Lace up those skates and grab a hat, it’s time to go ice skating, Atlanta families

Atlanta is known as “Hotlanta” for a reason—our summer’s are all about sun and heat. And while we may not get snow in the winter, Atlanta still offers up plenty of wintry fun for families. Whether you head out of town to ski for the weekend, take a day trip to a nearby tubing hill, or head to one of the seasonal Atlanta ice skating rinks that pop up around this time of year, there’s no denying Atlanta knows how to play it cool. So chillax Hotlanta, and check out the coolest spots around.

Here’s Where to Go Ice Skating in Atlanta This Winter

1. Skate the Station

Lace up for Atlanta’s largest outdoor ice rink at Atlantic Station, situated near the great lawn. With holiday music, twinkling lights, and plenty of places to pick up hot cocoa (or get your holiday shopping done), we guarantee it’ll be a holiday highlight.

Cost: $16/person, price includes skate rentals
Dates & Times:
Mon.-Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. noon-8 p.m.

1380 Atlantic Dr.
Atlanta
Online: atlanticstation.com

Related: Shine Bright! Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas Lights in Atlanta

2. The Rink at Park Tavern

The 85-foot long and 40-foot wide covered rink at Park Tavern is heated and boasts a state-of-the-art sound system. Complimented by Park Tavern’s dog-friendly, expansive patio overlooking Piedmont Park and the Mid-town skyline, families can hit the ice, relax in private cabanas and bubble tents, gather round stone fire pits to cook s’mores, and catch their favorite teams and holiday movies on numerous flatscreen TVs.

Insider Tip: The rink has extended ice skating hours from December 19-30. 

Cost: $15-$20/person
Dates:
Nov. 25, 2022-Jan. 16, 2023

500 10th St. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: parktavern.com

3. Avalon on Ice

Tis’ the season to lace up your skates and glide into the holiday spirit at Avalon on Ice! This monumental Rockefeller-inspired ice skating rink is back and just calling you to hit the rink. Afterward, grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants—look for the outdoor igloos for extra points—and enjoy the lights. 

Cost: $18/person; $14/kids (9 & under); includes skate rentals
Dates:
Nov. 20, 2022-Jan. 16, 2023

400 Avalon Blvd.
Alpharetta, GA
Online: experienceavalon.com

4. Covington Ice Days

You are going to love the real ice that's featured at this spot. And if you time your visit right, you may even get to spot the zamboni. This outdoor rink is 100% covered, so it's open no matter the weather. Plus families can just show up and skate—no reservations or waiting necessary. 

Cost: $12/person; $3/skate rental
Dates: Nov. 17, 2022-Feb. 19, 2023

Legion Field
3173 Mill St. N.E.
Covington, GA
Online: icedays.com

Related: Snow Much Fun! 7 Snow Tubing Spots That Aren't Too Far

5. Skate the Sky

With breathtaking views of Atlanta’s skyline, The Roof at Ponce City Market is transforming the Rooftop Terrace into a Winter Dreamland featuring an ice skating rink high above Atlanta, private igloos for rent, and festive hot cocktails to keep you warm under the winter sky! Ice skating reservations include general admission to The Roof, ice skate rentals with 50 minutes of ice skating, and unlimited games and rides at Skyline Park.

Cost: $30/adult; $22/kid
Dates:
Through Jan. 8, 2023

Ponce City Market
675 Ponce De Leon Ave. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: poncecityroof.com

6. Olde Town Conyers on Ice

Olde Town on Ice Conyers is the longest-running outdoor ice rink in Georgia, with real ice. Enjoy the small-town atmosphere and stay for the concession stand. Private party areas for birthday parties or gatherings are also available. No reservations are required.

Cost: $12/person; $3 rental skates
Dates:
Nov. 18, 2022-Feb. 12, 2023

949 S. Main St.
Conyers, GA
Online: icedays.com

7. Frosty’s Ice Rink at Lake Lanier

Safe Harbor Development has invested 3.5 million into Margaritaville at Lanier Islands and transformed the summertime destination into a winter wonderland—License to Chill: Snow Island. In addition to ice skating, families can go snow tubing, enjoy carnival rides, make snow angels, and taste delicious s’mores and hot chocolate when the visit this seriously amazing destination. It's the winter wonderland Atlanta families crave this time of year.

Insider Tip: Santa will be there to take winter wishes December 3, 4, 10, 11 & 17-20.

Cost: $35-$50
Date:
Nov. 19, 2022-Feb. 26, 2023

650 Lanier Islands Pkwy.
Buford, GA
Online: margaritavilleresorts.com

8. Pullman Yards

New this year, families can skate outside at Pullman Yards open-air ice rink. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays it's a great spot to take the kids for some fresh air and exercise in the winter. Kids skate for just $12 and rentals are available. And if you live in the area, take advantage of $2 Skate Tuesdays. 

225 Rogers St. N.E.
Atlanta
Online: pullmanyards.com

Related: Oh Snap! The Best Places in Atlanta to Take Pictures with Santa

 

Additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

It’s been a long wait, but lots of summer festivals in Seattle are back this year. From small town street fairs to the grand-daddy of them all (we’re looking at you, Seafair), these family-friendly fests should be part of everyone’s epic summer plans. Take down the kitchen calendar, (or better yet, open the calendar app on your phone) it’s time to map out the best summer festivals around. From June through August, this year’s slate includes everything from parades and carnivals to kids’ crafts, live music and of course, all the fair food you can handle. Rain or shine, this summer is gonna be huge!

