16 Friday Night Traditions Perfect for Family Time

by Leah R. SingerAugust 22, 2023

Here’s how you plan a Friday night for the kids

You’ve yet again survived the delicate trifecta of work, household duties, and figuring out the summer camp schedules, and (Congrats!) made it to Friday. In theory, this is an evening that should revolve around QT with the family, but more often than not, parents are left wondering how to plan a Friday night for their kids. If you want to get creative with your family weekend tradition, here’s how to shake things up. From game nights to awesome family activities, here are our favorite ideas for what to do on a Friday night.

1. Hold a family meeting.

a family meeting, an idea for planning a Friday night for kids. — iStock

Let Friday night be the night the whole family sits down to discuss the ups and downs of the week. You can focus on what went well, what goals were reached, and which rewards or consequences need to be doled out. In just 20 minutes, you can get everyone on the same page as far as family expectations are concerned, and then be sure to add a little fun at the end. Ice cream sundae, anyone?

2. Make pizza.

A close up on a homemade pizza, which can become a family tradition to make at home — Masimo Grabar via Unsplash

Grab your favorite toppings and whip out your homemade dough recipe—it's pizza night! Let the entire fam concoct personal pies in this activity-turned-meal that makes Friday night an entertaining family tradition.

3. Watch the sun go down.

what to do on a Friday night: watch the sun go down — iStock

Make it a late night (it's Friday, after all), and set up outside with the kids to watch the sun go down. The kids can play games at dusk, and you can catch up with your partner while you wait.

4. Build a fort.

There's so much more to building a fort than pillows and blankets in the family room. Creating a rad reading nook, cardboard castle or cozy spot is a great Friday night activity. If you need some fort-building inspiration, here are 13 epic indoor forts you'll want to live in.

5. Have a reading night.

A Dallas cowboy starts the family tradition of reading to his grandchildren — iStock

Reading is always a great activity and one of our favorite family traditions. Instead of movie night, cozy up on the couch with blankets and books. Whether every family member has their own book or you're reading a novel together, there are tons of great choices. Check out the best books of 2023 (so far) for a great reading list for all ages and stages.

6. Set up an ice cream sundae bar.

making ice cream sundaes is fun when you need ideas for what to do on a Friday night — iStock

Here's a great idea when planning a Friday night for kids. Incorporate dessert into one of your sweet new family traditions with an ice cream sundae bar. You can add just about any toppings you can imagine, and it's perfect right before you start the weekly movie. Check out some of our favorite sundae bar ideas.

7. Camp out at home.

A mom, dad, son and daughter lay in front of a tent, starting the family tradition of camping out in their backyard — iStock

Change up Friday night by camping in the living room, or pitching a tent in the backyard. These camping activities will give your family a ton of wilderness inspiration without leaving home. Don't forget the s'mores!

8. Create a comic strip.

a boy draws and writes to create his own comic strip — Melissa Heckscher

Encourage your little ones to share their creative storytelling in the form of a comic book. Parents can get in on the creativity by creating a comic strip, too. This fun and simple DIY comic strip tutorial will help you get started. Make this one of your monthly family traditions, so you create a new story strip each month.

9. Start a family band.

Rock out as a family during your own Friday night concert. Organize a karaoke session or use a music-making app that will record your tunes and help make making music together a melodic family tradition.

10. Take a stroll.

A mom and daughter walk through their neighborhood on a Friday — Sue Zen via Unsplash

An after-dinner walk brings the family together. Even if you are only walking around the block, it can be a great bonding experience for children (and fun for you). For more adventures, try a simple I-Spy or spotting walk. You can also have each family member silently observe something on the walk. When you get home, take turns sharing your observations. Plus, you get a chance to get a few steps in to start your weekend off on the right foot!

