Sun-drenched plateaus, Oregon’s oldest bookstore, a 13-foot Columbian mammoth — you and the kids will discover all this (and more!) in The Dalles, Oregon. Located about 75 miles east of Portland, this laid-back city makes an easy day trip or multi-day getaway. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite spots for family fun in The Dalles.

Hiking in the Tom McCall Preserve, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Tom McCall Preserve at Rowena

Get a bird’s eye view of the area (and stretch your legs) with a stop at the 231-acre Tom McCall Preserve, located on a plateau overlooking the Gorge. This is where the rainy, forested west side of the Cascades gives way to the grassy, sunny prairies of the east. You can also explore one of the preserve’s two trails: a one-mile trail that crosses the plateau, encircling a permanent pond, and the two-mile McCall Point Trail, which begins at the south side of the turnaround and gains around 1,000 feet in elevation.

Pro tip: Colorful wildflowers usually carpet the plateau from late February through June. No dogs or bicycles are allowed; this is to protect rare plants and sensitive wildlife.

Tom McCall Preserve
Hours: Open daily
Old Columbia River Scenic Highway (Highway 30), between Hood River and The Dalles
Online: nature.org

Exhibit at The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum

The exhibits in this impressive 48,200 square foot timber-and-glass facility explore regional plant and wildlife, eleven thousand years of local history and catastrophic floods that carved out the Gorge. An impressive life-sized Columbia mammoth dominates the Ice Age section of the center. Throughout are more displays where children can learn, touch, dress up and create, including the Kids Explorer Room. When you’re done inside check out the restored grounds, which are home to over 90 native plant species as well as walking paths, a pond and scenic overlooks.

Pro tip: Make a day of it by packing a picnic lunch or grabbing a bite to eat at the center’s Basalt Rock Café. (Think soups, sandwiches and burgers.) Live raptor presentations are in the main foyer every day.

Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center and Museum
Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $9/Adult; $7/Senior; $5/Ages 6-16; Free/Ages 5 and under
5000 Discovery Dr.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-8600
Online: gorgediscovery.org

 

Columbian Mammoth, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Sorosis Park

Set high above downtown, this 45-acre city park is filled with the usual amenities: picnic tables, BBQ pits, softball fields, tennis courts and a disc golf course. But what makes this park truly great for families is the sprawling, castle-themed wooden play structure where you can kick back and watch the kids frolic for hours.

Pro tip: If time permits, be sure to check out the park’s wide-angle views of the Gorge.

Sorosis Park
Hours: Open daily
300 E. Scenic Dr.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-9533
Online: nwprd.org/parks

 

On the Riverfront Trail, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Riverfront Trail

Walk, bike and/or stroll along this wide, ten-mile long paved path hugs the scenic southern bank of the Columbia River between the discovery center and The Dalles Dam. Along the way you’ll encounter a learning garden, Lewis and Clark’s Fort Rock campsite, downtown The Dalles, Riverfront Park and more. Pets and strollers are welcome.

Pro tip: Start from the northwest terminus at the discovery center. While the trail has little to no elevation, younger children may tucker out before reaching Riverfront Park six miles away. Fortunately, the trail is accessible approximately every mile between the center and the park. A portion of the trail near The Dalles Dam isn’t complete, between miles eight and ten.

The Riverfront Trail
541-296-9533
Online: nwprd.org/rivertrail

 

Browing at Klindt’s Booksellers, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Klindt’s Booksellers and Stationers

To visit Oregon’s oldest bookstore, which opened its doors in 1870, head to the heart of The Dalles’ historic downtown. Here you can browse amidst the original wooden bookshelves and cabinets. Kids of all ages will love Klindt’s excellent selection of children’s, middle reader and young adult fiction. Unsure where to start? The friendly and knowledgeable are happy to offer recommendations.

Pro tip: Klindt’s hosts regular young adult and middle reader author events and fiction festivals. See their website for more info.

