Keep your crew entertained even after the presents are open with these city adventures

Christmas Day is almost here. You’ve baked all the cookies and seen all the lights; now you’re looking for something to do with the kids after the holiday hurrahs are over. Luckily, there are plenty of Christmas things to do in Portland, even on that special day. From hiking and watching old movies to taking a river cruise or a day trip, we’ve got lots of activities that’ll keep your kids busy after the main event. Pull on your matching sweaters, fill a thermos of hot cocoa, and head out to explore.

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1. Go See Christmas Lights

If you’ve already visited your neighborhood’s lights, take the family to Portland’s own Peacock Lane, filled with historic English-style cottages, which are all decked out in lights and decorations. A Portland tradition since the 1920s, there are two ways to see the houses: on foot and by car. If you’re staying in your car, visit at non-peak times, which are typically before 7 p.m. and after 10 p.m. Alternatively, head to the Portland International Raceway to be awed by the 250 illuminated holiday set pieces. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the “Largest Light Show West of the Mississippi.” So bring a thermos full of cocoa, adding some marshmallows for good measure, turn on the Christmas tunes and meander through a winter wonderland that is sure to leave a sparkle in your eye!  This is open evenings throughout December including on Christmas Day, but be sure to order tickets ahead of time so you’re guaranteed a spot. Peacock Lane is, as always, free.

Peacock Lane
Between S.E. Stark St. & S.E. Belmont St., one block east of S.E. 39th
Online: peacocklane.org

Portland International Raceway Holiday Light Show
1940 N. Victory Blvd.
Portland
Online: winterwonderlandportland.com

Related: Electric Avenues: Holiday Light Displays That Really Shine

The gingerbread display at Benson Hotel is something to do on Christmas Day in Portland
courtesy Benson Hotel

2. Marvel at Trees & a Gingerbread Display

Make it a downtown scavenger hunt: a tree, a gingerbread house, and more. At Pioneer Courthouse Square, you can visit the city’s holiday tree without the crowds on Christmas Day. The 75-foot Douglas-fir tree—provided each year by Stimson Lumber Company—will be lit up over 14,000 colorful lights. Bring some hot chocolate and treats for an extra magical experience.

Then, walk five blocks over to the Benson Hotel to spy their lobby gingerbread display, a tradition for over 50 years. This year's theme, Multnomah Falls, is surely one your kids will recognize. Made using 150 pounds of gingerbread, 50 pounds of marzipan, 20 pounds of chocolate, 10 pounds of Rice Krispies Treats, and more royal icing than you can image, it's truly a work for art. Our tip? After you've checked out this masterpiece, head to the Historic Stairwell and check out the hotel's mini museum featuring over 160 pictures of Portland's history.

Pioneer Courthouse Square
701 S.W. 6th Ave.
Portland
Online: thesquarepdx.org

Benson Hotel
S.W. Broadway
Portland
Online: bensonhotel.com

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3. Catch a Flick

You can’t beat the classic Christmas-at-a-movie-theater, so why even try. This year the big ticket shows are Puss in Boots: The Last Wish and the new Avatar: The Way of Water. All the area’s large theaters like Regal and Century are open, or head to McMenamins Baghdad or McMenamins Power Station to catch those flicks. For something slightly more festive, grab tickets at Vancouver’s sweet 1930s-era one-screen Kiggins Theater – they’re screening one showing each of Bing Crosby’s White Christmas, and The Bishop’s Wife, a Christmas rom-com with Cary Grant and Loretta Young from 1947.

Good to Know: The Moishe House will also be hosting a movie night complete with vegetarian Chinese food. RSVP if you want in on this event.

Kiggins Theater
1011 Main St.
Vancouver, WA
Online: kigginstheatre.com

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4. Head to the Coast

It’s a fact that the Oregon Coast is lovely in winter—maybe not in terms of weather, but in terms of less crowds, a rugged windswept beauty, and that cozy feeling of staying inside and playing games during a storm. Plus, winter storms tend to churn up more treasure for agate or seashell hunting. It’s also the season for clam digging and crabbing—clam diggers will want to watch for low tides when the beach is more exposed.