11. Have a family game night.

a mom, dad, daughter and grandparent lay on a wooden floor playing a game together — iStock

Teach the kids a new card game or play an old classic. It doesn’t matter if it’s Gin Rummy or Candy Land, as long as everyone in the family participates. Draw straws to see who picks the first traditional Friday night game and take turns picking a game that everyone will love. And don't forget Charades! It's the easiest form of low-fi entertainment around.

12. Set up a scavenger hunt.

Stage an elaborate scavenger hunt before bedtime. Just write out the clues (each one a hint of the location of the next clue) and make sure the kiddos are distracted while you hide them around. Number the clues in case one is found “accidentally” too early. Hide something simple at the end, like a treat or even just an IOU for a Saturday afternoon of playground games and fun.

13. Have a family Top Chef competition.

mother and son cooking, something fun on a Friday night for kids — Brooke Lark via Unsplash

Make dinner a fun tradition by having each family member create a dish, or team up to make different dishes. There are tons of easy recipes that even the youngest chef can make (with a little help from a sibling or parent). Three-ingredient recipes such as grilled cheese roll-ups and PB&B quesadillas are simple and delicious choices for mealtime.

14. Have an artistic happy hour.

A mom uses watercolors to paint flowers with her family — Joshua Ness via Unsplash

Set aside a little time to create something together. It could be clay sculpting or homemade playdough or you could try and recreate Vincent van Gogh’s masterpiece Starry Night. Try drawing an outline of a scene or an object in black (or have older siblings do this) and then let the kids color in the original creation.

15. Get literary.

A boy writes a poem in his workbook as part of a new family tradition — Annie Spratt via Unsplash

Make it an evening fit for the coolest literati by setting up a writing session. You try your hand at writing a haiku. Have the family stage a traditional poetry reading after to share what everyone has written.

16. Have a family movie night.

If you want to plan a Friday night for the kids, but just don't have the energy to do much, a family movie night is always the answer. Pick a movie that'll please your whole crowd and don't forget the popcorn!

21 Easy Play Ideas for Kids (Whether You Have 5, 15 or 30 Minutes)

by Allison SutcliffeAugust 15, 2023

Low effort, big reward

Between daily parenting duties, work, and navigating the current world in general, saying your days are full is probably an understatement. And while your kid’s day may be full of exploration and creativity, they can also experience a lot of anxiety, stress, and pressure. Which makes it even more important to have some positive, uninterrupted time to reconnect.

Even five minutes can make a difference in a child’s emotional well-being. But as Randy McCoy, VP of Product & Curriculum for The Little Gym, reminds us, how long you play is less important than how often. “It’s not necessarily the ‘duration of play’ but the ‘frequency of play’ that matters most,” Mccoy says. “If a parent can give their child their undivided attention and play with them just five minutes a day, every day, they’re on the right track.”

The good news is, there are lots of ways to play that take next to no prep. Read on for 21 easy ideas to play with your kids, whether you have five minutes, fifteen, or more.

8 Super Fast 5-Minute Games

When you have a few minutes, whether it's before school or after dinner, parent like a pro with these little-to-no-prep basics you can use just about anywhere.

Try out "Would You Rather?" kid edition. Spend a fun five minutes taking turns asking questions like, "Would you rather never eat ice cream again or get a trampoline?" or "Ride a dinosaur for 20 miles or an elephant for an hour?" The sillier the better. This also makes a great road trip game.

Make a dictionary dash. Grab a dictionary and choose a word at random. Read it out loud and have the kids guess what it means. If they can read, they can take turns finding words and trying to stump you.

Tickle your sidekick’s funny bone. Whip out brain busters or riddles that will make them laugh. Luckily you don’t need Comedy Central writers for this one. We think your goofballs will get a kick out of our ultimate list of jokes for kids.

A few rounds of “We’re going on a picnic” alphabet style will entertain the tot lot. The first player up says, “I’m going on a picnic,” then adds a tasty packable to the phrase, like an apple, apricot or avocado. Stick with ABC-order, or focus on just one letter for each round.

Play 20 questions. Have your kids guess what you're thinking of, and keep it simple, like something you can see from where you're standing.

