The Best Places to Play Family Games in DC

by Meghan Yudes MeyersJanuary 20, 2020

Why limit game night to small boards and the confines of your home? Move beyond the kitchen table and head to a restaurant, a brewery or even the local library for the next family game night (make that, family date night!). Challenge the family to a new game or super-size a family favorite with an oversized board. Scroll on for the best places to team up for a day (or night) of family fun. Game on!

photo: Michał Parzuchowski via Unsplash

Labyrinth Games & Puzzles
Labyrinth Games & Puzzles offers the largest selection of board games and puzzles in the DMV. From beginners to experts, ages 1-100, there is sure to be a game here that everyone will love. Looking to add a new game to the weekly rotation? You can demo many of the games before you buy them. This store also hosts an Open Board Game Night from 6-10 p.m. every Thurs.

645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Capitol Hill
202-544-1059
Online: labryinthgameshop.com

Twinpanzee Brewing Co.
Bring your crew to this Sterling establishment for some beer and board games. Twinpanzee offers games for all ages, including Candy Land, Operation, Chutes and Ladders, Trouble, Sorry!, Clue and more. There is also a Nintendo Entertainment System with over 30 games to challenge your loved ones with. Kids 16 & under are treated to free chips and juice. Want to break out of tabletop competitions? Try one of the brewery’s family-friendly kart racing events.

10 Executive Dr.
Sterling, VA
703-791-9363
Online: twinpanzee.com

photo: Board Room DC

The Board Room DC
Do you dream of playing a board game without fighting over whose turn it is or who goes first?If so, The Board Room DC is calling. In addition to 21 draft lines, a rotating list of wines, and a full cocktail menu, this DC bar has an open cabinet with more than 30 board games.From Sorry to Scrabble, Battleship to Clue, they’ve got just about any game you want to play. Stop in, order a drink, and remember how much you love board games.

1737 Connecticut Ave. NW
Dupont Circle
202-518-7666
Online: boardroomdc.com

Game Day at Capitol View Library
You can count on good ol’ fashioned fun every Sat. at 2 p.m. at the Capitol View Library. Play a family game of Monopoly, Connect Four or chess at the library’s weekly Game Day event. Don’t forget to make an afternoon of it by browsing the stacks before you leave.

5001 Central Ave SE
Capitol View
202-645-0755
Online: dclibrary.org

photo: H Street Country Club

H Street Country Club
Thing beyond just tabletop games. Less traditional country club and more bar/restaurant, the H Street Country Club offers a 9-hole DC-themed mini golf course, Skeeball, and Giant Jenga. Enjoy drinks while you golf, a meal between Skeeball games, or just hang out and take in the activity.

1335 H St., NE
H Street
202.399.4722
Online: hstcountryclub.com

photo: Guiomar Ochoa

The Wharf
During warm weather months, head to The Wharf’s Transit Pier for oversized fun. Test your spelling skills with Scrabble, create team building with a game of Connect Four or try not to topple the life-sized Jenga. Games are free and available on a first come, first served basis.

970 Wharf St. SW
The Wharf
Online: wharfdc.com

photo: Leilani S. via Yelp

Worth-The-Drive: The Crossroads
Dubbed a tabletop tavern., The Crossroads is a library of (almost) every game imaginable. There are over 1,400 games—all free to use by paying customers. The kids menu (aptly titled Hungry Hippos) features fan favorites like pizza, chicken tenders, mini cheeseburgers and more.

9412 Main St
Manassas, VA
571-364-8885
Online: ttoptav.com

—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Wendy Miller and Tricia Mirchandani

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How’d They Make That? Food Factory & Warehouse Tours

by Maria ChambersOctober 3, 2019

They say the quickest way to a kid’s heart is through his tummy. That’s true where gummy bears and ice cream are concerned, at least. Get your family curious about where their food comes from by taking a factory or warehouse tour. There is a lot of food and drink made in the Chicago area and some manufacturers will take you behind the scenes. Flip through our album to discover tours for fans of candy, coffee and beer (both root and the grownup varieties).

Jelly Belly Warehouse Tour

Quinn Dombrowski

Hop on the Jelly Belly Train (yes, it's a thing) to tour the warehouse and learn through videos how candy corn, jellybeans and gummies are made. Shop the store to enjoy the sample bar, where visitors can taste each flavor as well as any favorite or new confection on the day’s menu. If you find yourself there at lunchtime, small bites are available at the Jelly Belly Snack Bar. Guided tours are scheduled 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and groups of visitors are taken around every 10-15 minutes.

10100 Jelly Belly Lane, Pleasant Prairie, WI (866-TOUR-JBC or jellybelly.com)

Intelligentsia Coffee

K Tao via flickr

Show your kids what happens behind the scenes to create the lifeblood of exhausted parents everywhere by taking them on a tour of Intelligentsia Coffee. Visitors will learn every aspect of coffee making with live demonstrations of the roasting process and discussions of everything involved between the farmer growing the beans and the coffee being savored in the mug. Enjoy all the freshly brewed coffee you can drink while on the tour and leave with the shakes and a free 12 oz. bag of freshly roasted coffee. Tour admission is $30 for adults and free for children under the age of 13. Tour availability is limited and reservations are highly recommended.

