasons to visit the area.
Where to Stay Knob Hill Inn Sun Valley is an oasis within an oasis. Located in the heart of Ketchum, this boutique mini chalet is steps away from shops, dining and art, and Knob Hill Inn’s suites are well designed for families. Chocoholics will love the hotel’s hot cocoa station. Everyone will love the Mediterranean-style hot tub and pool with garage door walls. While you soak in the heat, the kiddos splash in the pool, as fresh air and snow swirl just outside.
Winter Play Lake Chelan is summer personified, but it’s during the winter when the heart of the community shows its festive spirit. Events and activities abound, and the crowds are gone. Lake Chelan’s deep, blue water is cradled by a semi-desert climate, hills and vines. This season join the locals for wine tastings, winter lights lit all season long, and the town’s annual Winterfest celebration. Running January 13-22, 2023 your tinies will be in awe as fireworks reflect off of snowy peaks during this celebration. After shopping, dining, and photographing the intricate ice sculptures around town, get your snow vibe on with cross-country skiing at the Echo Ridge Nordic Ski Area, tubing at Echo Valley's Family Ski Area, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowboarding, all just a few miles away. When you’re ready to come in from the cold, it’s time to bowl at Chelan Lanes where families will find arcade games, billiards and J’s Lane Eleven restaurant.
Where to Stay Stay at family-owned and operated since 1901, Campbell’s Resort, with guest rooms and dining right on the shores of the lake. The Lookout, which offers vacation homes for nightly rental, is another easy option for families, especially when you’ve got tots or babies in tow.
It’s that time of year in North Texas when, unless there’s a body of water nearby, it can be too hot to play outdoors for hours on end. Take a break from the heat and head to an indoor playground for kids. We found all the spots that offer pretend play, climbing, crafts, and STEM activities, perfect for a summer day. Find your new favorite indoor playground in Dallas (and beyond) below!
With a slew of DFW locations to choose from, there’s one of these fun indoor playgrounds somewhere near you. Play Street Museum is an interactive children’s museum purposefully designed to encourage a young child’s sense of independence, exploration, and creativity. By narrowing the focus of our museums to the interests and imaginations of children eight and under, young explorers will discover educational exhibits and activities in a world specifically crafted just for them. Because of our deliberate and manageable scale, children can self-navigate throughout the museum to engage deeply in activities that they are most interested in and passionate about.
Dallas, McKinney, Plano, Fort Worth, Allen, and Murphy (Mansfield opening soon!)
Located inside the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, this museum targets the Museum’s youngest guests—ages birth to eight—and those who care for them. There is a healthy kids clinic, an infant/toddler developmental space, a parent resource room that also serves as a multi-purpose space, a family restroom, a nursing room for mothers, and a natural science space.
1600 Gendy Street
Fort Worth, TX Online: fwmuseum.org
Gabby Cullen
LEGO Discovery Center
Kids of all ages love the LEGO center! There are amusement rides, a LEGO mini-version of Dallas-Fort Worth complete with the Dallas mansion, plenty of places to build their creations, and the super-cool LEGO Ninjago City adventure, where kids can navigate obstacle course challenges, master the art of Spinjitzu and learn how to harness the power of water on spin decks.
Not just a trampoline park, this indoor mecca has Ninja Warrior courses, zip lines, ropes courses, tube playgrounds, climbing walls, and (in some locations) laser tag, mini-golf, arcades, and more. There’s also an area just for kids ages seven and under, and if you buy the monthly membership, you’ll save serious cash, as it pays for itself in just four visits!
This spot is as adorable as it is fun for the little ones. It is a safari-themed spot where imaginations run wild. There are loads of opportunities for pretend play, STEM toys, and developing fine motor skills, all while having fun! Look for special music events and parent’s night out drop-offs.
3245 Main St., Ste 239 Frisco, TX Online: eqkidsclub.com
Moody Family Children’s Museum at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Dive into a world on your scale! Roam, play, and discover together on an adventure filled with an indoor nature hike, exploring a pint-sized farmer’s market, splashing at the water play table, and crawling up, over, and through just about everything in sight. The Children’s Museum is for children ages five and under with their adult companions. Kids will especially love climbing up, down, and around the kid-sized version of the Dallas skyline.
A huge indoor city just for kids? Yes, please. You’ll be able to spend an entire day at this indoor play space that lets the kids be the boss—literally. They can investigate a crime scene, shop for groceries, save lives in an emergency room, and anything else you can imagine that goes on in a city. They can even report the daily news!
