If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
All the world needs now, is love, sweet love and we have all the ways you can show love this Valentine’s Day right here. These Etsy Valentine’s Day gifts for kids include lots of personalized options that we know won’t get cast away on February 15th. Your little one will definitely feel the love when receiving one of these options!
Choo, Choo! Santa coming through! Christmas traditions are back on track this year and this is one of our favorites! After Ol’ St. Nick’s famous red sled, trains are Kris Kringle’s favorite way to travel. NOW is the time to book! These magical holiday rides sell out quickly, so make your reservations soon. Scroll down for the best places to catch the holiday spirit on the rails. All aboard!
Spend 90 minutes with the Jolly Guy on this excursion that explores the Chester Creek Valley in PA. There are plenty of chances to fill your Instagram feed, from the historic station to candid meet-and-greet snaps on the rails. Be sure to bring your wish list to give Santa. West Chester Railroad also offers a Christmas Tree Train on Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, 12; hop aboard for a scenic trip to Wiggins Tree Farm for a unique pick-your-own tree experiences (trees are tagged and loaded on to the train's flat car).
Cost: $30/adult, $25/child ages 2-12, $10/infant, children under 9 months are free When: Nov. 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 and Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and Dec. 4, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 5 pm. Where: 230 E. Market St., West Chester, PA Online:wcrailroad.com
Hop a Ride on a Historic Train
Strasburg Railroad's Santa Paradise Express
Strasburg Railroad
Share in this 60 year tradition on America's oldest operating railroad. Climb aboard a vintage rail car for a 45-minute journey with Santa himself on Santa's Paradise Express. You can even hop aboard on Christmas Eve! Before you depart, don't forget to visit Mrs. Clause at the North Pole Annex. Want get cozy on a train in your PJs? Come listen to The Night Before Christmas from story tellers dressed in old fashioned nightcaps and gowns. Santa makes a brief appearance on this train, as well.
Editor's Note: To ensure everyone's safety, all Team Members will be wearing masks during you visit. The rail line asks that guests also wear a mask when not eating or drinking.
Cost: $23/adult, $17/child ages 2-11, Free/infant ages 0-1 When: Nov. 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29 and Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 24; departure time varies by date Where: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA Online:strasburgrailroad.com
Get your camera ready for this Insta-worthy trip on the Walkersville Southern Railroad. Santa will make his way through rail cars, being sure to greet each passenger with his hearty signature welcome and a special small gift for all children. After the trip, be sure to grab your free hot chocolate and cookies in the museum.
Cost: $18/adult, $17/child ages 2-12 and seniors, Free/2 & under When: Nov. 27 & 28 and Dec. 4, 5. 11. 12. 18, 19; departing at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Where: 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD Online: wsrr.org
All aboard at the B&O Railroad Museum’s roundhouse, which, we might mention, is chock full of trains. The museum is open daily, but you can take a special trip on the Polar Express on select dates in Nov. and Dec. Character actors bring this beloved book to life through songs and interactions. Get you golden ticket punched while Chefs dance to the hot chocolate song and guests receive a special gift: a silver bell.
It’s 6 o’clock. The kids are melting down and the pantry is bare. All you want is for someone else to cook dinner for a change (and clean up while they’re at it)! Dining out can be a lifesaver but an expensive one with the whole family in tow. We’ve scoured the city for the best “kids eat free” deals and have your week of meals planned for peanuts.
This Georgia staple has been serving breakfast all day for 25 years, and with 14 locations, you're never too far from a solid chicken biscuit or platter of pancakes. You can also enjoy dinnertime riffs on breakfast, such as their award-winning creamy, dreamy shrimp & grits, or go for the gold and order a fried green tomato BLT.
When to Get It: From 4-7 p.m., diners can enjoy one free kid's meal per adult meal purchased.
Johnny Rockets, the nostalgic burger joint famous for its burgers and shakes, is now beefing up (or down, actually) their plant-based options. Customize your burger with sauteed mushrooms, onions, sauces, and cheeses.
When to Get It: From 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays, kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée and drink.
