Indoor or out, there are plenty of activities to keep your family busy in the new year!
A new year and a new month are just around the corner. If you’ve resolved to find amazing new adventures with your kids, we’ve got ideas—one for each day of the month, in fact. In between your snowy sledding adventures and your busy back-to-school schedules, try one of these family activities that’s anything but boring.
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1. Celebrate the New Year at a National Park (psst…entrance fees are waived on January 16 because it is Martin Luther King Jr. Day). These popular parks have the outdoor bells and whistles families love or try a little-known park for a change of scenery.
2. Looking for other ways to celebrate 2023’s arrival with the kids? We’ve got family friendly ideas you can do at home.
3. Ditch your family’s New Year’s resolutions for new routines, instead. It’s a great way for kids (and parents!) to set and keep goals all year long.
4. Break out winter activity sheets for a quick family activity during the witching hour.
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5. Get your kiddos ready to head back to the classroom after a long winter break with memory games they’ll love.
18. Whether you’ve got enough snow on the ground to build a whole snow family (or you’re just dreaming of winter’s favorite frozen stuff), these snowman snacks will make kids smile.
Last-chance activities and special events. Here’s what to do with the kids on Christmas Day
With Christmas around the corner, the tree is up and holiday music is being cued up. A sure sign the season is in full swing. Atlanta is full of holiday cheer throughout all of December and into the New Year. From dazzling light shows to ice skating to Santa meet-cutes, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the winter season. But if you’re coming up short for things to do in Atlanta on Christmas Day, check out these festivities that will take you beyond the base of the Christmas tree.
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1. Catch Favorite Holiday Flick on Big Screen
What better way to enjoy the holiday season than to watch your favorite classic holiday movie? There will be showings on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Regal Cinemas all over the Atlanta metro area. The tickets are just $5 and if you are a Regal Crown Member so are a small popcorn and drink combo.
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2. See Mega-Watt Light Shows
Bundle up and flip the switch on some electrifying lighting displays around Atlanta. If you’re looking for an evening outing that will amaze the entire family, Christmas Day is a great time to head out in search of both neighborhood light displays and larger commercial ones too. Many neighborhood displays put on extra-specials show on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and then again on New Year's. And when it comes to drive-through displays and other local programs that are totally lit, many are open on Christmas Day, like Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden, Reindeer Road World of Illumination at Six Flags, and ATL Holiday lights.
Santa may not be gracing the night sky on Christmas, but you can soar above Atlanta in the SkyView ferris wheel. With twinkling city lights below mixed in with holiday decorations downtown, the bird's eye view is the best view. And great news! Each gondola on the wheel is climate controlled, so you won't need to plan for frostbite.
Even if they didn't get a new set of wheels for Christmas, you'll have some happy elves if you load them up and go for a ride on their old wheels, new scooters, or even hovercraft. If you need a new bike trail to try, check out of our list family-friendly bike paths riders of all ages can handle.
If you’re tired of the tinsel and ready to hock the holly, head to Main Event for laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and an indoor ropes gym. Open from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and prices for playing vary by selection.
3101 Cobb Pkwy. S.E., Suite 104 Atlanta Online:mainevent.com
6. Take the Kids out for a Hike
Atlanta weather can run hot or cold at Christmas, so keep Georgia’s State Parks in mind if we land on a sunny and unseasonably warm Christmas day. Trails abound at Sweetwater Creek State Park, and you can start working on your resolutions by hiking the first (little, little) leg of the Appalachian Trail at Amicalola State Park. Need some more inspiration? Here are some more of our favorite state parks near Atlanta. And if you don’t want to venture much further than the Perimeter, you can enjoy exploring miles of trails along the Chattahoochee, a National Parks Service-run land.
Yes, the Georgia Aquarium is actually open on Christmas Day. Get the kiddos out of the house and make a splash with the world's largest aquarium. Purchase tickets online in advance.
Roll into Bowlmor Lanes on Christmas Day and try your hand in the arcades, classic table games, and interactive laser tag battles also available. Open from 1 p.m. to midnight on Christmas Day, games are reasonably priced per person and kids under 4 play free.
Even though the holidays are coming, there are still a ton of free things to do in San Diego with kids this month
The holidays are coming and while that means more money for special occasions, gifts and hot chocolate, that doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun in San Diego for free. Fleet Week is here and along with it, a bevy of fun, free events the whole family will love. Don’t miss out some (free) special story times at Lido Village Books and Athenaeum Music and Arts Library and one of our favorite times of the year? A chance to explore our local National Parks for free.
Free Things to Do in San Diego That Are Always Free
Become a Skater Babe: Follow in San Diegan Tony Hawk's footsteps and take your board to roll with it, flip, jump and carve at one of San Diego's many thrilling skateparks.
Join a Park Ranger Program at OneofSanDiego’sManyParkTerrains: You can head down to the coast at Cabrillo for Park Ranger walks at the lighthouse, or drive up the coast to Carlsbad’s wildlife viewing with the junior rangers, or move inland for a wildlife tracking hike or nature story time at Mission Trails or go south for a guided bird walk at the Tijuana River Estuary. Click here for the full list of park ranger programs nearby.
Visit Seaport Village: Window shop, wander along the bay, watch the ships go by, listen to live music in the food court, and watch the kites fly—all in Seaport Village.
Hit the Beach: Of course, we can never really get sick of the beach. From stretches of shimmery sand at Coronado's Silver Strand to boogie boarding near the cliffs of Torrey Pines and making waves in Del Mar, nothing is more iconic than a beach day here in San Diego. Want to explore a new beach this summer? Check out our guides to the best local beaches for the kids and the best beaches to take your dog in San Diego.
Visit the Best Playgrounds in San Diego: Discover where kids can slide through a giant bunch of grapes or commandeer a pirate ship on our list of the best San Diego playgrounds.
Explore Chicano Park in Barrio Logan: Vivid, lively murals depict aspects of San Diego’s Mexican-American heritage including mythology and immigration. Kids especially love the Children’s Mural, which represents drawings and paintings from kids that attended two local elementary schools. Chicano Park is a great place to go with kids and give them an art lesson. Visit the park's interactive website to explore the murals' history and artists before your visit.
Get Instagram-famous: Capture a super photo-op at one of these Instagrammable murals.
The Sanford Children's Library at the Central Library: The library's Dr. Seuss murals and thousands of books make it a fun, inviting space for kids. Park in the underground lot and get validation to park for free for the first two hours.
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle: The colorful, whimsical sculpture garden that is Queen Califia's Magical Circle will delight kids. Make a day of it and check out this additional interactive public art for the whole family.
Check Out Not One, but Two Historic San Diego Ranch Houses: The Los Peñasquitos Ranch House is the second oldest standing residence and was built in 1823 by the recipients of the first Mexican land grant in San Diego County. Take a hike around the area, then check out the goats, chickens, veggies, and have some fun in the large open spaces for playtime.
Then head to “Carlsbad’s Sleeping Beauty” to see the Leo Carillo Ranch House and prance with the peacocks and play on authentic ranch and farming equipment. Don’t forget to pack a picnic!
Explore Old Town to see the birthplace of California: Settled in 1769, many of the buildings in Old Town were built in the early 1800s, which is pretty amazing in itself. See the mission, run around on the green or walk through the village, taking in the sights of old San Diego by visiting Old Town.
Uncover San Diego's Hidden Gems: A house perched off the edge of a building, secret messages in the sand and more unbelievable sights that will wow and delight your brood—these free hidden gems in San Diego are fun to discover whether you're a tourist or a bonafide local.
A family vacation where the planning is done by experts and your kids get to make new friends along the way? Where do we sign up?
If you think meal planning and after-school activity juggling is hard enough—try planning an epic family vacation. Thankfully, you don’t have to do it alone! Family-focused group tour companies like National Geographic Expeditions and Adventures by Disney are there to handle all the travel planning details—from where you’ll stay and how you’ll get there to what you’ll see and do while you’re exploring the world. All you and your globe-trotting brood will have to do is pack your bags and go!
Group tours are also perfect friend-finders, with families being placed together so that kids have instant BFFs (which, let’s be honest, makes things easier for everyone!). So whether you want to climb Machu Picchu, horseback ride in the Wild West, or stay in a 13th century castle in Wales, here are some small group tour companies for families that can make it happen:
National Geographic Expeditions Family Journeys
Photo Courtesy of G Adventures
It's only fitting that the company that brought nature up close and personal to the world with its stunning photographs and stories would also want to bring people up close and personal to nature...in real life! National Geographic Expeditions' Family Journeys aim to give multigenerational families "a meaningful way to discover the world together," with epic itineraries that will give travelers a front-row seat to nature's (and mankind's) majesty. All of its trips are inspired by National Geographic’s photography and storytelling as well as its focus on culture, history, wildlife, and geography.
Group size: No more than 20 people.
Destinations include: France, Costa Rica, Peru, Japan, Southeast Asia, Southern Africa, Iceland, Morocco, Alaska, Yellowstone & Grand Teton.
Coolest-Sounding Trips: The Alaska Family Vacation takes families on a catamaran cruise to watch massive ice chunks crash into the sea while scanning for orcas, humpbacks, and other local sea life. This, before walking a winding boardwalk through the northernmost rainforest in North America; pulling a hand-operated tram high above a rushing river; taking a wildlife safari in Denali Park; touring quirky local towns; and snuggling with sled dogs. Another fave is the Peru Family Vacation, which leads intrepid explorers through the bustling local markets of several Peruvian cities to the peaks of the famed Lost City, where you'll arrive at sunrise to admire the views and end the day with a train ride back to the town of Cusco (which, your kids will learn, was once lined with Inca gold!). The trip also includes a motorized canoe ride through the jungle and three days In the Amazon rainforest, where you can all be on the lookout for toucans, monkeys, and anacondas while learning from experts about the medicinal uses for local plants.
Cost: Prices range from about $1,800 per person to $5,300 per person, depending on the trip and date.
What's included: Accommodations, arrival transfer, transportation for scheduled activities, breakfast daily, some lunches and dinners, snacks, water, and scheduled activities, as well as the services of two CEOs (Chief Experience Officers).
Hiking with kids can be a gamble. The question is always: Will they get tired after 20 minutes and demand to be carried, sherpa-style, the rest of the way? Backroads, a luxury adventure tour company, wants to make sure all goes well with your active travel goals—even with the littles in tow. Their family journeys specialize in trips that center on hiking, biking, kayaking, and sailing—with adventures designed to be suitable for the smaller set but thrilling for all. You'll be joined by other families as well as three experienced trip leaders who will keep everyone motivated and learning as they explore Backroads' various destinations around the globe.
Group Size: Up to 26 people (with an average of 18)
Destinations include: Costa Rica, Czech Republic & Austria, Dolomites (Italy), Galápagos, Germany to Austria, Ireland, Thailand, the Great Smoky Mountains, Mount Rushmore & the Black Hills, North America, and Hawaii.
Coolest-Sounding trips: The Dolomites Multi-Adventure Tour takes families on a bike ride between majestic mountain peaks and through the countryside on the twisting-turning trails of old railroad lines before ascending the hills to make like a Von Trapp and hike the mountaintops. Travelers will take a scenic chairlift ride to see the Dolomites' famous stone pinnacles—as well as explore historic World War I trenches and dine at a traditional hiker’s hut along the way. Kids will get a rock-climbing lesson from an expert mountaineer; grown-ups will enjoy an Italian wine tasting.
Want to stay closer to home? Another popular trip is the Yellowstone & Tetons Montana's Big Sky Multi-Adventure Tour. This adventure, which is suitable for kids 6 and up, will take you and your fam on a multi-state trip across the canyons, rivers, and gorges of the Wild West by way of raft, bikes, horse, and hike. You'll see a menagerie of local wildlife (it's where the buffalo roam!) as you make your way past the Tetons, up into the hills, and past erupting geysers including Old Faithful himself.
Note: There are always sag wagons driving alongside during bike rides in case anyone gets too tired to bike. Also, families can decide ahead of time what route they want to take to make sure their biking or hiking itinerary isn't too tough for little legs.
Cost: Trips start at about $3,000 a person.
What's included: Three trip leaders, including a dedicated "Kids Adventure Leader" who orchestrates children's activities (including an hour or two per day of kids-only fun!); van shuttles to support a variety of route options; private guided tours; gratuities at hotels and restaurants; snacks, drinks, breakfasts, four lunches and four dinners (one lunch and one dinner are on your own); comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information. For biking and multi-adventure trips, all equipment is provided (including a Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories—as well as trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for kids).