1850 W. Fulton St., Chicago (312-521-7976 or intelligentsiacoffee.com)

Long Grove Confectionery

Long Grove Confectionary

This local gem is a wholesale supplier of more than 300 gourmet confections sold throughout the country, their signature confection being the Milk Chocolate Pecan Myrtle. Tours of their facility are offered for groups of 10 or more, but sometimes you can join an existing tour if you’re short a few people. Kids will get a kick out of the 2,500-pound chocolate Statue of Liberty and 500-pound Santa sculptures that greet visitors. The tour starts with a video explaining how chocolate is made and moves on to the kitchen viewing area, were depending on the production schedule, you’ll see anything from caramel being cooked in copper pots to cream and butter filling churning in huge mixers. Watch as staff hand paints colored chocolate into the molds prior to filling, resulting in what looks like miniature pieces of art.

Tours cost $2 per person and are available Monday-Friday. Reservations are required and live production is not guaranteed. Stick around after the tour to shop for treats in their factory store.

333 Lexington Ave., Buffalo Grove (847-459-3100 or http://www.longgrove.com/factory-tours/)

Filbert's Root Beer

Filbert's

Filbert’s doesn’t offer a scripted tour of their facilities, but their friendly staff is always more than happy to show customers around their bottling facility. They’re most known for root beer, but they produce 25 soda flavors in total. Before you go in to buy your mixed case or keg of soda, call ahead to see if they’re bottling that day so you can see the operation in action.

3430 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago (773-847-1520 or filbertsrootbeer.com)

Two Brothers Brewery

Gerry T. via Yelp

Here’s a tour that the grownups will get excited about. Two Brothers was started in 1996 by — you guessed it — two brothers with a passion for microbrews. They open their doors for guests of any age for 45-minute tours, just check their online calendar for dates and times. Reservations are not required and guests are treated to the sights, smells and, for those 21 years and older, tastes of the brewery. Come hungry so you can enjoy the extensive menu at Tap House.

30W315 Calumet Ave., Warrenville (630-393-4800 or twobrothersbrewing.com

Albenese Confectionary

Albanese Confectionary

Not only does Albanese make gummies as pretty as they are delicious, they welcome visitors to take a peek into the manufacturing process for what have become known as the “World’s Best Gummies.” Tours are designed for all ages and consist of viewing the Gummi Factory through eight separate windows and watching videos explaining the creation of gummies and Gold Label chocolates. Free self-guided tours take about 5-15 minutes and are available any time during normal business hours (Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.); no reservations required. You’re rewarded at the end with samples of the freshest gummi and chocolate samples you’ll ever eat.

5441 E. Lincoln Highway, Merrillville, IN (855-272-3227 or albanesecandy.com)

Plant Chicago

Jason B. via Yelp

The Plant is a 93,500-square-foot former pork processing facility that has been transformed into a collaborative community of small businesses focused on growing, producing and sourching a variety of food products. It is currently home to over a dozen small businesses, including indoor and outdoor farms. Take a self-guided tour Saturdays between noon-2 p.m., to learn more about circular economy principles, view their waste museum, hear from interns, and explore and explore a demonstration aquaponic system.

1400 W. 46th St., Back of the Yards (773-847-5523 or plantchicago.org)

— Maria Chambers

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10 Things to Do with Kids in Milwaukee

by Amy BizzarriJuly 2, 2019

Located just 90 miles north of Chicago, along our beloved Lake Michigan, Milwaukee makes for a fun and easy family weekend getaway. Nicknamed Brew City for its beer-focused history, Milwaukee is brimming with things to see and do for families. For everything from a brewery visit fit for kids to impressive museums, read on for tips on things to do in this Wisconsin city. Don’t miss our Milwaukee events calendar to get the full scoop on local happenings.

photo: Discovery World via yelp

Discovery World
Spend the afternoon at Discovery World. This science and tech focused museum features everything from aquariums to total immersion virtual reality experiences. Since it’s located on the lakefront, the fun extends outdoors (weather permitting) — you can even set off on a tall ship from the museum’s dock now through October!

500 N. Harbor Dr.
414-765-8634
Online: discoveryworld.org

Harley-Davidson Museum
Did you know that American motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson was founded in Milwaukee in 1903? Cruise over to the Harley-Davidson Museum where you’ll learn more about this historic American icon. Kids can build their own virtual motorbike and even try on some hip Harley-Davidson gear.

400 W. Canal St.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: harley-davidson.com

Sprecher Brewery
No visit to Brew City would be complete without a tour of a classic brewery. Luckily, the Sprecher Brewery offers a kid-friendly tour. As the first microbrewery to be licensed in Milwaukee since Prohibition, this small, handmade brewery is dedicated to producing not only the best connoisseur style beers but also gourmet sodas, so even kids can get in on the taste-testing fun. Take a case of Sprecher Root Beer on the road with you as a tasty souvenir.

