From the famous Texas Buckeye Trail to hidden gems on the outskirts of town, here are the best kid-friendly hikes in the Dallas area
When you want to take the kids to explore all that Dallas has to offer, this list is for you. We’ve got a handful of our favorite hikes for kids in Dallas that have epic views, flat terrain for strollers and loads of animals. Each spot and season offers its own opportunity to encounter natural beauty, from spring wildflowers and autumn leaves to winter landscapes. Take your family on these treks within Dallas or just outside in neighboring regions. Get ready to explore the DFW.
Tucked into an Oak Cliff neighborhood, the Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is 121 rolling acres of woodlands and wildflower meadows, with eight miles of hike-and-bike trails.Â
The fall is the best time of year to hit this trail as it offers some of the best leaf peeping in Dallas. Once you arrive at the overlook, you will be treated to a great view of the vast Great Trinity Forest and Grover Keeton Golf Course.
To hike on the famous Texas Buckeye Trail, travel to the trailhead at Bexar Street. This important mile-long trail takes hikers to a large stand of Texas Buckeye trees that bloom white in spring. The rest of the year, you can walk in the shade of towering bur oaks, pecans, and cedar elms.Â
Just 14 miles from downtown Dallas, this hiking spot has several trails to choose from. From the east parking lot you'll find a flat, paved loop that's good for strollers, and from the west lot you can take a mile loop to see some wildflowers in the spring.
Located on the western border of Plano, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a 200-acre park featuring vast areas of natural beauty for walking, jogging, hiking, orienteering, and other outdoor activity. The observation tower gives a spectacular view of the city.
Dogwood Canyon has more than three miles of trails into the forested canyon. Choose from the easy Canyon Floor Trail or the more strenuous West Loop Trail. Check the trail status before you go to see if it has recently rained, as they will often close trails.Â
With temps in the 90s, you might be looking for ways to cool off this weekend. Community pools aren’t your only option, so if you want a bigger splash than your lawn sprinkler check out one of these nearby water parks. From a relaxing float in a lazy river at the Dulles South Recreation Center to a toddler-friendly in-water playground at Claude Moore, start your summer vacation early at one of these indoor water parks near the DMV. Splash on!
A swim meet hot spot, this aquatic venue comes with a whopping 60,000 square feet of lap pools, hydrotherapy pools, diving platforms and springboards. But the biggest attraction for the play-seeking set is the two massive water slides that go from one side of the lap pool to the other. There are also smaller slides and a shallow wading area for the little fish in your school.
Insider tip: If the sun is out, enjoy a game of putt putt at the South Germantown's SplashPad & Mini Golf.Â
Where: 18000 Central Park Cir., Boyds, MD Cost: $6-$8/adults; $4-$7/kids Online:Â montgomerycountymd.gov
You know a water park is the real deal when there's a two-hour play limit per person. But, trust us, the cut off time is totally worth it. The water park is part of a massive swim center that, in addition to two pools, features a 134-foot water slide, splash down area, water buckets, preschool slide, vortex area and a poolside spa for grown-ups. Good to know: Kids must be 3 years old and completely potty trained to swim here.
Insider tip: If you want to watch planes literally jet off, head to Dixon Observation Park to watch the flight traffic in and out of BWI. It's a 10 minute drive from the aquatic center.Â
The preschool set will fall in love with this year-round splash spot. In addition to a trio of 25 yard lap lanes and a family pool, this community center offers a water play area complete with slides and sprays. Why not make it a playdate to remember? Book a party ($200-$240) and you can invite up to 20 guests for unlimited swimming. PARTY TIME!
Insider tip: Pre or post-swim, head to Franklin's where you can shop a General Store while you wait to eat. If you go during evening hours, be sure to check out this kinetic light mural.Â
This indoor chill spot features a leisure pool with a 30-foot-high slide that exits the building in an enclosed tube, a 20-foot-high slide with an open tube, a spa, a vortex, a current channel, an open shallow water area. Plus, tinier tots will work their wiggles out on the smaller slide and zero depth entry temp-controlled pool.
Insider tip: If you make the trek out to this epic water park, be sure to make a stop at the Smithsonian's near-by Udvar Hazy Center to catch a glimpse of planes from yesteryears.Â
Where: 4630 Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly, VA Cost: $6.50-$10/kids and adults; free/kids under 4 Online:fairfaxcounty.gov
Skip the airport lane and make a detour for one of the largest slides in the DMV. With a 125-feet of fun, this massive blue slide dumps you into a lazy river for floating fun. Little ones can splash and play on a playground in the water. And don't forget the hot tub for a quick dip into relaxation.