Ages: 4+ (kids have to be 9+ to ride their own bike, and some activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, rafting, and rock climbing have age restrictions).
Ah, Disney. You just know how to do things right. The company's expertly-curated adventures offer a first-class traveling experience like no other. From being treated to a private showing of the Royal Crown Jewels to spending the night in a 16th-century castle, Disney gives families adventures that go beyond the thrills of its theme parks—with the same attention to detail that the brand is known for. You'll also get dedicated guides trained by Disney to be kid-approved. That means that while one of your guides is telling you about a destination, another is finding a super-fun way to make it cool for your kids. As for the excursions, expect immersive, authentic experiences that entrench you into faraway cultures, with local experts called upon to help groups engage with the people and traditions of each destination.
Group size: 35-40 people
Destinations include: Egypt, South Africa, England & France, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Argentina, Spain, Danube River (stops in four countries), Iceland, Italy, Norway, Antarctica & Patagonia, and various areas of the U.S. and Canada.
Coolest-Sounding trips: Want a whirlwind tour of four countries? Disney's Danube River Cruise offers an eight-day float down the Danube River aboard a luxury river cruise ship—with eight stops in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany. Explore castles, hike mountains, bike along the Danube River, and learn to waltz in the ballroom of a Slovakian palace. Highlights include a boat ride across the underground lake of a 7,000-year-old salt mine; and a walk across the Tree Path Kopving, where you'll get to traipse above the trees and get a panoramic view of the Austrian Alps via a network of connected wooden bridges.
Devoted Disney fans might want to book the Disneyland Resort & Southern California trip, where they'll get a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of California Adventure and Disneyland (including getting front-of-the-line passes and VIP seating for all parades and shows). The trip also includes VIP tours of Disney Studios, Disney Imagineering, and the Jim Henson Company Lot in Hollywood—as well as a walking tour of Hollywood and lunch at the century-old Tam O'Shanter, Walt's favorite Hollywood restaurant.
Cost: Trips start at about $4,000 per person.
What's included: All accommodations, transportation (excluding airfare) and transfers; admission fees to museums and attractions; most meals, snacks, drinks, and tips; two adventure guides plus local experts; activities (including zip-lining, rock climbing, art lessons, etc.).
Ages: 5+ (though the recommended age varies by destination)
This family-focused travel company became the first of its kind when it opened in 1998, with its mission being to create travel experiences that could thrill the kids as much as their parents and grandparents. Its unique "Friends Across Borders" program aims to broaden perspectives by connecting travelers with local families, scheduling meetups so kids of different backgrounds can play soccer, share a meal, or just hang out (kids can also become pen pals before even meeting in person!). Groups of 8 or more will also get a "Rafiki" (it's the Swahili word for friend), whose main job Is to engage the kids to socialize with each other, learn the local language, and learn about the local plants and wildlife.
Group size: About 6-10 people.
Destinations include: Italy, the Azores, Morocco, Tanzania, Baja, Costa Rica, Ecuador/Galapagos, Peru, Japan, Thailand, Canada, Hawaii, and Yellowstone.
Coolest-Sounding trips: Active families will love the Galapagos Multisport Adventure, which will take you and your family snorkeling around the mangroves of Santa Cruz Island, trying surf lessons in island water swells, kayaking Academy Bay, hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano, planting a tree in the Santa Cruz Highlands, and learning about the local plants and animals of the Galapagos (including spotting the lumbering and adorable giant tortoises!).
Want a more urban escape? The Japan Family Vacation offers a jam-packed whirlwind through Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and the KII Peninsula, where families will experience an astounding array of Japanese history and culture. Highlights include touring the trendy city of Harajuku (and singing in a traditional "karaoke box"); taking a bullet train to Osaka; riding bikes through the rural town of Asuka; learning taiko drumming from a world-famous drumming troupe; walking the Kumano Ancient Trail; taking a jet boat ride through emerald waters; touring the 17th-century Nijo Castle; and meeting local students for games.
Cost: Trips start at $3,790 per person.
What's included: A pre-departure specialist who can answer questions before the trip; a private guide during the trip (plus a "Rafiki" for groups of 8 or more); hotel accommodations, including tax and service charges; private transfers; ground transportation; local flights; most meals (varies by itinerary), snacks and water; all activities; entrance fees to parks or museums.
Intrepid Travel prides itself in what its North American Director Matt Berna calls "a way for families to use the power of tourism as a force for good.” That means that while families are zip-lining over rainforests, catching an overnight train in Egypt, or traveling via tuk-tuk through the streets of Bangkok—they're also learning how they can help make the world a better place.
Destinations include: Gambia, Ghana Namibia, Zanzibar, Armenia, Pakistan, China, Belize, Honduras, Panama, Egypt, Turkey, North America, Antarctica, Greenland, Brazil, Argentina, the U.S., and across Europe.
Coolest-Sounding trips: The Borneo Family Holiday takes families to Batu Puteh, a small village on the banks of the Kinabatangan River., where the hosts for the night are the local community-run conservation organization KOPEL (whose aim is to provide villagers with the means of making a sustainable living from the forest). You'll stay in stilt houses made of upcycled wood. deep in the jungle—with no electricity or generator so as not to disturb the wildlife. Families also get to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, which works to re-introduce domesticated or orphaned orangutans back into the wild.
Another popular tour is the Morocco Family Holiday. Families will get to visit a traditional mountain village in the High Atlas Mountain of Aroumd, where they'll learn a little of the Berber language, gain insight into a traditional Berber family and help cook bread in the traditional way on an open wood fire. They'll also get to explore colorful marketplaces of Marrakech (they have real, live snake charmers!), and ride atop a camel along the beach.
Sierra Club Outings offers what it calls "environmentally-friendly adventure travel," with its mission being to bring families up close and personal with the beauty of nature so that they can then go off into the world and protect it. The outings are led by Sierra Club volunteers and take groups on active trips that include rafting, hiking, canoeing, and volunteering—as well as service trips that'll have you helping rebuild villages, restoring native plant habitats, and picking up trash at wildlife refuges. Accommodations range from shared lodges to basic camping tents and mountain huts.
Group size: 10 to 12 people.
Destinations include: Botswana, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Antarctica, New Zealand, Vietnam, Australia, India, Canada, Israel, Europe, The Caribbean, U.S. (many National Parks), Panama, and many more.
Coolest-Sounding trips: The Sun, Service & Whales trip to Maui gives travelers a taste of island life while also giving back. The work aspect of the trip includes weeding, planting, and clearing invasive species as well as picking up trash or doing other projects. On the non-service day, volunteers get a chance to go out on a Zodiac to observe the migrating humpback whales—who come to the islands between November and April to breed and give birth—and snorkel and swim in a protected cove. Swimming and snorkeling is also possible after the work portion of the day on other days as well. Note: The condo you'll stay in is shared with other travelers—mainly adults—so this trip is recommended for older kids (12+).
Ski families will want to try the Gliding Through Glacier National Park trip, which takes adventurers on a cross-country and downhill ski journey through the mountains of Montana, where they'll view local wildlife with expert guides and stay in luxurious lodge accommodations (this is one of the few Sierra Club outings that doesn't have shared accommodations!). The trip requires a minimum skiing ability of advanced beginner to intermediate.
Cost: Trips start at about $595 per person.
What's included: Accommodations (which are often shared with other travelers); airport transfers; meals and snacks; activities.
Ages: Varies by trip, but we recommend 12+ due to the physical difficulty of many of the active adventures. Many of the trips are adult-only, but teens are welcome, and family trips are offered periodically. Check the website for details.
A century-old travel company, Tauck launched its Bridges family venture in 2004 to cater to globe-trotting grown-ups who didn't want to slow down just because they had a few kids in tow. The company now offers family trips designed to build deeper connections to local cultures while keeping multi-generations of travelers entertained. Whether via snorkeling, zip-lining, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, or river cruising, expeditions aim to give travelers a unique look at the world through immersive hands-on activities. Families are grouped together and accompanied by two guides (three plus a host family on river cruises) who stay with the group throughout the trip.
Group size: Up to 40 for land adventures; up to 130 on river cruises.
Destinations include: Tauck operates in 65 countries, including Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, India, Nepal, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Israel, Jordan, Peru, Costa Rica, and throughout the U.S. and Europe.
Coolest-Sounding trip: The Italia Bella tour gives families everything they'd want in an Italy vacation—Rome! Pisa! Venice! Florence!—with exclusive experiences Tauck has developed over its many years of traveling the region. Families will get an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel; experience dinner board a pirate ship on the Venice waterways; learn to make gelato at a 17th-century cooking school in Rome; and spend two nights on a private island in the Venetian Lagoon at San Clemente Palace Kempinski Venice, winner of Condé Nast Traveler's 2018 "Top Hotels in Italy/Venice."
The Castles & Kings tour of London and Paris is also a bucket lister, with wow factors including an after-hours tour of the Louvre; a visit to the Palace of Versailles; a speedboat ride down the River Thames, a private double-decker bus tour of London, an interactive London "Spy Walk," a peek into the Windsor Castle, a private capsule aboard the towering London Eye, tickets to a hit show in London's West End theater district. The tour also includes travel aboard the Eurostar train from London to Paris.
Cost: Trips start at about $3,000 per person.
What's included: Private guides, accommodations, transportation/transfers, gratuities, most meals & drinks, activities, and museum/attraction fees.
Ages: 3+ (with some exceptions—the minimum age for river cruises is 4; safaris is 5+; Galápagos cruises, 6+).
If you're an outdoorsy family looking for a smaller group experience, this may be your best bet. Austin Adventures aims to keep its groups at a 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, with guides trained to keep kids (and their parents) entertained throughout the journey. You'll be paired with one or two other families and taken to the Great Outdoors on trips that include horseback riding, glacier trekking, kayaking, trail biking, and hiking—while visiting destinations around the world. Personalized touches abound: You'll even get a call before you leave to ask about your kids' favorite foods, so you can rest assured your tiny explorers will be sufficiently fueled for the journey.
Destinations include: North America, Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Austria, France, Iceland, Botswana, South Africa, and New Zealand.
Group size: Average of 12 people
Coolest-Sounding trips: The popular Yellowstone and Grand Teton Family Adventure gives families everything they'd want in a trip to these two treasured national parks. You'll pedal winding bike paths, raft Wyoming’s finest whitewater rapids, kayak between mountain ranges and hike to high overlooks of Yellowstone's own Grand Canyon—while by night you'll stay in luxurious lodges where the views of the sky are unparalleled.
Want to try something more exotic? The Croatia Family Vacation takes families to the often-overlooked "Pearl of the Mediterranean," where they'll get to bike through picturesque villages, hike mountainous coastlines, sea kayak the peaceful emerald-colored waters, and take a private boat ride to an island vineyard.
Cost: Trips start at about $3,800 per person.
What's included: Accommodations; all meals, snacks, and receptions (except one dinner on own your own); two guides and knowledgeable local partners; equipment for active travel (bikes, helmets, etc.); Vehicle support and land transportation during the trip; Austin Adventures T-shirt, water bottle, luggage tags, and luggage service; pre-departure and packing information; taxes, dining and housekeeping gratuities, local partner and expert gratuities, and national park entrance and permit fees.
If you've been wondering when your little adventurer is old enough to try white water rafting, the answer is: Probably younger than you think! OARS has been offering rafting and kayaking adventures for families for more than 50 years, with paddlers as young as 4 enjoying the ride. You'll be joined by experienced guides (with a 1:4 guest-to-guide ratio!) and matched with other families for multi-day adventures that include rafting or kayaking by day and hiking, cookouts, and camping by the riverside in the afternoons and evenings. Want just a taste of adventure? There are one-day trips as well!
Destinations include: Rivers in the U.S. and Canada as well as waterways of Croatia, Cuba, Fiji, Galapagos, Botswana, Costa Rica, and Peru.
Coolest-Sounding trip: The Lower Klamath River trip is the perfect intro to river rafting that's great for kids as young as 4. With gently bubbling waters through scenic canyons and warm waters just right for swimming, it's enough of a thrill for the littles without making any parents nervous about the whitewater. When they're not in the water, families will spend their time on gentle hikes, picking blackberries, or enjoying meals and campouts by the river.