701 W. Glendale Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: sprecherbrewery.com

photo: Marian Q. via yelp

Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
Milwaukee’s only place for hands-on play and interactive learning, just for kids 10 and younger and their grown-ups! The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum is dedicated to providing interactive exhibits and educational resources that promote school readiness, including the development of early literacy, beginning math and science concepts, problem-solving, and physical and social skills. Visit today to explore our resident exhibits, special exhibits and our weekly educational programs.

929 E Wisconsin Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: bbcmkids.org

Milwaukee County Zoo
As one of the country’s finest zoological attractions, the Milwaukee County Zoo will educate, entertain and inspire you! Visit over 3,100 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitats spanning 190 wooded acres. Explore educational wildlife shows, fun attractions and enticing special events.

10001 W Bluemound Rd.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: milwaukeezoo.org

Cafe Hollander
Start your day with a delicious brunch at Cafe Hollander. Ask for a table outdoors beside the picturesque fountain and you’ll feel as if you’re in Europe at this elegant yet kid-friendly grand cafe, where brunch is served daily from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Opt for the signature fluffy Lowlander pancakes or the Brew City Benedict, a Milwaukee take on classic eggs benedict featuring Wisconsin-fresh cheddar and housemade Hollandaise.

Cafe Hollander
2608 N. Downer Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Online: cafehollander.com

photo: Khondker I. via yelp

North Point Lighthouse
This picture-perfect, restored 19th-century lighthouse also houses a small maritime museum. Climb to the very top via 84 narrow steps and a ladder and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful city and lake vistas. Kids who complete the climb will receive a special certificate.

North Point Lighthouse
2650 N. Wahl Ave.
414-332-6754
Online: northpointlighthouse.org

AJ Bombers
End your day with burgers at AJ Bombers, voted best cheeseburgers in town by the Travel Channel’s Food Wars. Kids will love the pre-dinner peanuts that arrive to the table via a mini-bomber. The custom here is throw the shells right onto the floor. Bring a pen or a marker because writing on the table and walls is encouraged.

1247 N. Water St.
414-221-9999
Online: ajbombers.com

photo: Trisha A. via yelp

Milwaukee Art Museum
It’s hard to decide which is more awesome – the Quadracci Pavilion, designed by world renowned architect Santiago Calatrava – or the more than 30,000 pieces in the museum’s permanent collection. Spanning antiquity to modern, the collection includes works by Monet, Warhol and Picasso, in addition to one of the largest Georgia O’Keeffe collections in the world. Be sure to rent an ArtPack for your kids, a small case filled with sketching supplies that can be used in the galleries, giving kids the chance to interpret and recreate masterpieces through their own eyes . ArtPacks are free and available from the ArtPack Station in Windhover Hall during regular museum hours.

700 N. Art Museum Dr.
414-224-3200
Online: mam.org

Milwaukee Public Market
Pedal to the Milwaukee Public Market for a late lunch (easy bike parking just outside the entrances). This historic foodie hub has been serving up local delights for over 100 years. The focus is here is on Wisconsin products, so indulge in the area’s best housemade chocolates, artisan cheeses, pretzels, and creamy frozen custards or give one of the other purveyors a try – you’ll find the flavors of the world here, from the Middle East and Mexico. Let each member of your family choose their lunch and then head to the public seating on the second floor, where you’ll be treated to a great view of the bustling market.

Milwaukee Public Market
400 N. Water St.
414-336-1111
Online: milwaukeepublicmarket.org

The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Milwaukee
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Milwaukee events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities.

—Amy Bizzarri

Roll With It: 9 Spots to Rest, Play & Eat Along the Burke-Gilman Trail

by Natalie CompagnoMay 23, 2019

With May being National Bike Month, it’s the perfect time to dust off your bikes, trailers and training wheels and hit the trails. To help you get off on the right foot er pedal, we’ve mapped out nine fantastic stops along the Burke Gilman Trail—from Ballard to Kenmore—to keep you and your little cyclists happy and fueled. Read on and get ready to plan a day on Seattle’s best urban bike trail.

Miri's at Golden Gardens

Evan B. via Yelp

It's the perfect place to begin your journey: the sandy beaches of Golden Gardens lie at one end of the trail. Forgot to pack a picnic? Miri's got you covered. The popular spot specializes in local, organic breakfast and lunch goodness, with an emphasis on poffertjes. Poff-what? As owner Miri Plowman says, "Tiny Dutch pancakes, the little ones love them." Open Thurs.-Sun. and Mon.-Sun. starting in mid-June.