Check out Lincoln City’s Finders Keepers program for a fun treasure hunt. The city’s glassblowers drop surprise floats on the various beaches and if you find one, it’s yours to keep. This year, they’ll drop around 50 new floats from December 19 to 25. Good luck!

Alberto Cassetta via Unsplash

5. Explore the Great Outdoors

Whether it's a white Christmas or not, heading outside for some fresh air is a perfect way to get out the holiday wiggles. There are plenty of easy hikes around the city—at parks, arboretums, and in the Gorge. Without the leaves on the trees, you can even spot waterfalls and streams from further away. Be prepared with plenty of layers, water, hot drinks, and spare clothes.

Related: 8 Wondrous Hikes That Are Best in Winter

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6. Enjoy a River Cruise

For an especially magical day, book a ticket for Portland Spirit Cruise where you’ll spend time on the river from the desks of a 150-foot ship. This special two-hour cruise with a holiday buffet comes with holiday cheer and old-world charm as you take in the sights of the Willamette River. Choose from a morning or evening cruise—each comes with live music on a baby grand piano, desserts, and hot drinks.

Online: portlandspirit.com

a smiling boy dressed for winter comes down a snow tubing hill
Shutterstock

7. Hit the Slopes

From Cosmic Tubing to skiing, Mt. Hood is a winter playland where the fun doesn't stop on Christmas Day. Bring your own sled and scope out some excellent tubing or sledding spots, or strap the kids in to find some snowshoe trails. For official slopes, there's plenty of skiing options on the mountain. And be sure to check out Mt. Hood Skibowl for the world's only Cosmic Tubing®. Enjoy over 600,000 LED lights, laser light shows, black lights, colored lights, rocking music, and even dual conveyor lifts dedicated to tubing. It's great fun for the whole family.

Online: skibowl.com

Related: Snow Much Fun! 8 Places to Go Sledding & Tubing

a mom gives a kid a kiss at a christmas decorated restaurant in seattle aromory
iStock

8. Sit Down at One of These Restaurants Open on Christmas Day

If you need a break from the holiday cooking, let one of Portland’s restaurants take the burden off your shoulders. Many are open on Christmas Day– for something more upscale head to Jake’s Grill or McCormick and Schmidt’s. At JinJu Patisserie you can enjoy some of the city’s best croissants along with eye-catching desserts and flavors. And at Prost, enjoy a pretzel or curry wurst while you travel the length of Germany, in beer (minors welcome until 8pm).

Looking for things to do in Chicago with your family that won’t cost a fortune? This list of free events for kids will keep you busy all November long

Keeping a family entertained, particularly in a big city, can deflate the wallet rather quickly. Teach your family the value of a dollar by exploring the free (or, at the very least, the incredibly cheap) things you do in Chicago with kids. Although there are countless new free events happening every week, we gathered up our top overall picks for November, which add up to a whole wealth of fun. You’ll be busy all month long! Plus, it’s easy on your pocketbook. You can thank us later.

Free Kid-Friendly Events around Chicago in November

Nov. 2: Free Admission at Field Museum - If you're an Illinois resident, enjoy Free Admission Day at the Field Museum! This is an awesome opportunity to explore such a cool museum. Event details.

Nov. 1: Visit MSI Free - Visit the Museum of Science & Industry for free (if you're an Illinois resident) on this day! Check their calendar each month to find more free days. Event details.

Nov. 2: Free Night at Adler Planetarium - The Adler Planetarium is open and free on Wednesday nights to Illinois residents. See space from a different perspective! Event details.

Nov. 4: Take a Naturalist Class - Take your kiddo to the Garfield Conservatory and let them learn to be a roving naturalist! They'll take part in activities and learn about science and plants. Event details.