If your kids are a little older and you want a little more adrenaline flowing, the Lower Salmon River 4 or 5-day expedition snakes its way through gorgeous Idaho river gorges via Class III rapids that are thrilling while still being safe for kids 7+, according to OARS. Families will camp out on sprawling sandy beaches with stargazing galore (they're some of the darkest skies in the nation!). In the calmer parts of the river, kids can choose from a whole fleet of boats, including paddle rafts, dories, inflatable kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.
Cost: Trips range from $120 per person for 1-day trips to $7,000 per person for a 13-day trip.
What's included: All rafting/kayaking equipment (including life jackets); All meals, desserts, and drinks; guides (including, for family trips, a designated ”Fun Director” who helps keep the kids entertained); a “Fun bag” stocked with games and toys for all ages; accommodations (including all camping equipment); sleep kits for camping.
Ages: 4+ (varies by trip, based on difficulty/risk)
Trafalgar prides itself on making a positive impact on the communities it visits. As a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to helping underprivileged communities and supporting sustainable tourism, it has donated more than $2 million to the cause since 2008. Its tours take families almost everywhere you'd want to travel, with destinations on all continents of the planet except Antarctica—with unforgettable touches the kids will appreciate. From becoming a Roman gladiator in Italy to ziplining down the side of a volcano in Costa Rica, there are adventures for all ages to be had.
Destinations include: Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Hungary, Italy, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Sweden, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Botswana, Namibia, Egypt, Kenya, Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, and throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Coolest-sounding trips: On the 8-day, Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes trip, families can embark on the ultimate jungle adventure The journey takes guests through the beaches and rainforests of Costa Rica, where they'll zipline through a cloud forest, float through canals and hike a volcano. Kids will learn about wildlife as they seek to spot sloths, monkeys, crocodiles, and more. They'll travel to the district of Horquetas, where they’ll have the opportunity to connect with a local family before traveling to Sarapiquí, where they’ll visit a wildlife rehabilitation center. Later, guests will hike up the Arenal Volcano and then relax in the thermal springs.
Want to go back in time for a week? The Pioneer Adventures of the Old West is an 8-day adventure through Arizona and Utah’s Canyon Country that will transport families back to the Wild West. You'll explore the majestic sights of the deserts, lakes, and canyons—including trekking through the Sonoran Desert, traveling by train to the Grand Canyon (where you’ll wake up the next day to see the sunrise!), horseback riding Zion National Park, hiking Bryce Canyon, and taking a boat ride on Lake Powell before flying out of Las Vegas (where you can choose to extend your stay!).
Group size: Average of 30 people.
Cost: Trips start at about $2,000 per person.
What's included: A private travel director and driver; all accommodations; sightseeing activities; porterage and restaurant gratuities as well as hotel tips, charges, and taxes; breakfast daily and up to half of evening meals; audio headsets for flexible sightseeing; all transport and transfers; a luxury, air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi (in most countries) or alternative transportation (including rail journeys).
We searched every borough to bring you the complete list of family-friendly events and exhibits happening this month, and they have one key thing in common: they’re all free!
November might mean cooler temps and fewer outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop. In this list, you’ll find dozens of free and low-cost events in November 2022 for families and kids throughout the five boroughs of NYC.
Join NYC as it transitions from fall into winter with beloved seasonal events and fun one-off activities: Visit the yearly winter markets, most of which are returning in November, see the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, celebrate Thanksgiving by giving to the community, and much more. Plus, check out fun and free events for kids and families in November that will educate, engage, and entertain everyone in the fam. And as always, discover all the museums in New York City that offer free admission to visitors, whether it’s all the time or on special days.
Drag Story Hour for Neurodiverse Kids at Bronx Library Center Nov. 5: Drag artists read to kids in an extra-special readalong designed specifically for kids with autism and other disabilities. The event aims to introduce kids to the idea of gender fluidity, and generally put on a fun and bright performance they’re sure to enjoy. Event details.
Bronx Night Market at Fordham Plaza Nov. 26: Good food and a friendly atmosphere make an evening at the Bronx Night Market a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase noms from local food vendors, or check out the kid zone, educational booths on food and nutrition, and a Instagram Wall-O-Fame. Event details.
Free Soccer Sessions at Williamsbridge Oval Throughout Nov.: Head to the game room at the WBO for free soccer sessions for kids. The sessions are beginner-friendly and teach everything from footwork, passing, and basic drills to teamwork and a positive attitude. Event details.
Brooklyn
Bulb Planting on West Street Nov. 5: Help beautify the new Greenway at West Street and Greenpoint Avenue in this volunteer event. Plant bulbs next to the new trees and bring even more green to the street. All tools and gloves will be provided—just bring yourself, some water, and layers in case of a chill. Event details.
FAD Market Fall Pop-up at Empire Stores in DUMBO Nov 5 and 6: Over 30 artists and small businesses make the FAD Market a great place to browse for unique gifts—after all, it’s almost time for the holidays! While you’re there, you can explore the parks under the bridge, go for a spin in Jane’s Carousel, or stick around in Empire Stores for lunch at Time Out Market’s 20+ food vendors. Event details.
Thursgiving Holiday Giving Event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Nov. 17: Give back to the community by bringing coats and clothes, and wrapped, unopened gifts for kids this holiday season. The donation event is a whole party, complete with a DJ, snacks, and raffles. The more gifts you bring, the more the community gets, but there are also prizes given out for donations, including a private tour of the Yard for families, groups, or businesses that donate 25 items. Event details.
Weekend Nature Exploration at Prospect Park Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: The Audubon Center is leading kids on weekend adventures through the wild side of Prospect Park. Every weekend in November, stop by 10-12 to borrow a discovery pack—a backpack filled with tools like binoculars and nature activity ideas, 11-12 for live animal encounters, and 12-1 for a volunteer cleanup session. Event details.
BAM Kids 2022 Throughout Nov.: Foster a love for movies, music, and the arts at the annual BAM Kids festival. Join the Brooklyn Academy of Music for kids concerts and animations. Featured this year are the music and performance of Fyütch, and the whimsical animated movies “Joyful Adventures” and “Follow Your Dreams.” While the BAM kids festival isn’t completely free, most tickets are either pay as you wish or very affordable. Event details.
Manhattan
Jazz at One at Trinity Church Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Catch the final three jazz performances of the season at Trinity this month. Featuring performers The Coleman Hughes Sextet, Samara Joy, Theo Walentiny Trio, and Edmar Castañeda Quartet. Visit the space in person at 1 p.m., or watch for free online on the website. Event details.
Image from 2021 Mexico Week courtesy of Tishman Speyer and Rockefeller Center.
Mexico Week: Día De Muertos at Rockefeller Center Leaving Nov. 2: Rockefeller comes alive with the colors and artwork of Mexican culture during Mexico Week for this year’s Day of the Dead. The event, which is leaving on November 2, will feature sculptures by Cesar Menchaca, including a huge jaguar and Quetzalcoatl, as well as some very well-dressed (and familiar!) skeletons. For more Day of the Dead fun, check out our list of Día De Muertos events in NYC this year. Event details.
Concert at One: ChamberQUEER at Trinity Church Nov. 2: Part of their “Performances at One” series, this extra-special performance features ChamberQUEER. The artists will highlight queer figures from the history of classical music. As with their other performances, this one can be watched in person or online. Event details.
Image courtesy of Chris Lee and Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall Family Day: String Fling
Nov. 5: Kids ages 3-10 are invited to get up close and personal with string instruments. Billed as a “musical adventure,” this hands-on event lets participants create a small performance, relax to peaceful music, jam along with an Afro-Brazilian capoeira band, learn about West African stringed instruments, and more. Event details.
The Rink at Rockefeller
Nov. 5: The rink at Rockefeller is reopening on November 5, officially ringing in the winter season. While a spin on the rink isn’t free (tickets start at $11), watching the skaters on the ice is a cozy winter activity for the family. Explore the area—make sure to stop by the family-favorite Nintendo Store—or get a hot chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat and sit by the rink and people-watch. Event details.
Wellness in Harlem Nov. 5: Sample free food at this party, held at La Placita (at 116th and Park). The event will feature music, giveaways, drinks, and free food from beloved restaurants and brands, including vegan donuts from Planet Back, a Caribbean version of Caesar Salad from YAYB, and much more. Event details.
Breakaway Hoops Trial Class in Harlem Nov. 5: Breakaway Hoops is offering a free trial class for kids ages 8-12. Get a sneak peek at what you can expect from the program, and have some fun with drills and fundamental skill development. All participants must bring their own basketball. Event details.
Seaport Kids: Pumpkin Decorating and Pumpkin Arch Nov. 5 and 6: Drop in and decorate some pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Led by Private Picassos, this free crafty workshop will have foam pumpkins, markers, and plenty of pom-poms for kids to get creative with their pumpkin creations. While you’re there, check out the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17, which is leaving on November 7, for a seasonal photo-op. Event details.
Sensory-friendly Mornings and Evenings at the Intrepid Nov. 5 and Nov. 18: The Intrepid is opening its doors early for young kids on November 5, and closing them late for teens and adults on November 18. These special openings are designed specifically with people with autism in mind, and feature sensory-friendly activities led by experts. This month, the children’s program will introduce them to airplane design, while the teen and adult program will focus on the museums’ exhibit, “Women Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Era.” Event details.
Garden Volunteer Session at Jefferson Garden and Mad Fun Farm Nov. 5 and 19: Join other volunteers from Concrete Safaris in making the gardens and parks around the city even more beautiful. Activities vary, but some things you may find yourself partaking in include weeding, planting flowers, fruits, herbs, or veggies, shoveling topsoil, spreading mulch, picking up trash, and more. Event details.
Closing Day at Hester Street Fair Nov. 6: Hester Street Fair is leaving until next year, and they’re going out in style: with a shopping party! The event will have a live DJ, and will be your last chance to check out local vendors, delicious food, and more fair fun. Event details.
Silent Clowns Film Series: Charlie Chaplin at NYPL for the Performing Arts Nov. 12: The New York Public Library pays tribute to the great star, Charlie Chaplin. Catch a screening of Chaplin’s movies from 1915, with a live piano accompaniment by Ben Model from MoMA and an intro and Q&A by film historians Model and Steve Massa. This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so show up early if you want to sit. Event details.
ConEd Family Day at the Morris-Jumel Mansion Nov. 12: Visit Manhattan’s oldest house-turned-museum for their monthly family day. This month, visitors will make their own colorful suncatcher ornaments. Note that masks are still required for attendees ages 2 and over. Event details.
Adventures from The Shed at 14th Street Y Nov. 12 and 19: Kids 2-5 years old are invited to Liondown’s Birthday—but first, they’ll need to help Mary-Jo and her friends come up with a present for him in time for the party. This puppet adventures feature singing, dancing, and storytelling that’ll have kids singing along and participating in the experience. Event details.
Poster Kids: Junior Fashionistas at the Poster House Nov. 13: The Poster Kids is taking on Air-India’s Maharaja mascot, and this time the focus is his wonderful fashion sense. Kids ages 5-11 are invited to learn about the Maharaja’s style, and make their own art that they can wear using recycled textiles. Event details.
Architecture for Animals at The Skyscraper Museum Nov. 19: The city might be home to humans, but it’s also home for many animals. In this family program from The Skyscraper Museum, participants will learn about architecture in the animal world, like beehives, dens, and bird nests. Then, kids will design an apartment with one animal’s needs in mind. This program is recommended for ages 4-8 and RSVP is required. Event details.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24: Whether you plan on attending or you prefer to watch it from the comfort of your own home, no list of free events in NYC in November would be complete without the world-renown Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Joining the lineup for the first time this year will be the Baby Shark family (don’t get the song stuck in your head!), Bluey the dog, and Geoffrey the Giraffe, in celebration of the return of Toys”R”Us in Macy’s stores. Plus, walk by the area in the days leading up to the parade to see the floats being inflated. Event details.
Eldridge Arts & Learning: Stained Glass at the Museum At Eldridge Street Nov. 27: Learn about the beautiful stained glass windows at the museum, as well as the history and purpose of stained glass windows. Then, make your own design for a window by creating a collage. This event is free for holders of a Cool Culture Pass or a SNAP benefits card. Event details.
Tree Lighting at the Rockefeller Center Nov. 30: The spectacular Christmas Tree is making a comeback to Rockefeller Center Plaza. Standing at close to 100 feet tall and topped by a nine-foot Swarovski Star, the lighting of the tree is a huge event every year. Visit to watch over 50,000 lights light up in a spectacular display. Event details.