Seafair

When it comes to summer festivals in Seattle it goes without saying that Seafair is the best. Celebrating its 72nd year, it is one of Seattle’s biggest and most beloved festivals, attended by almost two million residents each summer. Fortunately, they aren’t attending at the same time. Instead, Seafair is a series of events held around the greater Seattle area over a two month span in the summer. The events consists of races, parades and localized festivals all leading up to the big Seafair Weekend Festival (August 5-7) with its amazing air shows and thrilling hydroplane races.

With so much happening, it’s best to scope out your favorites from the official Seafair summer schedule. But some of our top picks for families include the Seafair Pirates’ Landing, happening this weekend (June 25) on Alki; Amazon Seafair Summer Fourth (July 4), making its triumphant return to Gas Works Park after a three-year Covid hiatus; the Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade (July 30); and the Seafair Weekend Festival (August 5-7) to round out the summer.

Online: seafair.org

Marysville Strawberry Festival

Everyone will at least chuckle at the sight of seeing grown adults riding tricycles through an obstacle course, and that’s just one of the zany events at the Marysville Strawberry Festival. Taking place in various locations across town, the Strawberry Festival includes a carnival, live entertainment, fashion show, golf tournament, a marketplace and, of course, lots of strawberries. Plus, this year marks the 90th annual Twilight Grand Parade which boasts over 100 floats, marching bands, bagpipers, drill teams, clowns and more.

Dates: June 16-19, 2022
Online: marysvillestrawberryfest.com

Kent Cornucopia Days

The Kent Cornucopia Days is one of the few places to see dragon boat racing around Seattle. Each boat is filled with 16-24 paddlers in Chinese dragon boats, competing for medals and bragging rights. And it is just one of the many exciting events for families at South King County’s largest summer festival. Presented by the Kent Lions Club, Kent Cornucopia Days is an award-winning and nationally recognized event filled with something for everyone. Come to enjoy the parade, a huge street fair, food court, car show, live entertainment, Kids Zone and more.

Dates: July 8-10, 2022
Online: kcdays.com

Kla Ha Ya Days

This summer festival in historic Snohomish has been a popular family destination for over 100 years, and it’s back to entertain families in 2022. The native word Kla Ha Ya means, “Welcome,” and Snohomish is ready to welcome you to their charming, old-fashioned summertime party. The festival’s carnival kicks off on July 13 with Kids Day and runs through the weekend. Rides, entertainment and food fair are what you’ll find at each of the carnvial’s five days. You’ll need tickets to ride the rides here (pre-sales started last week), so plan to bring your wallet.

There are plenty of free events families can enjoy at Kla Ha Ya Days too like the Frogtastic Kids’ Fair where kids can design their own frog masks, play yard games and climb aboard a fire truck. Follow up that fun with a street fair, arts and crafts booths, salmon barbeque, wine and beer garden and the Grand Parade. Check out the weekend schedule to make your plans.

Dates: July 13-17, 2022
Online: klahayadays.com

West Seattle Summerfest

This year marks the 40th year of community spirit at the West Seattles Summerfest. It’s as family-friendly as it gets, and it’s just the reason you need to make your way to the accidental island to check out this summer festival in Seattle. It’s part street fair, part music fest and tons of fun. The Junction is closed to traffic so families can wander from booth to booth, checking out food vendors, sidewalk cafes, arts and crafts vendors and more. Music stages are scattered throughout, and an epic kids zone will be set up to keep the kids busy too.

Dates: July 15-17, 2022
Online: wsjunction.org/summer-fest

Covington Days Festival

This fun, family-friendly weekend summer festival in Seattle has over 100 vendors show off arts, crafts, food and more. The fun begins with a morning parade followed by arts and crafters, exhibitors, kid and family activities and live entertainment. We know your kids will love the inflatable toys, and the watermelon eating contest is gonna be off the hook.

Dates: July 16-17, 2022
Online: covingtonwa.gov/covingtondays

Parkadilly Kids Concert & Fair

Located at the Lake Sammamish State Park, Parkadilly is the biggest kids’ concert and summer festival on the Eastside. It’s a chance to get the kids outside, listen to music and enjoy one of our most Headline entertainers this year include the Gansango African Dance, Dancing Silhouette, Northwest Tap Connection, and Joyas Mestizas. Kids of all ages will enjoy the petting zoo with rabbits, goats, llamas and more. And don’t miss the Seattle Fly Dogs who will be demonstrating exciting tricks and impressive agility. Outdoor activities will include arts and crafts, complimentary face painting, and games galore. More than 45 kid-centric vendors will also be on-site alongside assorted food trucks to cater to all picnickers’ tastebuds.

Good to know: There is no charge to attend Parkadilly, but an annual Discover Pass or $10 daily pass is required to enter the park.

Date: July 17, 2022
Online: lakesammamishfriends.org

Renton River Days

This family-favorite event’s big draw is the Rubber Ducky Derby. For just $5, your rubber duck can join thousands of other little yellow quackers racing down the Cedar River and possibly winn up to $1,000. All proceeds benefit the Salvation Army, Renton Rotary Food Bank, Renton School District and other deserving area non-profits. Other features include the Grand Parade, with Kent Phillips from STAR 101.5 FM as the announcer; the fantastic Rubber Ducky Derby; a pancake breakfast; live music; art demonstrations; an antique and classic boat show; and the “Nibble of Renton” food trucks to keep you well fed when you’re there. Parents can peruse the beer and wine garden, and there will be plenty of kids activities for your crew to enjoy too.