Nov. 19: See the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights Display - Any Monday after November 19th, go to the Lincoln Park Zoo and check out their amazing zoo lights display! The whole family will love it. Event details.

Nov. 4: Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at the Center for Arts & Technology - Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at the Chicago Center for Arts & Technology with food and festivities. Event details.

Nov. 4: Celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Marquette Park - Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with your family at Marquette Park. There will be music, games, and celebration. Event details.

Nov. 5: Check out 'Scopes the City at LaBaugh Woods - Set your sights on Jupiter, Saturn, and the Moon at a free 'Scopes the City event! See stars, eat s'mores, and swap stories in LaBaugh Woods. Event Details.

Nov. 5: Compost Your Pumpkin at Plant Chicago - Bring your pumpkins to be composted and smashed at Plant Chicago! Event details.

dads color with their son
istock

Nov. 6: Enjoy a Fall Fest - Bring the family to a fall fest and explore a truck, have some donuts & s'mores, and even pet baby goats! Event details.

Nov. 7: Star-Gaze in the Park - Take the family star-gazing in Bloomingdale Trail Park and see some amazing sights! Event details.

Nov. 8: Visit MSI for Free - As an Illinois resident, you have a second opportunity to visit the Museum of Science & Industry for free! Event details. 

Nov. 12: Make Art at Chesterton Art Center - Explore and create art with the family at the Chesterton Art Center. You'll all love creating art together! Event details.

Nov. 12: Listen to Captain America Story Time - Take your kids to meet Captain America and hear stories read by him. It'll be a day they won't soon forget! Event details.

Nov. 19: See the Magnificent Mile Holiday Lights - Check out the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival at 11am for all sorts of family festivities or at 5:30pm for the parade! Event details.

Nov. 12: Check out Family Day at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago - Take part in workshops, open studio sessions, gallery tours, and more. Event details.

Nov. 19: Try a Free Throw Contest - If your kiddo is at least 9 years old, but under 13, bring them to a basketball free throw contest at West Lawn Park! Event details.

Nov. 19: Enjoy a Jam Session - Let the kids dance and sing during a jam session with Miss Dawn. They'll have a blast! Event details.

Free Museums and Zoos around Chicago in November

Lincoln Park Zoo

things to do in chicago with kids
Taylor Clifton

It’s full of creatures big and small, it has the perfect lakeside address with gobs of family activities and restaurants all around it, it’s gorgeous . . . and, it’s free! What’s not to love about Lincoln Park Zoo? Plan a day spent at the zoo visiting hundreds of animals from around the world, including critically endangered animals and species that are extinct in the wild.

Online: lpzoo.org

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Visit the historic Victorian building that is the Lincoln Park Conservatory! There you will see all kinds of amazing and beautiful plants that wow your kids and keep you coming back. Admission is free.

Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Related: 8 Hidden Gems in Chicago That You Definitely Need to Experience

National Museum of Mexican Art

National Museum of Mexican Art

See a colorful new world unfold at the free-admission National Museum of Mexican Art. The 10,000-piece permanent collection spans ancient Mexico to the present day, and is one of the largest in the country.

Online: nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

Free Cultural Sites in Chicago

Cloud Gate

things to do in chicago with kids
Conner Freeman on Unsplash

If you've never heard of Cloud Gate, chances are you are well-versed in this free tourist destination thanks to its more popular name based on its peculiar shape, The Bean. Located in Millennium Park, the lakefront attraction has become one of the most identifiable monuments in the city, and perhaps the most fun one to try to snap a selfie with.

Online: chicago.gov

Related: 20+ Things You MUST Do with a Baby in Chicago

Baha'i Temple

things to do in chicago with kids
Anthony Fomin on Unsplash

The beautiful domed building of the Baha'i Temple was constructed in 1953 and designed by French Canadian Louis Bourgeois. Just a stroll around the outside wows with architectural feats. Be sure to take time to check out the intricately carved stone pillars and surrounding manicured gardens during your visit.