Canstruction NY at Brookfield Place Nov. tbd: The annual Canstruction exhibit is coming back to Brookfield Place this year. The event features spectacular structures made from cans, as well as a chance for visitors to donate canned goods for charity. Stay tuned to the website for dates and more details as they become available. Event details.
Queens
Making Music With Friends at Church in the Gardens Nov. 19: Learn how friends make music together and join in the fun with this 45-minute interactive concert for kids. Kids of all ages are invited to hear chamber music and engage with the performers. If you want to attend the paid concert after this event, you can present your free ticket to get 50% off the ticket price. Event details.
Hands on History: Queens Hip-Hop at King Manor Nov. 19: Celebrate national Hip-Hop Month at this month’s free family day at King Manor. Learn about some key 90s rap and hip-hop legends, with a special emphasis on those who come from Queens. Then, make your own trading cards and microphone for your future performances. Event details.
Buckets for Blue: Volunteer Cleanup Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: Help clean part of the Raritan Bay’s shoreline by collecting the trash and plastics that litter the shore. Visitors can borrow buckets and grabbers from the park’s visitor’s center. Event details.
Tues. throughout Nov.: Bring your toddler (ages 0-4 are best suited for this activity) to the nature center at Clay Pit Ponds for a morning of fun and exploration. The The day begins indoors, as kids explore a different nature theme each week. Then, if the weather’s nice, the group moves outside for a short hike. Event details.
Various and Other Locations
Pumpkin Smash Events Do you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween? Bring them to a pumpkin smash! This is chance to destroy your old pumpkins before they go bad in a fun way, but also recycle them for fertilizing! Check out all the places that are hosting pumpkin smash events.
Libraries Around the City Throughout Nov.: Libraries all around the boroughs have something going on basically every day! Stop by your local library and enjoy their free programming. There’s something for everyone, from baby singalongs and toddler craft times to teen tech time, and more.
A few highlights for November include the Children’s Film Series at the NYPL for the Performing Arts on Nov. 10, where you can watch a classic children’s movie on a 16mm projector, and the Solar Race Cars workshop at Allerton Library, where kids will build their own solar-powered vehicles, then race them against each other (if there’s time):
November might bring in the cold, but it’ll also bring in the welcoming warmth of the city’s holiday markets. These holidays feature vendors from the city and beyond as well as delicious and comforting food. Check out these seasonal markets arriving in NYC for the winter this month:
Seeds (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 1: Just one final day in November to see this massive roots transformed into a seed sculpture by artist Jaime Miranda-Bambaren. You can view this statement on humanity encroaching on nature at Thomas Paine Park.
The Great Debate (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 13: Standing at 16 feet tall, this fiberglass sculpture depicts artist Hebru Brantley’s character, Flyboy. The character is a take on the superhero genre by the artist, who drew inspiration from the Tuskegee Airmen—WWII’s first African-American military pilots—to create his vision of what a black superhero might look like. Flyboy stands proudly at The Battery.
The Giving Tree (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: The colorful Giving Tree by Haksul Lee, located at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is more than just an art piece: It’s a functional piece of architecture. The installation uses wind power to generate electricity, which has powered some of the lights in the park and allowed visitors to charge their devices. It’s departing from the park in November, but hopefully its message stays on.
Going Back to The Meadows (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: This tribute to Queens native LL Cool J by Sherwin Banfield is fun and functional, as well: The speakers are solar powered. Visit the piece before it leaves at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Faces of Harlem (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This community-centric outdoor photo wall in Morningside Park takes a look at Harlem residents private indoor spaces, highlighting the themes of connections and isolation. There are over 100 photos to look at, taken by 10 modern artists as well as three youth photographers.
Good Neighbors (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This photo wall commemorates community members from around the Anibal Aviles Playground, by displaying their images along with short interviews. Created by J Maya Luz, this installation shares a wall in the playground with a number of other artworks, inclkuding a memorial for the park’s namesake.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Located a stone’s throw away from Yankee Stadium, this museum displays modern art with a focus on urban experiences and culture. Explore what it means to be a part of the NYC community, and specifically the demographic in the museum’s neighborhood.
The museum is always free, and has a permanent collection as well as rotating special exhibits.
1040 Grand Concourse
Concourse Village Online:bronxmuseum.org
Wave Hill
This gorgeous garden has 28 acres of carefully cultivated plants, flowers and woodland. Take a stroll through the indoor Alpine House, stop for a photo-op of the Hudson River and the Palisades at the Pergola, or sit and relax by the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens. The space frequently hosts family-friendly programs so be sure to check their calendar before you head out.
New York Botanical Garden
With over 250 acres to see, the New York Botanical Garden can definitely be a whole-day affair. The Garden is open rain or shine, and has a mix of indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. See seasonal flowers and native plants, a peaceful rock garden, an entire forest, and much more. The Garden also conducts research, hosts family and child-oriented events, and has online seminars — including one where experts will answer your questions about why your potted plant is looking a little droopy.
Free admission is available for NYC residents on Wednesdays.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is like an educational playground for kids. Find exhibits created specifically for little ones to view and learn with, as well as many hands-on activities that teach through fun and play. Don’t miss the NEST, an organic playground located on the museum’s roof, the water-based play space, or the newly opened Jurassic Mini-golf.
The museum’s Amazon Free Hours grant free admission to all visitors on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
American Folk Art Museum
The American Folk Art Museum explores the joys of self-taught artists from the 1800s all the way through today. These artworks symbolize authentic American culture and experience through time and provide a snapshot of life in different time periods. Along with beautiful photographs and arts on canvas and board, the museum has some unique collections like weather-vanes. The museum has a number of coloring and activity pages that kids can enjoy from home, as well.
National Museum of the American Indian
Part of the Smithsonian Institution family, this museum honors American Indians. It displays modern and classic art by people of American Indian heritage, and teaches visitors about their cultures and traditions. It also frequently has performances, educational programs, and more.
The Skyscraper Museum
Look to the skies at the Skyscraper Museum where NYC’s iconic skyline is explored and celebrated. The museum’s exhibits look at the architecture of the city’s buildings, the literal rise of skyscrapers in NYC, and all other things related to the city’s buildings and their history. The museum also often hosts free family events both at the museum and in different locations around the city.
Admission to The Skyscraper Museum is free through December.
The Jewish Museum
View a celebration of Jewish culture, heritage and artwork at this museum. Exhibits highlight art and photography by Jewish artists, from modern artists working today to key historical figures who helped shape the way art and Jewish culture intersect. The museum also hosts free special events, from museum tours for people with memory loss, to art-making workshops for children and families.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library, which was started by Pierpont Morgan and is now continuously growing, hosts a collection of rare and unique books. While the books in the library itself aren’t available for visitors to browse, you can marvel at the beauty of the library and visit the exhibits, which often show old books, newspaper clippings, and other historic artifacts.
Entry into the Library is free on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3 to 5 p.m., no reservation required. Free Friday programs take place every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and these do need a ticket, which are released for reservation a week in advance.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
This museum examines the history of Jewish people, the hardships they’ve overcome, and the hope for a brighter present and future. The museum has exhibits that discuss the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and accounts of the time, as well as artwork and sculptures by Holocaust survivors.
You can visit this museum for free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 p.m. A ticket is required, which you can get by choosing the Thursday 4 p.m. slot on the museum website.
Edmond J. Safra Plaza
36 Battery Place
Financial District Online:mjhnyc.org
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA is an iconic institute, displaying modern artworks, sculptures, and media / performance pieces created from the 1880s and beyond. The art here will make you feel and think — and, although most exhibits aren’t interactive, the many bright and striking colors and interesting shapes make a great entry point for kids to talk about and explore art.
Thanks to a sponsorship by UNIQLO, the MoMA grants NYC residents free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 4 to 8 p.m.
11 West 53 St.
Midtown
Admission to the MoMA PS1 is always free to New Yorkers, thanks to The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
9/11 Memorial Museum
This museum is a tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 (as well as the February 26, 1993) attacks on the World Trade Center. Visit to learn about the horrific event through media, personal narratives, and a collection of artifacts telling the many stories of that day.
Free admission is offered on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This museum encourages exploration and learning through hands-on exhibits. These often mix fun movement and bright colors with conversations about serious topics like women’s voting rights. Kids can also go on quests featuring their favorite characters like Dora, use their imagination by pretending to be superheroes, discover new cultures through interactive experiences, and much more. Exhibits change often, so stop by at various times of year to see what’s new.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is free to enter on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m.
Queens County Farm Museum
Get away from the city for a farm visit! Meet and greet farm animals (and even get to pet some at the petting zoo), engage with the sensory wonders of the children’s garden, embark on a cute scavenger hunt for the smallest tots, and more. For a small fee, visitors can go on a hayride, and parents can browse the Farm Store for farm-fresh produce, eggs, teas, wool, and other goods created and harvested right on the farm.
The Farm Museum is free to enter every day, except on special ticketed days.
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Bellrose Manor Online:queensfarm.org
Socrates Sculpture Park
Founded in 1986, this park is a place where visitors can have a picnic among incredible sculptures. The artwork on display is always changing, so this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to. Currently on viewing are sculptures like “Steel Bodies” by Maren Hassinger and “Broadway Billboard” by the park’s teen group, Socrateens.
The Socrates Sculpture Park is a public park and admission is free.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor is a must-see if you’ve never been. It’s a beautiful, sprawling grounds have a collection of gardens and plants, while special locations like the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art have their own atmosphere (as well as hours and admission prices).
The Scholar’s Garden is free for Staten Island residents, and the main outdoor grounds and gardens are always free to the public from dawn to dusk.
We scoured the entire DMV to find the best free activities to keep your family busy all November long
As if any month in the fall isn’t busy enough, November packs it all in with holidays and observances, autumn activities, and Christmas kick-off events. But if you figured you’d have to spend a pretty penny to participate, your wallet is in luck: in this list, you’ll find dozens of free events for families and kids in Washington, DC and beyond.
But where to begin with so many options? Consider Jump-starting November with the National Gallery’s annual Day of the Dead celebration, honoring veterans with a free concert at the MLK Memorial Library, or paying tribute to Native American Indian Heritage Month by exploring an exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. Or you can soak in the last of fall with self-guided hikes and free passes to our National Parks. Of course, you can always get Christmas-ready with a local tree lighting ceremony, Christmas markets, and light displays. Plus, discover the best kid-friendly museums and permanent exhibits in Washington, DC that always offer free admission.
Create a Work of Art Open daily. Explore the legacy of President Kennedy at this digitally-enhanced, immersive experience on the top floor of the Kennedy Center. The highlight for kids is sure to be an A1 program that will sketch your portrait while you wait. Event details.
Join the LEGO Construction Club Every Fri.: Every Friday from 3-5 p.m. Olney Library supplies the LEGO pieces and you supply the imagination. This program is for children ages 5 years old and up. Parents/caregivers MUST accompany children under the age of 12 during the program. Event details.
Shop a Farmer’s Market on the Plaza Every Fri.: Marketgoers can shop seasonal offerings from local farms and food producers, dine al fresco on the plaza, enjoy chef demos and samplings and stock up on recipes and tips for maintaining a healthy and socially responsible lifestyle at Capital Harvest on the Plaza (CHoP). Event details.
Enjoy Free Classical Concerts Every Fri.: Free concerts begin at McNeir Hall every Friday starting at 12:30 p.m. Some of this month’s highlights include a piano solo on Nov. 4, a string performance Nov. 11 and a violin/piano duo on Nov. 18. Event details.
Get Crafty at Crafternoons Every Sat.: Experiment with the supplies provided by Shop Made in DC or bring your own project to finish every Sat. from 12-3 p.m. Event details.
Mix Beats at Moonshot Studio Every Sat. & Sun.: After you explore the Art & Ideals exhibit (listed below), head to the Moonshot Studio at REACH to create projects and mix beats inspired by the words and life of President Kennedy. Event details.
Go International at this Art & Craft Fair Nov. 1-3: Take a quick trip around the world at this annual arts & crafts fairs. International vendors showcase their handmade goods and unique items at the World Bank. Event details.
Dance to an Afrobeat at REACH Nov. 3: Leon Ligan-Majek, a.k.a. Kalet, leads this Afrobeat band that is punctuated with what has been describes as “James Brown grunts.” Event details.
