We’ve gathered all the Seattle Christmas events in one spot so your fam can get into the holiday spirit with ease
After a couple of quiet years, Seattle is buzzing again this holiday season with returning and new favorite holiday events to explore. In fact, with so many things to do in downtown Seattle, you and the kids don’t need to go anywhere else to find (or spread) winter cheer. Our list (don’t worry, we checked it twice) includes everything from Santa sightings and steamy cups of hot cocoa paired with carolers to festive music, dancing nutcrackers, and a lot more. So get out your calendar, it’s time to schedule the Seattle Christmas events you really want to make time for this season.
Seattle holiday events you won’t want to miss
Kringle's Filling Station
Kringle's Filling Station
Part arcade, part neighborhood hangout, Kringle's Filling Station is perfect for families with older children. This pop-up event has set up shop along Aurora Ave. at an old gas station. Legend has it that the Kringle Family has come to offer hot chocolate out of the old gas tanks (don't worry, it's completely safe and sanitary!), let guests play unlimited rounds of "Ski-Ball", play "Reindeer Games" or sing holiday karaoke. You even have exclusive access to the Kringles' private office. Add-ons include the brand-new Speedway Slot Cars and photo booth aboard Santa's new-and-improved sleigh (you'll have to see it to believe it).
Insider Tip: Santa's scheduled to visit the Filling Station December 1, 9, 16 and 22. And Krampus will be making an appearance on December 20 and 21.
Good to Know: Be sure to order your tickets online to reserve your time.
We are beyond thrilled to see that the annual Gingerbread Village is back at the Sheraton Grand Seattle this year. If you've never been or if it has been a while, this really is a must-see event. Now in its 28th year, the event matches Seattle's top architecture firms, master builders, and the Sheraton Grand Seattle's culinary teams to create amazing works of edible art. This year's theme is focusing on Buzz Lightyear, but don't be surprised if a few other Toy Story characters show up too. Some of the gingerbread creations have great names like "Courage Against Zurg," "The Future is Bright," and of course, "To Infinity and Beyond!" While the exhibit is free, donations will be gladly accepted to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDRF).
Dates: Nov. 22, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023
Sheraton Grand Seattle 1400 6th Ave. Seattle Online:jdrf.org
Seattle Center is doing it up for the holidays starting the day after Thanksgiving and running through the New Year. If you're looking for free and affordable holiday activities and entertainment, head to the heart of the city. Kids can marvel as a miniature locomotive makes it way through a turn-of-the-century village inside the Armory and complete a scavenger hunt while they're at it (you'll find sheets at the train station). Follow it up with a weekend ice sculpting demonstration or a live performance at the Armory (hint: we're looking forward to the School of Rock Seattle performance on December 10, SANCA's youth performers on December 17, and the KlezKids performance on the 24th) before grabbing something tasty for dinner. Wander through the Campus Luminata light display and end at the International Fountain where things are always hopping before heading home.
Holiday highlight: Take a trip to the top of the Space Needle to grab a picture with jolly old St. Nick in his glass sleigh. Seeing the city's Christmas lights below are totally worth the trip. As for New Year's Eve, plan an evening of music at Seattle Center, or if your kids won't last that long, plan to spend the day at the Seattle Children's Museum for their Winter Market Event featuring a "Noon Year's Eve" pj party and a sock skating rink.
While you're at Seattle Center, be sure to swing into Chihuly Garden and Glass to see Winter Brilliance. The display features over 700 hand-blown glass sculptures and combines glass art, video projection technology, and music for a full-sensory experience. One of the newest Seattle Christmas events, it celebrates the magic of the season in a whole new way. Catch the show in Gallery 1 into the new year when you visit.
With lavish sets and costumes designed by Ian Falconer (of Olivia fame) and the ever-mesmerizing choreography of Balanchine, Pacific Northwest Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a forever favorite for many Seattle families. This full-length show is best suited for school-aged kids, but theatergoers of all ages will be glued to their seats for the entire two-plus hour show, basking in the care and craftsmanship of this delightful production. The 40-foot-tall Christmas tree, snow flurries on stage and Mother Ginger’s magical skirt (it weighs more than 60 pounds!) are all part of what makes this production one of the best around.
Insider Tip: A sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for December 21 at 2 p.m.
Another theater production you won't want to miss is SCT's latest. Even the tiniest theater lovers will be able to enjoy this holiday show, starring their favorite clumsy Bear, Paddington. With his telltale red hat and blue coat, they’ll fall for Paddington’s innocent antics as he works to save Christmas from being a total disaster. It all starts out simply enough—with Paddington and Mrs. Bird making the holiday marmalade (for Paddington’s sandwiches, of course). But oops!—they’ve run out of sugar. A trip to borrow some from grumpy neighbor, Mr. Curry, turns into more than Paddington bargained for when he agrees to help out with household chores in exchange. Things sort of snowball from there, leaving poor Paddington to fix it all before December 25. The show runs for 70 minutes with no intermission.
Insider Tip: There is a sensory-friendly performance scheduled for Dec. 11 at 11 a.m.
Dates: Nov. 15-Dec. 31, 2022
Seattle Children's Theatre 201 Thomas St. Seattle Event details
Ride the monorail from Seattle Center to Westlake Park to take advantage of this larger-than-life holiday display that features over 80,000 lights. All season long, enjoy memory-making moments with Holiday Lights & Delights and enjoy free, family-friendly activities at Westlake Park and Occidental Square each weekend. Don't forget your phones! In addition, enjoy live music by local artists on Fridays (Dec. 9 & 16) from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. at Westlake Park. This is where you'll also find Family Fun featuring crafts, characters, and snow flurries on Saturday, December 10 and 17. Or you can head on over to Pioneer Square on the same days to hear live carolers while sipping free cocoa and munching on cookies from noon-3 p.m.
For one weekend only, families can enjoy this pop-up ice skating rink in downtown Seattle. Free for everyone, the ice rink will be filled with skaters of all ages and abilities. If you’ve got your own skates, bring them along. If not, they’ll have skates on hand to borrow. Just remember to bundle up—this rink is totally outside.
Big bears, lil’ bears, brown bears, white bears! This beary special holiday event is a must-see for kids of all ages. Located inside the elegant Fairmont Olympic Hotel, the Teddy Bear Suite is exactly that and so much more. See teddy bears galore along with beautiful holiday decorations and Christmas trees. The Teddy Bear Suite is also the perfect spot to grab a holiday photo of the kids (think: cute, cuddly holiday cards) or chillax and enjoy a teddy bear-themed book. Psst! After visiting the Teddy Bear Suite on the second floor, stop by the lower lobby to check out the hotel's magnificent gingerbread display made out of 4,000 real gingerbread bricks.
Good to know: Donations are appreciated to benefit uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Seattle Children's Autism Center.
Did you know that when Santa isn’t supervising elves and delivering toys, he's scuba diving? Come see for yourself when he dives in the Seattle Aquarium’s Window on Washington Waters exhibit this holiday season. While you're there, enjoy live holiday music, story times with Santa, marine mammal meet and greets, and more. Santa and pals will be taking to the water on three different dates this year. Catch him at noon or 3 p.m. on December 17 and 18 or at noon on Christmas Eve.
Urban Craft Uprising at South Lake Union Winter Market
Families can shop 'til they drop at Urban Craft Uprising's annual outdoor winter show, held outside the Nitro Building in South Lake Union. It's the easy way to shop small and local this holiday season. The event is free and family-friendly, and it will feature different vendors on different days, so you can go twice to see all the goodies.
Looking for that perfect Santa Claus meet-in-greet experience in New York City? Make the most of your child’s St. Nick visit at one of these special stops
It’s that time of year again, when frost hits the air and everyone in your family is getting into the holiday spirit. That might mean getting out and about around New York City to see holiday and Christmas lights, or getting your hands dirty and cutting down your own local Christmas tree. For some, taking in a festive performance in the area is a must. But for others, it’s all about Santa Claus. That’s where we come in—from St. Nick on horseback to brunches with the jolly ol’ elf himself, we’ve got the details on Santa experiences in the New York City area that’ll keep your family merry and bright all season long.
Macy's Santaland at Herald Square: Santa is back in person at Macy's Santaland at 34th Street. You must make a reservation in advance, which you can do up to five days ahead of time. Can't make it to the store? No worries: Macy's offers a cool virtual visit with Santa. And don't forget—you can still go see Macy's holiday windows at 34th Street.
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24; Times vary
151 W. 34th St., 8th Fl. Herald Square Online: macys.com
Santa at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park: Details have yet to be announced about when Santa will stop by the Winter Village at Bryant Park, but watch this space for when he'll appear. Winter Village is a great place to see St. Nick, as you can also skate, shop, take in the tree, and get a cup of cocoa and a snack.