Online: bahai.us

Related: Baha’i Temple Is Just One of Chicago’s Hidden Gems—Discover the Rest

Ping Tom Memorial Park

things to do in chicago with kids
Albany Capture on Unsplash

Expose kids to another culture in their own city with a walking tour through Chinatown. Start things off at Ping Tom Memorial Park, known for its traditional architecture and festive dragon boat races as well as gorgeous city skyline views. Then make your way through Chinatown Gate, which leads into “Old Chinatown,” where the area’s original restaurants, homes, churches, and schools are clustered. Don't forget to check out the Nine Dragon Wall, which is one of only three such replicas outside of China. And consider ending your trip with a stop at Legend Tasty House for delicious rolled ice cream.

Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Free Indoor Activities around Chicago in November

Nickel City

Five cents doesn’t get you very far these days, which is why Northbrook’s Nickel City is so refreshing. Games like Skee-Ball and Bozo Buckets take mere nickels instead of pricy tokens, and old-school arcade staples like Pac-Man and Mortal Kombat operate for free. 

Online: nickelcitygames.com

 

 

Photo: Rachel Jones-Pittier

Riding in the car that day you sat, as always, on my lap (which really meant taking up half the front seat). Daddy drove, and our meticulously packed duffel bag sat in the backseat. As we prepared to drop you off at Nana’s, it dawned on me – this might be the last time with just the three of us in the car together. Everything was about to change. And you, my sweet pup, would no longer be an “only child.”

Let’s be honest, you had it pretty good those first six years – doggy daycare, long scenic walks, a bed and toys at the office; you joined us for friends’ game nights, al fresco dinners and vacations. Some saw you just as a pet, we saw you as a family member. And we were about to add another family member – but human.

Four days after that tense drive (an eternity to you), we came home, but we weren’t alone. We brought a tiny, pungent, noisy… thing. It was hard to get a good look at it through the blanket, and you couldn’t understand why we guarded it so closely from your wet nose and eager tongue. Our nickname for the thing, “Baby Sissy,” only piqued your curiosity.

As much as we all hoped things at home would go back to normal, nighttime was anything but. Throughout the night we were interrupted by Baby Sissy’s sharp, demanding cries. I’m sure we wondered the same thing – how could a noise so loud come from something so small?? The days of snuggling up together for eight hours of uninterrupted sleep were gone.

Daytime was just as hectic. For awhile, I was not a good walk partner. A few times, Nana had to remind us to feed you. Your space was taken over by new toys and gear that you couldn’t play with. And your usual stroll around the yard for the perfect spot was cut short as we stood in the doorway with a crying… lump.

Friends had warned me that in the anxiety and sleep deprivation of those early weeks, we might take stress out on you. But it was actually the opposite – you were a reprieve. Though we loved your Baby Sissy immensely, there was so much about her that was new and unknown; but you were familiar. When I felt at my lowest, you were there to remind me it would be ok. When it seemed all Baby Sissy could do was take – my body, love, time and sleep – there you were to give. Uncomplicated, enthusiastic and overflowing with affection.

Those moments also reminded me that you’d make a great “Big Sissy.” It wasn’t overnight, but a wonderful thing happened in the time since we brought home the lump – a tiny human emerged.

Now you know Baby Sissy as the little person who drops tasty food scraps for you, squeals with delight when you enter a room and gives you whole-body hugs. We’re confident that for most of your days together, Baby Sissy will multiply the affection and love you receive – not take it away.

I know the first few months were hard on you, pup. Believe me, they were hard on us, too. But if there’s one thing I hope to communicate to you, it’s that you haven’t lost our love or your place in our family. You’ll always be my first baby.