Klindt Booksellers and Stationers
Hours: Mon. – Sat., 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
315 E. 2nd St.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-3355
Online: klindtsbooks.com

What are your favorite family spots in The Dalles? Tell us in the comments below!

— Carrie Uffindell

Have your kids ever wondered where exactly Knuffle Bunny was lost or what it might be like to live at the Plaza like Eloise? From the Brooklyn Bridge to the Lower East Side to Washington Heights, your kiddos can see NYC-based stories come alive by visiting the actual locations featured in some of their favorite books. Learn about historic landmarks, ride on public transportation, or walk the streets of a new neighborhood with a dozen locally set stories.

1. Eloise

By Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight

A classic children’s book written in 1955, Eloise is a sassy six year old girl who lives at the Plaza Hotel in Midtown. She goes on adventures (and gets into mischief) with her dog, turtle, and nanny. She isn’t a role model, but you’ll find her crazy antics entertaining.

Make the story come alive at: The Plaza Hotel, Park Ave. between 58th St. and Central Park South, Midtown EastIf your material girl has a yen to make like Eloise, taking her to the Plaza is free. It's a lot of fun and well-ventilated, too. While it's free to explore, once your kid gets a gander at the Eloise store, complete with a kid-sized pink piano - not to mention the special, Rawther Fancy Tea - all freebie bets are off.

Image courtesy of Eloise at the Plaza

Find these books and more at your local neighborhood bookstore!

Share your favorite children’s book about the Big Apple in the comments below!

–Ashly Grzyb

September ushers in National Literacy Month, and the DMV is teeming with book-centric celebrations and activities. From a Library of Congress sponsored festival to a pint-sized play village inspired by classic children’s tales here are the best places to foster a love of hard covers (and paperbacks!).

Photo: The Library of Congress via Facebook

#1 National Book Festival
The basics in life: food, shelter, oxygen… and books! Thomas Jefferson proclaimed, “I can’t live without books!” and hence a theme was born for the 15th annual festival hosted by the Library of Congress. This year’s event (which is free and open to the public) will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, with more than 175 authors doing readings, signings (or both).

When: Saturday, September 5 from 10 am to 10 pm.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Mt Vernon Pl., NW
888-714-4696
Online: loc.gov

#2 The Young Readers Center at The Library of Congress
Nearly one-third of all books that have been published in the United States can be found on the shelves of this library; with so many choices its easy to find a worthy read to cozy up with. The books at the The Young Readers Center are non-circulating meaning you can’t check them out, but you can read them—on repeat if you please—onsite. Every Friday (except holidays), the Center hosts story time for infants and toddlers at 10:30 am. Free admission stickers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 10 am.

When: Every Friday (except holidays) at 10:30 am; free passes distributed at 10 am.
Thomas Jefferson Building, Room LJ G29 (ground floor)
10 First St., SE
202-707-1950
Online: read.gov

Photo: Baltimore County Public Library via Facebook

#3 Storyville
If reading a book can spark a child’s imagination, just imagine what a book-themed play place could do! This interactive learning center is geared toward children five and under.
With developmentally appropriate books and activities, Storyville fosters literacy and school readiness skills. And it’s just a really cool hangout.

When: Mon-Thu, 9 am-9 pm; Fri and Sat, 9 am-5:30 pm; Sun, 1 pm-5 pm
Baltimore County Public Library (Rosedale and Woodlawn branches)
6105 Kenwood Ave. (Rosedale, Md) and 1811 Woodlawn Dr. (Woodlawn, Md)
410-887-1165 (Rosedale); 410-887-1336 (Woodlawn)
Online: bcpl.info

#4 Books for America
There’s no better way to celebrate reading than to add a new book to your bookshelf. The library is nice, but sometimes you want to own a tome you’ll cherish for years to come. This bookstore, nicknamed “Bookstore with a Purpose,” also serves as the non-profit organization’s headquarters. You and your family will find an assortment of books at bargain-basement prices and the best part is, 100% of your purchase will benefit the organization’s book distribution programs. And if your littlest has a library gathering dust, this bookstore cheerfully accepts donated books.