3500 Peachtree Rd. in Phipps Plaza, Suite G9 Buckhead 404-233-9867
This neighborhood tavern with locations in Brookhaven, Atlantic Station, Alpharetta, and Dunwoody is a crowd pleaser with everything from edamame hummus to cheese fries. Kids can choose from the kid menu with options like grilled chicken and mashed potatoes, burger or chicken tenders and fries, and macaroni and cheese.
When to Get It: One child under 12 per paying adult eats free for if you are loyalty member Sun.-Thurs. from 5-7 p.m.
Going to Revival is a lot like going to your grandmother's house, but imagine her kitchen was stocked with top-shelf ingredients and some new spices. It's comfort food, only fancier, but not so fancy you don't recognize it for what it is. And what it is is good food. An order of fried chicken and mac and cheese will please any kid or adult, but you could also make a meal of their deviled eggs and fried pickles.
When to Get It: Kids ages 12 and under can enjoy a free kids meal per paying adult, and then it's $5 per additional child.
Feel like eating fine food but in a rush? Head to this option where they fire up the grill upon ordering, the menu is filled with good food and food that's good for you, and your wait isn't longer than what you spend at a fast food restaurant.
When to Get It: Kids eat for 99 cents after 4 p.m.
For tasty, cheap and abundant noodles and stir fries, Doc Chey’s is your spot. Sign up for a Karma Card and you can earn points towards free appetizers and promotions, as well as score you free kid’s meals on weekends. The kid’s menu features Asian-inspired kid favorites like fried rice and lo mein – and includes a fountain drink.
When to Get It: On Sat. & Sun. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Karma Card holders can receive one free kid’s entrée for each adult entrée purchased.
Whether you head here for sushi, hibachi, or just the chefs' table front entertainment, your kids will feel like they're on top of the world. Or at least, on top of the onion volcano.
In addition to these independent or local chain restaurants, several national chains (and these are just a few) have “kids eat free” deals that vary based on location. Check out your nearest location to see what they offer.
If you’ve been hesitant to get your kids a Kindle, the newest version from Amazon might be a gamechanger. Kindle Paperwhite Kids just launched and it’s the first-ever waterproof Kindle for kids, plus it has no games, ads or videos.
Now your little bookworm can read and learn with zero distractions. The new e-reader includes educational tools to build literacy skills, with Word Wise quick definitions and Vocabulary Builder to create flashcards. Kids can have fun with achievement badges as they make progress toward pre-set goals. And they can switch between reading and listening to Audible books with an included one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+.
Even though this device cuts out troublesome videos and social media content, you still might want to keep an eye on what your kids are reading. An included Parent Dashboard lets you view reading progress, add books and use a Bedtime feature to make sure sessions don’t cut into a good night’s sleep.
Just like the adult e-reader, the kid’s paperwhite version has a glare-free screen, plus an adjustable warm light. It lasts up to 10 weeks on a single battery charge and it can withstand accidental immersion in water. You’ll be able to buy it for $159.99 starting today and you can choose between black, Emerald Forest or Robot Dreams.
As the Founder of Zovargo, a zoo that brings animals to you—I have had the honor of sharing our animals with thousands of children over the years and I’ve seen a lot of parties. And while some are over-the-top, most are successful for the reasons listed below. So if you’re thinking of adding animals to your next special celebration, here are the things to consider to make your party the happiest celebration yet.
1. Location, Location, Location
Having animals at your party will certainly be an exciting, if not, the most exciting part of your party. Try to avoid parks and busy public locations because you don’t want other children from the playground to drop into your party. It’s distracting from your special event, and can be challenging for the animal handlers because they have to keep track of which children are part of your party or just drop-ins. Choose a private location, like your home, but also make sure there’s enough space for the guests to spread out and be comfortable.