8498 Seaview Pl. N.W.
Seattle, WA 98117
360-317-8530
Online: mirisseattle.com

The Lockspot Cafe

Emily Z. via Yelp

The Hiram Chittenden (aka Ballard) Locks provide endless fascination for kids of all ages watching the boats go through. The Lockspot guards the entrance, making sure no visitors will go hungry or thirsty. With a kids' menu and a large flowery patio, put this spot on your summer bike map. Is it too early for a fish sandwich? Never.

3005 N.W. 54th St
Seattle, WA 98107
206-789-4865
Online: facebook.com/TheLockspotCafe

Hale's Ales

Hale's Ales and the Burke-Gilman go together like beer and bicycles, sharing the same corner of the path in Fremont since the 1980s. Order yummy Mexican food from on-site food truck fave El Camion. Hale's hosts a full roster of live events as well; don't miss The I Hate Children Children's Show, a very funny magic show starring...you guessed it, kids!

4301 Leary Way N.W.
Seattle, WA 98107
206-782-0737
Online: halesbrewery.com

Ivar's Salmon House

Ivar's

A Seattle icon, Ivar's makes a perfect stop just off the trail for epic water views. Lock up your wheels and enjoy the back patio. Birds, boats and kayaks rush by to entertain while the Space Needle and skyline shine in the distance. Don't forget to show the kids the incredible First Nations art collection inside the restaurant. Another option is to grab some grub from the easy to-go window right in front. Baby prawns, fries, clam chowder and salmon Caesar salad make the perfect picnic to take to Gasworks Park.

401 N.E. Northlake Way
Seattle, WA 98105
206-632-0767
Online: ivars.com/locations/salmon-house

Recycled Cycles

Megan Ternes

Need a bike—or several—for the family? Recycled Cycles has bikes of all shapes and sizes for the little ones. The Trail-a-Bike allows kids to pedal along while still safely attached to your bike, while the Burley Bee is a tiny trailer for the smallest of cyclists. The friendly shop also has air, parts, new and used bikes...everything to make your day on the Burke-Gilman a huge success.

1007 N.E. Boat St
Seattle, WA 98105
206-547-4491
Online: recycledcycles.com

Agua Verde Cafe & Paddle Club

Agua Verde

Looking to add some aquatic fun to your epic day on the Burke-Gilman? Agua Verde rents stand-up paddleboards and kayaks to landlocked cyclists of all ages. They also have a full Mexican restaurant with tacos, nachos, and—that's right—margaritas!

1307 NE Boat St
Seattle, WA 98105
206-545-8570 (ext. 2)
Online: aguaverde.com

Great State Burger & Burke Gilman Brewing Company

Melissa C. via Yelp

Two great stops in one! After a long day pedaling in the sun, sometimes only a burger, fries and a Northwest IPA will do. Great State Burger has joined the Renee Erickson restaurant empire with a satisfying, inexpensive burger.

Burke Gilman Brewing Company opened last July, causing hundreds of cyclists to screech on the brakes to check it out. They specialize in the beers sweaty cyclists crave and hop-forward ales. Their mantra: "Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, also we are quite friendly."

Feeling fancy? Erickson's Bistro Shirlee just opened in the same bike-friendly complex.

Great State Burger
3600 N.E. 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98105
206-775-8990
Online: greatstateburger.com

Burke Gilman Brewing Company
3626 N.E. 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98105
206-268-0220
Online: burkegilmanbrewing.com

Magnuson Cafe & Brewery

Take N.E. 65 Street—with a fully protected bike lane—off the trail down into Magnuson Park, then head north. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery is a peaceful oasis with gorgeous views overlooking Lake Washington. Featuring beers from the team behind Mollusk, it's the place to recharge before visiting the park. Make the pilgrimage to Cascade Bicycle Club, right next door, to find out about the latest group family rides. For extra credit, head out to A Sound Garden, part of the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration complex. The wind-activated sculpture art installation once upon a time inspired the name of—you guessed it—Soundgarden.

7801 62nd Ave. N.E.
Seattle, WA 98115
206-525-0669
Online: magnusonbrewery.com

192 Brewing Co. Lake Trail Taproom

DKH via Shoreline Area News

What started as a 192 square foot brewery has become a vast urban beer garden and event space right on Lake Washington in Kenmore. Kids and dogs are welcome, and there is a full menu for all ages, from pub grub to falafel. Psst...don't miss the Sunday afternoon Blues Jam, the perfect way to end the weekend before heading home on the bike path, under the roar of the seaplanes on one of those endlessly bright summer nights.

7324 N.E. 175th St.
Kenmore, WA 98028
425-424-2337
Online: 192brewing.com

—Natalie Compagno

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Summer Is Coming Early, Courtesy of Dunkin’s New Iced Coffee Beer

by Erica LoopApril 8, 2019

Your dream summer-time beverage has arrived! Boston-based Harpoon Brewery recently collaborated with Dunkin’ to create one very special brew: iced coffee beer!