When: Monday, Friday, Saturday 10 am -6 pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 am -9 pm; Sunday 11 am – 5 pm
Books for America
1417 22nd Street NW
202-835-2665
Online: booksforamerica.org

Photo: East of the River Book Festival via Facebook

#5 East of the River Book Festival
Founded by “A is for Anacostia” author Courtney Davis, this festival celebrates writers who are independently published or hail from small presses. Explore culturally diverse books at this free community event.

When: Saturday, September 12 from 11 am to 3 pm
Anacostia Arts Center
1231 Good Hope Rd., SE
202-997-4441
Online: eastoftheriverbookfestival.com

#6 National Portrait Gallery
On select Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year, the National Portrait Gallery hosts “Portrait Story Days.” Young visitors and their families are invited to gather for a reading from a select book that depicts the life of a famous person from history. After story time, participants are encouraged to create a piece of art influenced by the tale. Bonus: there is no fee to participate.

When: Select Saturdays and Sundays (check the calendar for upcoming dates)
National Portrait Gallery
8th St., NW and F St., NW
202-633-8300
Online: npg.si.edu

What’s your kids favorite books/reading related activitiy to do.

—Meghan Meyers

Indie over national chains and a fondness for diversity are signature to this easy-going North Side hot spot. If you call this neighborhood home, you already know you’ve found a sweet spot to put down roots with its stroller-friendly sidewalks, tree-lined streets and fabulous bakeries. Read on for 12 telltale signs you’re living, loving and raising kids in Andersonville.

1. You’ve had your kid’s birthday party in the back room of George’s Ice Cream.

photo: Anthony Doudt via flickr

2. When it comes to getting Mediterranean, Mexican, Swedish, Korean, Japanese, and American food all within a three block radius you’re a total pro.

3. You know that TMLMTBGB means Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind and where you can catch that show.

4. Your kids have pretended to be Swedish Immigrants at the Swedish American Museum.

photo: JR P via flickr

5. You know what gløgg is!

6. When you see zombies having their own bar crawl down Clark Street you don’t bat an eyelash.

7. You have lots of opportunities to buy local.

photo: Charles Carper via flickr

8. Your farmers market is next to a Starbucks.

9. You know what a puppet bike is!

photo: garbagetime76 via flickr

10. On more than one occasion you’ve shopped for hours in the Galleria and lost track of time.

11. You know that it is Midsommarfest, not Mid-summer fest.

photo: Andersonville Midsommarfest by Scott Wyngarden via flickr

12. Your kids rave about the story time at Women and Children First bookstore.

What else makes Andersonville special? Share your thoughts below!

— Story written by the fun folks at NPN

Neighborhood Parents Network (NPN) has been connecting a diverse community of families with the resources they need to navigate parenting in the city for 35 years! NPN is essential for all expecting, new and seasoned parents.

Once upon a time, story time took place at night, right before little bookworms drifted off to sleep. Nowadays, there are story times each and every day of the week in local libraries, bookstores and museums, with enough of a variety and age range to keep their love of reading going strong for years. From Beverly Hills to Manhattan Beach, these are our favorite story hours that bring books to life in every corner of the city.

photo credit: Meghan Rose

Beverly Hills Public Library
At the modern and inviting Beverly Hills Public Library Children’s Library, there are many, many things to love including the gorgeous space, toy filled Family Room and enchanting Enchanted Reading Room. But tops on the list are the amazing and varied story times led by some of the most enthusiastic librarians in town. There are story hours for everyone from non-walking babies on up through summer and after school reading programs for tweens and teens. All story times take place in the Little Theater in the Children’s Library and parking is available free for two hours. If you end up with a very hungry caterpillar, stop by the nearby (walking distance, we promise) Ice Cream Lab for a special made-before-your-own-eyes treat.