Play a classic game of Rock, Paper, Scissors—Japanese style. It’s called Janken. Start by saying “saisho wa guu.” Then “janken pon” as you pump, before throwing on “pon.” The winning combos are still the same in this timeless, quick game you can play at home or on the go.

Turn yourself into a living “spot the difference” puzzle. Start with a slow model turn, then disappear and make a quick change out of sight. When you come back, your cutie’s got to spot what’s different. Did you take off a cap? Put on a scarf? Untie a shoe? Keep it easy for the tots, and kick it up a notch for older kiddos (only one earring!). Then let them have a turn trying to stump you.

Try out a sequencing game when the wanderlust takes hold. Name a person, place, and object, all starting with the same letter of the alphabet, then string them together like kids lining up for the school bus. “Alice from Australia loves alligators!” See how far you can get in a short amount of time.

6 Mini-Games That Take 15 Minutes

For parents, playing with our kids allows us to step out of all those daily parental duties and, as McCoy explains, build friendship between parent and child. “When you play with your kids,” he says, “it provides an opportunity for you to interact with them on a different level. For a special moment, you step out of the ‘parent’ role and step into a playmate role.”

Take a break from your to-do list and try one of these 15-minute play breaks that will thrill the kids and relax you, too.

Post-It style. A stack of Post-It notes and a pen are all it takes to play this short-and-sweet variation of the classic guessing game for parties. Choose someone to be "it." Write on the Post-It note the name of a character from a book, movie, or show that your kid will recognize—it can be a famous person, someone they know or a fictional character. Stick the note to their forehead, without letting them see what you wrote. Now take turns going around the room giving "it" clues to help them guess who is on their head.

Curl up with a good book. Putting out a basket of books in a central location motivates the kids to take a look through the pages when they’ve got time to spare. Add in a sweet bookmark that keeps track of time to make it count.

Give them their daily feels. Keep your favorite sensory bin fillers on hand (like cotton balls and dry beans), along with trinkets to bury and cups for spilling and filling. When you’ve got a short window, pull out the bin, fill ‘er up, and watch your kids dig and drizzle until it’s time to go.

Set up a quick cotton ball and straw race. Perfect for the kitchen table before lunch is served. Have siblings challenge each other for the pole position on a straightaway down the center of the table, or set up a simple obstacle course using cups that the kiddos have to work around. Ready, set, go before you go!

Give a penny for their thoughts when they write in a journal. Setting aside a short amount of time to write (each day!) is a great way to encourage your amateur author’s creativity. Use silly or thought-provoking prompts to get them thinking, like, “The first time I tried ...” or “When I get to be principal, I’ll …” or even “The craziest thing that happened today…” Write on, brother!

Give up the charade. Have your little monkey stay in character when you play a quick game of animal charades. No prep is necessary for this easy guessing game. Just pick your favorite animal and go for it! With each successful guess, trade places and start again. Ee-i-ee-i-o!

4 Power Half-Hour Ideas

Whether your aim is active playtime or quiet(er) crafting time, filling a cool 30 minutes with your kids is easier than you think. It may take a bit of planning, but once the prep is done, it’s a sit-back-and-relax situation that’s well worth the time upfront.

All things LEGO. If LEGO was the first thing that popped into your head, then we’re right there with you. They’re the forever fallback for a reason, but to hit that half-hour sweet spot, try throwing a LEGO challenge into the mix: building a car that can also work underwater, or constructing a tower that’s at least 24 inches tall. Then let your master-builder go to work.

Spin them right round. Ana at Babble Dabble Do has a new way to play with Perler beads. She puts them to work teaching science and playing tricks when these melted beauties become spinning tops. It’s just the right amount of make-and-play to fill a brief window in your busy day.