 

Rachel Jones-Pittier
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Rachel Jones-Pittier is a millennial mom, marketer and writer based in the Twin Cities. She enjoys coffee shops, fawning over her adorable baby and dog and family trips to the cabin. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @rachrific.

Just because grandma and granddad are coming for a visit doesn’t mean you have to rocking-chair the day away. There are dozens of places to check out that appeal to multi-generational family members. Here are five Nana and Papa-approved spots to check out.

Photo: John Collins via Flickr

Mt. Vernon Estate
While there’s a ton of fun to be had at this historical site, it’s set at a pace that’s just right for grands and kids alike. You’ll be able to stroll around the grounds looking out over the Potomac River, visit farm animals and outbuildings; rest your feet with a wagon ride, fill up on roasted apples and listen to music from early America. Have an Ansel Adams in your group? This is the place to set up the tripod or just snap a few photos of the season so that made memories won’t be forgotten.

3200 Mount Vernon Hwy. (Alexandria, Va)
Online:  mountvernon.org

National Museum of African American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects–the good and the gut-wrenching–of the African American experience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family, and one that deserves return visits. Get more info on specific exhibits here.

1400 Constitution Ave., NW (National Mall)
Online: nmaahc.si.edu

The Butterfly Pavillion
Imagine being instantly surrounded by free-flying butterflies and exotic plants in shapes, sizes and colors you rarely see on your city block. That’s what happens when you visit the Butterfly Pavilion at the Museum of Natural History. The pavilion is open daily, but you can save the grands some money by going on a Tuesday when the exhibit is free. Online reservations are suggested.

1000 Constitution Ave., NW (Smithsonian)
Online: butterflies.si.edu

Matchbox Vintage Pizza Bistro
If your child loves pizza (and who doesn’t?), then Matchbox’s artisanal, brick-oven pizza is for you. They offer a variety of traditional and satisfying American fare, but it’s the pizza that really shines. Matchbox’s pizza ranges from simple cheese and pepperoni to prosciutto and chicken pesto.

Multiple locations in the DMV
Online: matchboxrestaurants.com

National Gallery of Art
New York, Paris, Munich, and Istanbul all boast magical modern art museums. Lucky for us, with the newly reopened East Building, D.C. also goes on the list as having another(!!) incredible place to view modern art. From Picasso to Matisse, de Toulouse-Lautrec to Calder, Pollock to Bearden, modern artists abound across the East Building. With original Disney posters, adult sized mobiles, and the biggest blue Rooster you’ve ever seen, there’s something for every artsy grandparent (and little one) in your crew.

Constitution Ave. between 3rd and 9th Sts. (National Mall)
Online: nga.gov

Where do you like to take out-of-town grandparents when they visit D.C.? Tell us in the comments below. 

–Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Need some retail therapy, but on mommy/daddy duty for the day? Get your fix anyways with our round-up of the best neighborhoods to window shop, where you can indulge your passion while your kids oohh and ahhh…without breaking a thing.

Photo: Dawn Price Baby via Facebook

Georgetown
What better place to window shop than D.C.’s own favorite shopping destination? There are plenty of stores for mom (think: Kate Spade, Zara, Hu’s Shoes, and The French Apartment) and kiddo alike (Tugooh Toys, Dawn Price Baby, Little Birdies Boutique, and Georgetown Candy Bar). Wisconsin Avenue and M Street might be the center of the neighborhood, but side streets like P have great secret spots too (Check out Ella Rue and Just Paper and Tea).

Online: dccool.com

Photo: ShashiBellamkonda via Flickr

Reston Town Center
Fountains, plazas, shops, restaurants, parking—what more could you want from this tiny neighborhood spot? Reston Town Center has evolved into one of the best shopping districts this side of the Potomac because of all the fun window displays. Whether you’re searching for something special, need a break from the monotony of the mall, or just want to cruise around outside, RTC is the place to be; Paper Source, South Moon Under, Anthropologie, and Francesca’s offer eye catching displays that might even have your kiddos saying “let’s go in!” There’s also Mayflowers, Bow Tie Cinemas, and Red Velvet Cupcakery that will definitely grab their attention.