Santaland at Bloomingdale's: Details for Santaland at Bloomingdale's are not yet available but in the past he's been there on weekends through Dec. 24, and visitors can snap a photo with Santa Claus in a private 20-minute meet and greet. Select a traditional "North Pole" setting or a special "South Pole" setting, the latter of which is a bit more modern, pink and Instagram-friendly. All appointments will receive a complimentary digital and print photo, as well as a sweet treat.
Bloomingdale's Fifth Floor 59th St. & Lexington Ave. Upper East Side Online:bloomingdales.com
Santa at PaleyLand: The Paley Center for Media has an almost month-long classic holiday extravaganza, PaleyLand. Beginning Wednesday, Dec. 16, visitors will be able to enjoy all kinds of holiday events and programming throughout the center's four floors. That includes (among many other fun things) Instagrammable photo opportunities with Santa Claus as well as a 7-foot-tall menorah.
Dates: Dec. 16 to Jan. 8; times vary
The Paley Center for Media 25 W. 52nd St. Midtown Online: paleycenter.org
Big Apple Portraits: Want Santa all to yourself? Book a private photo session with Santa Lonnie from Big Apple Portraits. You can have your shoot with Santa at the Upper West studio or outdoors in Central Park, which makes for a great time to show off your cute winter wear. This Santa is high energy and playful—you can even tie him up in Christmas lights if you want. Sessions are a quick 10 minutes, must be booked in advance, and book up quickly.
Dates: Nov. 12-13 and Dec. 4; 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Town Square's Cookies with Santa: Traditionally a brunch affair, this event has gone sweets and treats. Enjoy delicious, homemade cookies, hot chocolate, coffee, music, and, of course, precious moments with Santa. Plus: yummy-delicious holiday drinks at a cash bar for moms and dads. Take your own photo, or a pro photographer will be on hand to take pictures for purchase, and Elsa from Frozen often shows up as well. Buy now—tickets go fast. Proceeds benefit Town Square and local Boy Scouts Pack 7 and Troop 26.
St. Nicholas Day Celebration: At this free holiday event at the Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum, St. Nicholas arrives on horseback (look for him around 2:30 p.m.). He will tell the traditional tale of "The Bakers Dozen" and children are invited to sign the Red Book. Sip hot cider, try your hand at colonial games, create a holiday pomander, decorate a Dutch clog for Sinterklaas, and dress the tree for the tree lighting that will close the day as the sun goes down. While St. Nicholas might not be posing for photos with kids this year there will definitely be a holiday photo booth available where you can snap your shot as a family.
Date: Dec. 3; 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum 5816 Clarendon Road Canarsie Online:wyckoffmuseum.org
Santa at Queens Center Mall: Santa will be at the Queens Center Mall for Winter Wonderland visits late November through Christmas Eve. Meeting with Santa is always free (photos are not), and it's highly recommended that you make a reservation.
Nicholas Day Celebration: Come out to The Vander-Ende Onderdonk House to sing carols and enjoy a hot cup of apple cider and a cookie. The indoors will be decorated seasonally, so you can get that great, festive photo with St. Nicholas. Kids also take home a goody bag. Tickets are by reservation for timed entry.
Date: Dec. 3; 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Vander-Ende Onderdonk House 1820 Flushing Ave. Ridgewood Online:onderdonkhouse.org
Dining with Santa Experiences throughout New York City
Breakfast with Santa at Macy's: You can also have breakfast with Santa (complete with photo op) at Macy's Stella 34 Trattoria. Enjoy a festive breakfast with exclusive Empire State Building views, take-home treats for children, plus a mimosa for adults. Kids will meet Santa Claus and his elves and take a keepsake photo.
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 19 on weekends and Dec. 20-24 daily; 8:30 a.m., 9 a.m., and 10 a.m. seatings
Macy's Herald Square, 6th Fl. Enter at 35th St. & Broadway Herald Square Online:stella34
Sunday Brunches With Santa: Take your little elves to meet Santa, snap some photos and eat a festive Sunday brunch, complete with breakfast and lunch buffet stations, at the Historic Old Bermuda Inn. There's also a special Brunch Party with Santa coming up on Dec. 17. Housed in a charming Victorian setting circa 1840s, this spot is great for photos ops with a vintage holiday atmosphere.
Dates: Dec. 4, 11 and 18; 11 a.m. and Dec. 17; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Breakfast with Santa Live from Times Square: If you're looking for Santa and a meal with a side of entertainment, this event is for you. Meet and snap photos with the big guy himself while a continental breakfast is served, then sit back and enjoy an interactive musical comedy show staring Mr. and Mrs. Claus and the elves. Finish the festivities with a holiday sing-a-long before you go. How fun is that?
Dates: Dec. 10 and 17; 11 a.m.
Broadway Comedy Club 318 West 53rd St. Times Square Online:eventbrite.com
Santa Brunch Cruise 2022: Want to meet Santa on a boat? Hop on this two hour Christmas brunch cruise with Event Cruises NYC and take amazing photos with Old St. Nick with New York's most iconic landmarks as your backdrop. A three-course brunch will be served to the tune of festive holiday DJ music, and you might even get up and dance.
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 19 to Dec. 30; 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Sensory Friendly Santa: Many malls with Santa picture setups in the New York City area have scheduled sensory-friendly Santa days in partnership with Autism Speaks, but make sure to reserve your spot in advance. These are more private sessions where the light and sound will be turned down lower to make things more comfortable for those with sensory, physical, and developmental needs. This year the majority of Sensory Friendly Santa visits will be on Dec. 4 (see below), although times vary throughout the morning.
You can also visit with a Sensitive Santa at one of our favorite Christmas Tree spots, Santa's Christmas Tree Farm on Long Island. The exact time and date of this event is not yet established, so keep an eye on the website.
Grab your holiday wish list and head to these spots for meet and greets with The Big Guy and Santa pictures
There is no better time to make a family memory than the holidays—from heading out to see Christmas lights around the city, to finding that just-right tree to decorate before you’ve even finished up those Thanksgiving leftovers. While a photo in front of the tree or around the table is a way to preserve those memories, nothing says “Christmas” quite like Santa pictures. When you have the kids in tow, figuring out where Mr. Christmas himself will be is not a simple job. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best places in Portland to snap a pic with Old Saint Nick. Dress the kiddos in whatever means Christmas to you, and head out to one of these spots to make a memory that will last a lifetime (and be a spectacle in any photo album).
Santa’s traditional visit to Washington Square includes all sorts of fun. This year, the new Elf Academy will allow your sweet children to be transformed into elves in the Magic Mirror, with some magic Santa Dust (i.e. Augmented Reality). Oh, and there’s Elf-Ray Vision, and a Naughty or Nice Meter, Storytime with Mrs. Claus, and more. Spend less time in line by making a reservation before your visit, or just swing by for holiday cheer anytime.
Santa’s Workshop is geared up for fun at Clackamas Town Center. The Toy Factory is an experience to behold—kids can test new toys and even help digitally design their own while they wait to see Santa. Special Events include PJ Day, Ugly Sweater Day, and lots of chances for Pet Nights. Reserve online to save some time, and go home with very special memories.
The Christmas Tree in downtown Portland isn’t the only reason to venture to Pioneer Place this holiday season. Saint Nick will be eagerly awaiting present requests at the lower level of the Rotunda building December 1st through the 24th. Take a flick with Santa and then pal around the mall to finish any Christmas shopping—a 2-in-1 occasion, for sure. Head online to reserve your spot for a photo op today.
Santa rarely misses an opportunity to greet kids at Lloyd Center, and this year is no different. He is looking forward to hearing about all the goodies he can load onto his sleigh, and this year he is accompanied by guests. Plan an awesome photo extravaganza with Nightmare Before Christmas’ Jack and Sally or the Grinch himself. You can also catch the Grinch on the famous Lloyd Center ice rink if you’re feeling like strapping on some skates. Head to the Lloyd Center this Christmas season for loads of fun and awesome photo opportunities.
After enclosing himself in a snowglobe to greet children during the holidays, Black Santa has emerged and is excited to meet all the kids of Portland. He is a busy man, so he will be at multiple locations throughout Portland this year. Never fear! He has a website chock full of events he’ll be attending. So no matter your schedule, you can make time to see him (without the snowglobe, this time.).