While this isn’t the first time Harpoon and Dunkin’ have gotten together for a much-needed beer-coffee collab, it certainly sounds pretty rad. In October 2018, their beverage collab gave the world the Harpoon Dunkin’ Coffee Porter, marrying a traditional porter with the tastiness of espresso flavors and dark chocolate notes. The latest creation from this beer-coffee retailer collaboration is a Summer Coffee Pale Ale, just in time for the warm weather!

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A post shared by Harpoon Brewery (@harpoonbrewery)

Harpoon’s CEO and Co-Founder Dan Kenary said in a statement, “We ended last year’s baseball season with the intro of Harpoon Dunkin’ Coffee Porter, and we’re excited to begin this season with the release of our Summer Coffee Pale Ale. Most importantly, it’s a delicious beer—hoppy and vibrant with a nice coffee character. We’re thrilled to partner with an icon like Dunkin’ again.” This limited-edition brew features Dunkin’s signature Iced Coffee flavor along with Harpoon’s delish Pale Ale.

You won’t be able to pick up this 21-and-up-only beverage at your local Dunkin’. The barbeque-ready beer is available in 12-ounce cans and draft at select locations in the eastern United States. To find out if your fave brew spot carries this tasty collab, visit Harpoon’s Beer Finder.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Courtesy of Dunkin’

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Explore Portland’s Pearl District with the Kids

by Jenni BostJanuary 20, 2019

Is cabin fever kickin in at your household? Adventure is only a few blocks to a couple miles away. For a day packed with family fun, check out Portland’s Pearl District. Wander through a city of books, dine on some of the city’s best food, or catch a show. The opportunities for entertainment are endless for local families! Read on to find places to shop, eat, and things to do in The Pearl District.

Approximate Travel Time to the Pearl District

chw4r7z via flickr

The Pearl District can be reached within minutes from downtown Portland and can be reached by public transit or by car. The Portland Street Car runs through the Pearl district to make it easier to get from one attraction to another. Get to this area of downtown Portland from many of the Portland-area suburbs in under 30 minutes.

Where to shop in the Pearl

Jenni Bost

Find interesting boutique stores to popular brands throughout the streets of The Pearl district. Get lost in the stacks of Powell’s City of Books. Find the best in furniture options from City Home, West Elm, or Room and Board. Shop clothing boutiques such as Altitude or shop from popular styles of Anthropologie.

Pick up some new digs or go toy shopping for the kids at Posh Baby , Green Frog Toys, or grab something nice for you and your little fashionista at Splendid.

Discover more shopping options on the Explore the Pearl website.

Pro Tip: Visiting on a Sunday? Grab a 45 minute guided tour of the world’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books.

Online: explorethepearl.com

Restaurants to Try in the Pearl

Mary Boyden Photgraphy via Well Crafted Party

There are no shortage of amazing food and beverage options in The Pearl District to satiate most any craving. Take our below suggestions, or visit the Explore the Pearl website to explore all of the available options.

Breakfast: Lovejoy Bakers

The full selection of breads, pastries, and cafe sandwiches there is plenty to choose from for a light or more hearty breakfast. Try a snack of Avocado Toast or enjoy starting your day with a Lovejoy Deluxe with a fried egg, Oregon bleu cheese, bacon, frisbee and tarragon on ciabatta roll!

939 NW 10th Ave.
Portland, OR
503-208-3113
Hours: Daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Online: lovejoybakers.com

Lunch: Hot Lips Pizza

Sometimes you just want a good slice of pizza. Portland is filled with great pizza options that would be a whole different post on its own, but Hot Lips Pizza has been a consistent Portland staple for good reason. Grab a slice of whatever their current special pie and don’t forget to grab a bottle of Hot Lips real fruit soda.

725 Northwest 10th Ave.
Portland, OR
503-595-2342
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fri-Sat: 11 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Online: hotlipspizza.com

Dinner: Andina Restaurant

For a flavorful Peruvian meal that is as bright and varied as the dishes that they serve, Andina has been serving Portland diners since 2003. Explore several different dishes with tapas dishes or dine on a filling entree topped off by a traditional Peruvian dessert. Try the Lomo Saltado with Cascade natural beef tenders wok-fried with onions, tomatoes, soy sauce, garlic and ahi amarillo served with Yukon Gold papas fritas and garlic rice and finish with Alfajores, the classic Peruvian cookie! If you enjoy a spicy and sweet cocktail then don’t miss the Sacsayhuaman cocktail with purred passionfruit and cane sugar to balance the spicy habanero pepper liquor.

1314 NW Glisan
Portland, OR
503-228-9535
Hours: Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Dinner: Sun-Thurs, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Online: andinarestaurant.com

Grab a Brew: The Brewery Blocks

No need to choose one delicious craft brewed beer. The Pearl District contains the Brewery Blocks with favorites such as 10 Barrel Brewing, Deschutes Brewery, and more.

Online: breweryblocks.com

Things to do in the Pearl

Joel via flickr

There is no lack of things to do in the Pearl District. Find shopping, art, entertainment, and more that would make for a great afternoon with the family or a romantic date night.