Online: restontowncenter.com

Photo: Lettie Gooch via Facebook

U Street / Shaw
U Street might be one of the coolest nightspots, but it’s also a super fun spot to stroll along and window shop. Great inspiration for home décor, groovy clothes, cool music, and off the beaten path goodies dot the streets. Whether you’re looking for some place to walk (and shop!) with the kiddos, or you just want a different spot to wander, U Street and Shaw are the perfect mix of urban funk and family friendliness. Stores like Lettie Gooch, Millenium Decorative Arts, Junction, and Crossroads Trading Company will have you coming back for more.

Online: washington.org

Photo: Visit Annapolis via Facebook

Annapolis
Miniature sailors will love spending the day in Annapolis. From boats to ships, anchors to life vests, almost every window display is mesmerizingly nautical. A walk down Maryland Avenue will showcase the Lil Lamb Boutique, Ekka Hands that Create, the Annapolis Country Store and more. Turn down Main Street to see Kokopelli, Nautical North Charts & Maps, VIVO, and the Spice & Tea Exchange.

Online: visitannapolis.org

Photo: Old Town Boutique District via Facebook

Old Town Boutique District
Whether you love to shop in this century, or your heart lives in the past, the Old Town Boutique District is the perfect mixture of old and new. Windows abound with colorful jewelry, riding toys, home décor and more. Tucked down side streets are fabulous shops boasting vintage finds, rare antiques, candy and more. Little ones will love the fountains in the town square, and you’ll dig the variety King Street and the boutique district offers. Kiddos might just drift off to sleep with visions of fairies, and George Washington dancing in their heads. Some standout displays are housed in the windows of Pink and Brown, Lou Lou, Vintage Mirage and European County Living.

Online: oldtownboutiquedistrict.com

Photo: Hamad Masoumi via Flickr

Middleburg
If you’re looking for a quick getaway to stroll around, window shop and grab some lunch, then head out to Middleburg. With its quaint streets, and Hunt Country charm, the littles will be enthralled by horses, and you’ll feel the stress of the beltway roll off your back. A walk down Washington Street showcases treats from The Fun Shop, Hunt Country Yarns, Wylie Wagg, Christmas Sleigh, Richard Allen Clothiers, Salamander Touch and more. No need to travel all the way to England for a little bit of sophistication. Middleburg shopping is only a few short miles away.

Online: middleburgonline.com

Where do you go to window shop with your kids? Tell us in the comments below.

—Hilary Riedemann

Located in Gaithersburg, the Rio—known as the Rio Washingtonian Center—is a shopping and dining destination that isn’t for just the adult’s only crowd. This ever-expanding all-ages hot spot is filled with family fun. If you haven’t been to the picturesque hot spot, complete with its own lake, then it is time you and the kiddos check it out. Don’t be surprised when you find the hours slip away. You won’t be sorry, it is a day well-spent.

Have a Good Morning
Early morning risers are in for a treat when you take them for a stroll along the sidewalks and stop in at the Corner Bakery for a muffin and fresh-squeezed juice. The free parking at this sprawling outdoor mall makes it an easy a.m. transition.

Walk It Out
Whether you are chasing a toddler or pushing a carriage, a stroll around the lake (.9 miles) is just what the day ordered. The Rio has its own track that offers a gorgeous view, a chance to chase some geese or just feed them. Wellness tips along the way will keep you stepping.

Playdate Ready
Rio has a lakeside playground and a train that runs without a track. Take your time and do both! The train, the Washingtonian Express, runs all day (weather-permitting) and is located right next to California Pizza Kitchen—family-friendly noshing right around the corner. Run, skip or hop your way to the Adventure Playground for a swing, slide or climb. It’s highly interactive and a great way to pass the time. Wrap it all up with a ride on the new American-theme carousel. Dancing horses, two chariots and a many whimsical creatures offer seats for 30 tots and 38 adults to go for a spin.