444 North Rexford Dr.
Beverly Hills
310-288-2211
Online: beverlyhills.org/exploring/beverlyhillspubliclibrary

photo credit: Stefani T via yelp

Central Library Los Angeles Public Library
The historical Los Angeles Public Library Central Library not only features beautiful architecture for young scholars to view, but offers reading programs for kids of all ages, almost everyday of the week. There are too many to list, so check their website for a complete listing of what’s going on this month.  One of our favorites is the Family Hour on Saturdays from 2 p.m.-3 p.m. at the KLOS Story Theater, where kids get to explore different themes through stories, songs, poems and musical instruments. Making this a whole day trip is simple as the Library houses many exhibits and Grand Park is nearby.

630 West 5th St.
Downtown
213-228-7000
Online: lapl.org

photo credit: courtesy of Vroman’s Bookstore

Vroman’s Bookstore
There’s something special about a bookstore like Vroman’s that has stood the test of time since 1894 (and survived the encroaching internet bookselling behemoths). The Children’s section upstairs is astounding with a selection curated with care. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the very funny and endearing Mr. Steve hosts a story time at 10 a.m. He’s been slinging books at Vroman’s for over 25 years and is consistently amusing, even for the adults. With an entire floor dedicated to young readers, the Children’s department is inviting and playful. Both you and your little ones can spend hours perusing their collection. Parking is available on the streets or in the back lot.  They also host amazing author’s events for kids here, where you’re sure to discover (and meet) a new favorite author.  Be sure to ask them about their upcoming events when you visit.

695 East Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena
626-449-5320
Online: vromansbookstore.com

photo credit: Judy Park

Children’s Book World
The only bookstore in town dedicated entirely to babies, kids and tweens, Children’s Book World is the best kept secret on the Westside. All their books are perfectly categorized, so if you have a little Bob the Builder, you can head right for an entire shelf section dedicated to construction vehicles. It is literally (pun intended) a dream come true for your little ones. Every Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. they have a rotation of storytellers, author readings, musical performers and other entertainment for kids and families. The best part of it is, after the story time or an author reading, your child can get their books autographed or they can stay for hours and browse through the endless collections. Our favorite Saturdays feature the super-librarian Hillary George with her ukulele.

10580 1/2 West Pico Blvd.
West LA
310-559-2665
Online: childrensbookworld.com

photo credit: Kelly W via yelp

{pages} a bookstore
This quaint little neighborhood gem offers a selection for book lovers of all ages. Children’s Story Time takes place on Mondays at 10:30 a.m., geared towards kids ages 2-6. On certain Saturdays, they also feature special readings and signings by authors of new children’s book releases. This bookstore is right by the pier and has nice boutique shops nearby, not to mention the beach, so you can plan for a full day of fun. Also, you can drop by Manhattan Beach Creamery for a sweet treat after you pick up some summer (or fall, winter or spring) reads.

904 Manhattan Ave.
Manhattan Beach
310-318-0900
Online: pagesabookstore.com

photo courtesy of Chudney Ross

Books and Cookies
Of course we love Books and Cookies—they combine two of everyone’s all time favorite things.  The very best time to sample the scope of what they have to offer is at a story time, and they have plenty to choose from.  Movers & Shakers Story Time is on Mondays & Fridays at 9:30 a.m. and is great for active little ones who can’t sit still. They’ll get to read stories, play games, dance, play musical instruments or play with the parachute. Musical Story Time on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. takes your little musicians on a musical literacy adventure as they weave hands-on instrument play into storytelling and dance. Story Time Adventures takes off on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. where not only are the stories brought to life with song and props, lil’ explorers will get to go on adventures that tie into the theme of the books, from dinosaur egg-hunts to wild rumpus dance parties. All story times are 35 minutes and cost $10 at the door on a first-come first-serve basis for the first 12 families; arrive early to ensure you get a space.