This lovely Montessori-inspired has both an indoor space and an outdoor space. Kids will enjoy the simple toys and engaging projects, and parents will love the wifi and coffee bar.
This spot features an indoor playground, a make-your-own crayon station, and a place to create computer drawings that you can color. With 25 hands-on activities, you can spend the whole day here and not get bored. Kids can climb in the Color Playground and take a snack break at the cafe inside.
The Shops at Willow Bend
6121 W Park Blvd, Suite A100
Plano, TX Online: crayolaexperience.com
EKids
This is a newer space located in Rockwall County. Kids can play in the mini town, solve mysteries, play on the indoor slide, make arts and crafts, and more. There’s even a special time just for toddlers.
Many kids have a natural love of science, technology, engineering and math. Whether your little one loves trees or trestles, exposing them to STEM concepts early on can spark a life-long love of learning. From code-breaking to robotics to space exploration, we soused out the best immersive experiences for STEM-based fun. Read on for our top picks on where to take tots through tweens for adventures in STEM.
Nature Center and Planetarium We are so fortunate to live an area rich with trails, parks and nature centers. Getting even the youngest children out and up close with critters and trees is a great way to foster a love of STEM. Find one near you or head to one of the most unique around. Rock Creek Nature Center and Planetarium is home to the only planetarium in a national park anywhere in the country. The nature center is full of hands-on activities. Pick up a map outside of the nature center to take a self-guided hike (long or short) through the park to learn about the native plants and species. While there be sure to seek out the horse stables and Capitol Stones.
Editor's Note: The nature center and planetarium are currently closed due to COVID.
KIDMusuem A new STEM center is opening May 22. The KIDMuseum has rotating ideas for hands-on activities for kids in elementary school through middle school. At this flagship location, kids can explore coding, robotics, engineering design, and hands-on maker learning through open exploration every Sunday. During the week, this unique makerspace will be used for field trips, camps and other special events.
Artechouse Even kids who don't naturally love STEM will love seeing how art and technology intersect at Artechouse. Most exhibits are family-friendly and highly interactive. Once children experience the different ways technology can be used to create a fun and immersive experience they may start asking more questions about the role of technology in their own lives. Don's miss the XR bar where kids can enjoy themed mocktails with a techy-twist. Grown-up versions are available too.
1238 Maryland Ave. SW L'Enfant Plaza Online: artechouse.com
The International Spy Museum Small spies in the making will love learning about code-breaking, forensics, disguises and more at the Spy Museum. Even the youngest visitors will have fun trying their hand at catching a family member telling a lie, finding a secret drop location and marveling at the ingenious ways scientists throughout the years have helped spies get information that shaped history and catch the bad guys.
700 L'Enfant Plaza SW Downtown Online: spymuseum.org
Maryland Science Center
Maryland Science Center With three stories of nothing but STEM exhibits, the Maryland Science Center is full of hands-on learning activities for toddlers through teens. Start with dinosaurs, move on to hoisting yourself up using ropes and pullies and then try a hands-on engineering activity in The Shed or science experiment in the SciLab. Younger visitors can explore the Kid's Room to learn about cause and effect and construct waterways. Don't miss the museum's planetarium and special events including Bubble Day.
The Art & Industries Building The Arts & Industries Building, next to the Smithsonian Castle, recently reopened after being closed for 20 years. The FUTURES exhibit that the Smithsonian launched as part of the grand re-opening was worth the wait. Even young children will marvel at an AI rover, a Planetary Society space sail designed for deep space travel, the first full-scale geodesic dome built in North America and more. Throughout FUTURES, kids will learn about how problems were solved using scientific concepts in the past and how the same might be done in years to come. Older children might want to spend hours problem-solving through video games. The exhibit runs through July 6, 2022.
Air & Space Museum The DC area is lucky enough to be home to two incredible Air & Space Museum locations. Both teach kids of all ages STEM concepts using planes, rockets, space ships and more. Any child who loves space or things that fly will love exploring everything the museum offers. Look for hands-on activities, storytimes with books ranging from space exploration to the history of flight, planetarium shows featuring everything from the night sky to Big Bird on the moon and more. Can't make it in person? The museum hosts online events as well.
Editor's Note:The DC location of the Air & Space museum is temporarily closed through Fall 2022.