Dates: July 22-23, 2022
Online: rentonriverdays.org

Des Moines Waterland Days & Parade

The city of Des Moines begins its 63rd Waterland Days with a barbecue and concert Friday night featuring Randy Hanson and Uncle Ernie. The annual Kids Parade will usher in the nighttime parade strolling down Marine View Drive on Saturday night where the Seafair Pirates and Seafair Clowns will no doubt be throwing a ruckus. The Wheels and Keels Car and Boat show will take place on both Saturday and Sunday at the Marina. So many things to choose from. What looks good to you?

Dates: July 22-24, 2022
Online: destinationdesmoines.org/waterland-festival

Tour De Terrace

The Tour de Terrace summer festival for Mountlake Terrace and neighboring communities was created in 1993 to generate community spirit and pride, and it’s one of many Seafair affiliated events this year. Families from all over are invited to celebrate in this fun-filled weekend fest. You and the kids can check out all kinds of activities including a parade, craft fair, live music, a classic car, truck and motorcycle show, and a delish pancake breakfast that kicks everything off bright and early–not necessarily in that order. The other big draw? A carnival with thrilling rides and games your kids will want to play again and again.

Dates: July 22-24, 2022
Online: tourdeterrace.org

Kirkland Summerfest

Located right on the shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland’s largest festival returns for its 10th year with three days of lively musical performances, outdoor entertainment, a marketplace, beer and wine garden and more. While we know the kids will stay busy in the Kids Zone that will be set up on Saturday and Sunday, we have a sneaky suspicion dad may want to enter the Tackiest Tiki Hawaiian shirt contest to see if he comes out a winner.

Dates: July 29-July 31, 2022
Online: kirklandsummerfest.com

Nubian Jam

Celebrating 30 years, Nubian Jam is a “celebration of African and African American culture in the form of fellowship and community connectedness.” And while this summer festival is all about being educational and unifying, it’s also a hot spot for summer festival entertainment. Fashion shows, vendors, fair food and activities for kids of all ages guarantee that everyone who attends will have a great time.

Date: July 30, 2022
Online: scbhcwa.org/events

BAM Art Fair

The Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) has been bringing the world of art, craft and design to budding artists of all ages for over 75 years. This festival of art features thousands of original artworks on display, live music, artist demonstrations, food booths, chalk work and more. But your kids will really enjoy the KidsFair geared to bring out their creative sides with art projects, games and gallery activities. The Bellevue Arts Museum is also offering free admission during event. (Not a bad place to duck in for an air conditioning break, if you need one.)

Dates: July 29-31, 2022
Online: bellevuearts.org/artsfair

Celebrate Shoreline

Come celebrate the City of Shoreline’s birthday with two stages of live music and shows. But the kids will flip for pony rides, children’s theater, a toy workshop and hands-on activities to keep their little hands busy all day long. Outside and will plenty of sunshine (we hope) this free, family-friendly, summer festival has its own “family area hours,” from noon to 6 p.m., which will work out great for families with little ones.

Date: Aug. 20, 2022
Online: shorelinewa.gov

Snoqualmie Days

All aboard! Snoqualmie Days (formerly Snoqualmie Railroad Days) is every train lovers favorite summer festival in seattle. The annual celebration of the Snoqualmie Valley, its people, and its culture, it draws tons of visitors to the Eastside each summer. Kids will love the hands-on history activities with living history re-enactors in the History Comes Alive area, located near the gazebo in Railroad Park. This year’s festival will feature a Grand Parade, live entertainment, train rides, a pancake breakfast at the Snoqualmie Fire Station, a Field of Fun and a model railroad show. The kiddos can also opt to hang out at the Kids’ Stage or hop a ride on a train, a speeder motor car or a wagon. And if that doesn’t grab their attention, maybe the Children’s Field of Fun will have to do.

Dates: August 19-20, 2022
Online: snoqualmiedays.org

THING Music Fest

The THING is a 3-day festival of music and arts at historic Fort Worden. The event features a tightly curated lineup of diverse performers, with an emphasis on fresh discoveries. All are welcomed to this mix of music, comedy, visual arts, speakers and highlights from Seattle Theatre Group’s (STG) signature education and community programs. The festival offers four stages (two indoor and two outdoor) at this former military base, which also makes for some fun exploring as well. Hint: bring your beach gear and SUP if you’ve got it. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so make your plans early. And guess what? Kids age 12 and under get in free.

Dates: Aug. 26-28, 2022
Online: thingnw.org

Olalla Americana Music Fest

While not a summer festival in Seattle, families with their sights set on an old-timey music festival can ferry (or drive) over to the Kitsap Peninsula for a change of pace. Formerly known as The Olalla Bluegrass Festival, this summer festival has reinvented itself by showcasing a wider range of acoustic musical groups. Expect to hear sweet sounds from the comforts of your festival chairs (sun shades are a plus to bring). And when you need to get up and stroll, you’ll find plenty of folk craft vendors (including quilting, lace making, spinning and wood carving) and food booths to check out with your crew. If nothing else here is enough to convince you, the berry pie will. Grab a slice!