Jamison Square Tidal Pool: During the summer months you’ll find children and families splashing around. The famous fountain is modeled after a shallow tidal pool where water cascades from stone into low pools. During the cooler months you’ll find visitors enjoying picnic meals at the park. Finish off a fun-filled visit to Jamison Square across the street at Cool Moon ice cream for handmade ice ice creams in a variety of unique (and some classic) flavors.

Jamison Square
NW 11th Ave. and Johnson St.
Portland, OR

Cool Moon Ice Cream
1105 NW Johnson St.
Portland, OR
503.224.2021
Online: coolmoonicecream.com

First Thursday Artwalk: For over 20 years The Pearl has hosted First Thursday Artwalk. The Artwalk is a district-wide celebration that occurs on the first Thursday of each month throughout the year. Art galleries, businesses, and restaurants in The Pearl participate each month. Many art galleries host free receptions from 6 PM to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. When the weather is good the party finds its way outdoors as well with artists selling their creations and musicians. Download a First Thursday Artwalk map on the Explore the Pearl website.

Online: explorethepearl.com

Portland Center Stage at The Armory: The largest theater company in Portland is located in The Pearl! Find everything from dramatic plays to thrilling musicals. Find season shows on the Portland Center Stage website.

Portland Center Stage at the Amory
128 NW 11th Ave
Portland, OR
503-445-3700
Online: pcs.org

PlayDate PDX
Catch up on some much-needed grown-up time as your kids jump in the foam pit. There’s Stumptown Coffee (or wine) for you, Wi-Fi, and plenty to keep the kids busy (climbing a castle, shooting foam balls) long enough to catch up with a friend or some work. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, so head there first thing in the morning for more peaceful play.

1434 NW 17th Ave.
Portland, Or
503-227-7529
Online: playdatepdx.com

How to Dress

Jenni Bost

Anything goes in The Pearl district due to its span of high end restaurants and shops to more comfortable venues. Usually a night in the Pearl will include some walking from Happy Hour to dinner to drinks. Comfortable walking shoes and layers are good ideas for making your visit more comfortable. Don't forget your umbrella or rain jacket for wet Portland days!

Cost of Trip

Chris Booth via flickr

Keep things inexpensive by hitting some of the best Happy Hours in town or make a night of it by dining on meals crafted by famous Portland chefs. Enjoy The Pearl on a variety of budgets.

Bonus

LikeWhere via flickr

Parking can be tricky in The Pearl District depending on what events are going on in the area. Park in the Brewery Blocks Underground Parking on NW 11th or 13th between Couch and Davis. Pick up some of your weekly groceries at Whole Foods and receive two-hour parking validation.

Brewery Blocks Underground Parking
122 NW 12th Avenue
Portland, OR

featured image by TMimages PDX via flickr

— Jenni Bost (Updates by Annette Benedetti)

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Disneyland’s First Brewery Is Officially Open & It’s Totally Kid-Friendly

by Shahrzad WarkentinJanuary 16, 2019

Get ready to raise a glass at the Happiest Place on Earth: Disneyland’s first brewery has already had its successful soft opening and is now officially open as of Jan. 16! In true Disney fashion, it is epic.

The new Ballast Point Brewpub at Downtown Disney District is officially open and serving up popular San Diego-based brew label Ballast Point. The brewery features 4,000-square-feet of glass-enclosed bar and restaurant space, as well as a 3,000-square-foot outdoor beer garden with “cabana-style seating,” perfect for crowd watching as you relax with a meal.

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The brewpub will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to midnight serving up a delicious, family-friendly menu curated by Executive Sous Chef Joey Lerma. And of course, beer. Lots of beer. The 100 tap lines will offer “more than fifty styles of Ballast Point’s adventurous beer” including some Downtown Disney exclusive brews.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsbkJeNDvAu/

“The new Ballast Point brewpub offers a family friendly environment with features designed to appeal to all visitors [including] a dedicated children’s menu with favorites like Crispy Chicken Tenders, Corn Tortilla Quesadilla and Grilled Cheese,” said President Ben Dollard.

Not only is the restaurant kid-friendly, but it is also hoping to help those less fortunate by donating one dollar of every $10 kids meal sold to No Kid Hungry.

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Call (714) 687-9813 to confirm regular opening hours and days.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Courtesy Ballast Point Brewing Co.

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4 Point Loma Pit Stops for Coast Loving Kids

by Nikki WalshApril 19, 2017

Photo: Tech109

If you’re craving a fresh place to take the crew for the day, but don’t want to travel too far from home, Point Loma is a hidden gem set along coastal San Diego. From tide pooling and Kid Ventures to craft brews and flavorful food, we’ve uncovered the best places to go with the kids in tow. Scroll down for the road map to this historic naval neighborhood.