2. Animal Selections
While picking the animals is sometimes the most fun part of planning your animal party, keep in mind which animals the children will really enjoy. And while it’s hard to stray away from impressing your own friends, remember—it’s a kid’s party, not an adult party. Experts that are bringing the animals have lots of experience. Trust me on this and listen to their suggestions! The animal handlers know their animals, and they know what species works best for different age groups. So many times I have had people request the “largest animal you have” for a toddler party. This never works out well as tiny people are scared of large animals. Listen to the experts and go with what you know your child will love!
3. Look for a Unique Experience
The days of traditional petting zoos are fading as more people become aware that lots of tiny people trampling around a corral of animals isn’t the perfect idea of a party. This is old-school and is unsafe, unsanitary, and stressful for animals. Zoos like Zovargo, travel to you and bring enough staff to provide a safe experience that is manageable and highlights each special animal one at a time.
It’s also helpful to look for places that offer a special experience with the animals instead of just an opportunity to pet them. For example, who can say they’ve shaken the hand of a duck? This is just one type of extra-special experience that will leave some lasting memories for the children and your guests.
4. Manage Your Wild Guests
Plan ahead for late arrivals. To do this, have your guests arrive 30-60 minutes ahead of the animal program start time. As the animal handler, we have had to delay our start for late guests more times than I can count. While this is not a problem, consider that the animals are sitting in crates just waiting for their time with the children. They may have traveled an hour (or hours) to get to your party already and then we all wait which is unfair to everyone. Another party tip? Mind the adult chatter. Yes, it’s a party, and parents sometimes like to let loose, but be mindful that adult chatter can cause a distraction from the animal program forcing the animal presenters to have to speak louder than the parents so the kids can hear. To prevent this, I suggest having an “adult area” if some parents want to catch up while the children are entertained.
5. Avoid Too Many Activities at the Same Time
Usually, the animals are the main attraction, but sometimes there are five other activities happening at the same time! Be mindful, that booking other services like face painting, magicians, caterers, and jumpy houses are all great, but be careful with scheduling too many things. You don’t want to waste money by giving a small group of kids too many things to do while at your party. It’s sometimes best to have one main attraction or activity, and let the kids play the rest of the time. As one of “the animal people,” it’s always a let-down when kids hear pizza has arrived, then they quickly run off to eat. Be mindful of distractions like this and keep a schedule in mind to be considerate of the people you’re booking for your celebration.
6. COVID Considerations
It’s nothing new to consider doing a virtual party, but a ZoomFari virtual animal party takes things up a notch! There are many zoos that offer virtual animal celebrations. Zovargo offers the reasonably-priced ZoomFari virtual party that allows guests to see animals literally eye-to-eye. This type of party can unite family from all of the world and provide everyone a unique experience together.
I'm a conservationist, animal-lover, and I wear many hats! I'm the Founder of Zovargo and with that comes responsibilites for animals, for our clients and for our team of amazing educators and animal handlers!
Adulting isn’t easy, especially the school morning grind. Between packing lunches, hunting down homework and making sure shoes match every single day, it’s no wonder we’re barely keeping it together. When it’s time for a breather, Stonyfield has launched the Breakbox Collection, lunchboxes for parents that encourage a little self-care!
Three themed lunchboxes are available to buy online now, with some hilarious goodies:
Adult Time Out: Even adults need a time out once-in-a-while, but they’re more fun as an adult… Includes everything parents need to take a load off after (another) long day: an organic mixer, Unreal Candy, Simple Mills and Forager Chips
You Got This: Meant to reassure parents that they’re doing an amazing job and give permission to pat themselves on the back; includes a trophy, gold star stickers, a magnet family organizer for the fridge, a “You Got This” mug – and coffee + a hydration bottle to keep them going along the way
Hide in My Closet: For those days when you just want to hide out from everyone in your house and squeeze in some much-needed self-care; includes a candle, Bliss Bright Idea under-eye patches, a jade roller, an eye mask and a Swear notebook to let out all your frustrations
They’re cute, but also charitable! Stonyfield is donating 100% of the purchase price ($50 each) to No Kid Hungry. And inside each Breakbox, you’ll find a packed note with a note of wisdom from parents across the country.