Date: Aug. 20, 2022
Online: olallaamericana.com

Sammamish P.O.P. (Party on the Plateau)

This Eastside favorite summer festival offers musical and cultural performances from local talent during the day and a popular live band in the evening. When the sun is out, the kids can play in the Kids Zone where they’ll find bouncy houses, face painting, balloon artist and a petting zoo so you can enjoy time together as a family. There will also ben an outdoor game area with plenty of yard games for folks of all ages. After all that play, head to the food rodeo where you’ll find a variety of places to choose from. The featured entertainment for the evening will be the ABBA graphs, playing early in the evening, so you can see the show and still get the kids home in time for bed. Even better if they fall asleep on the ride home.

Date: Aug 20, 2022
Online: sammamish.us

 

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Local hiking spots are a big hit for most people wanting to get outside for fresh air and exercise, but you don’t have to go where everyone else goes. Try one of these “off the beaten path” hikes and you’ll either have long stretches of them to yourself or even the entire trail. Plus, some of these have cool attractions for kids like playgrounds, lakes, and bridges to run over; one of them is even a dormant volcano! They’re all short and sweet, which is perfect for little legs, and most are flat and easy for little bikes or strollers to roll along. Pick out one or all of these and put them on your calendar for a fun family hike.

Lake Calavera

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

If you’re looking for a little adventure, take a hike on a volcano. Don’t worry, though. It’s considered extinct because it last erupted over 20 million years ago. There are lots of easy and well-maintained trails crisscrossing all over this volcano. The loop trail up and around the lake and over the dam is almost 2 miles, but getting up to the top might be a bit too much for little legs to do on their own. Consider an out and back trip which starts on the easy flat foothills.

Tip: The main entrance is on Tamarack, where the bathrooms are and quick access to take the trail over the dam.

Secret Tip: If you get to the top, you’ll see a chain-link fence and just beyond that is a really cool rock labyrinth and other rock art that others have left behind.

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.5-2 miles
Type: Loop or Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Inland
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Lake Calavera
Tamarack Ave. near Strata Dr., Carlsbad
760-936-3098
Online: carlsbadca.gov

Batiquitos Lagoon

Aimee Della Bitta

This one is more of a flat walk than a hike, but this is the perfect introduction to get kids outside and walking in nature. Kids will love seeing all kinds of birds here at these preserved wetlands, including the big blue herons as they glide over the water. Bring your binoculars along to see what you’ll discover flying, floating or wading in the lagoon.

Hours/Lagoon: 9am-3pm
Hours/Nature Center: 9am-12pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 3.2 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Small lot
Type: Coastal
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Strollers: Yes, Bikes: Not allowed

Batiquitos Lagoon
7380 Gabbiano Ln. Carlsbad
760-931-0800
Online: batiquitosfoundation.org

Chollas Lake Trail

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

This neighborhood lake tucked into the unassuming neighborhood of Rolando is amazing. You can walk around the lake in about 30 minutes on the easy loop trail, but plan to be here for much longer because there’s a lot to do and see along the way. Bring duck food because there are more variety of ducks here than at any other lake I’ve been to. On the far side of the lake, you’ll find a long out and back walking trail with a huge grassy hill that will tempt kids to climb up and roll down. Near the small parking lot is a fun wood-plank kids' play-house and a Boy Scouts nature trail.

Hours: 6:30am-5:30pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 2.3 miles
Type: Loop
Parking: Small lot
Type: Coastal, urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Chollas Lake Trail
6350 College Grove Dr., Rolando
619-527-7683
Online: sandiego.gov

Louis Stelzer County Park

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

Sometimes you have to just head out of town to find some peace and quiet and that’s what you’ll find at Louis Stelzer County Park. This used to be Mr. Stelzer’s weekend retreat; which he left to the county to keep as a place for families and kids to have a nature retreat of their own. The 1.5 mile shaded loop trail starts at the stocked koi fish pond, loops up around and ends at the playground.

Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: $3/parking
Miles: 1.5 miles
Type: Loop
Parking: Small lot
Type: Inland
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Louis Stelzer County Park
11470 Wildcat Canyon Rd., Lakeside
619-561-0580
Online: sdparks.org

Tijuana River Estuary

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

At the southernmost tip of San Diego is one of the most serene places that few people know about. Where the Tijuana River meets the sea you’ll find 2,000 acres of wetlands to explore. Several trails from 0.3 miles to 1.5 miles long criss-cross out and back all over these wetlands, so pick one and see where it takes you. Along the way you’ll see all kinds of shorebirds and endangered species taking solace here.

Tip: The visitor center and native plant gardens have interactive exhibits, guided bird and nature walks and a junior ranger program.

Hours/Trails: Dawn-Dusk
Hours/Visitor Center: 10 am-5 pm Wednesday-Sunday
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.3-1.5 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Coastal
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Yes

Tijuana River Estuary
301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach
619-575-3613
Online: trnerr.org

Maple Canyon Trail

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

A perfect combination of urban + nature combines into this short and easy little hike in the middle of the city. Start on Fourth Ave. where you’ll cross over the historic wooden Quince Street bridge to find a trail entrance on the other side. This will take you down into the canyon and under the bridge for an out and back flat trail. Only walk half as far as little legs will go, so they can make it back to the bridge on their own.