2309 Main St.
Santa Monica
310-452-1301
Online: booksandcookiesla.com

photo credit: Lilian K via yelp

Lollipop Dream
Aside from the plethora of princess teas and dress-up parties that Lollipop Dream offers, you can also find some fun, interactive story times on Tuesdays & Fridays from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Cozy up with your young royals on their soft pillows and wander off to Never-Never Land. Their story time is a walk-in event with no RSVP necessary. It costs $5/child and face painting is included.

14006 Riverside Dr.
Sherman Oaks
818-981-7446
Online: lollipop-dream.com

photo credit: Judy Park

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Inspire mini Picassos with a trip to the Boone Children’s Gallery at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Story time in the Gallery happens on Mondays & Fridays at 2 p.m. Admission is free with your free NexGen Membership (which is also free!). Get your little artists to do some Korean brush painting and check out current exhibits like the Metropolis II, before or after story time.

5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
323-857-6010
Online: lacma.org

photo credit: Zimmer Children’s Museum

Zimmer Children’s Museum
The Zimmer Children’s Museum is a great place for babies and young toddlers to burn off their energy and practice their crawling and walking skills. But it’s also a great place to cuddle and listen to a book. Story time at the Museum takes place in Bubbie’s Bookstore on the lower level every Thursday (with a few exceptions) at 11 a.m.; check their calendar for the current schedule. Then young adventurers can spend a few hours here going through all the exhibits. There’s even a lunchroom for when you and your little one need to take a little snack break. Admission is $7/person and kids under 1 are free.

6505 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
323-761-8984
Online: zimmermuseum.org

Did we miss one of your favorite story times? Tell us in the comments below!

—Judy Park

There is nothing quite like cracking open a brand-new book; the feel of the pages, the smell of the paper, and of course, the captivating characters and spellbinding storylines. A visit to your local bookstore can open your child’s eyes to the wonderful world of books and help instill a lifelong love of reading. Click through the gallery to see our favorite local bookstores that love kids and put a premium on pint-sized readers.

Elliott Bay Book Company

Nestled in the center of Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, The Elliott Bay Book Company is a full service bookstore, home to over 150,000 titles. And the bookstore features one of our area’s best selection of new books, including a stellar collection of children’s books and graphic novels. The bookstore has great character and an inviting atmosphere for book lovers of all ages. If you have a tween or teen, check out the Underground YA Book Group. The friendly and helpful staff can help you find the perfect book or spend time scanning the shelves to find something that strikes your fancy. While you're there, be sure to visit Little Oddfellows, the cozy, in-house café that offers baked goods, sandwiches, coffee from Caffe Vita and beer and wine for the more mature patrons.

Bonus: Need a sweet treat to cool you down? Head next door and get your ice cream fix at Molly Moon’s, a local favorite that serves up homemade ice cream using local ingredients and sustainable practices.

1521 10th Ave.
Seattle, Wa 98122
Phone: (206) 624-6600
Online: elliottbaybook.com

Hours: Mon–Thurs., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

photo: Elliott Bay Book Company Facebook page

Does your family have a favorite neighborhood book store? Tell us what makes it so special in the comments below.

— Abbey McGee

Like many fathers, my husband likes to make up stories to tell our toddler.  Usually this consists of holding his hands up like a book and telling her a story about princesses, dragons, daddies, and whatever else he can throw in.  One Houston man took it a step further and, after 35 years, is turning his made up stories into children’s books.  Joe Sutton, an energy executive by trade, realized when his children were young that an effective way to get a message across to them was by making up stories with carefully disguised lessons.  “Wanda and the Oblahlahs” is the first of the stories to print.