National Children's Museum It's never too early for kids to start learning about STEAM. The National Children's Museum features exhibits on data collection, engineering and tech. Think that's too complex for your little one? Not at all. All of these concepts are presented in extremely tot-friendly ways. Kids will learn hands-on in the Tinker Studio, by creating racing cars and getting pom-poms to float in the air. Check the museum's schedule for STEAM Storytime and other special events.
Port Discovery Museum Head to the massive Port Discovery Museum to get wet while learning about the wonders of water and explore basic math skills in the immersive on-site gas station and diner. Kids can also build to their heart's content in The Port, while also learning about how their toys and food travel around the world to make it to their home. There are also plenty of opportunities for kids to get active at the museum's indoor stadium and three-story climber.
Let’s just all agree—eggs are pretty amazing! They are surprisingly strong and you can use them to do all sorts of STEM activities to learn about osmosis, strength, air pressure and physics. Use your bounty of Easter eggs to try out some of these science experiments with eggs!
Walk on Eggs
Photo: S. Massey
How can you walk on eggs without breaking them? An egg’s unique shape gives it tremendous strength, despite its seeming fragility.
Insider tip: if this science experiment has you in the mood for eggs, check out our list of the best egg-cellent egg recipes for kids.
Make Eggs Magical
This “look ma, no hands, wires or mirrors” trick will get them every time; an egg being sucked into a jar while your little scientist delightedly looks on is always a hit. To perform this illusory feat, you’ll need a glass jar with an opening just smaller than an egg (think: old school milk jug) and a peeled, boiled egg. When you and your little scientist have checked these items off your list, it’s time to start the show. Mom or dad should toss a lit match into the glass jar, followed by your mini lab assistant, who’ll quickly set the egg over the opening. Abracadabra! Alakazam! The match dies out; the egg gets (seemingly) inexplicably sucked into the bottle. And just like that you’ve performed another bit of parent magic without breaking a sweat.
Why it works: The match uses up the air inside the bottle. Once that happens the pressure outside the bottle is greater and pushes the egg down into the bottle.
You may have seen this science experiment with eggs make its way around TikTok this past summer with people trying to crush an egg with their biceps. You'll find the science behind it described on Science-Sparks and everyone will be cringing when little hands put the big squeeze on a fragile egg. Try as you might, that baby won’t break (until you crack it into a pan to make breakfast for dinner afterward).
Brain Boost Factor: The egg’s shape is clearly stronger than it looks.
Can you and the kiddos solve the mysterious case of the disappearing egg shell? Following the simple how-to at Go Science Kids, you’ll learn the step-by-step and talking points about the process along the way. Warning! Although it’s totally non-toxic, toddler aged kids will be tempted to squeeze the egg at the end so keep an eye out!
Crystal Egg Geodes
This grow-your-own experiment that lets you grow crystals inside an egg shell. Be sure to get alum powder that contains potassium, or else you won't get any crystal growth. Adding drops of food dye to the growing solution yields some super cool crystals. A perfectly formed geode takes about 12-15 hours to grow, making this a great weekend project. Get the full scoop on how to do it from Learn to Grow.
The Egg Drop Challenge
If you have fond memories of building your own egg drop contraption for high school Physics class, this is a great one to share with the kids. They'll love learning all the science behind what can protect the egg and constructing their own egg drop contraption. Get the full scoop here.
Eggs and Osmosis
Teach kids all about how liquids pass through semi-permeable membranes in this fun science experiment with eggs from the QuadSquad.
Make a Folding Egg
Kids will love being able to bounce this egg between their hands and fold it up into their pocket during this egg science experiment. How does it work? Steve Spangler shows you in this video.
From baking soda volcanoes to magnet car races, I’ve explored many STEM activities with children over the years. And the number one thing I’ve learned is that no child will enjoy an activity that they are not developmentally ready to tackle. At the end of the day, learning about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is all about the experience, not the end result. If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “I’m not a scientist, I don’t know where to start,” my advice is to start with the basics and play to your child’s developmental level.
Which STEM Activities Should I Avoid with My Kid?
Analyzing the “red flags” and “green flags” of a potential activity can help you determine what activities are appropriate for your child. So what are some red flags? Choking hazards (small items that fit inside a choke tube or toilet paper roll), chemicals, anything that can be inhaled and items that previously held dangerous contents that could confuse children as to what’s inside (like a spray bottle used for cleaning that you are repurposing for water) are just a few. If your child isn’t ready to handle these items without being in danger, you will know the activity is not appropriate for him or her.