Bonus: at the start of the bridge you’ll find a Little Free Library so bring some old books to donate

Tip: 1 block down is James Coffee and Extraordinary Desserts, plan accordingly

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: No
Cost: Free
Miles: 1 mile
Type: Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Maple Canyon Trail at Quince Street Bridge
Fourth Ave. + Quince St.., Bankers Hill

Kate Sessions Park Trails

Farnaz N. via Yelp

After you take in the distant ocean views from this scenic park (with a playground + bathrooms, by the way), look behind the park to find some trails leading into a wide-open space. These trails have little elevation gain, but there are fun dips that kids will love to run up again and again. It’s a short out and back 0.7-mile trail, so you won’t go very far, but just enough to feel like you’re hiking.

Tip: Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket to spread out because you’ll want to spend the entire day here. This is a popular dog spot, so it’s a great place to bring your pooch.

Hours: 7 am -Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.7 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Lot
Type: Coastal, urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Bikes: Not recommended

Kate Session Park Trails
5115 Soledad Rd., Pacific Beach
619-525-8213

Vista Conservancy Trail

City of Vista

You’ll score with playgrounds and bathrooms on each side of this long flat trail so it doesn’t matter which end you start at. It’s a mostly shaded trail that winds along a creek and in between some urban neighborhoods. Look for the Native American grinding stones along the way and know that you’ll have to cross some streets to follow this long winding trail.

Start at Wildwood Park and you can explore the nearby Rancho Buena Vista Adobe house.

Start at Brengle Terrace Park (near the tennis courts) and you’ll find a large recreation center and the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens are at the very top.

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 1.5 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Lots
Type: Urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Yes

Vista Conservancy Trail
777 W Vista Way, Vista
760-643-5018
Online: thevistaconservancy.com

Wildwood Park
651 E Vista Way, Vista
760-639-6151
Online: http://www.vistarecreation.com

Brengle Terrace Park
1200 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista
760-639-6151
Online: http://www.vistarecreation.com/

—Bonnie Taylor

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Believe it or not, waterfalls do exist in Los Angeles. From quick and easy beginner treks to more adventurous trails, these family-friendly waterfall hikes in SoCal are almost out-of-this-world (or at least out of the dry, desert-like climate we’ve come to know and love). Pro Tip: To make your waterfall hike as enjoyable and memorable as possible,  go early to beat any crowds.

Escondido Falls: Malibu

waterfall
Apryl V. via Yelp

This 150-foot, multi-tiered waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains but that doesn't mean it's tough to get to. This is an easy, flat trail (it begins on the road so stay on the clearly marked path for safety) and allows hikers of all ages to enjoy dipping their toes in the cool, refreshing water. Expect to hop over some creek beds, maybe scuttle over a boulder or two and climb some low hanging branches during the journey—there's just enough along the trail to keep it interesting for the little ones for the 3.8-mile roundtrip journey. 

Parking: $12 to park at the lot on Winding Way East, just off Pacific Coast Hwy. Follow the clearly marked path to the trailhead (you'll need to walk along the road before heading into the wooded park).

Insider Tip: The parking lot is small and the trail is popular, so plan to get there early. Don't forget to bring water shoes for stomping around the water and creek beds. 

27200 Winding Way
Malibu
Online: mrca.ca.gov

Eaton Canyon Falls: Altadena

waterfall
Jessica C. via Yelp

Located inside this 190-acre park, a 40-foot waterfall with a wading area beckons at the end of the easy 3-mile shady trail but there are loads of highlights along the way, including a nature center with interesting exhibits. 

Parking: Free but the lots fill up quickly.

Insider Tip: You need to go under the bridge to access the waterfall so make sure to bring water shoes so you (and the little ones) can enjoy the water. The biggest complaint about this hike is usually how crowded it can be but during COVID, reservations and a photo ID are required. No same-day reservations or walk-ins are allowed. 

1750 North Altadena Dr.
Pasadena
Online: ecnca.org

Solstice Canyon: Malibu

In the Santa Monica Mountains, off the Pacific Coast Hwy, Solstice Canyon offers stunning vistas, architectural relics, the “Darth Vader” House (you’ll know it when you see it), and oh yeah, a 30-foot waterfall. If you’re feeling ambitious and brought plenty of sunscreen, we recommend heading up the small staircase near the park entrance to the Rising Sun Trail which meanders along the mountain crest with spectacular views of the vast blue ocean below. This trail then connects with the shady and mostly paved Solstice Canyon trail for a 3.2-mile loop.

From the Rising Sun Trail, you can descend down a steep-ish hill to Tropical Terrace, a once famously hip Malibu mansion that burned down in a fire in 1982, leaving, well, actual ruins in a very Malibu style. No, you won’t find Mayan stone calendars predicting the end of the world, but the less ancient Tropical Terrace is pretty cool. From there, follow the narrow rock step to a small waterfall just north of the mansion.

Parking: The free parking here fills up FAST (read: by 9:30 a.m.) but you can drive about 1/4 mile up Corral Canyon Rd. to a dirt turnout where parking is permitted.

Insider Tip: The Solstice Canyon trail is also a great out-n-back option for toddling hikers and babies on wheels, making it the only stroller-friendly waterfall hike we’ve met.

3455 Solstice Canyon Rd.
Malibu
Online: nps.gov/solsticecanyon

Monrovia Canyon Park Waterfall Trail: Monrovia

Waterfall hike
Holly P. via Yelp

UPDATE: Due to the Bobcat Fire, this park is closed indefinitely. Please refer to the website for the most up-to-date information. 