From November 25th to December 18th, you can join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives. Vintage rail cars transport you along the Willamette River in the heart of the city. Trains travel on the Oregon Pacific Railroad along the Willamette River in SE Portland and he interiors of the passenger cars are decorated with garland, ornaments, and lights that will dazzle both little and big holiday lovers. Of course, the big treat is getting to share a ride with Santa on board. What a great opportunity to get lots of pics! Book your tickets now.
The Festival of Trees is a long-standing holiday event that benefits Providence Foundations of Oregon. On December 2nd and 3rd, you can enjoy a magical holiday wonderland with more than 100 beautifully decorated themed trees, dance and music performances, face painting, and cookie decorating. Attend Elf Academy where kids have a chance to learn what it’s like to be one of Santa’s elves. The whole family can explore the magical winter wonderland featuring amazing trees, crafts, LEGO displays, a chance to get a photo with Santa, and more. And once they complete the required coursework, studious kids will even earn their elf ears.
Good to Know: For the adults, there is a Gala dinner and auction on Thursday, December 1st.
While you can take this train ride all year long, it turns into something special during the holiday season. The holidays just wouldn’t be the holidays in Portland with out a spin on the ZooLights run. This ride gives you the best view of the dazzling display of more than 1.5 million lights in the zoo. In addition to visiting elephants, mountain goats and other wildlife, you can ride the popular lighted train and carousel, and enjoy hot drinks and local food carts. Photos with Santa will be available for the little ones every evening through December 24 starting November 29.
Book a very special Santa visit with this magical train ride on the Hood River Railroad. Join the cheery elves in singing festive songs, enjoy hot chocolate, and be whisked out to Christmas Town with a woo-woo whistle. Santa will give every child their very own special gift. Wear something fun like pj's or a fancy outfit to join in the fun. Book your ride today.
Dates: Nov. 18-Dec. 28, 2022
Hood River Rail Station 110 Railroad St. Hood River, OR Online:mthoodrr.com
Get inspired to reach for the stars by these rocket launches you can view in-person
Got an aspiring astronaut or space enthusiast who would give anything to see a real, live rocket blast into space? Get ready to count down and feel the rumble of the engines! Whether you’re headed west to California or south to Florida—or somewhere in between—pack your bags and head to one of these amazing U.S. spaceports to see a rocket launch, up close and personal.
Note: Not all rockets are deemed “go for launch.” Space flights may be called off even as close to seconds before liftoff. So be flexible, and try to make your plans to allow a few days of a window to see a launch if it is delayed due to weather or mechanical failure.
Kennedy Space Center | Merritt Island, FL
NASA/ Ben Cooper
The "It" spot for rocket launches, Kennedy Space Center not only has prestigious crewed and unmanned launches every few weeks from its Florida "Space Coast" complex—but it's also one of the world's best space museums in the country! That means, even if your coveted rocket launch is canceled or delayed (which happens frequently), your space cadets will have a blast learning about aerospace through a ton of hands-on, immersive experiences, including a simulated Space Shuttle launch and scheduled meetups with astronauts.
That said, if you're lucky enough to catch a launch (the launch schedule is listed on the Kennedy Space Center website), the Center offers several exclusive Launch Viewing Packages to get you as close as you're allowed to be when the countdown begins. Packages include admission/transportation to spectator areas as well as live commentary from experts leading up to and during the launch. To reserve your spot, check the Kennedy Space Center website.
Of course, you don't have to be at the Kennedy Center to see the space capsule soaring toward the heavens. If you'd rather not pay to see the launch—or if seats have already sold out (which they will!)—there are many great spots along the coast that'll still give you a great view of the action. Finding a prime spot sometimes takes a little research, as you'll want to find a place that offers the best view for whatever rocket you're hoping to see. (As a rule of thumb, find a viewing spot closest to the launch pad the rocket is taking off from—Kennedy lists its launch sites on the website.)
For a complete list of viewing spots—including a map of Kennedy and Cape Canaveral launch pads—check out Visitspacecoast.com.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station | Cape Canaveral, FL
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station is just a few miles from Kennedy Space Center, so launches from both locations can be seen from Kennedy's viewing areas. If you've already done Kennedy (or if it's sold out) and you want to find your own spot along the seashore to watch the rockets fly, public spots include:
Playalinda Beach (1000 Playalinda Beach Rd., Canaveral National Seashore): This 4-mile stretch of the Canaveral National Seashore offers straight-shot views of Cape Canaveral launches. Note: This location is closed for launches from Complex 39A (it's that close!).
Space View Park (17 Orange St., Titusville, FL): This spot is especially good for launches from Complex 39A, with free parking and panoramic views across the water (See what it's like with this Youtube video). This location also features various space monuments and the U.S. Space Walk of Fame, which takes visitors through the history of space exploration.
Sand Point Park (10 E Max Brewer Causeway, Titusville, FL): Make it a beach day! This coastal spot offers free parking, restrooms, BBQ grills, and picnic tables—plus a playground and splash pad for the littles.
Jetty Park (400 Jetty Park Rd., Cape Canaveral, FL): This beach offers great views for most launches—especially from Complex 46—and offers umbrella rentals, kayak and paddleboat rentals, and a full-service restaurant.
Also known as the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS), this busy space launch facility on the eastern shore of Virginia hosts large and small rocket launches that can be seen for miles down the coast. For the best views, take your little skywatchers to the Wallops Visitor's Center, which offers a free launch viewing area that's one of the only public sites with a clear view of the launch pads. Note: You can only watch a launch from the Visitor's Center if the launch happens during its regular hours, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Large-scale launches, including the liftoff of the Antares rocket that goes to the International Space Station, are super-popular and spots at the Visitor's Center fill up quickly—so get there early. (You can watch a Youtube video of an Antares launch here.) Launches of smaller-scale rockets, known as "sounding rockets" (these contain research tools that take measurements from space) aren't as popular, so you can usually get a spot. These rockets apparently take off so fast you might miss them as they dart up into the sky, so keep your eyes open! (Or watch a video of a sounding rocket launch here).
If the Visitor's Center is closed—or full—viewing locations on the nearby Chincoteague Island include Robert Reed Park on Main Street or Beach Road spanning the area between Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. The Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware Atlantic beaches also provide good viewing locations, though you'll only see the rocket streaking through the sky from a distance. Want to make a beach vacation out of it? Book a seaside room at Chincoteague, where reportedly every balcony will give you a view of rockets soaring (if you're lucky enough to catch a launch, of course).
If a West Coast launch is more convenient for your space-loving brood, Vandenberg Air Force base is a drivable 2 1/2 hours from LA and 4 1/2 hours from San Francisco and has frequent enough rocket launches that you'll likely find one that works for your space-loving tykes. The active base is closed to visitors, but there are plenty of spots around town and on the seashore where you can get a great view of the rockets launching into the sky—some of them so close you'll feel the vibration of the engines and have to cover your ears to muffle the boom. (Check this super-informative Youtube video to see what it's like to watch a Vandenberg launch).
To find the best spot for whatever launch is happening while you're there, check out this City of Lompoc guide to local viewing spots. In general, you'll want to pick a spot that's got the most direct view of the launch pad (there are several launch areas within Vandenberg, but this rocket launch calendar usually lists the specific launch pads for each launch).
Of course, like all flights (space-bound or otherwise!), delays and cancellations are common—so be prepared to entertain your space travelers with, maybe, a trip to nearby Santa Barbara.
Spaceport America bills itself as the "first purpose-built commercial spaceport in the world" and its behemoth welcome building—a flying saucer-esque structure perched in the middle of the desert like a bona fide spaceship—looks like something straight out of Star Wars. And even though its middle-of-nowhere location doesn't host public viewings of its rocket launches (yet), a visit to this 18,000-square-foot spaceport is a must for any space buff.
Located 45 miles north of Las Cruces and 20 miles southeast of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, Spaceport's main tenant is Virgin Galactic, whose goal (if Sir Richard Branson has his way) is to make "cosmic tourism" within reach for everyone. Launches aren't open to the public (unless you've bought a Virgin Galactic ticket to the stars), but tours of the facility are available—and sound like a dream-come-true for kids (and adults) who want to get an inside look at the elusive location.
Tours include:
Pictures by the replica Virgin Galactic Space Ship
A visit to the Spaceport Operations Center, Mission Control, and dedicated fire & rescue department.
Q and A session
If available, a short drive down the "space-way" (runway)
Pictures in front of the Gate Way to Space (Virgin Galactic's) building.
A visit to the 4K Gallery to learn more about Spaceport America and some its tenants—as well as a chance to try the G-Shock Simulator, a ride that simulates what astronauts feel during rapid acceleration.