Say Oui to a French Concert Nov. 4: French tenor Benjamin Alunni and pianist Fernando Palomeque celebrate French-American relations in a new concert hosted by the Embassy of France. Tickets are free, but space should be reserved here. Event details.
Spend an Evening at the Circus Nov. 5: Come one, come all to this side show-themed day of contortionists, magicians, escape artists, sword swallowers, aerialists and more. In addition to family-friendly entertainment, there will be tarot cards, glitter tattoos, balloon artistry and more. Event details.
Shop the Czech Christmas Market Nov. 5: Live performances, a live nativity, Czech pastries and a Christmas market round out this event held at the Embassy of the Czech Republic. Admission is free, but you must reserve your space prior to the event. Event details.
Honor Veterans at a Free Concert Nov. 11: Honor those that have served at this free concert featuring the Navy Bands ensemble, Country Currents, a country bluegrass ensemble that is renowned for their modern flair. Event details.
Learn a Song in Another Language Nov. 12: Saturday Morning Life, a celebrated DC tradition, is back at The National! This month, enjoy both traditional and original songs in Kiswahili and Espanol as Baba Ras D leads children in a morning of language immersion through song. Event details.
Explore a Play Based Pop Up Event
Nov. 17: Inspired by the adorable picture book by Antoinette Portis, kids 5-8 will collaborate, experiment and create with a variety of materials provided by the Southeast Neighborhood library during this play-based event. Pop in every Thurs. for more play-based fun. Event details.
Shop the Downtown Holiday Market Nov. 18-Dec. 23: Free entertainment, yummy treats and over 150 vendors round out this quintessential holiday market in the center of DC. Event details.
Get Festive at ZooLights Nov. 25-Dec. 30 (select days): For eco-friendly festivities, head to the National Zoo where more than 500,000 LED lights are on display. Each evening, guests can also visit the Small Mammal House and the Reptile Discovery Center. Event details.
Get Glowing in Georgetown Nov. 26-Jan. 22: Bright lights and neon colors brighten up the streets of historic Georgetown with a curated outdoor installation that is sure to dazzle and delight. If you’re looking for some Santa-free time that still has some seasonal sparkle, be sure to take a stroll down M St. Event details.
Watch a Christmas Tree Lighting Nov. 19: Listen to holiday classic’s in the hotel’s courtyard as dazzling white lights are illuminated at 5:30 p.m. Santa makes a special guest appearance with the hotel’s canine mascot. Event details.
Watch a Free Dance Performance Nov. 30: Enjoy an evening of jazz tunes, tap dancing and flatfooting with percussive dancer Becky Hill on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center. Event details.
Brookside Nature Center’s Self-Guided Hikes Every Sat. : Spy with your eyes! Prick up your ears! Use your senses to explore and learn about the plants and animals that call Wheaton Regional Park home. This self-guided hiking activity features a rainbow of nature’s colors. Event details.
Enjoy a Free Family Movie Night Nov. 4: Encanto is being screened at the Arlington Mill Community Center. Wear an Encanto costume for a chance to win a $20 gift card. Free popcorn and free hot chocolate will be served. Event details.
Learn About Black History Nov. 6: Learn about Black History at this family-friendly museum that opens its doors twice a month in Old Town Alexandria. Event details.
Belt Out Frozen Tunes at this Free Event Nov. 10: Spend the evening with Anna and Elsa as you enjoy a free screening of Disney’s Frozen 2. Food trucks will be on site serving both sweet and savory snacks. Event details.
Join the Kids Club at Dulles Town Center Nov. 17: Enjoy family-friendly entertainment geared towards children ages 2 to 7 years old every third Thursday at Dulles Town Center. This hour-long program highlights local kid-friendly acts that bring everything from music to magic to the mall’s stage. Event details.
Get Festive with the Festival of Lights Nov. 29-Dec. 31: Over 650,000 lights illuminate the grounds of the temple, making this one of the largest light displays in the DC area. Guests can also view internationally-inspired Christmas trees and nativity scenes. Nightly performances require a free event ticket, which are handed out on a first-come basis starting 60 minutes prior to performances. Event details.
Free Museums and Park Events around DC in November
In the City
Enjoy Story Time with the National Postal Museum
Every Mon.: Hop online for an interactive story time every Monday at 11 a.m. with the National Postal Museum. Explore our postal system through books during this 45 minute Zoom that ends in a book-related activity. Event details.
Get Crafty at Hirshhorn Every Thurs.: Drop in from 10-noon every Thursday for a hands-on art-rich experience at the Hirshhorn. Little makers will explore one of the museum’s current art exhibits followed by a creative activity inspired by the work of art. Event details.
Check Out Play Dates at MLK Memorial Library
Every Sat.: Kids can build, create and play games from 1:30-2:30 p.m. every Sat. in the Children’s Room. Spend the afternoon exploring the rest of the library. Inside you’ll find a recording studio, a dance studio, a massive indoor slide and a rooftop terrace. Event details.
Celebrate Día de los Muertos Nov. 2: The National Portrait Galleries’ annual event kicks off at 5 p.m. indoors this year with music, dancing, hands-on activities and crafts. There will also be a community altar. The party moves outside at 6:30 p.m. when artwork will be live streamed on the museum’s facade. Event details.
Make an Installation Creation Nov. 5: Larger-than-life exhibits that cover walls, floors (and sometimes ceilings!) are called installations. Check out the oversized works of art at Hirshhorn and get ready to contribute to a new museum installation by talented artists like you and your crew. Event details.
Take a HistoryTime Story Walk Nov. 6 & 15: Geared towards kids 2-6, the Natioal Museum of American History’s story time features an age-appropriate snapshot of a historical event followed by a hands-on craft. Kids and their caregivers will gather at Wegmans Wonderplace at 2 p.m. for an hour filled with hands-on historic activities. Event details.
Screen a Kid-Friendly Indigenous Film
Nov. 18-25: In celebration of American Indian Heritage Month, this annual event showcases the best of Indigenous films. You can view over 35 films online (including kid-friendly shorts) representing over 30 Native nations. Event details.
Check Out the Unicorn Kid’s Club
Nov. 19: If your child is introverted, Dyslexic, transgendered, deaf, or just struggling being the new kid on the block, check out these monthly gatherings that celebrate what makes each one of us unique. Event details.
The Beltway & Beyond
Nature Packs at Woodend Sanctuary
Every Mon, Tues., Thurs.-Sat.: Visit the Naturalist Shop to check out a backpack (ID required) that will have tools and activities you and your family can use to explore nature at Woodend Sanctuary. Backpacks are free for check-out in the shop but must be returned by 3 p.m. Event details.
Feature Your Child’s Art at this Exhibit Open 24/7: This pint sized gallery is the smallest art display in the district (and the cutest!). Budding artists will enjoy not only viewing the works . . . but adding their own! Visitors are welcome to take a piece of art (really!) and contribute their own art on a first come, first served basis. Event details.
Let Art Spark a Conversation Now-Apr. 2: This exhibit showcases the importance of artists in sparking important dialogues and utilizing art as activism. Featuring American artists, themes in this exhibit center around marginalized communities. Event details.
Explore Japanese Painting Techniques Now-Jan. 29: Explore the different brush strokes Japanese artists have used over the century to capture the feathery nature of birds. This exhibit features work dating as far back as the Heian period (794–1185). This is a great opportunity to play I Spy with different artistic techniques. Event details.
Discover the Story of Raven and the Box of Daylight Now-Jan. 29: Enjoy a multi sensory, full-immersion experience at the National Museum of the American Indian. Discover the Northwest Coast’s tale of Raven who brought light to the Earth by starting in a dark room and following Raven on a journey to lightness. This exhibit features the glass work of Preseton Singletary and includes video projections. Event details.
Learn About African American Artists Ends Nov. 30: Highlighting “who’s who of African American art,” this exhibit showcases the best 19th and 21st century paintings in the Howard University collection. Call to schedule a tour prior to arriving. Event details.
Take a (Photo) Walk with Wildlife Ends Nov. 20: Explore our relationship with wildlife through this photo gallery of 32 award-winning images that celebrate the beauty (and fragility) of our planet. Event details.
The Beltway & Beyond
Appreciate the Simplicity of Still Life Now-Dec. 20: The Park View Gallery in Glen Echo Park is currently showcasing watercolor paintings of still life by artist Julia Rosenbaum. Explore the beauty in every day objects found throughout a home. Event details.
Feel the Music at Zion! A Forest of Dreams Ends Nov. 13: Artist Dianne Bugash describes herself as the “folk singer” of her paintings. Inspired by songwriters like John Denver and Peter, Paul and Mary, Bugash’s pieces capture the pithiness of folk tunes (kids will enjoy the abstract, tree-like structures). Event details.
National Museum of Natural History
The most visited museum in DC is home to more than just dinosaurs. You’ll find a dazzling gem collection, a popular earthquake simulator, mammal displays, human cultural artifacts and a butterfly pavilion you can explore for free on Tuesdays.
Q?rius Exhibit space Q?rius is temporarily closed, but it’s such a perfect stop for the 10-and-under set that it’s worth keeping on your radar. Housed inside the Natural History Museum, it offers drawers brimming with curiosities. Your pint-sized explorer will enjoy digging through drawers filled with rocks, minerals, insects and more. When your kids are done exploring the natural world, they can explore the cultures of the world in the same space! There are also drawers filled with clothing and dolls from other countries.
National Museum of the American Indian
In addition to housing Indigenous artifacts, visitor’s can explore the history of Native foods at the museum’s cafe, Mitsitam. The interactive gallery imagiNATIONS helps children 10 and under connect with the stories and histories of Native nations.
imagNATIONS– On the third level of the National Museum of the American Indian, you’ll find the imagiNATIONS Activity Center, where kids learn how to interact with the environment around them. They’ll weave baskets from different material, see different types of houses made from wood or mud, and even learn to walk in snowshoes! Snuggle up in a cornerwith a book about Native cultures or make some noise with the percussion instruments scattered around.
4th St. and Independence Ave., SW (L’Enfant Plaza)
National Mall Online:nmai.si.edu
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects—the good and the gut-wrenching—of the African Americanexperience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family. See our in-depth guide here.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW
National Mall Online:nmaahc.si.edu
National Museum of American History
The collection of Smithsonian museums are a treasure trove of exploration, but for hands-on, interactive fun make a bee-line for Wegman’s Wonderplace where the youngest visitors (0 to 6) can explore pint-sized versions of the Smithsonian’s most popular exhibits, from a kid-sized version of Julia’s kitchen to a smaller version of The Castle. Spark!Lab — for ages of 6 and 12 — lets visitors explore the invention process from start to finish.
Wegman’s Wonderplace – Take your tiny ones (6 & under) to the magical play area just inside the entrance. The 1700-square-foot interactive wonderland gets curiosity flowing. With a gated entrance and attentive staff, you can freely allow your kiddos to explore the dream kitchen, blocks of all shapes and sizes, walls full of gadgets and gizmos and an indoor farm complete with an adorable chicken coop.
Spark!Lab – Bring out that little inventor in this innovative space built for tinkering. The cool factor is high when everything you see invites your kids to create, collaborate, explore, test, experiment and invent. Perfect for ages 6 – 12.
National Postal Museum
If you’ve never checked out the National Postal Museum (or didn’t even know it existed), you’re not alone–many locals overlook this NoMa gem for its flashier counterparts on the National Mall. But, for kids, this free Smithsonian Institution is a slam dunk since the museum encourages visitors to feel, climb into, sit in, and throw–yes, throw!–many of its exhibits.
National Portrait Gallery Explore the portraits behind American history. Politicians, artists, inventors and scientists, these are the faces that help shape our country. The American Presidents exhibit is the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House!
Eighth and F Sts., NW
National Mall Online:npg.si.edu
Hirschorn Museum and Sculpture Garden The preschool set can fight the chill and take part in the Hirshorn’s library and art pop up program on any given Saturday this fall. It’s easy peasey to do too. Grab a parent’s hand and find a gallery cart full of fun kits with real finds. Each kit combines a special theme with adventures in reading, suggested artwork to view and real hands-on art materials to help little ones create their own masterpieces.
Independence Ave., SW & 7th St.
National Mall Online:hirshorn.si.edu
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
If rockets and airplanes are your kids’ things, then the Air and Space Museum in Dulles, VA, is the next stop on your fall bucket list. First, visit the vast plane hangar where the Space Shuttle Discovery and a Concorde are on display. Then, ride in a flight simulator and sit inside the cockpit of a vintage aircraft. Head upstairs to the top level, and your crew can learn about air traffic control and watch planes fly in and out of the local airport.