Tucked away in the San Gabriel Mountains, just ten minutes off the 210 Freeway, Monrovia Canyon Park has 80 acres worth of nature to explore and is one of the least known (translation: least crowded) of our local cascade destinations. There are three options for hikers: The shortest route to the 30-foot falls is via the Nature Center (just .75 miles from the waterfall) with ample parking. If you think your kids can handle a longer hike (but not the longest) stop at the middle lot for a one-mile trek. And if you really want to experience the full monty (and know your kids can handle it) park at The Bill Cull trailhead at the park entrance that will take you along a shady 1.7-mile path to the falls.

A total fairyland canopy of oak trees, big leaf maple, and sycamores make this a good hike for any time of day. Best of all, your little nymphs and monkeys will have so much fun swinging from the low-hanging branches that wind along the trail they’ll forget they’re on an h-i-k-e.  (Shhh: we won’t tell if you don’t.)

Insider Tip: The park is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with a $5 entry fee on weekdays, $6 on weekends and holidays. There are a few minor stream crossings and narrow passes making strollers cumbersome.

1200 N Canyon Blvd.
Monrovia
Online: cityofmonrovia.org

Sturtevant Falls: Arcadia

Sassie H. via Yelp

UPDATE: Due to the Bobcat Fire, this trail is closed indefinitely. Please refer to the website for the most up-to-date information.

Ranked as the most challenging of our cascade escapades at 3.3 miles, the out-n-back Sturtevant Falls trail in the San Gabriel Mountains is still family-friendly with a mostly flat and shady trail. Along the way, you'll pass a string of quaint cabins built in the 1900s, some that are available to rent. (Visit the website for more information). There are three modest water crossings, perfect for rock-hoppers of all ages.

This stunning 50-foot waterfall plunges into a shallow pool that the kiddos can actually wade around in...if they can stand the freezing temperature.

Parking: Thanks to the area's popularity, it's a bit of a bear no matter what time you arrive. Stop in the parking lot anyway to pick up the $5 adventure pass at the pack station—it’s required to park anywhere—and head back down Santa Anita Canyon Rd. to find a spot.

Insider Tip: The trail starts at Chantry Flats and descends down a .6 mile paved road that you'll have to trudge back up on the way out. Also, strollers won't be happy crossing streams, but we've seen plenty of baby carriers, backpacks, and slings ambling through these parts.

Chantry Flats Rd. & Angeles National Forest
Arcadia
Online: angelesnationalforest.gov

–Jennifer Wolfe & Andie Huber

featured photo: Melissa Smith via flickr

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When the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) rescued an Atlantic dolphin off the coast of Siesta Key, Florida back in July 2019, they had no idea that he would soon become a resident of their facility forever. After being nursed back to health from a severe case of pneumonia, it was determined that the 26-year old dolphin had hearing loss and wasn’t fit to be released back into the wild.

In the months since his recovery, CMA was thrilled to offer residency in their Dolphin Terrace. Not only that, they are asking the public for help in giving him a new name!

Now through Jun. 7, anyone can send in their submission to give the 700-pound dolphin his very own name. All you have to do is visit SeeWinter.com by June 7 and submit your idea!

The soon-to-be named dolphin will join a few famous friends from the Dolphin Tale movies, Winter and Hope. Not only that, his other CMA neighbors will include nurse sharks, sea turtles, otters and pelicans.

––Karly Wood

 

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From the toddler years until the day they head to Kindergarten, your kiddos’ expanding minds need lots of support.

Kiddie Academy is the perfect place for budding learners to explore and thrive. Teachers will help kids learn to make friends, share, develop the proper tools for expressing emotions, and learn independence during mealtime and playtime—students will be more than ready for grade school and beyond. The awesome teachers at Kiddie Academy will even support your youngest learners on their potty training journey!

Enrollment is happening now, with two new locations in Chicago—Lincoln Square and Oakbrook Terrace.

It’s the biggest Starbucks in the world, located smack dab in the middle of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, in the 35,000-square-foot former Crate and Barrel building. If you love coffee, you’ll want to pay your respects here, at Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago, a mecca of all things coffee, from coffee beans to coffee-infused cocktails. Even if your kids don’t yet appreciate a good cuppa Joe, they’ll love watching as coffee beans are sorted, roasted and then brewed via fancy, fiery contraptions. Settle in and enjoy an afternoon coffee date with your littles as they indulge in the wide range of over-the-top pastries.

photo: Starbucks via Yelp

Follow the coffee beans
As soon as you enter, expect to be overcome by the heady scent of coffee. Kids can watch as coffee beans are roasted, cooled and distributed throughout the roastery via a 56-foot tall, bronze-colored metal cask that extends from the top to the bottom floor. Ask your kids if they can hear the rainfall-like sound of the coffee beans as they journey through the cask.

photo: Starbucks via Yelp

The first floor is where you’ll find the quickest and most convenient coffee and pastry to-go bar. Take your pick from an assortment of Princi Bakery pastries, all artisanally-made with top-notch ingredients.

photo: Richelle T. via Yelp

While the pastry menu will change with the seasons, kids who want to give coffee flavors a try will want to sample the classic Tiramisu, layered coffee-soaked, house-baked ladyfinger cookies sandwiched with mascarpone cream. Princi is also known for its cornetti, an Italian take on the croissant, filled with a variety of jams and creams. At the full bean scooping bar, you can take home Starbucks coffee beans.

photo: Starbucks via Yelp

Travel up to the second floor along the cool curved escalator—the first in the midwest!—to the Princi bakery. Everything is baked here, then delivered by a fascinating conveyor belt to the first and third floors. The second floor’s menu extends beyond pastries to Princi’s Italian-inspired breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pizzas and salads.