Datenight Ready, Too
Love is in the air; better yet, on the water. Hop aboard a swan, pirate ship, dragon or pink flamingo paddle boat for an easy-going jaunt around the lake. The half-hour excursion begins by the patio near Guapo’s restaurant. Don’t worry if the weather has a chill or the rain falls down. The Rio has a Barnes & Noble and a Loew’s Cinema to duck into for a quiet moment.

 

Getting Hungry?
Before heading home, walk to dinner for a bite that is sure please everyone’s palate. The offerings include Mexican at Uncle Julio’s where tykes can see tortillas being made or crack a crab leg at Joe’s Crab Shack are a good bet.In addition to over a dozen eateries the Rio can handle any sugar attack. If a cupcake is in order Lilly Magilly can serve it up right. It’Sugar can compete with its giant array of sugary treats.

Do you have a favorite spot on the Rio in Gaithersburg? Tell us about it in the comments section below. 

Rio Washingtonian
231 Rio Blvd. (Gaithersburg, Md)
Open: 10 am-9 pm
Online: riowashingtonian.com

—Victoria Mason

Photos: Rio Washingtonian via Facebook and Lilly Magilly’s via Facebook

Sake bombs might not be on the menu for you anymore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get your sushi fix. Atlanta is full of tasty and tot-friendly sushi spots where you can introduce them to this fabulous food. Read on for some spots where you can teach the kiddo’s the finer points of chopsticks.

Nakato
Offering both Hibachi and a full sushi menu, Nakato has been serving Atlanta families since 1972. They have all the fun family Japanese dining experiences covered. You want an umbrella in your little ones drink? Check. How about a hibachi experience complete with an onion “volcano” and shrimp flying through the air? Done. Oh and the Sushi is great too! When they say that they are kid friendly, they are not kidding. We celebrated my son’s sixth birthday there; naturally he came dressed as a ninja. The staff was nothing but extremely warm and gracious and when they performed the traditional birthday procession everyone’s face lit up!
Address: 1776 Cheshire Bridge Rd.
Phone: 404-873-6582

Shoya Izakaya
Ask anyone in the know about Shoya and the two words you will always here are: authentic and delicious. Your kiddos will love the fun and lively atmosphere and you will love the melt-in-your –mouth sushi.  The menu is substantial and there is a lot to explore beyond the typical spicy tuna roll. There are plenty of yummy non-sushi items here too. Try the udon, ramen, or yakitori. And stick around for the sweets, the tempura fried ice cream and cream soda offer a sugar buzz worth indulging in!
Address: 6035 Peachtree Rd., Doraville
Phone: 770-457-5555

Harry & Sons
Harry & Son’s makes a fun family outing. After filling your little ones belly you can stroll around the very walkable Virginia Highland neighborhood. Serving both Thai and Japanese fare, and a menu that features everything from sushi to curries and noodles, you’ll find something for everyone.  The coconut soup and Super Crunch roll are kiddo favorites. If you can get out on a school night, they offer buy one get one half off deals for sushi rolls as well as $1.00 nigiri specials.
Address: 820 North Highland Ave. NE
Phone: 404-873-2009

Ichiban
If you call Northern Atlanta home, then chances are you already know that both Ichiban locations, Alpharetta and Cumming, are always high-energy and packed to the gills with families. Relax; no one is going to look at you funny if the little one drops his chopsticks! With a super friendly staff and reasonable prices Ichiban makes for a great “first-time” family sushi experience. They do a great Habachi dinner and they also serve up some very creative rolls. With names like Chicken of the Sea, Firecracker, and Optimus Prime even the pickiest of little eaters might be convinced to give sushi a go.