Insider tip: The museum is free, but there is a $15 charge for parking. Head to this museum after 4 p.m. and parking is free.
14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway
Chantilly, Virginia Online:airandspace.si.edu
It’s not too late to enjoy the final weeks of fall at one of these day-trip destinations right outside of New York City
Fall snuck up on you? Us too. No worries. You can still get away from NYC for a day before the last leaves hit the ground. Whether you and your kids want to enjoy a scenic hike, snuggle farm animals, or get a dose of American history, there’s plenty of doable destinations to offer up what you’re looking for. Bonus: each of these amazing spots is just a short car or train ride away from the city, so no need to pack an overnight bag (unless, that is, you want to). Grab the family and get out of town with one of these easy fall day trips from NYC!
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park: Highland and Poughkeepsie
Enjoy the fall foliage from a bird's eye view by crossing the Walkway Over the Hudson, a remodeled railroad track (think The Highline, but over water!). The bridge connects Highland and Poughkeepsie and towers over the Hudson at 212 feet high and 1.28 miles long, which makes it the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. For an even more spectacular view, take the glass elevator to the Poughkeepsie waterfront to check out Upper Landing Park and the Wayrias Park Promenade, which runs along the river's edge. Once you're done taking in the sights, make a day out of it by exploring the many family-friendly attractions located at either end of the walkway. The area offers a bustling but quaint environment, with trails and parks, historic districts, hamlets, shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a children's museum—all reachable by bike or on foot.
Getting there: Take MetroNorth to Poughkeepsie then walk .75 miles to the Walkway entrance. Or drive about an hour and a half up either side of the Hudson River; take Route 9 to the Poughkeepsie (eastern) side, or 9W to the Highland (western) side.
61 Parker Ave. Poughkeepsie, NY Online: walkway.org
The Hudson River valley is renowned for having inspired a generation of landscape artists known as the Hudson River School. Building on that tradition is the Storm King Art Center, which brings art down from the wall or shelf and places it right in front of you—in the form of large contemporary sculptures staged in the middle of a field, nestled in a copse of trees, situated atop a mountain, or perched near the water's edge. At more than 500 acres, this open-air museum features one of the largest collections of outdoor sculpture in the U.S. Walk or rent bikes (you can't bring your own) and meander along a network of trails to see sculptures up close and personal, and often towering over you. You can also hop a tram at designated points to reach further-afield areas of the park. Bring a picnic or pick up a box lunch at the Storm King Cafe. Note: Storm King Art Center is closed on Tuesdays.
For more fun: Visit the nearby namesake mountain—Storm King State Park—where Thomas Cole, a founder of the Hudson River School, found many breathtaking vistas to paint! The 2.5-mile loop that leads up to the 1,340-foot peak is well maintained but rocky and moderately difficult in stretches.
Getting there: Storm King Art Center is about an hour's drive north of New York City. Coach USA also runs buses from Port Authority.
To see fall foliage from not one, or two, but three different states, visit High Point State Park, which boasts the highest elevation in New Jersey. The park offers more than 50 miles of relatively easy trails along with manicured lands designed by the sons of Frederick Law Olmstead of Central Park fame. In addition to the Kittatinny Mountains, the park's centerpiece is the 20-acre Marcia Lake, which is closed for swimming after Labor Day but still a lovely place to stroll along, and its pinnacle is the 220-foot High Point Monument, a stair-filled obelisk similar to the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. Opened in 1930 and dedicated to all war veterans, it offers panoramic views of the Poconos to the west, the Catskills to the north, and the Wallkill River Valley to the southeast.
For more fun: Take in a bit of Bavaria on your foray into northwest Jersey, and visit the quaint Lake Mohawk business district, about a 30-minute drive from High Point. The Tudor-style lakefront village is fringed with tall evergreens and features mountain views as a backdrop. Stroll the small boardwalk to a playground, then double back to Krogh's Restaurant and Brew Pub for hearty American fare and a good selection of fresh beers on tap.
Getting there: If you like winding country roads, then getting to High Point will be half the fun. Route 23 winds through wooded hills and farmland before arriving at the park's entrance, a trip that's less than 90 minutes from New York City.
The Franklin D Roosevelt Library and Museum: Hyde Park
A good option for history buffs and families with older kids, Hyde Park is home to the estate of one of the country's great leaders, FDR. In addition to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, you can explore other historic locations, like Eleanor Roosevelt's private house, and the Top Cottage, where FDR used to retreat for some peace away from "the mob." Take a break for lunch at Uncle Sam's Canteen, and explore the rest of the preserved history of Hyde Park before hopping back onto the free shuttle at 5 p.m., which will take you straight back to the train station. The train ride will take you a little more than two hours each way, but it's well worth the educational experience it provides.
Getting there: To leave the driving to someone else, take the Metro-North train to Poughkeepsie, and get a car service to the museum. (Budget about two hours for the trip.) Here's how to get there using mass transit once you arrive in Poughkeepsie.
4097 Albany Post Rd. Hyde Park, NY Online: nps.gov
The Bethpage Bikeway is one Long Island's most popular trails, and it's easy to see why. The trail leads bikers and hikers 12.5 miles between Massapequa and Woodbury, taking visitors through some scenic routes on a smooth ride. The trail takes you from a shady wetland area in the Massapequa Park Preserve, to the Bethpage State Park, which has some trails of its own to navigate. They lead through a nice range of scenery, from the wooded and marshy, to the delightfully suburban. Most of the path is paved with a few busy but safe intersections, making this an easy bike ride for the family. We recommend bringing along a picnic to enjoy.
Getting there: Take the Babylon-bound LIRR to Massapequa Station, or drive down Route 135 to the Bethpage State Park exit and enter where you see signs for the picnic grounds.
Manetto Hill Rd. and Woodbury Rd Woodbury, NY
Merrick Rd. and Ocean Ave. Massapequa, NY Online:traillink.com
Located two hours from the city is the Catskill Animal Sanctuary, which provides a compassionate and loving home for animals taken from bad environments, such as from hoarders or abusive or neglectful owners. Between 250 and 350 animals can be found at the sanctuary at any given time, making it a joy to explore. To visit the 148-acre sanctuary, you must take an organized tour (held on weekends from April through November), but throughout the tour, visitors can wander the grounds and interact freely with all the farm animals who make the space their home. It's worth noting that the sanctuary also has a mission to educate visitors about living a vegan lifestyle by introducing people to the animals they eat and providing free vegan snacks after each tour.
Getting there: Take the NY Trailways bus from Port Authority to the Kingston, NY stop—from here, it's a 10-minute cab ride. Alternatively, take the Amtrak train to Rhinecliff, NY, and grab a 20-minute car service. The website has detailed instructions on getting there by car. Keep an eye out for special tour dates, in which some include a bus ride straight from the city to the sanctuary.
A visit to the Kaaterskill Falls leaves the family with some amazing memories—and even more amazing photos. This 1.7-mile hike is steep but easy and short enough for the kids to manage, making it an extremely popular attraction for families and hikers. Kaaterskill is the highest waterfall in New York State, and consists of a two-tiered cascade. The first tier of the falls forms an impressive basin called the Amphitheater, which, according to legend, is where Rip Van Winkle took his fateful nap. Although the hike is relatively easy, the rocks do get slippery, so be watchful of the kids and keep away from the trail's edges. Luckily, the trail received upgrades a few years ago with better safety features, so as long as you stay on the trail and don't go beyond the yellow trail end marker, you're sure to have an enjoyable hike. (There have been several injuries and even deaths when people have deviated from the trail and ignored safety regulations.)
For an easier trek, you can view the equally beautiful Bastion Falls, located right at the foot of the Kaaterskill Falls. If you complete the trip quicker than you expected, you can make a side trip to the town of Woodstock, a nearby quaint little locale with little shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Visit on a Saturday or Sunday for the Mower's Flea Market, an eclectic collection of items and sellers that's well worth the detour.
Getting there: Take Interstate 87 to the very winding Route 23A West. Drop off passengers when you see the well-marked trailhead behind a guardrail; the parking lot is about 50 yards up the road.
There are many reasons to visit the Palisades in NJ, from the amazing views to the awesome picnic areas set up throughout the parks that line the rocky outcrops. But nature and bird lovers will want to visit in the fall for an incredible experience: hawk watching at the State Line Lookout. From September through November, the spot draws volunteer birdwatchers for the Hawk Watch, a census of the hawks and other raptors who pass through the area on their fall migration. Visitors are welcome to join in—for the chance to see the most birds, visit in the day or two following a cold front. Make sure to bring binoculars, and to really make a day of it, pack food for a picnic and some comfortable walking shoes: the State Line Lookout has a number of hiking trails for any level of experience, including a few walks that the kids will be able to take part in.
Getting there: By car, take the first exit off the upper level of the George Washington Bridge, onto the Palisades Interstate Parkway northbound. From there, continue until you see the exit for State Line Lookout. You can also take the 9W bus up, but be warned that busses don't stop directly in front of the location and will leave you to make a 45-minute walk uphill towards the State Line Lookout, so we don't recommend it with young children.
State Line Lookout and Palisades Interstate Pkwy. Alpine, NJ Online: njpalisades.org
Apple picking, epic roadtrips, and where to see fall foliage—your San Diego fall bucket list is full of family-friendly activities
Fall in San Diego is here (and predictably awesome) and there’s no better time to craft a fall activities in San Diego bucket list your whole family will love. To keep your fall FOMO at bay, keep reading for all of the fun stuff to do in San Diego this fall (and for more ideas, check out our date night ideas for San Diego parents and our favorite San Diego restaurants where kids can run around).
2. Nothing says fall in San Diego like celebrating Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND. Enjoy rides open late, trick-or-treating, live entertainment, Halloween decor, and more!
5. Ride the Pumpkin Express. Climb aboard this beloved seasonal excursion where you can enjoy a train ride, Halloween-themed displays, and an outdoor pumpkin patch.
6. Spend the remaining days of Oct. wisely with by hitting up family favorites like SeaWorld, San Diego Air & Space Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden and the USS Midway Museum all for free! Our guide to free things to do in San Diego this month breaks it all down.
7. Dive deep into the Birch Aquarium Haunted Aquarium. Kids will have the opportunity to learn about and touch spooky creeps of the deep on Tide Pool Plaza, including slimy seaweed, small sharks, rays and other local animals, as well as enjoy a haunted kelp maze, find hidden pumpkins, and explore fun decor throughout the aquarium. Kids are encouraged to dress up.
8. Hit up one of the best doughnut shops in San Diego—Sidecar Doughnuts—for their seasonal favorites like pumpkin cheesecake and bourbon pecan pie doughnuts.
12. A hayride might be one of the most fall things to do in San Diego and thankfully, there are a bunch of nearby farms where you can get pulled around the farm by a tractor.
13. Try your hand (and your homing skills) at San Diego corn mazes that are fun for the whole family.
14. It must be fall in San Diego because I love Azucar's Gingerbread Chocolate Chunk cookies have returned (also one of our favorite dessert shops in San Diego).
17. Family-friendly fall festivals are an epic way to spend the day and these San Diego fall fests are the best—catch them before they're gone!
18. Of course, even though it's fall, the beach is best when the crowds subside and you have that glistening sand all to yourself. Discover which San Diego beach is best for babes, which one shimmers in the sun, and where the surfers hang.
If you live here, you know Atlanta is a great place to raise a family. To prove it, here are our favorite things to do in Atlanta with kids
When you’re looking for things to do in Atlanta with kids, the incredible Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and Center for Puppetry Arts come to mind. But you don’t have to look too hard to find amazing things to do in the city when you need an impromptu plan. As far as we’re concerned, you could live here for the rest of your life and still never get to all the cool, kid-friendly offerings the city has. These are just a few of our favorite things to do, whether you’re a local or you’re just passing through.
iStock
1. Shoot the 'Hooch with the kids when you rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, or tubes to make a splash in its icy water. It's a local tradition you gotta do at least once as a family.
3. You'll have to maneuver around a pirate ship and waterfall at this outdoor sporting spot that's a "hole" lot of fun. And when you're done you can take in the latest blockbuster with the kids.
4. Parents know breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Don't skip it. Instead, head to one of our favorite breakfast joints that open before the sun is up.