Seating is available throughout the roastery; highchairs are plentiful.

photo: Samantha S. via Yelp

Coffee nerds unite!
The third floor is a coffee nerds dream, but even kids will enjoy watching moka brewed via seven different brewing methods, including the flame-powered siphon method brewing system. Parents will want to give a coffee flight a try here; kids will like the hot cocoa with extra whipped cream. (Warning: if your kids enjoy the fancy, fruity teas available at other Starbucks locations, they won’t find them here at the coffee-focused Roastery).

photo: Starbucks via Yelp

On the fourth floor, the bar, Arriviamo, serves not just coffee but also wine, beer, and signature cocktails. A fifth floor, rooftop terrace will open in the spring.

photo: Mural by Eulojio Ortega

It’s all in the details
Starbucks commissioned Chicago artist Eulojio Ortega to create a progressive mural that depicts the process that gets the beans into our venti-sized cups—including its planting, selection and processing. Take the stairs from the 1st to the 4th floor to watch the story unfold as Starbucks, with the help of Ortega, pays tribute to the dedicated farmers that keep us all caffeinated.

Look for the specially designed “Chicago” wall using Starbucks Reserve coffee cards. Each Starbucks Reserve coffee has its own unique card which is an original piece of art created by in-house designers and writers. You’ll find cards that represent Starbucks’ global Roasteries, including Milan, Shanghai, Tokyo, Seattle and New York.

photo: Araceli C. via Yelp

Referred to as the “clackerboard” because of the sound it makes when in motion, the large board on the first floor alerts vistors to what’s brewing that day and any special events.

photo: Kenny C. via Yelp

Plan a visit during off-hours
Lines here have been known to stretch out for more than three blocks and the massive space reached its 1,000-person capacity just 20 minutes after opening in November 2019. The rush starts late-morning, and the space can stay busy until close. Weekdays, early mornings, is the quietest time. The Starbucks Roastery Reserve Chicago is open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., seven days a week.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago
646 Michigan Ave.
Mag Mile
312-283-7100
Online: starbucksreserve.com

—Amy Bizzarri

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If Disney World is part of your holiday vaycay plans, you won’t want to miss out on the park’s new Pop Rocks-filled Dole Whip treat!

The new strawberry and red passion fruit Dole Whip Float, a.k.a. the “I Lava You Dole Whip Float,” is a creamy, sugary dream with a bit of a bite.

Reportedly inspired by Pixar’s short film Lava, the “I Lava You Dole Whip Float” is a sweet, sweet swirl of orange-flavored Dole Whip topped with strawberry Fanta, strawberry syrup and passionfruit syrup.

The best part of this Disney World delight is the strawberry-flavored popping candy that sits on top of the mountain of Dole Whip.

So where can you score this Dole Whip float? You can nab one of these lava-licious treats at the Sunshine Tree Terrace in the Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Disney with Michael via Instagram 

 

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Yeah, it’s been 80 degrees in NYC recently, and the leaves haven’t turned yet, but the holidays are coming, which means that if you’re the type to take a family photo for your cards, it’s that time again! The great news is that NYC is full of iconic, Instagram- and holiday-card worthy spots where you and the family can get a great shot to show your NYC pride. Check out our favorite places to take an NYC holiday card photo below!

The Brooklyn Bridge

Is it original? Heck no! But it is iconic, a thing of beauty, and not for nothing, provides great natural light for a nice photo. Plus, you can choose how close, or far, you want those arches to appear. (And really, your friends and family outside of NYC won't have BB fatigue and will still think it's neat.)

The Vessel

There are lots of ways to do a photo shoot at The Vessel (or, Vessel?) at New York City's newest neighborhood, Hudson Yards. (Read our guide to doing Hudson Yards with Kids here.) Take a snap in front of it, on it, or within the mall at Hudson Yards with Vessel in the background. That metallic gold and honeycomb design is pretty nice no matter how you look at it.

The Highline

If thousands of high school seniors can document their big moment on The Highline, so can you! You've got lots of options on The Highline, go for a background of colorful Chelsea streets below, a shady enclave, against towering and innovative architecture or by a colorful piece of art or mural. Additional variables include time of day—magic hour on The Highline is, indeed, magic. (And will give you a stunning glow.) 

The Unisphere

It was built in 1964 for the World's Fair, but The Unisphere, located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, looks as good as ever. Not only is it a great way to show some serious Queens pride, the fair's theme was "Peace Through Understanding", which works pretty well for a holiday season sentiment if you ask us. 

Central Park Classic: Bow Bridge

Of course, there are many, many great spots for a photo in Central Park. A classic, which offers a backdrop of NYC architecture, the lake and fall foliage if you time it right, is Bow Bridge. (Which, dating to 1862, is the second-oldest cast iron bridge in the country!) You can catch a snap on the bridge or nearby, with the stately span in the background. Both work. Bow Bridge is located mid-park at 74th Street, west of Bethesda Terrace. 

Central Park Classic, Part Two: Bethesda Terrace and Fountain

Again, you won't be the first people to do this, but if it ain't broke...Another spot to be captured from several vantage points, Bethesda Terrace is also where you'll find the striking Lower Passage, featuring the Minton Tile Ceiling, which while a bit tricky to photograph, is also a striking backdrop. It's mid-park at 72nd Street, and not far from Bow Bridge. 