There was talk of building a public viewing area at Spaceport for the space-loving sort to gaze skyward, but nothing has been finalized. Until then, the tours are your best bet to get a glimpse of the future of space travel. For more information about Spaceport America, check out Spaceportamerica.com.
If Elon Musk has any say in the matter, Boca Chica, Texas, a desolate swath of land on the southeastern border of Texas and Mexico, will become the next great portal to the stars. The up-and-coming spaceport known as "Starbase" is Musk's grand venture into galactic travel; it being the launch pad for his "Starship" rocket, a colossal capsule that he hopes will eventually shuttle earthlings to and from Mars. Orbital test flights of the rocket may come as early as this fall, so if you'd like to see the monster rocket lifting up, keep an eye on this calendar.
In the meantime, the rocket stands ready on the launch pad, proudly pointed skyward—and aspiring space travelers can get up close to (but not inside) the facility to check it out (the nearby road gets you close enough to snap Insta-worthy photos). When the rocket does launch, nearby South Padre Island makes a great stakeout point (with warm waters and sandy beaches, it makes a great vacation spot, too!). Want something even more unique? This quirky "Rocket Ranch" Airbnb is banking on space tourists, with space-themed rooms and launch viewing spots from its Rio Grande River location just down the road from Starbase.
If you can't make it to southeast Texas, the Starship launch promises to be a big deal, so you'll be able to count down with Mission Control by watching the launch online at Space.com. No plans to head to the border? The non-NASA-affiliated website NASASpaceflight.com has live feeds of the spaceport on its Youtube channel If you want to take a peek at what's happening right now.
Launch Site One (Blue Origin's Launch Pad) | Van Horn, TX
If you happen to be on the dusty stretch of the I-10 freeway headed to or from El Paso near the small Texas town of Van Horn—look up. If you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of a Blue Origin rocket barreling intrepid earthlings into a weightless wonderland. Blue Origin is Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' space tourism company, and its launch pad sits inside a 165,000-acre middle-of-nowhere spaceport owned by the billionaire himself. Launches don't happen often (check the Blue Origin website to learn about upcoming journeys), and they're not open to the public. That said, many a space buff has staked a spot on nearby roads to see the sight from afar—here's one spectator's account of watching a Blue Origin launch from a nearby road.
West Texas not in your future? You can watch past and future launches —and learn all about Blue Origin space tourism—on Blue Origin's Youtube channel.
Fun Apps That Bring the Launches to You
Melissa Heckscher
Want the option to see every major rocket launch that happens, whenever they happen? There's an app for that! Download Space Launch Now or T-Minus apps to be notified of every rocket launch out there and get live feeds of the rockets as they lift off. Nothing like stepping away from the PTA meeting to watch a space launch!
Even cooler? Put the rocket in your backyard! The Backyard Apollo app uses augmented reality to launch a rocket from wherever you point your camera. You'll be able to plant a rocket in your backyard, school parking lot, or kitchen floor—then walk around and under it to explore what it looks like, up close. The app also includes live audio to narrate the launch—as well as on-screen labeling of all the rocket parts as your camera goes over them, so your little Mission Controllers can understand the flight operation in real-time.
Lots of people hear “Florida vacation” and think of one thing: a certain mouse. We love the guy, and his home of Orlando (evidence here), but there’s a different kind of family vacation awaiting you on Amelia Island, a 13-mile-long strip of land off the coast of Jacksonville. Amelia Island offers a winning combination of seaside fun, natural beauty, southern charm and history. Plus: a healthy dash of pirate. Even better, it’s a destination that can flex to your family’s needs, whether you want to relax, explore nature, eat and drink well or live the really good life. (Of course, you can choose to do it all, which we highly recommend.) Need more vacay ideas? Check out our favorite family travel blogs, consider an unplugged vacation this year or maybe make it a family affair with the grandparents.
Deremer Studios
About Amelia Island
Spend any amount of time on Amelia Island (named for the daughter of King George II) and you’re likely to learn that it has served under eight flags over 400 years and is the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry. Another fun fact: it’s about the size of another island: Manhattan. (As a New Yorker, that last info was especially helpful, but it can give anyone a sense of the manageable size of the island.)
Big happenings here include the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in May, the Amelia Island Concours Week (a classic car event in March) and December’s Dickens on Centre, when the island’s historic district is transformed into a 19th-century holiday wonderland.
The island’s “downtown” area is a picturesque and highly walkable section filled with independently owned stores selling everything from antiques and eco-friendly goods to lavender products, gifts and fudge. As evidence of the more relaxed feel of the island, most stores close down by 6 or 7 p.m., at which point it’s a good time to head to one of the many waterside restaurants to dine al fresco and watch the sunset.
Mimi O’Connor
Exploring Amelia Island’s History
Amelia Island is rich in all kinds of history, including civil war, maritime and architectural, and there are many ways to experience its rich past, including just walking around. Located on the busy, north end of the island, the Historic District of Fernandina Beach is home to beautiful, preserved examples of mid- to late-19th century architecture including Victorian, Queen Anne and Classical Revival buildings. (Many buildings have been converted to bed & breakfasts and are lovely, but FYI, not so kid-friendly.)
The kid-friendly Amelia Island Museum of History provides a nice, and easily digested overview of the island’s past. It is housed in the former Nassau County Jail, and you can check out a cell and related documents here. The pirate/shipping section of the museum is fun for kids, where they can learn to speak “sailor” in several languages, command a ship’s wheel etc.
Mimi O’Connor
Fort Clinch, an imposing Civil War-era outpost that was never completed is a major attraction here. Located in Fort Clinch State Park, you can visit to explore the barracks (pictured above), walk the cannon-lined outer walls and on select days, even talk to Union soldiers as channeled by historic interpreters.
No matter your family’s preferred way of enjoying the great outdoors, you’ve got options here.
There are, of course, the beaches. Free and uncrowded public beaches can be found along the entire eastern side of the island. Aside from surf and white sand, Main Beach Park has facilities including a playground, mini-golf and picnic shelters; it’s also wheelchair accessible thanks to a Mobi-mat. A favorite activity of kids (and adults) at this or any beach on the island is hunting for shark teeth millions of years old.
W. Herb Clark/Deremer Studios
Take the to the water, and you can see dolphins, or even some of the wild horses that live on nearby undeveloped Cumberland Island, part of the National Park Service. (Fun fact: JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s top-secret wedding took place on the island.) We spotted both during a lovely pet-friendly family sunset cruise operated by Amelia River Cruises and Charters, but you can set foot on the island by taking a ferry or, for the strong and thrill-seeking, kayaking over with Amelia Island Kayak Excursions. We tried the kayak company’s guided tour through the calm waters of Egan’s creek salt marsh (see above), which is extremely kid-friendly yet still feels like an adventure.
Mimi O’Connor
On land, be sure to explore Fort Clinch State Park a more than 1,100-acre park, home to hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, as well as the historic Fort Clinch. An easy bike ride to the fort along the park’s central drive is sheltered by gorgeous, ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss and lined with blooming magnolia trees and other lush greenery.
To explore the island on land or in the water, bike and kayak rentals are easy to arrange, and can even be dropped off at your hotel. You can fish here too. Take your pick from the fishing pier at Fort Clinch, the old bridge at the south end of the island or surf fish anywhere along the island’s 12 miles of beach. Non-resident fishing licenses are $17 for three days.
Still more outdoor activities include scaling the structures at the impressive Pirate Playground, play some pickleball, or go birdwatching or crabbing. Rain day? Head to the independently-owned Stories & Song Bookstore and Bistro, where book lovers may linger for hours, thanks to a café and upstairs gallery and performance space. Play and reading areas for kids are located on both floors. Another option is Duck Pinz Fernandina, where you can play a miniature form of bowling that’s perfect for little hands (and sip some creative cocktails if you want).
Mimi O’Connor
Amelia Island’s Food & Drink Scene
Because it’s a beach town, dining on Amelia Island tends to be casual, but everything we tried was fresh, and delicious. Yes, seafood is a big player here, but you will find options for picky eaters, too, and many restaurants offer open space for kids to get the wiggles out. Get the poke bowls and fish tacos from local spot Timoti’s Seafood Shak, find an extensive menu of fish and much more at the beachside mini-chain Salt Life, and enjoy lovely sunset views at the popular Salty Pelican. For burgers, the locals go to Tasty’s.
Do not miss the lively scene and savory cuisine at Wicked Bao (pictured above), Nathalie Wu’s fast-casual Asian street food spot. (Just slightly off the beaten path, it feels like a hidden gem, but in fact is a favorite of locals and critics alike. Nathalie herself will likely greet you and field any of your questions.) Home chefs should definitely make a stop at Centre Street’s The Spice & Tea Exchange, an emporium with an incredible selection of freshly ground spices, salt mixes and loose teas.