6. Bring the kids for an educational experience at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park. A must on everyone's list, you'll get to see where the civil rights leader lived as a child, where he often preached, and where he's buried. Entrance is free, and the junior ranger activities for kids will keep them engaged.
7. There's no better place to be on second Sundays than this museum that's home to more than 18,000 works for art, housed in a building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects, Richard Meier and Renzo Piano. Why second Sundays? Because admission is free.
12. Pack a picnic for Centennial Olympic Park, and plan on a run through the Fountain of Rings—formed in the shape of the Olympic rings symbol—if it's hot outside.
13. Head to storytime in a garden with the kids on a not too hot day. Who knows? You might even get to see some of the insects and plants you read about when you're done.
16. Meet a baby kangaroo, cuddle with an otter, or have a 150-pound boa constrictor draped over your arm at a wildlife park that pulls triple duty; it's part petting zoo, part animal conservation program, and part rescue facility.
18. While it's not always easy to find free events around the city, we love heading out to spots that are always free like the Oakland Cemetery, where you'll find the final resting place of Civil War soldiers, Margaret Mitchell, Bobby Jones, and other notable Atlantans.
19. Chastain Park, Historic Fourth Ward, Brook Run. What do all these spots have in common? They're just a few of Atlanta's best playgrounds for kids and families.
22. Quiet coves and uninhabited islands are the key features of Lake Chatuge. An easy two-hour drive from the city, it's just what families need to combat Hotlanta's notorious summers.
23. Catch free movies in the park at Atlantic Station, Town Brookhaven, Bobby Dodd Stadium, The Battery, and other spots. Just don't forget your bug spray and blanket for this outdoor family activity.
24. Located in the historic Sweet Auburn district, the APEX Museum is devoted to Black history. Older elementary children and teenagers will appreciate exhibits on Africa, the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, and the history of Atlanta neighborhoods.
25. Experience Fire on the Mountain storytelling, a family dinner around the bonfire, and an old-fashioned wagon ride when you go to pick apples in the North Georgia mountains.
26. While we can't guarantee you'll spot Queen Latifah, Faith Evans, or Beyonce here, they've been known to frequent this spot that pampers both kids and adults.
27. Be intentional with your spending beyond August (Black Business Month) when you shop one of our favorite local Black-owned businesses that sell things families need.
28. Take a two-mile long hayride around a farm in the fall. It's Atlanta's longest and (as far as we're concerned) most entertaining ride around.
29. Let the grandparents take a lead for a bit when they head out to explore the city with the kids in tow. We're all about places that are accessible to both generations—whether they'll want to play all day or need plenty of spots to sit for a spell.
30. Fish and paddle in Lake Trahlyta, or hike to nearby waterfalls like Helton Creek Falls and Desoto Falls with the kids during RV season.
34. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and stay in a rustic treehouse when you do. There you can hike, camp, or just take in the views from this 469-mile long park.
35. Take the kids and explore Doll's Head Trail—a true city oddity, it's one that appeals to folks of all ages.
36. Need a plan for Taco Tuesday? Get what you need to cook up a feast at Brito Supermarket.
37. When you need a break from dinner prep, let a local take the lead. All you have to do is the dishes!
38. Georgia's known for its scrumptious peaches. Why not pick your own with the kids at a local farm? (Hint: you'll find more than just stone fruits here—we're talking strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and more. Stock up while you can.
41. Turn the heat up on your next family camping trip when you book a lakeside cabin at this state park that also has a kids splash pad, gorgeous golf course, and a private pool.
42. Bring your lords, ladies, and court jesters (hey, every family has one, right?) to cheer on knights of the realm who are busy jousting and sword fighting while you enjoy your dinner.
44. Home to the Atlanta History Center, Blue Heron Nature Preserve, and a playground that will leave your future pilots flying high, Buckhead is a not-to-miss Atlanta neighborhood that deserves your attention.
45. Get to know Atlanta moms with a knack for everything from DIY home projects to fashion to food. They'll dish the dirt with a healthy dose of humor, local Atlanta flair, and parenting truths that ring true for all of us.
47. Make Atlanta's weather part of your team when you take the kids to enjoy dinner al fresco. Many of our picks features spots for kids to play (think: lawns and courtyards) alongside kid-friendly fare they'll actually eat.
48. Speaking of feeding the kids, why not save a few bucks the next time you go out to dinner as a family?
49. Plan a trip to a re-creation of a Bavarian Alpine village, complete with cobblestone streets and local history linked to the Cherokee Indians and early settlers who came to mine for gold and work in the lumber industry.
50. Visit Georgia's own Area 51. While you won't find any aliens here, you will find an educational nature center, lots of hiking trails, historic homes and gardens to tour, and The Fresh Pickle.
51. Find treetop adventures right here in the city. Thrill seekers of all ages will love these courses, and a brave few will choose to tackle the largest zip line adventure park resort in the world. For real!
62. Even if you've lived here your whole life, you've got to ride the SkyView ferris wheel 20 stories above Centennial Olympic Park at least once. It'll convince you that Atlanta is rightfully called The City in the Trees.
64. If you live in Atlanta, there's a good chance you've flown Delta. Visit the Delta Museum, where you can learn about our hometown airline and get up-close and personal with some massive airplanes.
65. For an inexpensive adventure that helps you avoid the hassle of driving in the city's notorious traffic, take MARTA to your next destination (or make it a destination in itself).
66. Explore Pullman cars, vintage buses, a steam locomotive, and other types of transportation at the Southeastern Railway Museum. Be sure to check their calendar for an expansive list of excellent family events.
67. We think your kids will flip for a stack of flapjacks at one of our favorite spots. It's hard to beat Nutella pancakes on a weekend morning when everyone is feeling a bit lazy.
73. If you live here, you may think you know Georgia Aquarium, but there's always something new going on here. From the dolphin encounters kids and parents love to the newly opened 1.2 million-gallon shark tank that's mesmerizing everyone who sees it, this Atlanta favorite never gets old.
75. Explore the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and then head to the Summer Waves Water Park on your next family camping trip.
76. Bring the kids for a trail ride adventure. Plan a one-time trip or if they fall in love with the animals, sign your little rider up for lessons.
77. Battle the brr's with a cup of hot coca that's as creamy as it is chocolatey. Our tip? Share a few sips with your kiddo or grab a cup of your own.
78. Hike to the top or take a shuttle bus to the top of our giant monolith, Stone Mountain, and enjoy spectacular sweeping views of Atlanta. There's always something going on at this destination that attracts visitors from all over. Whether you want to ride the train, explore dinosaurs, or stay for the evening fireworks, a trip is always a blast.
79. Take a trip down memory lane when you race go-karts, play mini-golf, and challenge your kids to a little Dance, Dance, Revolution competition.
80. Make your next weekend getaway truly epic by renting a house with a pool. Each one of our vacation picks includes things to do nearby so you don't have to look too far to find family activities.
81. Go glamping in a log cabin built in the late 1700s. Your kids will be fascinated with each of the old buildings on the property (there are four in total), and you'll find plenty to do at nearby Clayton and Lake Rabun.
82. Whether you use a flashlight, find one that's haunted, or a just-right size one for kids, Atlanta's corn mazes will keep everyone entertained.
83. Catch a family improv show at the award-winning Dad’s Garage improv comedy theater in Atlanta’s Historic Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Trust us, it'll leave you in stitches.
86. A visit to the pumpkin patch is a must for families every fall. Find out which one has the best prices, best kids zone, and best overall experience before you go.
87. Truly experience The City in the Forest with a walk or bike ride through Piedmont Park, home to Atlanta Botanical Garden and Lake Clara Meer. Whether you are going to a festival, taking a sunset stroll, or walking your pooch to the dog park, this is the place to be on a beautiful day.
90. When you spend a day in this Atlanta historic district, you'll be surrounded by historic sights and places. It's where Atlantans go for to celebrate Sweet Auburn Springfest, watch the Caribbean Festival & Parade, and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade.
94. Trade your waterskis for snow skis, and head to one of our favorite nearby ski hills for the day (or the weekend). Another trade that'll go far here? Trading your water tube for a snowy run to make the runs.
95. Hit this artist-designed playscape near 10th and Piedmont that's as visually engaging as it is physically engaging. On a hot day, hit the nearby Legacy Fountain splash pad that features more than 70 jets, reaching up to 30 feet in the air, with LED-lighting.
97. Visit the 110-acre Brook Run Park, home to a large playground, two-mile trail, skate park, dog park, community garden, and a self-guided zip line course, called Treetop Quest.
99. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands continues to attract families in big numbers every summer thanks to its lakefront beach and waterpark—perfect for warmer weather entertainment. Our suggestion? Avoid the crowds and go on a weekday morning, if you're able.
From only-in-San Diego events to nature galore, here are 100 reasons why San Diego is the best place for kids and families
Lucky for us, San Diego is one of the top vacation destinations in the nation. And while it may be the 2nd biggest city in the state, its laid-back lifestyle and easy-breezy attitude make it feel more like a beach town (with all the glorious bells and whistles of metropolitan hub like access to cultural events, world-class museums and food—let’s not forget the delicious food). From incredible parks that kids will love, and only-in-San-Diego bucket-worthy activities to hidden gems sprinkled around SoCal, we’ve rounded up the best 100 things to do in San Diego—whether you’re a local and are looking for some things to do or just visiting for a bit—this list will keep your calendar full and your memories stacked all year long.
1. With over 30 beaches dotting San Diego's gorgeous coastline, hitting the sand and surf tops our list of must-dos. With so many options, you can find a sandy stretch that's right for your crew. Our detailed beach guide highlights the best beaches for babies, toddlers and big kids, as well as where to go to learn how to catch a wave or putter around a tide pool.
2. Show your kiddos what life was like living on a floating city with a visit to the USS Midway Museum—the largest aircraft carrier in the world that you can tour. The self-guided audio tour, narrated by former sailors, offers a lot of history and drops loads of knowledge like the fact that over 200,000 sailors have worked there throughout the years. PS: Your budding pilot can earn Junior Pilot Wings—visit the information booth for more intel.
4. Spend the day exploring the magnificent 1,200-acre urban cultural park, Balboa Park, hands down one of the best things our city has to offer its residents and guests. Our insider guide to Balboa Park has everything you need to know to make the most of your visit with kids, including hidden gems like the California Tower where you can climb a secret staircase and get one of the best views of the city, and how to reach Junior Ranger status by completing the Junior Ranger Scavenger Hunt.
5. Ride the historic Carousel at Seaport Village. Handcarved in 1895 and only four bucks a whirl, it's both affordable and iconic. When you’re done with the spin you can stroll along the bay, grab a pretzel and lemonade, then head out to watch kites flying in the air in the park near Seaport Village.
6. People from all around the world flock to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The most popular exhibits are the panda bear family and the polar bear plunge. Both have long lines so hit these spots first or be prepared to wait. Also keep an eye out for the oldest resident of the zoo, a 100 year old Galapogos tortoise named Speed. And in the summer, you can rock and roar into the dark with Night Time Zoo experience where you can hang with the animals in the evening.
7. A trip to Cabrillo National Monument is another must-visit. It's where explorer Juan Rodriguez Carbrillo became the first European to set foot on the west coast in 1542. Ask for a free Cabrillo Journal newspaper at the Visitor Center. The back of the paper has a section with tasks for kids ages 3 and up—if they complete it, they'll become a Junior Ranger. Cabrillo also hosts plenty of workshops and camps devoted to youth interested in STEM activities.
8. This year, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with a visit to see white rhinos and roaming giraffes. In honor of their golden anniversary, the park is hosting a 90-minute tour of the Safari Park's Nairobi Village where you'll see iconic wildlife including gorillas and elephants as well as get a chance to go behind the scenes to areas not typically available to the public.
9. Unwind with a day of endless play at The New Children’s Museum, where all of the super-fun, interactive exhibits will entertain and educate kids. Did you know they also have a north county location in Del Mar? Remember, February is Museum Month in San Diego and all museums are half-price!
10. If your crew loves some healthy competition, this will get them jazzed up. Follow our list of San Diego's quirky landmarks (think the Crab Carillon Musical Bridge and an outrageous topiary garden) and see how many you can visit.
11. Go back in time to the 1850s with a visit to Old Town where kids can sit in a stagecoach, eat homemade tortillas, visit an old schoolhouse and learn some hands-on skills of the trades of yesteryear. It’s also where Father Junipero Serra established the first of California’s 21 missions in 1769, which also became the first permanent Spanish settlement in the region.