One for the movers and shakers. Print out (and laminate them if you’re feeling bold) The Alerting Activity Game, designed by Training Happy Hearts. Keep the deck on hand to stack the odds in your favor when the kids need something to do. With simple activities like “jump up and down ten times” or “pretend to be a volcano,” it’s packed with energy-burning activities that kids can run through on their own or with you!

Bring the outside in and paint it. If snow isn't covering your yard, go for a hunt for leaves, evergreen boughs, and sticks. Then take your findings to the craft table to fancy them up with paint. Acrylics work great for this project.

3 Super 60-Minute Sessions

For activities that span the hour, the two-step Make & Play approach works well. You may want to do a little prep the day before to make it easier, like putting crafting necessities into one small bin that you can pull out to surprise the kids.

Wage war. Ah, the classic card game that is so simple to learn and so hard to win. It is possible that a game of war can take longer than one hour, but it rarely takes less. You do two card battles with the highest card the winner until one person has all the cards. Get the complete rules here.

Create a catapult. Little Bins for Little Hands has an awesome tutorial, using craft sticks and other office supplies you’re sure to have around the house. Once it’s built, set up target practice plates before letting the marshmallows fly.

Put on a show. Puppets never get old; they’re easy to make with an old sock, brown paper lunch bag or even familiar characters glued to craft sticks. Whatever method you choose, spend time creating and playing with puppets when you’ve got an hour or more to spare. Be sure to stock the craft bin with all kinds of googly eyes, buttons, yarn and doo-dads to help bring the puppets to life. Then find an old sheet or use a baby’s blanket draped over the table to create a stage. Bravo!

35 Indoor Activities for Hot Summer Days

by Erica LoopJune 21, 2023

Blow their minds with indoor Olympics, ice cube art, and a comedy-hour giggle fest

The weather is finally warmer. But now it’s kind of gone overboard, and the novelty of all-day outdoor summer activities has worn off. We’ve got indoor summer activities that will get your child moving, experimenting, and creating in the comfort of your living room, kitchen, or playroom. If it’s reached crazy temps where you live, it sounds like you’ll need some great indoor activities for kids.

Laugh out loud. Stage a little comedy show in your living room. Here are 300+ of our favorite kid’s jokes to get you going.

Create a cool collage. Spend the day (or at least part) drawing summertime pictures. Your little artist can create portraits of the family at the beach, draw the swimming pool or recreate what they see just by looking out the window. Use a large poster board or cardboard as a background and collage the pics into one summer mural.

Have a dance party. Pick a few summer-themed tunes (like anything from the Beach Boys) and dance, dance, dance.

Play store. Set up shop in just in no time at all and play grocery store. Or maybe you’d rather go to the moon or climb Mt. Everest? Here are 27 make-believe prompts that’ll fill those 30 minutes before dinner.

Play a round of “Would you rather?” Would you rather have a pet monkey or a pet porcupine? Inquiring minds want to know! All you need are a few good questions. Here’s a great list you can pull up, so you can dish out questions as fast as your kids can answer them.

Draw a shadow. Set up toys, place books on their short sides, or use any other item that casts a shadow. Place the objects on a light-colored paper and shine a flashlight on it. Your kiddo can draw the shadow. Now move the light, pretending that it’s the sun. Draw the new shadows to see how the sun’s rays change as the day continues

Read together. Try out our favorite new releases in the picture book world. We also love these books that help kids learn about and combat racism.

Write a story.

Sing a song. Choose a favorite family song and sing as a group. Don’t worry if you can’t carry a tune; the goal is for everyone to spend time together enjoying a fun indoor activity.

Make popsicles! Everyone loves to cool off in the summer with a delicious frozen treat, so why not make them yourself? Here’s our list of really yummy popsicle recipes. Which will be your family favorite?

Have an indoor picnic. When the weather gets too hot or rainy, that doesn’t mean your summer day is ruined—just move the party indoors! Lay out a blanket and have a picnic in your living room.