Insider tip: On select days in the spring and summer, Sully Historic Site hosts Dairy Days where you can see old fashioned ice cream being churned and sample the goods.Â
Where: 24950 Riding Center Dr., South Riding, VA Cost: $4/kids; $6/adults; $16 for a family pass Online:loudoun.gov/Dulles-South-Pools
Keep your little one out of the splash zone of bigger kids by heading to this indoor water park with a dedicated toddler area. You can float down the lazy river while you keep an eye on your bigger kids (48 inches and up) as they zip down the big blue slide. Or take a relaxing dip in the hot tub (for guests 16 & up).
Cost: $4/kids; $6/adults; $16 for a family pass Online:loudoun.gov
Worth the Drive
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge
Make a weekend of it at this indoor water park resort that's just a few minutes from Colonial Williamsburg. Spend the day zipping down River Canyon Run water slide, taking a turn on the Howlin’ Tornado, splashing in the zero-depth wave pool, or relaxing on the lazy river. And then wake up and do it all again the next day.Â
Where: 549 East Rochambeau Dr., Williamsburg, VA Cost: $200/night Online:Â greatwolf.com
Massanutten Indoor WaterPark
Massanutten via Yelp WaterPark at MassanuttenÂ
Surfing in the Shenandoah Valley? Why not! Big kids ride the waves of this water park's Pipeline—the largest indoor surf park in Virginia—while little ones slip and slide at the Frog Pond's 12-inch deep pool.  From water cannons and body slides to tipping buckets and wading pools, there's really something for everyone at this water-lovers oasis. And the best part? It's a toasty 84 degrees all year long!
Where: 1822 Resort Dr., McGaheysville, VA Cost: $38/adults; $26/kids; free/kids under 2 Online:massresort.com
Nothing beats the comfort of home, right? And what better way to enjoy Spring Break than doing so right in your own backyard. There’s so much to do in this short amount of time and we’ve compiled a list of fun locations and adventures that are sure to provide the ultimate Bay Area staycation.Â
Museums and Aquariums
Erin Feher
SFMOMA Channel your inner artist with a visit to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the U.S. There are over seven floors, packed with diverse collections of immersive art and more. Check out our insider's guide for everything you’d want to know about visiting the SFMOMA.
California Academy of Sciences Up for an adventure? Kids can investigate, splash, create and explore in the California Academy of Sciences’ newest outdoor nature play and exploration space —Wander Woods! From March 26 through April 17, the Wander Woods Spring Festivalwill celebrate the arrival of spring with fun festivities including water play with Riveropolis, art practice with a community artist, a food talk and tasting with Cafe Ohlone, plus beehive and insect investigation, puppet shows, nature story time, and more! Learn more.
Children’s Discovery Museum Exploratory fun and more await at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose. With new exhibits like Alegre Mente l Happy Brain: Celebrating Early Connections, families can go through a whimsical forest to play and learn about how simple, loving interactions build brain health for a lifetime. Other new exhibits include Children of the Dragon, a special Vietnamese Heritage Program and the Amazing AirMaze!, a new two-story exhibit exploring the power of air.Â
Aquarium of the Bay
Aquarium of the Bay Aquariums can provide such colorful learning experiences. From the beautiful ocean water to seeing aquatic life up close, the experience is one to be captured and cherished. Families can discover the beauty and diversity of Northern California aquatic life at theAquarium of the Bayand see the home of more than 20,000 marine animals (Bring on the jellyfish!). The best part? It’s located on the historic San Francisco waterfront at PIER 39. COVID-19 Update: Masks are required for unvaccinated guests.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Pack up the car and journey to seaside Monterey to enjoy and explore the wonders of sea life.Monterey Bay Aquariumwill feature a new exhibit that descends into the depths of the ocean calledInto the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean. From football-sized giant isopods to transparent jellies that glow, the deep sea is brimming with life. Meet the mysterious and wonderful animals that thrive in the unexplored world of the deep sea. Exhibit opens April 9. COVID-Update: Proof of full vaccination or negative COVID test is no longer required for entry. Masks are encouraged.Â
Outdoor Fun
San Francisco
Golden Gate Park Pack a picnic lunch and trek through scenic Golden Gate Park. Explore this iconic park’s 1,017 acres, from bucolic lakes and meadows to vibrant activity destinations. Golden Gate Park has something for everyone and the scenic views are something to remember.