Phone: 770-772-6822 (Alpharetta), 770-888-2676 (Cumming)

The Park Tavern
Yup, you read that right. Park Tavern serves sushi. It’s true; nothing about this place says sushi. It’s a park and it’s a tavern. But here’s the thing: the sushi is delicious! The Park Tavern flies in wild caught Hawaiian sashimi-grade tuna and you can taste the quality. Stand out rolls include the Cowboy roll (made with spicy Wagyu steak and potatoes!) and the Big Kahuna. If the kiddos insist, they can always opt for traditional kids menu options. And the best part? You are steps away from Piedmont Park!
Address: 500 10th St. NE
Phone: 404-249-0001

With so many kid-friendly sushi spots in Atlanta, we couldn’t cover them all. Dish! What’s your favorite spot to grab sushi with the little ones?

—Candice Rose

Photos courtesy of Nakato Restaurant via Facebook and freeborn via Creative Commons via Flickr

We don’t have to tell you that living within SF’s city limits has it’s perks. But you may not know that now until March 22, one of them is free admission to The California Academy of Sciences. SF residents can walk “through” the ocean, stroll around the butterfly-filled rainforest, and oggle at a gorilla without dropping a dime during  “Neighborhood Free Weekends.” Here’s how to make the most of your gratis visit.

Ready, Set, Action! Ride a Rocking Snail, Pet A Sea Urchin, Experience An Earthquake
The Early Explorers Cove is a play zone for folks under five. Tiny tikes who are still in the sedentary stage can hang out on a rocking snail while the older, mobile kids get their sea legs on the H.M.S. Academy or run around in the “jungle”.

Shake it up with kids over three at the popular Earthquake exhibit. Strollers aren’t allowed in the Earthquake house, but you’ll find parking just outside.

 The Discovery Tidepool is fun for all ages. We heard squeals of delight from adults and toddlers alike who ventured to plunge their hands in the tank to pet an invertebrate.

Lunch and a Show
When you’ve had your fill of interactive activities and running around, head to The Terrace for a bite and a drink. Kids can refuel with an organic PB&J while while parents relax with a glass of wine or beer. (The second glass is free during Happy Hour from 2-4 p.m.). Proceed to the Morrison Planetarium to sit back and enjoy a show featuring more stars than any of the Hollywood movies.

Organizing Your Trip
Paying for standard entry for a family of four is more than $100, so taking advantage of your neighborhood’s free weekend is well worth it! (The standard entry cost is $35 for adults, $30 for teens aged 17 and under, and $25 for kids aged 4-11.) Adults can bring up to six kids each during the free weekends. Be sure to visit during the days allocated to your zip code.

Neighborhoods: Bernal Heights, Castro, Cole Valley, Glen Park, Haight, Lake Merced, Mission, Noe Valley, St. Francis Wood
Zip codes: 94110, 94114, 94117, 94127, 94131, 94132
Spring 2015 Free Days: Feb. 27, 28, Mar. 1

Neighborhoods: Parkside, Sunset
Zip codes: 94116, 94122
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 6, 7, 8

Neighborhoods: Chinatown, Marina, Nob Hill, North Beach, Presidio, Richmond, Russian Hill, Seacliff, Telegraph Hill, Western Addition
Zip codes: 94108, 94109, 94115, 94118, 94121, 94123, 94126, 94129, 94133
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 13, 14, 15

Neighborhoods: Bayview-Hunters Point, Downtown, Hayes Valley, Ingelside-Excelsior, Mission Bay, Potrero Hill, SoMa, Tenderloin, Treasure Island, Visitacion Valley
Zip codes: 94102, 94103, 94104, 94105, 94107, 94111, 94112, 94124, 94130, 94134, 94158
Spring 2015 Free Days: Mar. 20, 21, 22

For more info, including i.d requirements and other fine print, visit this page before your visit.
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco, Ca
415-379-8000
Online: calacademy.org
Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun.11 a.m.–5 p.m.

—Talia Page

Are you planning on attending your neighborhood free weekend?