Mimi O’Connor
If you’re a beer-lover, you have your choice of welcoming and inventive breweries on Amelia Island. Check out Mocama Beer Company (above), a cavernous but sleek spot located in a former car dealership (where you can also get coffee and pastries in the morning) or First Love Brewing, a warm and inviting brewery run by married couple Jessie and Kevin O’Brien, with artisan pizza and wings. (She’s the brewmaster; he’s the chef.)
Foodies take note: for a unique upscale dining experience, make your way to the south of the island to the Omni Amelia Island Resort, where you can attend its Sprouting Project Dinners. The monthly event includes a tour of the resort’s aquaponic greenhouse, gardens and beehives, followed by cocktails and a five-course dinner incorporating items grown on-site. (That includes plants foraged on the lush property, which we found pretty cool.)
Mimi O’Connor
Luxury Family Vacations on Amelia Island
Looking to upgrade your family’s vacation? You’ll want to stay on the south end of the island, where in addition to the Omni, you’ll find The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island (pictured above). Both properties offer beach-facing rooms and suites exclusively, as well as impressive amenities. Rates at The Ritz-Carlton range from $699-$999 a night, depending on the season. The Omni’s nightly rate is $349-499.
The Omni offers a Camp Amelia for kids ages four to 10, a nature center, adventure tours and more, much of which is open non-guests can utilize. Also at the Omni, serious golfers can tackle a Pete Dye-designed championship golf course and a Beau Welling-designed short course. The whole family can take on the Heron’s Cove Adventure Mini Golf course. (Courses for adults and kids are open to the public.)
The Ritz also offers Ritz Kids for kids ages five to 12, with hands-on programming tied to the natural elements and animals of the island. To take things really over the top, book a tuck-in of cookies and story time with “Princess Amelia” and her pirate friend, who comes with the hotel’s resident parrot perched on his shoulder. Another option: a super cute Indoor Pirate Campout, with a tent, teddy bear, pirate storybook, treasure map and more. (Keep it all except for the tent. Cost is $125/night plus tax and service charge. Recommended for kids ages four to 10.)
Mimi O’Connor
Affordable Accommodations on Amelia Island
If you prefer a comfortable value option for your stay, consider the Springhill Suites Amelia Island and Courtyard Amelia Island, both by Marriott. The hotels are conveniently located down the street from the Main Beach and all its amenities and the entrance to Fort Clinch National Park. Courtyard’s room rates start at $199 a night; Springhill Suites rates start at $179. Prices fluctuate with the seasons.
The two hotels share a large and lovely central pool (with a hot tub and fire pits), and you can order food and drinks from the Tides Pool Bar & Grill. There’s also a Starbucks on the property.
Fresh and modern, Springhill Suites hotel opened in May of last year. It offers well-designed suites and many of the things that make traveling with kids easier: a tasty continental breakfast, laundry facilities and a shop to get late-night snacks. It’s also pet-friendly, with pets under 50 pounds being welcome.
If you’re a camping kind of family, you can book camping or RV sites in Fort Clinch State Park, as well as on Cumberland Island. Tent camping at either will cost you about $40/night.
This trip was paid for by the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
There’s nothing else quite like the local children’s museum when you have kids with serious energy they need to burn off. Kids love exploring all the hands-on exhibits, and parents love that their kids get to learn while having fun—a win-win! We’ve gathered up the best children’s museums in every state, as recommended by our readers. Keep reading to see them all.
1. Alabama: McWane Science Center, Birmingham Since opening its doors in 1998, McWane Science Center has welcomed millions of visitors to learn about all things STEM from exciting hands-on experiences. Permanent exhibits include Itty Bitty Magic City (a play area perfect for kindergarteners and younger tots), Alabama Dinosaurs (featuring fossils discovered in the state) and NatureScope (discover birds and creepy crawly things).
2. Alaska: Fairbanks Children’s Museum, Fairbanks The Fairbanks Children’s Museum is all about play-based learning, and kids have a blast with all the awesome hands-on experiences and programs. You can practice a little butterfly yoga, mingle with other parents and tots during special meetups and scale a rock wall, just to name a few.
3. Arizona: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Phoenix With over 48,000 square feet of play space, there’s enough to do at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix to keep your tots busy all day long. There are more than 300 play experiences spread over three floors, in addition to a range of classes about everything from fossils to art. Be sure to check out the Schuff-Perini Climber, a tree-like sculpture that gives kids a bird’s-eye view of the museum’s atrium.
4. Arkansas: Scott Family Amazeum, Bentonville Your crew will love the Amazeum, an awesome interactive museum with a focus on art, science and Arkansas culture. Be sure to check out the climbable tree canopy, indoor cave and tinkering hub, in addition to daily activities like DIY workshops, day camps, and playgroups. There’s also a one-acre outdoor area with plenty to explore, including a rock wall and a giant rope structure.
5. California: Exploratorium, San Francisco The Exploratorium moved to Pier 15 on the San Francisco waterfront in 2013, tripling the overall space to 330,000 square feet. Truly a hands-on interactive experience for ages 4-12, it’s hard to say what the kids will enjoy more—taking a sensory-loaded trip through the tactile dome, visiting the tinkering studio or trying out iconic experiments like the shadow box. The museum’s exhibits are built in-house and constantly evolving, which makes every trip special and unique.
6. Colorado: Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, Denver The Children’s Museum of Denver boasts a nine-acre campus, with awesome exhibits like Altitude, where kids make their way up and around over three levels of Colorado heritage to reach the lookout at the tippy top, and Box Canyon, an indoor mountain range for smaller tots. Kids can also go grocery shopping in a mini farmers market, learn about the science behind bubbles, and let their imagination shine at the art studio.
7. Connecticut: Kidcity Children’s Museum, Middletown Kids ages 1-7 will have a blast exploring Kidcity’s one-of-a-kind, hands-on exhibits, all of which are built by in-house artists. There’s a Fishery, where you’ll use conveyors to bring in the catch of the day; a Space Age Roadtrip, where friendly aliens take a trip on Route 66; and a medieval village called Middleshire, where kids can build a castle and keep watch for Vikings. Be sure to block out a good chunk of time for your visit—they’ll be entertained for hours!
8. Delaware: Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington Your little explorers will have the chance to discover the worlds of science, math, and technology at the Delaware Children’s Museum. Monkey around in the Stratosphere, a cool climbing structure that overlooks the museum’s lobby; learn what an architect does and how buildings take shape, and let your tiniest tots play on a model train in the transportation-themed area.
9. Florida: Tallahassee Museum, Tallahassee Although it’s not strictly a children’s museum, this gem located on beautiful Lake Bradford will be a hit for adults and kids alike. You’ll find an 1880s farmstead, historical buildings and a live collection of native wildlife, in addition to a zip line and adventure course for the thrill-seekers in your crew. And with living history events that teach important lessons about our country, it’s well worth getting a yearly membership.
10. Georgia: Children’s Museum of Atlanta, Atlanta Atlanta’s go-to destination for kids offers awesome hands-on exhibits, a 3,000 square foot mezzanine, and a permanent performance space, all of which have a focus on STEAM-centered, play-based learning. Gateway to the World invites mini explorers to climb through the layers of the earth, while Step up to Science hosts a permanent lab with experiments conducted on a daily basis. Get an insider’s peek at the museum here.
11. Hawaii: Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center, Honolulu Whether you’re an island dweller or just on Oahu for vacation, the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center is definitely worth a visit. Kids are encouraged to use their senses of touch, sight, hearing, and smell to gain a better understanding of the world around them. Exhibits include Tot Spot (a special play zone for your tiniest ones), Fantastic You (an up-close and personal look at the human body) and Rainforest Adventures (an exploration of rainforests and our precious natural resources).
12. Idaho: Museum of Clean, Pocatello For a seriously unique experience, you’ve got to check out the Museum of Clean. There’s not just one focus here—everything from clean air to clean water to clean language is covered. Kids will love exploring the museum’s play areas and interactive features (and looking at a massive collection of vacuum cleaners is pretty fun, too!).
13. Illinois: Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview To folks living or vacationing in the greater Chicago area, Kohl Children’s Museum is just what the doctor ordered for beating the winter blues. With 17 permanent exhibits, kids are able to expend tons of extra energy by becoming veterinarians, nature explorers, chefs, mechanics and even Whole Food employees, all in one day. Don’t want to leave for lunch? Stop off at the Cosi for food and snacks.