Green flags include using recyclable household items for stacking and anything sensory. The messier, the better! If you’re mess-adverse or your child has a sensory disorder, you can always put the sand, paint, etc., in a clear, plastic bag for easy clean up and to serve as a barrier from your hands. Filling and dumping is an activity that is safe for all ages when you use age appropriate materials and is a basic building block of STEM knowledge.
Most importantly, remember you can always keep it simple when it comes to STEM play. For really little kids, STEM might not even look like how adults see it. But simple concepts like ice melting, mixing colors, stacking blocks, things lighting up and more–concepts that we take for granted–really form the base of STEM development.
Here Are Some Age-Appropriate STEM Activities to Incorporate into Playtime:
For 2-Year-Olds: Rolling on Ramps
Create ramps of various sizes and heights using a variety of materials. Then, have your children roll toys down the ramp to identify how objects move. Ask open-ended questions as your kids adjust their ramps and experiment with many toys, identifying why some objects roll down the ramp and some do not.
List of Materials: Flat materials to create ramps (such as large cardboard box scraps, plastic balance beams, poster board), propped materials to anchor the ramp and adjust the height (such as a chair or box), various toys which may or may not roll (such as cars, balls, plush toys).
For 3- to 5-Year-Olds: Rocket Launch
Help your child make a rocket to propel towards the sky! Use safety scissors to cut rocket shapes out of construction paper and adorn the paper rocket with stickers and markers. Tape the decorated rockets to one end of a coffee stir stick. Insert the stir stick into a drinking straw, and then blow on the end of the drinking straw. The rocket will launch! Explain that the force of the air from our breath is pushing the rocket upwards and that this is called propulsion.
List of Materials: Construction paper, child-safe scissors, crayons, tape, coffee stir sticks, drinking straws, markers, stickers
For School-Aged Kids: Crack the Code
Work with your kids to create a simple code for the English alphabet, inviting children to pretend the code was discovered by scientists exploring another planet. The code can consist of different combinations of shapes and colors to represent each letter, for example: A= one red triangle; B= a tall blue rectangle; C= one yellow circle, and so on. Post the code key on a large poster, and let your child decipher messages by matching the letters to the symbols. Use the alien code to write their names or spell secret messages for friends!
List of Materials: Poster board, construction paper, writing utensils, markers, crayons, stencils
For more STEM-based activities you can do at home, visit KiddieAcademy.com.
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Joy has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. As Vice President of Education at Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care, she oversees all things curriculum, assessment, training and more. Joy earned a B.S. in Education from Salisbury University.
Family outings to museums aren’t just a great way to learn about something new—they’re also a great way to have fun. From interacting with Elephant & Piggie to immersing yourself in Harry Potter’s Wizarding World, we found the best can’t-miss traveling museum exhibits from coast to coast. Read on to discover some nearby and some that are worth a drive.
WildKratts
WildKratts: Creature Power! & Ocean Adventures!
Fans of WildKratts will be thrilled to learn that there are not just one, but two exhibits based on the hit PBS series crisscrossing the country. Both exhibits are highly interactive and immerse children in the world of animals. Kids will learn about various habitats while trying to defeat a cast of nefarious villains. Catch them both to ensure you don't miss any WildKratts fun!
Locations: Lansing, MI, Atlanta, GA, Farmington, NM, Portsmouth, VA, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Jersey City, NJ & Midland, TX
No two visits to Wonderspaces are the same. Immersive and interactive exhibits at all the locations change throughout the year, so there is always a new artist to discover and something new to see. Most exhibits are family friendly, but signature cocktails are available for grown-ups!
Locations: Scottsdale, Philadelphia, San Diego & Austin
Kids are just as curious as Curious George! In this exhibit, kids will join the mischievous monkey in a variety of STEM activities, including planning a space adventure, using wind power to move different objects and using physics concepts while playing a round of mini-golf.
Locations: Brownville, TX, The Woodlands, TX, Kansas City, MO, Topeka, KS, Appleton, WI, Smyrna, TN & Naples, FL
Fans of Daniel Tiger will love helping the cub solve problems, sort packages and make new friends at school in the Neighborhood. Children can also try their hand at playing musical instruments and leave a thank you note for someone special on the Thank You Tree.
This interactive exhibit, like the beloved film, helps visitors of all ages understand the emotions of joy, sadness, anger, disgust and fear. Through hands-on and digital experiences, children will think about how an important memory makes them feel, how to recognize when someone is sad and how to use their imaginations to create their very own story.