Central Park, World Peace Edition: Strawberry Fields

Send a message of world peace with a photo snapped at this spot memorializing John Lennon. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3F5jU3nCKz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Statue of Liberty

Up close, from afar, Lady Liberty always looks good. 

Museum of Illusions

For the family that likes something a little different and fun, head to the Museum of Illusions New York. Here, you can capture your crew defying gravity, shrinking and growing supersize, in a room with colored shadows, or ever serve up someone's head on a platter. (If that's your family's sense on humor.) 

New York Love Mural, Einstein

Artist Eduardo Kobra graced New York City with 18 technicolor murals as part of his "Colors of Freedom" project. Find his mashup of of Albert Einstein and NYC love at 298-200 West 21st. 

New York Love Mural, Option Two

Also located in Chelsea at 100-104 W 17th Street, Nick Walker's "Love Vandal" is another option where you can express your Big Apple pride. 

Street Art Galore

For a snap that's loaded with NYC creative energy and color, take your pick from several collections of street art around town, where you'll find loads of backdrops to pose with in one place. Spots include Freeman Alley on the Lower East Side (down an alley leading to Freeman's Restaurant); The Welling Court Mural Project in Astoria (pictured); the Bushwick Collective's murals along Troutman Street and beyond in the Brooklyn neighborhood, and in several neighborhoods thanks to the 100 Gates Project (North Shore Staten Island, East Harlem and Little Caribbean in Brooklyn among them.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Eo9jnB2tP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Washington Street in DUMBO

Good luck getting clear shot, as this may be the most popular Insta-spot in the city. (It's kind of a scene, to be honest.) Still, with the mix of the street's cobblestones, red brick buildings and a perfectly-framed Manhattan Bridge spanning the East River it's a stellar backdrop. 

main photo: dumbo nyc via Flickr

—Mimi O’Connor

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The City of Angels may be chock full of stars, but the Griffith Observatory gives families the best opportunity to see the ones in the sky. Between the mesmerizing planetarium shows that take kids on a journey of cosmic exploration and discovery, fascinating exhibits, and telescopes that provide the most amazing views of LA and the stars above, the Griffith Observatory is the perfect pitstop for all the astronomers in your family.

photo: Griffith Observatory

Samuel Oschin Planetarium 
The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a truly magical and memorable experience for families. As the Zeiss Star Projector and digital projection system transform the dome into the night sky, visitors are transported to worlds beyond their wildest dreams.

Presently, the planetarium offers three shows to choose from that are presented by a live and engaging storyteller: Centered in the Universe takes visitors on a journey of cosmos; Water is Life leads the audience on a search for water and possibly life beyond Earth while Light of the Valkyries (their 75th anniversary show) reveals the magic of the Northern Lights.

Live presentations are scheduled every 60-to-90 minutes. Note that children under 5 are only admitted to the first show each day (12:45 p.m. on weekdays and 10:45 a.m. on weekends).

Insider Tip: It gets quite dark in the planetarium at the beginning of the show, so prepare your astronomers, especially those that may be afraid of the dark. Tickets may only be purchased on-site at the Observatory for that day’s shows—no advance purchases are available.

photo: Griffith Observatory

The Exhibits

Within the Griffith Observatory, there are two floors of incredible exhibits waiting to spark the imaginations of visitors and encourage them to ponder their own relationships to the universe.

Don’t miss: Scales that tell guests how much they would weigh on each planet and our moon, the Foucault Pendulum—one of the largest scientific instruments in the world that proves Earth is spinning on its axis, and the Tesla Coil which discharges sizzling lightening sparks to the walls of its alcove.

photo: Griffith Observatory

The Telescopes

The main highlight for every Griffith Observatory visitor is getting to look through the famous Zeiss telescope on the roof. More people have looked through this telescope and learned about the movements of the heavens than any other telescope on Earth! After checking out this viewfinder, make sure to check out the other telescopes located on the vast terraces that provide more earth-bound, breathtaking views like the Hollywood sign, DTLA, and the Pacific Ocean.

photo: Jennifer O’Brien

Observatory Events

Special events occur all year long at the Griffith Observatory, but little ones will especially love the “Let’s Make a Comet” presentation in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater during holiday breaks and summertime. During the 30-minute show, visitors help create a comet out of household ingredients.

Once a month, the Observatory hosts a Star Party where kids of all ages can look through dozens of telescopes on the lawn and interact with astronomy enthusiasts from local astronomy clubs, as well as Griffith Observatory employees.

Insider Tip: If you plan on visiting the Griffith Observatory on a Sat. or Sun., try to arrive right as close to 10 a.m. when they open to the public. Crowds will be lighter, and there should be available parking (with the exception of holiday weekends which can get a little crazy to say the least). If you become a member of Friends Of The Observatory, you can reserve parking ahead of time and even book tickets to the planetarium shows.

Where to Eat: Hungry star watchers can grab a bite on the lower level of the Observatory at Wolfgang Puck’s Café at the End of the Universe. A vast menu (including meals for kids) is available with everything from soups and salads to sandwiches and sweet treats. Visitors will find plenty of seating inside or outdoors on the terrace with stellar views of the city and Hollywood sign.

2800 E. Observatory Rd.
Los Angeles
213-473-0800
Online: griffithobservatory.org

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to this month, follow us on Instagram!

–Jennifer O’Brien

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