14. Indiana: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Worthy of a vacation in itself, lucky families who visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis are in for five floors of energy-zapping activities and fun. As the biggest children’s museum in the world, it has almost 500,000 square feet of exhibition space, 11 permanent exhibits, and over 120,000 real artifacts. From the Dinosphere and All Aboard! to National Geographic Treasures of the Earth, there’s enough to keep you busy for a few days.
15. Iowa: Iowa Children’s Museum, Coralville The Iowa Children’s Museum is all about inspiring kids to learn and grow through play, and their multi-sensory exhibits hit it out of the park. Aspiring chefs get to work in a pretend pizzeria; tots can learn basic physics lessons with race cars, tracks, and mazes; and train-obsessed kids can play with model trains weaving their way through Iowa. In case that’s not enough to tire them out, there are also special events for art-making, STEM learning and more.
16. Kansas: Cosmosphere, Hutchinson Go on a space odyssey at the coolest museum in Kansas, a 105,000-square-foot space and science center that’ll keep your whole crew entertained for hours. Watch a jaw-dropping show in their state-of-the-art planetarium (there’s a show about black holes narrated by Liam Neeson!), browse the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts in the world and watch live demonstrations of science experiments.
17. Kentucky: Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Louisville A visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is sure to be a home run, especially if you’ve got sports fans in your family. You’ll get to see how baseball bats are made (and you’ll get a miniature bat to take home), crawl through a giant glove, try your hand at a simulated pitching experience and hold bats that were used by baseball legends.
18. Louisiana: Louisiana Children’s Museum, New Orleans With a visit to the Louisiana Children’s Museum, little ones will have the chance to learn about everything from reading and math to architectural ideas and the nuances of grocery shopping—all through super fun, hands-on activities and exhibits. Find out how to use a fulcrum or a pulley with the Simple Machines exhibit, head to Art Trek to explore a range of different media and techniques and go back in time to check out the recreated courtyard of one of New Orleans’ oldest buildings. With a fun mix of science, art and Louisiana-inspired activities, there’s really something for everyone.
19. Maine: Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, Portland Kids 10 & under will love spending the day playing and learning at this gem of a museum in Portland. The hands-on exhibits range from an exploration of the camera obscura to a kiddie-style farmers market (complete with bakery and fish market) to a special area that’s perfect for your tiniest tots. And since this is Maine, after all, there’s even a replica lobster boat where kids can learn about the state’s working waterfronts.
20. Maryland: Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore Its three floors, 13 exhibits and loads of purposeful play make Port Discovery Children’s Museum one of the best indoor spaces in the Mid-Atlantic region for kids ages 0-10. Start the day in KidWorks, the three-story urban treehouse that will not only give their little bodies but also their minds, a major workout. Then, let your sous chefs whip up a quick meal at Tiny’s Diner and take a journey through Maryland’s rich heritage in Tot Trails.
21. Massachusetts: Boston Children’s Museum, Boston There are 88,000 square feet of hands-on engagement at the Boston Children’s Museum. The focus on science, culture, health & fitness and the arts make this an ideal destination when it’s just too cold to be outdoors—a few attempts to make it to the top of The New Balance Foundation Climb, the three-story climbing structure in the center of the museum, will leave your kids tired and happy. Plus, visitors benefit from the scores of programs and activities developed by museum educators.
22. Michigan: Impression 5 Science Center, Lansing In 1972, Impression 5 became one of the first hands-on science centers in the country, and they’ve been a Michigan favorite ever since. With a focus on dynamic, interactive activities that encourage kids of all ages to play, create and challenge their understanding of science, it’s well worth the trip. Learn about oral health with giant dental tools, step into a full-size body bubble, become a naturalist for the day and more.
23. Minnesota: Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul The Minnesota Children’s Museum’s mission is to spark learning through play, and you’ll see what they mean after one visit. Kids will love exploring The Scramble, a four-story vertical adventure with a spiral slide and a netted catwalk. Let them get creative making their own stories at Imaginopolis, and join in on Our World, a mini-city with everything from a post office to a farmers market.
24. Mississippi: Mississippi Children’s Museum, Jackson Kiddos will have a blast playing the day away at this Jackson gem. The 40,000-square-foot museum houses five galleries of educational, interactive exhibits and weekly programs that focus on everything from literacy to science to Mississippi heritage. Learn about healthy eating in a cute kitchen, make a masterpiece in the art studio and find out about the state’s agriculture.
25. Missouri: City Museum, St. Louis We recommend wearing comfy clothes for your day at the City Museum because you’ll definitely be crawling, sliding and climbing. With lots of interesting architectural features like old chimneys and salvaged bridges, it’s captivating for kids and adults alike. Venture through hidden tunnels, monkey around on fun jungle gyms and zoom down indoor slides—your little explorers will love it all.
26. Montana: Children’s Museum of Bozeman, Bozeman Offering hands-on exhibits, summer science camps, after-school activities, and educational programs, the Children’s Museum of Bozeman is a cultural hub. Kids can make slime in the science lab, collect eggs from chickens on the farm, tinker with electric circuits and more. Even your tiniest tots will love their special zone that offers plenty of space for rolling, crawling and climbing.
27. Nebraska: Lincoln Children’s Museum, Lincoln Spend the day exploring the Lincoln Children’s Museum’s three floors and 23,300 square feet of hands-on exhibits and imaginative programs. Check out Cuckoo Construction, the museum’s largest exhibit yet, which gives kids a chance to help build walls and watch foam bricks fall. Chill out in the Grow Zone, an interactive garden perfect for tiny tots. Cruise over to the water exhibit, where you can watch the rain fall from the clouds above and build dams to hold the water back.
28. Nevada: DISCOVERY Children’s Museum, Las Vegas The three-story DISCOVERY Children’s Museum opened in 2013 and is home to nine themed exhibition halls filled with interactive hands-on core exhibits. It’s hard to miss The Summit, a 70-foot tower with 12 levels of engaging, hands-on play. Kids can lift a car with a lever and (if they make it!) take a peek at the amazing roof at the very tippy top. Check out a mini Hoover Dam in Water World or watch your tiny tods wander around Toddler Town—a desert-themed space complete with trains, tunnels, and art zone. If you make it to the third floor, which is dedicated to art, exploration, and curiosity, consider it a successful visit.
29. New Hampshire: Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, Dover The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is all about hands-on discovery, and you’ll get what they mean when you see their amazing exhibits. Engineer a flying machine and launch it from a 30-foot tower, venture into a cave to read glow-in-the-dark books and find secret paintings, dig for Triceratops fossils and more. Between the exhibits, STEAM Lab drop-in sessions and junior science classes, there’s enough to keep you coming back for more all year long.
30. New Jersey: Liberty Science Center, Jersey City Inspire your budding scientists and engineers with a visit to Liberty Science Center, home to 12 museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, giant aquariums, a 3D theater and lots more. Catch a planetarium show, check out views from the Hubble Space Telescope and meet some of the animals that live in the Hudson River. Train-obsessed kids can even learn, play, and solve problems with Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends.
31. New Mexico: Explora Science Museum & Children’s Museum, Albuquerque Spend the day learning about science, technology, engineering, art, and math through fun hands-on activities at Explora. Experiment with balls and ramps to slow down the effects of gravity, make a masterpiece out of recycled materials and discover the unique characteristics of water. Be sure to check out their events calendar, offering everything from music jams to adults-only evenings.
32. New York: The Strong National Museum of Play, Rochester The truth is, a family could spend more than an entire day at The Strong: The National Museum of Play. With items from the Rochesterian Margaret Woodbury Strong’s extensive doll and toy collection, the museum has grown into a massive and impressive 100,000-square-foot destination for interactive fun and learning for kids of all ages. Stellar permanent exhibits include Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street?; American Comic Book Heroes: The Battle of Good vs. Evil, and Reading Adventureland. The museum is also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, and when you add on-site restaurants, a carousel and easy-as-pie parking and it’s a destination worthy of a family road trip!
33. North Carolina: Discovery Place Science, Charlotte A visit to Discovery Place is a must for opening little eyes to the wonders of science. From World Alive, where guests can wander through a rainforest and an aquarium, to Think it Up, a “thought studio” of multisensory colors, sights and sounds, and back to Project Build, where anyone can be an architect for a day, every inch of Discovery Place is dedicated to making learning fun and interesting. The tiniest family members have their own special place for discovery, in Kidscience, and the IMAX Dome Theatre screens family-friendly movies and short films perfect for all ages.
34. North Dakota: Dickinson Museum Center, Dickinson Science-loving kiddos will enjoy learning about dinosaurs and more at the Dickinson Museum Center. Check out fossils that were discovered in the area, see their collection of rocks and minerals and pay a visit to Prairie Outpost Park, where you’ll find historic buildings and a coal car. Kids will love playing in the augmented reality sandbox, too.