12. Descend into Sunny Jim Sea Cave, the only cave you can access by land on the California coastline. There are 144 stairs involved so come prepared to both descend and climb. Tours are about 15-20 minutes and are self-guided.
13. Get up close and personal with a dazzling array of sea creatures from sea horses and jellyfish to sharks and sting rays at Birch Aquarium. Also, if you have kids interested in learning what it's like to be a scientist, Birch Aquarium offers opportunities to interact with staff members, STEM events, summer camps and other outstanding resources.
14. Venture from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano or Solana Beach all the way to Disneyland on the train! The Coaster, The Trolly & The Sprinter all make for an adventurous day trip that train-loving kids will go loco for.
15. San Diego has more farms than any other county in the country and 92% of the farms are family-owned so it's easy to get outside, dig in some dirt, learn where your food comes from and meet and greet animals from camels to alpacas. For a real adventure, check out Oasis Camel Dairy where you can try some chocolate made from camel’s milk.
16. Expose your kiddos to the world of art without worrying about museum etiquette at one of these must-see outdoor art walks in San Diego. Queen Califia’s Magical Circle created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle at Kit Carson Park is a favorite. Her freestanding, whimsical sculptures (9 of them!) are sure to delight.
17. Can you tell the difference between a seal and a sea lion? Take a trip to La Jolla Sea Caves to see both and keep a lookout for external ear flaps. Sea Lions have them and seals don't. The caves are also a great place to go kayaking for families with kids 6 and up.
18. Bask in the gentle bay breeze and soak in the sounds at the Rady Shell Stadium. A stunning mix of the Sydney Opera House and the Hollywood Bowl, this outdoor venue tops the list of best outdoor music experiences in the world. Insider Tip: Some shows have rehearsals during the day that are completely free—bring your kiddos to one of these and enjoy the show.
19. Take your water baby to get wet and wild in the huge fountain area at Waterfront Park. There’s even a giant grassy area right by the fountain where you can lay towels, have picnics and enjoy the waterfront views.
20. Rent a stand-up paddle board, Aqua Cycle, canoe or other water sports gear for a day of fun at Carlsbad Lagoon. Insider Tip: if you have your own equipment you can access the lagoon at 4700 Bayshore Dr. in Carlsbad. It's a perfect beach spot for little kids to splash and play or for older ones to go out on the water.
21. Go say hello to the sea lions basking in the wild at the La Jolla Children’s Pool. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at Cody’s restaurant which serves a belly-pleasing crab cake Benedict for the crustacean-crazy crowd.
22. Fly a kite at Dusty Rhodes Park, home to the oldest children’s kite festival in the United States, The Ocean Beach Kite Festival. If you're around for the event in May, attendees are encouraged to build their own kite—prizes are awarded for best decorated!
23. Go buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks and root for the home team at a Padres baseball game. For an extra-special kid-friendly perk, go on a Sun. and enjoy Kidsfest, when gates open early (two hours before the first pitch) for families to enjoy bounce houses and other inflatables, games, face painters, balloon artists and more kid-friendly activities in Gallagher Square.
25. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by picking apples or strawberries straight from the trees and bushes at these local U-pick apple farms and strawberry patches. Some even have hayrides, corn mazes and other perks your family will love.
26. Home to the Surf Hall of Fame and Surf Film Festival, San Diego is synonymous with surf culture. Encourage your little grom to catch a wave and become a true San Diego local.
27. Visit the bronze statue of Kate Session, known as the 'Mother of Balboa Park,' and give your kiddos a rundown of these influential women that helped shape San Diego into the place it is today. This particular monument is located in the southwest corner of the Sefton Plaza, near the Sixth Ave. entrance, where Session can look over and protect the park.
28. Named one of the top North American Gardens worth traveling to, San Diego Botanical Garden is an ideal place to spend the day exploring nature. Kids will love climbing and playing in a gigantic treehouse in the Hamilton Children’s Garden at San Diego Botanic Gardens.
30. Bringing Southern California's train history to life, visit the San Diego Model Railroad Museum where Thomas the Tank Engine lovers can enjoy toy trains and tracks galore. Don't miss the 'Toy Train Gallery; the “Choo-Choo cam” fitted onto a running train provides visitors with a first-person virtual view of the layout.
31. From the newly opened Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream to San Diego's oldest shop, Niederfrank's in National City, get a lick (or two) of one of the best ice cream spots in the San Diego.
32. Camp cliffside at San Elijo State Beach. Some campsites offer breathtaking views of the sunset and the coastline. And parents need not worry about rip currents here—San Elijo is a one of our favorite family beaches with its mellow breaks and shallow water near the shore.
33. Our insider's guide to Sesame Place has everything you need to know like tips on where to go to nurse and warm a bottle or that you can get a cashless wristband so you don't need to lug your wallet around.
34. Ride the Giant Dipper, the iconic wooden roller coaster that’s called Belmont Park home since 1925. If you feel adventurous make it a night ride and follow up the fun with some after-dark laser tag.
36. Have some good, old-fashioned fun at Bates Nut Farm where activities include everything from a pumpkin patch and harvest and nut tours, a farm zoo and a huge homemade fudge and candy shop.
37. When the calendar says it's fall, San Diegans head to Lake Arrowhead to experience the crisp autumn air and see the leaves change colors on the trees. You'll almost think you're in Vermont during SoCal's leaf-peeping season.
39. Budding thespians will enjoy watching their peers in a theatrical performance at San Diego Junior Theater.
40. Unplug and take a break from all things digital at a botanical garden. Kids can chase butterflies while you enjoy a picnic.
41. Plan a family date night the whole crew will remember. Park 101 in Carlsbad Village keeps kids busy playing with life-size Connect Four, Giant Jenga or corn hole, while parents sip watermelon mimosas and catch a few rays.
42. Learn about science, art and world cultures with a visit to San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum where kids can play with engaging indoor and outdoor hands-on exhibits.
43. Go stargazing around San Diego with an astronomer at the Fleet Science Center or catch a planetarium show at Palomar College.
44. Let kids explore The Backyard at The Nat, a nature-inspired indoor play area that educates and entertains.
45. Ride a Steam Locomotive, Speeder or Trolley on the Poway Midland Railroad at Old Poway Park.
46. Rough it by tent or make it a lux glamping vacay, either way, there's a mecca of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors from the beaches to the mountains at one of these top camping spots in San Diego.
50. Relax with a glass of wine in the countryside at one of these local family-friendly wineries with kid perks. The bonfire nights, cool animal encounters, ice rinks and playgrounds all make visiting these vineyards a family affair.
51. Rock out at the Museum of Making Music where kids can explore interactive instrument playing areas.
52. Book a mom & me or a dad & me adventure at this popular nearby treehouse perched just six blocks from The San Diego Bay, Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo and just three blocks to the Village of Little Italy.
53. Snooze alongside wild animals at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Roar & Snore sleepover and get an after-hours look at the animals, guided walks and a campfire program—then wake up to breakfast the following morning.
54. Go on the road and dig up some fun with a field trip to the San Diego Archeological Center. The free (donation-based) museum gives little archeologists an inside look at how natives lived in San Diego for the past 12,000 years.
55. Feed sea turtles and come nose to beak with Bald and Golden eagles at The Living Coast Discovery Center. Afterward, treat yourself to lunch at Old California Coffee House and Eatery. Their vegan and gluten-free menu items are top-notch.
57. Take a 3-minute train ride through four acres of Balboa Park on a miniature railroad aboard a model G16 (a rare antique—there are as few as fifty currently remaining in the US)!
58. Eat your way through the amazing food selections at the 22,000-square-foot Liberty Public Market then explore the shops at Liberty Station. Explore more of San Diego’s best food halls with culinary delights to please every family member.
60. In many cultures peacocks are regarded as a symbol of good luck, good fortune, and immortality. Visit old rancho and hidden treasure, Leo Carrillo Ranch where you can see beautiful peacocks roaming the grounds and learn some history.
61. De-stress by watching the giant koi fish swim in ponds at the Japanese Friendship Garden. There are 20 varieties of fish in the pond—make it a game and see how many your kiddos can find.
62. Learn about the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and see how lighthouse keepers lived while enjoying the spectacular views of San Diego.
65. Play tourist for the day (or weekend) and rediscover Oceanside. This north county city is the buzz of the county with a bevy of new restaurants, art shows and events happening regularly. Must-dos include The Top Gun house, The Surf Museum, and a walk on the iconic pier.
66. Take a family bike ride through Coronado and visit the iconic Hotel Del and Coronado Beach where the shimmery, golden sand glistens.
67. On almost any given day, you can find a farmers market ripe with crowds picking the most delectable produce of the season. Here's our pick for the most family-friendly farmer’s market in the city.
68. Channel your inner Prince or Princess and raise a pinky at one of these spots to have high tea with your young royals.
69. There may not be a more ubiquitous food in San Diego than the taco! No need to wait for Taco Tuesday, sink your teeth into the most scrumptious tacos any day of the week.
71. Escape to a Mediterranean-style vacation that's just a ferry ride away. Family-friendly Catalina Island offers everything you need for a fun-filled getaway.
72. Go on a ghost hunt at The Whaley House, or, for the more easily scared, tour the House just for its history rather its hauntings.
73. Escape to the animal kingdom at Children’s Nature Retreat where your kids will get to feed, pet and bond with domestic, rescued livestock and exotic animals from around the world including zebras, camels and miniature horses.
74. Slide into a delightfully free story time at the Athenaeum. Great for kids ages 1-9.
75. Make like a hipster and go unearth the hidden gems of the super cool North Park neighborhood.
78. Take a stroll on the San Dieguito Lagoon Interpretive Walk and find 20 discovery points along the way to learn about the importance of the San Dieguito River plants, animals and Kumeyaay people who lived there.
79. Discover a hidden waterfall in the biggest canyon in San Diego. Los Peñasquitos Canyon is best for sure-footed hikers as you climb around rocks plus, it's six miles in and out.
81. In need of a bunny snuggling, chicken feeding, pony-riding adventure? Take your little party animal that goes wild for creatures at the best petting farms and zoos in the city.
83. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) lived in La Jolla for several decades. We show you where to spy Dr. Seuss delights all over town and see a historical first edition of Dr. Seuss stories.
84. Calling all Park Rangers! Meet up with Ranger Heidi for a nature story and craft at Mission Trails Regional Park. They also host guided nature walks and wildlife tracking walks your little ranger will flock to. At 7,220 acres, this park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
86. Go to the spot serving burgers and chocolate malts since 1969. Hodads is a San Diego favorite and even make their own beer that's certainly worth a try.
87. Go on a sea safari and study ocean life up close by exploring one of these bustling tide pools.
89. Score a hole-in-one at Pelly's Mini Golf where you can choose from two ocean-themed courses. When you wrap up the round, head to nearby Viewpoint Brewery Company for food and drinks with views from their outdoor patio of the San Dieguito Lagoon.
90. Meet exotic birds and talk to colorful parrots at the Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary. Don't be surprised if you get talked into adopting a parot!
92. Make a splash at these mesmerizing, photo-worthy urban fountains, one of which is a whale standing tall at a height of 39 feet and 10 inches—it’s the second largest bronze sculpture ever cast in the U.S.
93. During the spring, don't miss the chance to get lost in a sea of dreamy, colorful ranunculus at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers are the showstopper but there's also a sweet pea-maze and a U-pick blueberry field that your little buds will also love.
94. Catch a wave at the California Surf Museum to learn about how surfboards evolved, read pro surfer Bethany Hamilton’s story about how she survived a shark attack at age 13 and continued to compete—even after losing her arm (!), and touch Kelly Slater’s surfboard.
97. Help kids channel their inner calm (along with some lovely expansive ocean views) in the magical setting that is Meditation Gardens in Encinitas.
98. Slide through a gigantic bunch of grapes or climb aboard a colossal pirate ship at one of our favorite playgrounds. One is BYOC—as in bring your own cardboard, for sliding down an insanely fun turf hill!
99. One of the coolest parks in the country, Anza-Borrego State Park, is a short driving distance from San Diego. Extend your stay by booking a glam trailer during wildflower season and enjoy the scenery. The park is also home to more than 130 metal sculptures that'll be sure to captivate your little artist.
100. Go on a family date night at Luche Libra Taco Shop. Book the champions table in advance. You can thank us later.