Photo: Nikki Walsh

Tide Pooling at Cabrillo National Monument
Shore-ly there’s no shortage of coast to explore in this maritime town. Drive out to the point, and you’ll come across the breathtaking panoramic views at Cabrillo National Monument. Little seafarers can take a scavenger hunt to identify the local history, while you drink in the sights of the ocean, Coronado Island and the San Diego Skyline. Try on the armory at the Visitor’s Center, then stroll up the paved path outside and discover the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Then, hop in the car and take the winding road down to the famous tide pools.

1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92106
Online: nps.gov/cabr

Photo: Nikki Walsh

Discover Kid Ventures
Let little imaginations soar at this sweet play spot located in Liberty Station. Meet a friend at this almost new Kid Ventures and have crafted coffee and lunch while the wee ones play. Or take advantage of their Friday night drop-off (from 4-8 p.m.) to take a yoga class next door or steal a date night with the hubby. Everyone will be smiling after a visit to this cool kids place.

2865 Sims Rd.
San Diego, Ca
619-573-9625
Online: kidventuresplay.com

Photo: Stone Brewery

Lunchtime at Stone Brewery
Looking for a craft brewery that’s kid-friendly too? The Stone Brewery at Liberty Station has an urban feel with airplanes flying overhead, a great outdoor patio and bocce ball courts. Little diners can munch on lunch while you and your pals (or husband!) sip craft beer and dine. If wee explorers get fidgety they can run around outside by the giant boulders and along the graveled paths. What better way to pass a quintessential San Diego day in the sunshine than drinking craft brew (with the crew)?

2816 Historic Decatur Rd #116‎
San Diego, Ca
619-269-2200
Online: stonelibertystation.com

Photo: Regina A. via Yelp

Explore Liberty Public Market
Foodies delight in the 25 artisan vendors at the relatively new Liberty Public Market at the former Naval Training Center. From lobster rolls and vegan (or regular!) burgers to confetti cake and French patisseries, you won’t go home hungry. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating and free parking make this marketplace a convenient and inviting family destination.

Liberty Station
2640 Historic Decatur Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92106
Online: libertypublicmarket.com

Where do you take your crew in Point Loma? Tell us about it in the comments below.

— Nikki Walsh

Ditch the Sitter: Date Night Fun With the Kids

by Elizabeth SilvaJuly 29, 2015

Spending quality time with your main squeeze can be a challenge for any parent. So why not change things up a bit and create a date night tradition for the entire family? Forget the sitter and head out to one of these parent-tested, kid-approved restaurants.

Pacific Coast Grill: Just steps from the Cardiff shoreline, this swanky seaside restaurant balances fine dining with a casual beach vibe. Your little surfers can kick back and enjoy the funky coastal décor while you take in sweeping ocean views and the sunset. Request a table on the ground-level patio to take advantage of the built-in entertainment: the beach! Kids can build a sandcastle in plain view, while you and yours sip on craft cocktails.

The whole family can share sizeable appetizers like the crispy calamari or white truffle and parmigiano house-cut fries. Pacific Coast Grill is known for creating delicious coastal cuisine using fresh, local, and free-range ingredients at affordable prices. Kid-friendly, simple preparations are no problem at all —just ask! After dinner, your beach babes can tickle their toes in water and sand amid a sea breeze only San Diego can offer!

Insider’s Tip: Get there early to get street parking or valet it for $4.

2526 S. Coast Hwy. 101
Cardiff, CA
Online: pacificcoastgrill.com

Waypoint Public: In the heart of trendy North Park, this eclectic hipster haven is a neighborhood mainstay. Known for simple, delicious food and beer from all over the world, Waypoint Public offers a family-friendly ambiance at reasonable prices. You and your plus one can raise a pint of your favorite brew while your Bohemian-in-training takes names in the play area. The vibe here is lively and energetic, so the little ones fit right in. Waypoint Public offers a monthly family movie night, and a Traveling Stories program for the kiddos. Every date night should be this easy!

3794 30th St.
San Diego
Online: waypointpublic.com

Panama 66: If your family loves art, live music and warm summer nights outdoors, check out Panama 66. This vibrant restaurant is nestled in the courtyard of the San Diego Museum of Art’s Marcy S. May Sculpture Garden. Definitely check out Ska-turdays, Soulful Sunday brunch and the other live music acts, and encourage your little musicians-in-the-making to rock ‘n’ roll under the San Diego sky. Panama 66 offers locally sourced, hand-crafted food and drinks, and features more than a dozen local craft beer taps. After dinner, take the bambinos on an evening stroll through Balboa Park to check out the beautiful architecture and historical buildings.

Insider’s Tip: Ride your bike, or show your membership card to receive 10 percent off. Make it an even bigger family affair With Fido as dogs are welcome on the front patio.