If you’ve ever wanted to sneak into one of your infant’s onesies to have a good lay down, here’s your chance. Cheez-It just dropped a new merch store and its packed with the best the cheesy cracker company has to offer!
Cheez-It HQ has everything from the coveted adult onesie, to coordinating socks, blankets and a fanny pack. Want a cheese-inspired wine tumbler to pair with your big ole box of Cheez-It’s? They’ve got that too.
photo: Cheez-It
The onesie is currently only available in a Super Toasty Bundle for $140 in size L and XL, but it comes with both socks and a blanket for the ultimate winter package. All merch will only be available while supplies last.
Want some crackers to go with your bundle? Cheez-It has also released a special Extra Toasty Superfan 4-Pack that features Cheez-It Extra Toasty and three brand new flavors that include Cheez-It Extra Toasty Extra Cheesy, Cheez-It Extra Toasty Extra Spicy and Cheez-It Extra Toasty Cheddar Jack for $20.
“Fore!” is NOT a word you want to hear in your living room so before you do, take the family out for a round of miniature golf! Appropriate for all ages, mini golf lets your toddler or teen practice their swings and have fun while doing so. We’ve compiled a list of the top eighteen holes in the Bay Area ready and waiting to welcome you to the greens.
Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19, many protocols have changed and indoor mini golf spots have new requirements for play. Please check their websites or call for the most up-to-date information.
San Francisco
Stagecoach Greens
Stagecoach Greens
Channel your inner explorer at San Francisco’s only outdoor mini golf course located in SOMA. Inspired by the Gold Rush era, you're sure to feel the Old West vibe and children will love pushing the buttons for mini history lessons. Pro Tip: Hungry? There are food trucks just across the street. Read our full review here.
1379 4th Street, San Francisco Cost: $19/adult; $13/kids 12 & under Online: stagecoachgreens.com
COVID-19 Update: Must reserve a spot in advance. Masks are optional.
Subpar
Laura Green
This indoor golf course is located in Ghirardelli Square. Families can not only enjoy a round of 18 holes but also grab an ice cream sundae in the nearby Ghirardelli store. Pro Tip: Reservations are required for weekends and holidays ONLY.
900 North Point, San Francisco (look for signs) Cost: $12 for all ages Online: subparminigolf.com
COVID-19 Update: Masks are optional for the course and arcade. The Ghirardelli Store is open, but not handing out free samples. They ARE still serving up sundaes and offer indoor seating.
Urban Putt
Urban Putt, SF’s first indoor golf course in the Mission District is calling you back to the green. Your family will love this 14-hole course layout with a view of the Transamerica Building in the center of the fun. Pro Tip: It’s adults only after 8 p.m. (no kids allowed). Read our full review here.
1096 South Van Ness, San Francisco Cost: $14/adult; $10/kids 6-12; free for ages 5 & under Online: urbanputt.com
COVID-19 Update: Reservations provide entrance into Urban Putt but once inside, tables and mini-golf are first-come first serve.
East Bay
Golden Tee Golfland
Golden Tee Golfland
Whether it's colorful dragons or checkered windmills you're seeking, Golden Tee Golfland is on par. It features two unique mini golf courses in a lush, beautifully landscaped environment. Pro Tip: This location also has an arcade with all the latest games.
2533 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley Cost: $12/adult; $11 kids 4-11; free for 3 & under Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: It’s business as usual here. Masks are optional for all those ready to perfect their golf swing.
Putters Putt Putt
This unique and colorful outdoor course boasts 21 holes in Walnut Creek with misters to keep you cool as your family tests their swings. Pack a lunch for a picnic in nearby Alma Park to complete the outing!
1275 South California Boulevard, Walnut Creek Cost: $10 for all ages Online:puttersputtputt.com
COVID-19 Update: Come as you are and ready to play!
Peninsula and South Bay
Golfland USA
istock
Families can set off on a royal quest or mini safari at Golfland USA in Sunnyvale. It offers two challenging courses as well as great rates and package deals for all occasions, including birthdays. Pro Tip: Stop by the Iceberg Drive-In for yummy shakes and swirled ice-cream delights on your way in, out, or even both!