Kristi Jan Hoover via Pittsburgh Children's Museum
Rube Goldberg: The World of Hilarious Invention Exhibit
There is nothing quite like playing with a Rube Goldberg machine. This exhibit makes STEAM fun as visitors interact with 3-D, life-sized contraptions to see how engineering principals work in the real world.
The Pigeon Comes to *Your City Here* A Mo Willems Exhibit
Several of Mo Willems' beloved characters make an appearance in this exhibit full of antics and opportunities to create art. Have a two-way conversation with Elephant and Piggie, find Knuffle Bunny in a spinning washing machine and toss hot dogs at The Pigeon. Plenty of opportunities for dress-up abounds, including finding the perfect clothing for a Naked Mole Rat and taking a wearable bus for a spin.
Locations: Pittsburgh, PA, Jersey City, NJ & Grand Rapids, MI
Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit
This exhibit takes visitors inside the pages of five of Eric Carle’s classic books: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Quiet Cricket, The Very Lonely Firefly, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle and The Very Busy Spider. Young visitors can follow the path of the world's most famous caterpillar, weave a web and create their artwork inspired by the iconic artist.
Locations: Miami & Ft. Lauderdale, FL & Baltimore, MD
Go way, way back in time to walk among the dinosaurs. If you dare, put on a pair of VR goggles to become fully immersed in the Jurassic period. Then, marvel at a one-of-a-kind interactive prehistoric aquarium wall and test your knowledge of everything Dino at the Budding Experts station.
Locations: Seattle WA, Washington, DC & Los Angeles, CA
Artechouse is where art and technology collide. Each location features exhibits that go beyond a painting in a frame to showcase what is possible when creatives use innovative mediums and move beyond paint and clay. Shows change throughout the year. Most are highly interactive and need to be experienced to be appreciated. Even drinks served on-site feature VR technology.
Locations: Washington, DC, New York City, NY & Miami Beach, FL
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes to life in this new exhibition Muggles and witches alike can visit Harry's bedroom under the stairs, Hogwarts, the Forbidden Forrest and more. In this highly interactive visitors will practice Defense Against the Dark Arts, brew potions and use their wands to perform spells.
Location: Currently in Philadelphia, PA with more locations to come.
All aboard! Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails! is an interactive exhibit inspired by the popular children’s series now on Nick Jr. Playful learning experiences that feature engines and destinations from the show will engage children and their families in foundational skills that foster STEM literacy. Visitors to the exhibit will be delighted as they find themselves surrounded by the Island of Sodor’s iconic locations: Knapford Station, Sodor Steamworks and much more. In the exhibit, children help Thomas and his friends solve a variety of challenges, from a sorting and shape identification activity to more complex engineering obstacles like completing a train track using pieces with different levels of elevation. As children encounter new challenges and test their abilities, the smiling faces of Thomas, Percy, Victor and others are there to offer encouragement and remind children how “really useful” they all are.
Locations: Washington, DC, Danville, VA, St. Paul, MN, Wichita, KS & Bettendorf, IA
Seeing Frida Kahlo's work and life displayed as larger-than-life might be the best way to experience her world of magical realism for yourself. The iconic artist combined parts of everyday life with the fantastical. This exhibit explores Khalo's influences alongside her famous paintings, so you will walk away with a deeper understanding of what inspired her to create.
Note for parents: This exhibit has depictions of human hearts, blood and arrows that younger children might find difficult.
Locations: Boston, MA, Chicago, IL, Dallas, TX, Denver, CO, Houston, TX, Los Angeles, CA, Pittsburgh, PA, San Francisco, CA & Toronto
Now you don't need to travel to New York, Paris, Moscow or Barcelona to see some of Picasso's most stunning paintings. If you can make it to San Francisco or Atlanta, you can see some of the modern artist's famous works together and in an entirely different way. Although this exhibit does include a gallery wall to help familiarize visitors with some of Picasso's work, the real attraction is seeing the larger-than-life projections that cover nearly every inch of space. All of this is accompanied by musical selections that set the mood.
Even minimalists will love the maximalist, interactive exhibits at Meow Wolf's three locations. A completely immersive experience, walking into these large-scale displays is like being transported into a fantastical, fairy-tale world. These out-of-this-world displays are created by a collective of multi-media artists, so each site has different but equally thrilling themes.
Locations: Santa Fe, NM, Las Vegas, NV, & Denver, CO.