35. Ohio: COSI: Center of Science and Industry, Columbus With over 300 interactive exhibitions, a seven-story extreme theater and Little Kidspace, created just for kiddos ages 0-5, there’s enough educational fun to keep the entire family entertained for days at COSI. Encounter Poseidon at Ocean, the playground depicting the mysteries of the sea. Check out the Energy Explorers exhibit, which teaches families about energy and making smart choices. Try to lift your own weight in a pulley chair in Gadgets. With the range of traveling exhibits and classic features, every COSI visit can be a different adventure.
36. Oklahoma: Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, Seminole Since 1993, the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum has been a favorite destination for Oklahoma families. The museum is based on an imaginary town, where kids can explore many careers, all from a pint-sized vantage point—they can become a judge, doctor, artist, news anchor, meteorologist, actor, pilot, EMT or firefighter for the day. Plus, you can get lost in the 12,000-square-foot Castle Maze, see aquatic life native to the state and take a ride on a miniature train.
37. Oregon: OMSI: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland OMSI is a can’t-miss museum in Portland, where kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in all things science and technology. Use “human power” to take a virtual trip through Portland, craft your own world using an augmented reality sandbox and experience the sights and smells of the world’s only permafrost research tunnel. Be sure to check out their cool camps and classes too, on topics ranging from kitchen chemistry to web design.
38. Pennsylvania: Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia The name says it all. What other place has the singular mission of encouraging young visitors to touch everything? Start a visit at the huge Monument to Play—a 40-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty’s Arm and Torch (made out of toys). Move your kids towards Roadside Attractions, where they can repair cars, collect tolls, create fantasy vehicles and take a trip to the future. Watch fairy tales come to life at the Story Castle and take a spin on the historical, century-old Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel, before dropping down the rabbit hole to visit Wonderland, all in the same afternoon.
39. Rhode Island: Providence Children’s Museum, Providence Kick cabin fever to the curb with a visit to the Providence Children’s Museum, home to hands-on, play-based exhibits and programs that explore culture and all things STEAM. Check out Play Power, where you can send objects soaring through air tubes and construct magnetic mazes; The Climber, a kid-favorite two-story-high climbing maze; and Coming to Rhode Island, an interactive time-traveling adventure that introduces kids to people who immigrated to the state. Their events calendar also has loads more fun in store, including live theater and art sessions.
40. South Carolina: The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, Greenville Spark your kiddo’s curiosity with a visit to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate. With 19 interactive exhibits, there’s enough to keep any kid entertained for hours. Build dams and learn about water in Reedy River Bend, report the news or weather in the WTCM Studio and monkey around on a multi-story climbing structure. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a tasty meal at Seedlings, the in-house farm-to-table restaurant.
41. South Dakota: Children’s Museum of South Dakota, Brookings Make a day of it with your whole crew at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota. In the exhibit Our Prairie, kids can learn about the region’s past and role-play the daily tasks of living on the land over one hundred years ago. Head to Sensations to experiment with patterns, textures, shapes, and colors and collaborate on hands-on activities. Then cruise over to KidStreet to pick up your mail, tune up your car and make sandwiches and ice cream sundaes. There’s also a cozy MiniExplorers area that’s perfect for your tiniest tots.
42. Tennessee: Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, the Creative Discovery Museum is totally worth a visit. Their permanent exhibits include Buzz Alley and Bee Garden (watch real bees hard at work!), Culinary Corner (make healthy snacks using ingredients from the museum’s rooftop garden), Lookout Tower (get a bird’s-eye view of Chattanooga) and Excavation Station (grab a shovel and get digging in the sand). Be sure to check out their events calendar for the latest goings-on, from a snow day celebration to a honey harvest.
43. Texas: Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston With 14 permanent galleries and exhibits, a cafe, a library, and a family learning center, you’ll be bowled over by the 90,000 square feet of play available at the Children’s Museum of Houston. May we suggest starting at Kidtropolis, a city built and run by kids from the ground up on a daily basis, and moving on to How Does It Work? where your budding scientists have access to a ton of hands-on experiments, like creating a roller coaster and sending messages via fiber optics.
44. Utah: Treehouse Children’s Museum, Ogden Since 1992, Treehouse Children’s Museum has been a favorite for kids ages 1-12 (and their families, too). The exhibits encourage playing imaginatively and making new stories—there’s the Big Red Barn where you can “milk” a cow and collect eggs from chickens, and there are areas based on different countries so you can dream up an international journey. There’s even an Oval Office where tots can pretend to be the president.
45. Vermont: Montshire Museum of Science, Norwich Founded in 1974, the Montshire is now one of the busiest museums in northern New England, and for good reason. It’s dedicated to teaching visitors about natural and physical sciences, ecology and technology through its 140 hands-on exhibits. Kids will love getting a look at the inner workings of toys; examining seeds, bones, and plants under a microscope; experimenting with different types of instruments, and playing with different types of bubbles. This one’s sure to be a hit with adults and kids alike.
46. Virginia: Amazement Square, Lynchburg With four floors and nine galleries of hands-on, interactive exhibits, Amazement Square is an amazing place to spend the day. Start off by exploring Amazement Tower, a climbing structure with slides, ladders, tunnels, and a zip-line that spans all four of the museum’s floors. Then get creative in the Kaleidoscope Gallery, where kids can paint on the walls and rock out on stage. Toddlers will also love playing in Shipwreck Cove, a special under-three area with a pirate ship and a coral reef.
47. Washington: Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia The most visited children’s museum in Washington, it’s our go-to for hands-on science and art learning. With more than 150 exhibits, you’ll never run out of things to do—kids can shop in a mini farmers market, send scarves through a 25-foot AirWays Maze, make and float their own boats and lots more. Be sure to check out their events, too, including free first Friday nights and art studio sessions.
48. Washington, D.C.: National Building Museum, Washington, D.C. Go on an architectural adventure at the National Building Museum. Kiddos can learn about design, construction and engineering through the museum’s two distinct areas. The Building Zone (for ages 2 to 6) lets them stack and balance faux bricks, drive a miniaturized bulldozer and romp around a “green” playhouse, while the other area, Play Work Build, has foam blocks of varying sizes, allowing adults and children alike to build and demolish their own creations. Click here to find out more (plus get the scoop on more of our favorite kid-friendly museums in the DMV).
49. West Virginia: Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum, Wheeling Located in beautiful Wheeling, kids of all ages will love exploring the Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum. You’ll find interactive, operating model train layouts, along with toys you’ll remember from your childhood—dolls, dollhouses, toy soldiers, playsets, trains, planes, and ships, just to name a few. Kids will have a blast taking a peek into the past (and seeing how far toys have come!).
50. Wisconsin: The Building for Kids Children’s Museum, Appleton Foster your kids’ curiosity with a visit to The Building for Kids Children’s Museum. They’ll have the chance to climb into a 10-foot human heart, make a masterpiece using blocks, become a firefighter for the day, build boats and lots more. Check out the events calendar for more fun activities, like toddler playtime sessions, STEM workshops and story times.
51. Wyoming: Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, Jackson The Jackson Hole Children’s Museum is all about fostering a love of learning through collaborative play and creative problem solving, and with their interactive exhibits and exciting programs, the littles will definitely be on board. Become a pilot for the day, go shopping in the Mountain Market, build a cool creation on the Magnet Wall and snuggle up for some quiet time in the Book Nook.
One of our editors, Jamie Aderski, and her son, Watson, reviewed the new Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch to see what all the buzz is about. Read on to learn more!
My son is in Kindergarten… and he, like most of us, LOVES tech. Like, constantly bugging me for my smartphone or to play with my smartwatch. (They cost more than my first car, so nope, he’s not getting his hands on my precious devices.) But I love the idea of something for him like my smartwatch that I can’t live without. It keeps me honest with my activity level and keeps me connected without being buried in a screen… and BOOM. In walks the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch for kids! Dreams are coming true, folks, because this watch is everything and more that we both want. It’s a tech dream for kids who are not ready for their own smartphone, camera, fit device, or even gaming system—this watch has it all, and all just for them! Here’s what Watson and I absolutely loved about the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch:
This Cool Robot Interacts!
Okay, Tobi has some serious personality! It’s really cute because Tobi makes all kinds of sounds and even has dozens of different expressions—Watson was giggling along with him like his school buddies—heart melt! Tobi also has little robot arms and legs that pop out and make him come to life, which is a fun surprise every time, and he is just adorbs.