855 E. El Camino Rd, Sunnyvale Cost: $14/adult; $12/kids 4-11; free for kids 3 & under Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: Buy tickets in advance to beat the rush. Masks are optional.
Emerald Hills Golfland
Offering two unique golf courses AND waterslides, Emerald Hills Golfland caters to everyone! When the kids are ready for a break from their golf swings, they can make a splash spiraling down a slide of fun. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the snack bar for a delectable treat.
976 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose
Cost: $13/adults; $12/kids 5-11; free for children 4 & under (golf prices only) Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: Masks are optional. Be sure to get tickets in advance to ensure tee time.
Marin County and North Bay
McInnis Golf Course
istock
This scenic course is one to keep an eye out for. Your kids will love the lavish gardens and variety of the 18-holes tucked away at McInnis Park Golf Center of San Rafael. Pro Tip: Be sure to bring sunscreen and take a swing at the batting cages.
350 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael Cost: $11/adult; $9/kids 5-11; free for kids 5 & under
COVID-19 Update: It's business as usual here. Mask Requirement: None
Scandia Family Fun Center
Jennifer Snyder
Road trip? Trek up to Rohnert Park to experience this sweet little golf course offering 18 holes, an arcade, a few amusements rides and a batting cage. Pro Tip: Amy’s Drive Thru Kitchen is close by for some healthy fare.
5301 Redwood Drive, Rohnert Park Cost: $11/adult; $8/kids 6-10; free for kids 5 & under (golf prices only) Online: scandiafunland.com
COVID-19 Update: No reservation needed just come and putt away. Batting cages and amusement rides are open. Masks are optional while enjoying the family fun.
Soar through the trees and climb in the clouds! If you’re kiddo is game, try one of these Seattle adventure parks that feature ropes courses and ziplines. Sure it takes a bit of mental toughness, a little physical agility and a huge appetite for fun and adventure…your little adrenaline junkie can handle it, right?
Climb to new heights at High Trek Adventures in Everett. With three levels of fun featuring 63 aerial challenges, there is something for every level of thrill seeker. Kids ages 4-7 can conquer the Cadet’s Course, just 15 feet above the ground with 10 challenge elements and a lower safety line that is easier to reach. Tickets for the Cadet’s Course allow three zips on the junior zip lines so smaller adventurers won’t miss out on the fun. Open to daredevils ages 7 and up, the Captain’s Course features all elements of the course. In order to navigate the course unattended, children must be able to easily reach the upper cable. Before you begin, all participants will complete “Ground School” with High Trek Adventures’ trained staff. This aerial orientation will fit you for a harness and helmet, teach you how to safely traverse the ropes course and zip line and answer any other questions before you start climbing.
Good to know: High Trek also has an 18-hole mini golf course, laser tag and other experiences. Purchase combo tickets to make it a full day of adventuring!
Ages: 4 & up Cost: $35-$80/hr.
11928 Beverly Park Road, Bldg. C Everett, WA 98204 425-382-2966 Online: hightrekeverett.com
Avoid the unpredictable weather and head indoors to Sky Trail, an new-ish aerial attraction at Arena Sports Mill Creek. This fun and innovative course includes challenge elements like suspended bridges, cargo nets, rope ladders, a zipline and more! There isn’t an age minimum for the course, but kids must safely fit the harness to participate. And, anyone under 48 inches tall must be guided by an adult chaperone or parent. At Sky Trail, you are suspended with a full-body harness and slingline from an overhead track, keeping you safely connected at all times.
Bonus: Visit the arcade, bowling alley, bouncy houses and more during your visit. Dine at Moe’s Kitchen, the on-site restaurant, and get a piping-hot pizza or delicious appetizers after your adventure.