Fisherman’s Wharf As the outside world continues to open, restaurants and businesses are ready to welcome back visitors and locals. Plan your visit to Fisherman's Wharfand enjoy indoor and outdoor dining, unique shopping, bay cruises, family attractions and more. Plan your visit today!
National Park Fun How cool is it that there are two National Parks in our backyard? Very. Try visiting Point Reyes National Seashore to experience this peninsula that juts out into the Pacific Ocean offering a wide variety of activities, habitats, and wildlife to explore. You might see whales, seals, sea lions, and even discover new sea creatures. There's also Pinnacles National Park, a scenic place to visit in the springtime and cooler months when the grass is green and a variety of wildflowers beautifully line your hiking or rock climbing experience. Don't forget your camera!
Visit a State Park Did you know there are approximately 50 state parks around the San Francisco Bay Area? Makes for great family fun. Check these out:
Castle Rock State Park Not your traditional park, this feast of nature boasts a fascinating mix of trees and show-stopping rocks. A little different from the usual hiking trails in the area, most visitors to the park are rock climbers, boulders and waterfall enthusiasts.
Angel Island State Park Visit the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay Area with 12 miles of biking and hiking routes and salt-water fishing. Click here for more details about Angel Island.
Mount Diablo State Park Experiencing the views from the summit of Mount Diablo is a worthwhile activity during the springtime. You can see miles in each direction of unique panoramic views of this part of Northern California. You can drive or hike or bike to the summit.Â
Pixabay
Big Basin Redwoods State Park Did you know California’s oldest state park is covered in Redwoods? Big Basin Redwoods State Park is sprinkled with waterfalls, inhabited by banana slugs and offers great hiking options for the entire family. Added Bonus: It’s stroller friendly too!
Muir Woods National Monument Get ready to soak in nature. Muir Woods National Monument is home to not only the redwoods but over 50 species of birds, flora and fauna. A visit to this park provides a scenic staycation with a number of paved walking trails where visitors can get a close look at the giant trees that stand over 250 feet and are over 600 years old.
East Bay
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park From camping to simply hiking a trail, the great outdoors can provide such great memories for families. Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwoods Regional Park is a hidden gem of redwood forest off Redwood Road, just a few miles over the ridge from downtown Oakland. The forest's peaceful groves give little evidence of the park's bustling past. History Fact: in the mid-1800s the area was the scene of extensive logging to supply building materials for the San Francisco Bay Area. The logging era has long since passed, and a stately forest of 150-foot coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) has replaced those cut down.
Children’s Fairyland Weekend fun awaits with close to 60 storybook sets, friendly animals, and eight acres of gardens at Children's Fairyland. Open Friday-Sunday, the theme park is designed to delight visitors of all ages, but especially those under age eight years old. Come and stroll through the many gates — or run through if you’re a child — and discover all that Fairyland has to offer.
South Bay
Casa de Fruta An oasis of fun awaits at Casa de Fruta in Hollister. Not your average fruit stand, this destination has something for all ages. From dining and shopping to a carousel, choo-choo train and playground, there is something for the whole family. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to try their garlic ice cream—a real treat!
Mini Golf: Emerald Hills Golfland Dust off those golf shoes and take in a round of mini-golf. Emerald Hills Golfland in San Jose offers visitors two unique golf courses to choose from. It also has an arcade and wait for it...waterslides! Yep, if you want to take a break from your golf swing, you can make a splash riding down a spiraling slide of fun. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the snack bar for a delectable treat.
Visit Santa Cruz
Egor Shitikov via Pixabay
Families have so many options for fun in coastal Santa Cruz. From the Boardwalk and exploring the tide pools at Natural Bridges State Beach to strolling through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, or biking along the coast in Wilder Ranch State Park, there is something for all ages. Plan a beach day or if you’re really feeling adventurous, take in a surfing or zip lining lesson.
Beach Fun and More California is home to some of this country’s best beaches and is definitely the ultimate Spring Break indulgence. Some of my favorite sandy retreats include:
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Full of natural marine wildlife splashing in the Pacific Ocean, it’s an ideal spot for your little marine biologist. Check out our tidepool guide for more seaside fun.
Natural Bridges State Beach with Monarch Butterfly Refuge A great beach with several outdoor options such as beachcombing, swimming, surfing, hiking, tide pools and marshland exploring. A great place to view more than 100,000 migrating Monarch butterflies in the fall and winter months
Animal Fun
Safari West
San Francisco Zoo Nestled against the Pacific Ocean, the San Francisco Zoo is an urban oasis serving as the home of over 2,000 exotic, endangered and rescued animals. The location has more than 250 species and lovely peaceful gardens full of native and foreign plants. Advance reservations are required. Plan your visit today and don’t forget to say hello to the giraffes and zebras!