Not Just Games... Fitness Games! Brain Games! Arcade Games!
Who doesn't love games? Well, Watson does, but is easily bored, because kids, you know? Not with the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch; there are a dozen to choose from, whether it's active games that get you up and your blood pumping, brain teasers or arcade-style games. He kept saying, "This is so cool, mom!". Agreed. Robot-o-Box was his favorite, where you air-box your way to points, and it's addictive in the best possible way. I loved it because instead of sitting on the couch with a game, he wanted to play outside, moving and grooving the whole time. When he was finally ready to chillax, he moved on to brain games, Tic-Tac-Tobi was his favorite, and we strategized together... but boy, that Tobi is brilliant! (We'll get you next time... )
Watson was totally jazzed by the step counter! We even had a friendly competition to see who could get more steps in a day—he basically ran around for another 15 minutes to catch up to my count. (And he slept great that night!) The Walk n' Wonder game is a highlight for sure; it's so unique and cool—it got him wanting to get out and walk around just to play this augmented reality game; really fun. I love how motivating it was for him to keep moving to earn coins—Woohoo! And somehow, I ended up with more steps for the day, too. Thanks, Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch!
Learn How to Tell Time
So this is something we've been struggling with... learning how to tell time! Guess what? There's a game for that! Now instead of asking me what time it is, I ask him! And having his own stopwatch, alarm and calendar really helps him apply what he's learning. The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch is out here teaching crucial life skills while making kids have fun! Not an easy feat.
Not one, but two cameras on this cool robot smartwatch! He loved taking selfies and pics of things he found on his outdoor adventures with his Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch. Watson can even get creative and add stickers to his snaps, personalizing and making his own art. It's fun for me to see the world through his baby blues.
So Much Creativity Packed Into This Wearable Tech
Bottom line: There is just so much cool stuff for him to discover. When I asked him what his favorite thing about the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch is, he said, "Everything!". I haven't seen a smartwatch for kids that has so much to offer, and it's all at his fingertips; it's not a passive screen activity; it's tons of active, creative things for him to explore and do. We give the Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch an A+ and highly recommend it!
If you were to ask a child if playing and learning were the same things, you might get a resounding no! However, toy manufacturers and parents alike have found a way to help children simultaneously learn and play. With so many options to choose from, USDISH has put together our choices for the top 10 interactive tech toys, emphasizing ones that encourage gross motor skills, educational stimulation, and social learning.
Building on our previous list of exceptional kids toys, we’ve assembled the latest and greatest on the market for this year. Keep reading to find out if your child’s favorite toy is on our list or discover new ones to introduce to your family—all in the name of playtime.
1. Pai Technology Botzees Building & Coding Kit for Children: Pai brings modern tech to little hands with its robotics coding kit. And the best part? Kids can see their code come to life in augmented reality. Best for kids ages 3–8 years old.
2. Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit for iPad: If you own an iPad, the Osmo Starter Kit is a great way to give kids some screen time that’s safe and educational. Kids learn the basic hand movements for forming letters, mixing and matching, and making shapes. Best for kids ages 3–5 years old.
3. VTech KidiZoocan m SmartWatch DX2: The SmartWatch DX2 functions as a regular watch with analog or digital watch face options, but works as a smart device too. Kids can capture videos, play brain teaser games, and track active time with a pedometer reader. Best for kids ages: 4–12 years old.
4. LeapFrog My Own Leaptop: Perfect for curious little hands, the LeapFrog Leaptop provides kids with ways to explore letters, music, animals, and shapes—all with the ability to connect online to LeapFrog’s Learning Path. Best for kids ages: 2–4 years old.
5. VTech Touch & Learn Activity Desk Deluxe: One of the hardest things about toddlers is getting them to sit for longer than four seconds, but the activities on the VTech Desk can keep even the most mobile children interested. There’s plenty for your toddler to see and feel with five pages that teach numbers, letters, fruits, and colors. Best for ages: 2–5 years old.
6. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet: Give your kids the benefit of Amazon’s FreeTime Unlimited content—including your favorite shows, apps, and books—without the risk of unprotected internet use. The Amazon Fire Tablet provides your kids hours of fun on or off Wi-Fi and makes for the ideal travel item. Best for kids ages: 3–12 years old.
7. VTech Little Apps Tablet: Perfect for parents looking to introduce gadgets to little hands without paying the price tag for the real deal, the VTech Little Apps Tablet provides 12 different learning activities with a screen that lights up. Activity topics include letters, matching, counting, math, and music. Best for kids ages: 2–5 years old.
8. Hot Dots Jr. Phonics Fun: Introduce reading in a whole new way with Hot Dots Jr. Phonics Fun. Kids can master vowel sounds, letters, and even words as they play the day away. Best for kids ages: 4–6 years old.
9. Osmo Genius Kit: Turn iPad time into learning time with the Osmo Genius Kit. With five apps available, your kid can learn problem-solving, self-expression, visual thinking, math, and spelling in a digitally-safe environment. Best for ages: 6–10 years old.
10. Harry Potter Coding Kit: Want to unlock some truly magical learning? Why not try Alohomora? The Harry Potter Coding Kit teaches your young witch or wizard how to build their own wand with codeable LEDs, code more than 70 spells, and make objects fly on screen. Best for ages 6 and up.
Kids learning through play combines fun for the child with stimulating educational experiences. Incorporating toys in their lives that offer a combination of entertainment and education is one great way to achieve both.
Along with toy selection, parents can consider turning on subtitles while watching a favorite show to encourage reading, or using cooking time to learn the difference between subtraction and addition.
Sometime over the summer, parents usually hear the very first, “How many more days until Christmas?” query. You’ll laugh and say, “Not for a while, buddy” as you toss bathing suits into the laundry basket. But as the days go on, the questions keep coming. Vague answers aren’t quite cutting it for your eager kiddo. The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch can be a gamechanger for Kriss Kringle-obsessed kids—because every parent could use a Robot to get us through the holiday season, #amiright?
This fun, interactive smartwatch features an intuitive, kid-friendly interface that helps kids learn to tell time and keep track of it. They can use a stopwatch, timer, alarm clock, calendar and set reminders—perfect for keeping tabs on the days until Santa comes down the chimney.
And should they need a little distraction from focusing on the best-holiday-of-the-year… they can keep busy and engaged with a variety of learning, arcade and fitness games. The pedometer, dance activity game and augmented reality Walk n’ Wonder game will keep their body moving while they dream up their wish list!
Another reason your kids will want this smartwatch? The Tobi robot character speaks gibberish, giggles and has more than 100 expressions. Featuring moving arms and legs, this built-in interactive robot is here to help children learn, manage important tasks (like a Christmas countdown!), and have tons of fun every day.
Does it feel like you’re always sharing your phone, tablet or smartwatch with your kids? (“What’s the weather?” “Can I play a game?” “Ooh, pictures!”) With tech at every turn, it’s no surprise that kids love gadgets and gear just as much as us grownups. The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch is the perfect device to ease children into the digital world. Here’s why:
1. There’s an Interactive Robot to Share in the Fun
Children have a blast interacting with the Tobi robot character who speaks gibberish, giggles and has more than 100 expressions. With moving arms and legs, this interactive robot is here to play, learn and laugh with your kiddo. Kids will wow their pals with the cool wristband and illuminating LED lights, too!
2. They’ll Be Motivated to Be Active
There are a variety of fitness games to earn rewards. The pedometer, dance activity game and augmented reality Walk n’ Wonder game encourages kids to move their bodies (and have fun while they’re doing it!).
3. Creativity Is at Their Fingertips
Finally—your kids can capture pics and videos that won’t overtake your photo library. The dual cameras film videos and take pictures with a motion-activated selfie-camera. Kids can even customize their photos with decorative stickers and borders, store up to 3,000 640 x 480 pixels photos or 30 minutes of 320 x 240 pixels video and transfer their masterpieces right to your computer.
4. Tobi Is a Partner in Learning
The Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch not only teaches kids to tell time, but helps them learn to manage their time with the stopwatch, timer, alarm clock, calendar and reminders. There’s a calculator and learning games galore. When kids want to have fun with friends, they can play head-to-head games like Tic-Tac-Tobi against other Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatches.
5. It’s Easy to Use
Intuitive for kids 6+ years old and easy for parents to monitor, the splashproof Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch has features both children and adults appreciate. The kid-friendly touchscreen and adjustable wristband are simple for to navigate. Parental controls set limits on screen time and approve wireless connectivity connections. Another awesome perk—it can be used as a remote control with the Tobi™ 2 Interactive Karaoke Machine or Tobi™ 2 Director’s Camera (both sold separately).