Age: no minimum age Cost: $16/person, ropes course; $11/person, climbing wall; $21/person, combo
Bobcats, bears and zip lines, oh my! On your next “trek” to the region’s favorite wildlife park, consider adding a zip line tour to your day. Northwest Trek’s Zip Wild Deep Forest Challenge features three action-packed zip line courses running through the beautiful tree canopy. Zoom on the zip line and then complete the challenge obstacles in between. The Sensation Course is for adults over age 18, but the other courses are perfect for kids. The Adventure Course is suitable for kids age 10 and older (minimum height 4’ 7”) and the Aerial Runway is perfect for younger adventures age 8 and older (minimum height 4’). The only question is, are you ready to zip wild?
Good to know: Remember to pack your own gloves for this adventure (gardening gloves work fine). Additionally, parents can supervise no more than two children on the course, and there's a maximum weight of 275 pounds on each course.
Age: 8 & up Cost: $30/person, Aerial Runway; $65/person, Adventure Course; $90/person, Sensation Course; discounts for NW Trek members; includes admission to Northwest Trek
Nestled in a Maple and Douglas fir forest just outside of downtown Bellevue, the Bellevue Zip Tour is a high-flyin’, family-friendly adventure. Take in beautiful views of downtown Bellevue, Mt. Baker and Glacier Peak from soaring heights! The seven-line tour takes you up to 80 feet in the air and on lines nearly 500-feet-long. Children must be at least 8 years old and weigh at least 60 pounds to participate. Riders under 13 must be accompanied on the tour by an adult chaperone. To zip through the trees, riders will be required to climb two extension ladders and walk on fairly steep and uneven terrain.
Good to know: All riders must be between 60-250 pounds. Adults can chaperone up to three kids on the tour, and teens under 18 must have an adult onsite during the duration of the tour.
Age: 8 & up Cost: $85/adult; $70/kid, age 8-17
14509 S.E. Newport Way Bellevue, WA 98006 206-295-5494 Online: bellevueziptour.com
If you’re looking for elevated drama, head north to Camano Island. Canopy Tours Northwest features six zip lines (the longest one is 660 feet), a log bridge, two brief forest walks within the tree canopy and a breathtaking 47-foot final descent. The course is located on 231-acre Kristoferson Farm, featuring the zipline course nestled in a beautiful PNW forest, hillside barn and small lake. Riders must weigh at least 65 pounds (300 pound max) and kids 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Bonus! Ride to the course in a historic Unimog forest vehicle.
Age: no minimum age Cost: $135/adult; $65/kids, 12 & under
332 N.E. Camano Dr. Camano Island, WA 98282 360-387-5807 Online: canopytoursnw.com
Tips to Zip and Climb:
1. Be prepared to sign a waiver. All riders and climbers must complete a safety waiver before the adventure begins.
2. Dress for active, adventurous fun. Wear closed-toed shoes, comfy athletic wear and layers if you are outside.
3. Leave the extras behind. You’ll most likely be asked to leave behind phones, jewelry, backpacks and any extras.
4. Be prepared to step on a scale to confirm weight (solely for safety purposes!). Riders outside of the weight range will not be allowed to participate for safety reasons.
It’s hard to keep up with all of LEGO’s cool new releases, but this one is definitely a showstopper. The group just released a vintage typewriter that’s sure to be a conversation piece in your home. It was designed by a LEGO fan and it’s a fantastic gift for the expert builder or wordsmith in your life.
The typewriter has all the functionality you’d expect, with a center typebar that rises each time a letter key is pressed, a carriage that moves as you type and a roller to feed in real paper. It also comes with a letter signed by Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, the chairman of the LEGO Group and fourth-generation member of the family privately owning the business.
The fan who pitched the idea, Steve Guinness, said “I wanted to create something totally different from anything that LEGO has ever done before and showcase that you really can make anything out of LEGO. I bought a vintage typewriter for my research and then played around with bricks and the mechanism until I was happy with the design. I hope it will bring nostalgia to adult fans like me, and wonder and curiosity to younger fans who might not have ever seen a real typewriter!”
You’ll be able to snag this set starting June 16 if you have LEGO VIP Early Access for $199, or July 1 as a member of the general public. It clocks in at 2,079 pieces for adult builders to construct. Write on!