Oakland Zoo Celebrating 100 years of service to the Oakland community, the Oakland Zoo is in festive mode. From African elephants and lions to black bears and camels, visitors can take a trip to places including an African Savanna, Flamingo Plaza or a tropical rainforest. SO many choices and so much fun! Learn more about their upcoming centennial events here.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo Happiness is not just a word implied in the name at Happy Hollow Park & Zooin San Jose. Families can have loads of fun and connect with nature through play at this 16-acre facility with over 60 animal species, family-friendly rides and attractions and more. Pro Tip: Grab a bite at the Picnic Basket for lunch or even a sweet treat!
Gilroy Ostrich Farm
Gilroy Ostrich Farm Ostriches, goats, alpacas, Oh My! All are waiting to be fed or pet at the Gilroy Ostrich Farm. Pack up the family and take a self-guided tour of the farm and meet the animals. They love making new friends. Check their website for daily schedules and special events.Â
Fact: there’s never been a puddle our kids didn’t like. In order to keep little feet dry (and your sanity intact), why not add a shiny new pair of rain boots to your family’s collection of outdoor gear? From the ever-popular Target rain boots for kids to the cult-favorite Crocs kids’ rain boots, we’ve curated a list that’ll be sure to have something that fits your needs. Scroll down to see them all.
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With a vintage-yet-thoroughly-modern vibe, we love this gender-neutral Paper & String rainboot from London Littles. The whimsical kite pattern against a striking, cheerful yellow will brighten any day and keep their toes warm and dry, too. Â
There's a reason these rain boots are a favorite with parents. Basic but sturdy, the range of colors means you can find a pair that'll go with just about anything your kid wears.
You love Western Chief boots even before you buy them—these classic rain boots for toddlers and kids include the signature styles like firefighter and frog, as well as a selection of character boots including Batman and Minnie Mouse.
We love the comfort level of this boot—it's like wearing a sneaker. Kids can run, jump, climb and splash all they want and they might not even notice when it stops raining. They come in other colors, too!Â
We love the easy pull-on handles that help independent toddlers jam those boots on and go! Plus, with extra features to keep feet dry, rainy days can be outdoor play days, too.
Your favorite comfort shoe comes in a rain boot for toddlers and little kids too! This unisex style is offered in seven bright colors and is made with the same material your own feet love.
Bold, bright colors meet minimalist design in these waterproof boots that have a rubber-like red finish. Tested to keep kids’ feet dry for over four hours submerged in water, these boots are also ergonomically designed for maximum foot health for your puddle stompers. Toddler & big kid sizes are available; you’ll want to check out the sizing chart before you order.
Sperry’s classic-look duck boot in mini sizes, these boots have the ultimate wet/dry traction and a zipper closure for a close fit and easy on/off. They’re perfect for super active kids who never let a little rain or light snow stop them.
Sure, our seasons don’t change much here in the Bay Area, but while trees sprouting new leaves may not call for a wardrobe overhaul, your little one sprouting up another few inches over the fall and winter months is the best excuse to get them into some fresh new looks for Spring. We have a preview of Old Navy’s new Spring line, which includes everything from sweet, cinch-waisted rompers to classic khaki shorts perfect for every occasion.
Baby Boho ChicÂ
Mix slouchy, cinch-waisted pants in pretty pastels and batik-inspired patterns with a classic blue and white-stripped top in an of-the-moment cut and featuring a cute tie, and a pair of simple, shiny sandals for an outfit that is ideal for running, jumping and climbing, not to mention striking a pose at any Spring birthday fete.
Bright Ideas
Let their little personalities shine by adding a bold colored tee to the classic jeans and sneakers look. Skater shoes have been shrunk down and blocked out in two contrasting colors, for kicks that are classic but fun. This killer combo goes from school to the swing set with ease.
Prep School
Some looks never go out of style. Pair classic khaki shorts with a heather gray tee-shirt and top it off with a navy varsity jacket for a look that works everywhere—the classroom, the playground, even a night out for pizza with grandma and grandpa (who are always asking you to tuck in your shirt).
Spring Flings The Bay Area’s sunny-one-minute, foggy-the-next weather calls for an outfit with a similar split personality. This chambray romper features short shorts and a long-sleeved button up, plus a playful drawstring waist. Paired with some scrunched-side slip-ons in pale pink, this Spring look is ready for the beach, the park or a shopping date with mom.
Which spring look would you choose for your kids’ wardrobe?