Wanda is a little girl who loves to chew sugarless gum.  She chews it all day: while she plays, while she’s singing, and even during school.  Her parents’ one rule is that every night before bed, Wanda needs to deposit her gum in the trashcan.  One night, Wanda has a babysitter who doesn’t know the rule.  Wanda goes to sleep with the gum in her mouth, and the Oblahlahs show up.  The Oblahlahs, colorful little creatures, throw such a party in Wanda’s mouth that she cannot chew gum or even talk.  Eventually the Oblahlahs fall asleep and Wanda is able to speak again, having learned an important lesson about following the rules.

I read this book to my three year old; she is not a gum chewer but was captivated.  The story is accompanied by colorful illustrations that do well to hold the attention of little ones, with patterns behind the hand drawn illustrations.  One of the best parts of reading the story is that now when I want to warn her about doing something, all I have to say is, “Remember the Oblahlahs?  You don’t want something like that to happen, do you?”

I also love that proceeds from sales are donated to Children at Risk to combat human trafficking.

If you are in the Houston area, Joe Sutton has a number of upcoming readings at various libraries and places around town.  Otherwise you can find “Wanda and the Oblahlahs” at your favorite bookstore and get information here.

This is a guest post from our friend, Anika Jackson, a fashion, book and charity obsessed mom who recently relocated from Los Angeles to Houston.  You can find her rambling at miscelLAnymama.blogspot.com.

Explore Seattle kids, things to do with kids in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond
This is a new weekly feature from the RT staff, just in time to combat the winter doldrums. Let’s face it, sometimes you’re itching to get the kiddos out of the house but you’re just not up for a crowded event. We’ll be exploring a new neighborhood, park, hiking trail or other Get Out adventure each week in our new Explore column. We’ll be covering destinations throughout the Puget Sound area and you can expect to find insider tips on great restaurants, activities and other kid-friendly suggestions for each area. The best part? These tips don’t expire after the weekend, so you can visit this page anytime your little monkeys are climbing the walls and you need ideas for a field trip.

Downtown Ballard

If you’re looking for a place to hang out and explore with the fam for the day, it’s hard to beat Ballard. There’s so much to see and do, we’ll focus on just a few blocks surrounding Market St. and Ballard Ave. Visit the farmers’ market every Sunday, all year, rain or shine. Head to Ballard Commons Park for a skate bowl, plenty of green grass for lounging, and a fun-to-run-through water feature. Stop by the library for a great kiddo section and frequent events sponsored by the hood’s awesome family bookstore, Secret Garden Bookshop. Shop for quality toys and kiddo clothes at Clover, and kitsch galore at Archie McPhee’s. Get inspired to bake at Cookies. Take in a flick at Majestic Bay. And the food! There’s soups and sandwiches at Great Harvest Bread Co, yummies at Cupcake Royale, healthy frozen yogurt at mooberry, and amazing date night food at La Carta de Oaxaca.

More to Explore:

Downtown Woodinville

Downtown Bellevue During Magic Season

34th Street in Madrona

Downtown Magnolia

Downtown Ballard

Wallingford’s 45th St.

Bainbridge Island/Downtown Winslow

Are your little ones sick of reading about Eloise in NYC and Madeleine in Paris? Are they hungering for a tale with slightly more local flavor?

Sasquatch Books, a small independent publisher putting out books in the Pacific Northwest and California, has just rolled out the San Francisco version of its “Larry Gets Lost” series. In these books, the titular, curious dog gets separated from his owner, Pete. They’ve already put out a Seattle version, and in the SF version, while Pete and his family are on vacation, Larry, chasing after a doughnut, winds up running up and down the city¹s streets and hills and past famous landmarks like Alamo Square, AT&T Park, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Cliff House. The story’s colorful, retro-inspired illustrations bring the beloved city highlights to life, and make them seem magical again even to a jaded city kid who walks past them every day.

Taking a romp through the city doesn¹t have to be exhausting – just add it to your bedtime story ritual!

Larry Gets Lost
Order from your favorite local independent bookstore or online at www.sasquatchbooks.com