1450 El Prado
Balboa Park, CA
Online: sdmart.org/panama_66

Besta-Wan Big House: If your vibe is quirky and cool, lively and casual, Besta-Wan Big House is the place for you. Located just west of the Westfield Carlsbad shopping center, this charming place is both kid-friendly and dog-friendly! Just as laid back as the original location, Besta-Wan Pizza House in Cardiff, this location offers the same friendly and festive dining experience but better! Rugrats will love the eclectic and funky décor, and parents will love the variety of craft and local brews on tap. Besta-Wan Big House is the best when it comes to the fun stuff: hula hoops, pizza dough, a juke box and live music! Parents can bond over a plate of Jimi’s Sausage Nachos, while kiddos sculpt pizza dough into their very own creation. The menu is an expansive selection of salads, sandwiches, pizza, and pasta, all large enough to share!

Insider’s Tip: The restaurant has a super big, slightly secluded table that can accommodate large parties for birthday celebrations or other events.

1814 Marron Rd.
Carlsbad, CA
Online: thebestawanpizza.com

Thorn St. Brewery:Pairing a true craft beer experience with food truck cuisine makes for an adventure the whole family can enjoy. Your family will love this charming, rustic brewery, located in the heart of North Park. Thorn St. Brewery showcases a beautiful tasting room with a 7 barrel brew house in a large open space. You and your better half can toss back a few tasters while the kiddos enjoy truck food fare and play games. Dogs are welcome, too, so feel free to bring the furry kids along! Also, get this: patrons are more than welcome to bring their own food, or have it delivered! Some food trucks offer a Kids Eat Free deal; a schedule of food trucks can be found on their website.

Insider’s Tip: If you’re looking for a little adult fun, the brewery offers trivia nights and brewing classes, too.

3176 Thorn St.
North Park, CA
Online: thornstreetbrew.com

Flycaster Brewing Company: Fun for the Kids, Beer for You

by Jennifer B DavisMay 21, 2015

You’re no longer pregnant or nursing, and let’s face it—you’re craving a beer. Sitting alongside adults, sipping a frothy, hoppy, delicious treat on a Friday night. We hear you. Good news! There’s a brewery on the Eastside where you can imbibe on a craft beer and bring the littles along for the ride. Read on for the inside scoop on Flycaster Brewing Co.

photo: Amanda Chenoweth for Flycaster Brewery

Bridging the Fly Fishing & Beer Drinking Worlds
Celebrating their one year anniversary this May, Flycaster is the brainchild of Jeremy (and Tara) Eubanks. Combining his love of fly fishing and well, beer, Eubanks has put his heart and soul into crafting great micro-beer and creating a comfortable environment for all who enter. With wood walls and a stone bar, the brewery has a woodsy lodge vibe. But don’t worry. You won’t find a large moose head on the wall. Just a great hangout where you can get current fishing conditions on the local rivers and a tasty American-style beer by the fire.

photo: Amanda Chenoweth for Flycaster Brewery

The 411on the Brew
Flycaster offers hand-crafted, small batch beer focusing on a constantly rotating selection of Northwest styles. From a light body Bonefish Blonde and a crisp and hoppy Rocky Ford IPA, to a clear and crisp Hopper Pale Ale and an Amber body Yakima River Red—there’s a beer on the menu to fit everyone’s taste and fishing style. However, don’t expect to find any funky flavors here. Just the kind of brew Eubanks and other fishermen (and fisherwomen) would want to enjoy while catching the big one on the river.

Flycaster sources its hops from Yakima, but that’s not the only secret behind its great tasting brew. According to Eubanks, it’s his head brewer Jonathan Hughes. “Jonathon is a rockstar! He continues to evolve our beers based on customer feedback and the styles that we want to brew,” says Eubanks. So next time you’re at Flycaster, be sure to leave a comment (or two!). You might just see your recommendations on the menu.

photo: Flycaster Brewing Company Facebook page

Fun for the Kids
While no brewery is an all-out kid zone, Flycaster has a beanbag toss in the back room, along with possibly the best (free) pub mix ever, plus ample seating, a cozy fireplace and TVs, of course. No food is served on-site, but there’s generally a food truck right outside serving its finest. Even better news, Flycaster is dog-friendly, so your four-legged “kids” can join in the fun too.

photo: Steve Todd

On the Horizon
Eubanks hopes to grow his brew system, so he can start selling kegs locally. “We would like to continue with our core brews and continue to come up with seasonal beers and new fun beers,” says Eubanks. Be sure to look for Flycaster at local festivals like the Washington Brewers Festival taking place over Fathers Day Weekend along with festivals in Fremont and Bothell and Oktoberfest Kirkland in September.

Good to Know
Planning a party? The brewery offers a private event space and features live music from local up-and-comers.

Flycaser Brewing Co.
12815 124th St.. Suite I
Kirkland, Wa 98034
206-963-6626
Online: flycasterbrewing.com and on Facebook
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 4 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 1 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

Psst! Don’t forget about these other kid-friendly Eastside spots for a cold one: Redhook Brewery (Woodinville), newly opened Chainline (Kirkland) and Bellevue Brewing Company (Bellevue).

Clearly, we’re hooked on Flycaster – hook, line and sinker. Have you visited Flycaster? Tell us about your experience in the Comments below.

— Jennifer B. Davis

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