Play animal charades. Can your kid waddle like a penguin? Or maybe hop like a bunny? This twist on the classic game of charades can be as easy or as hard as you want. All you have to do is write down a bunch of animals on cards or paper and have everyone take turns picking a card and acting out the animal.

Connect the dots. Tic Tac Toe is so yesterday. The Dot Game is so today. And it can easily be re-created when you’re in a lurch. You need paper and a pen to make a large-scale dot grid. Then, take turns connecting one dot to the next, trying to complete squares. When you do, don’t forget to claim your property with a big fat initial smack dab in the middle of the box.

Pick a card. Learn a simple magic trick.

Learn how clouds hold water. There may not be a cloud in sight, but that doesn’t mean your science-loving child won’t get a kick out of this experiment. With a few simple everyday ingredients, your child can explore the science of clouds with this fun indoor activity from Learn With Play at Home.

Make crumpled paper art. Explore art in a completely colorful way. Learn how to turn regular watercolor paint into awesome artwork with texture, depth and so much more. Get the full directions from Buggy & Buddy.

Freeze water and oil. What happens when you mix oil and water? Make a few regular ol’ ice cubes and a few with veggie oil. Drip drops of food coloring in before popping the cubes into the freezer. Take them out (after they’re completely frozen), put them onto a piece of paper, and watch what happens as they melt.

Bake some blueberry muffins.

dad baking with daughter is a fun indoor activity for kids — iStock

Sponge print fun. Take the stack of unused kitchen sponges that you bought at the big box store and put them to use. Cut the sponges into shapes, dip them into tempera, and let your little one paint the day away. They can sponge-paint a pattern, make abstract art, or put shapes together to make a picture, such as a tree or a house.

Create a mailbox and write each other letters.

Go small. Outfit a mouse house, dollhouse, or fairy dwelling with tiny furniture you can make yourself.

Get glowing with ice. This indoor activity is cool—in both senses of the word. Explore the wild world of tonic water, experimenting with its ability to glow (really, it does). Make tonic water ice cubes, pop them out of the freezer, and take them to a dark room. Turn off all the lights, turn on a black light, and watch the glow. Get the details here.

Make slime. This is always a fun indoor summer activity if you’re okay with a mess (it will happen). Add glitter, sequins, craft sand, or small toys for a better sensory experience. If you need a new recipe, get your slime-making steps here. And when they’re done, check out how to get slime out of just about anything.

Make a water-density rainbow. Explore density with this completely colorful experiment.

Plan an afternoon movie marathon. Pick a family flick from this list and make a new popcorn recipe.

Ice-Capades! Freeze colored water in ice cube trays and then let the kids paint with their slowly melting watercolors. Check out these other surprising ways you can have fun with ice.

Sink or Float
This basic science experiment is perfect for schoolers or makes for an exciting indoor summer activity for toddlers. And as a bonus, it uses water—perfect for a hot summer day. Fill the sink, tub, or plasticware bin with cool water. Pick a few waterproof items, predict if the objects will sink or float and then toss them in; observe what happens and record the data.

Make sensory bottles. This is an easy indoor summer activity for kids to try; this sensory play idea lasts for more than one day. Fill an old plastic bottle part-way up with water. Add sparkles, colorful craft sand, or anything else your child wants. Drip a drop of food coloring in and pour a splash of baby oil into the mix. Close the bottle, seal the top with tape, and shake to watch what happens.

Set up your own indoor Olympics.
Set up your version in the living room or playroom. Create obstacles to pretend slalom around or set up an indoor aquatic race. Your child, the neighborhood kids, and the rest of the family can act out swimming movements as everyone races around the house.

Make a dinosaur terrarium.

Make something out of a cardboard box. Give those Amazon packages a second life with one of these fun ideas.

Paint without a brush. If you have finger paints or tempera at home, your kids can get into this art activity from Mini Monets and Mommies.

Make melted crayon shells. Older kids enjoy crafting too. Use those seashells from your beach vacation with this colorful indoor summer activity from Fun at Home with Kids.

Have a beach party. That is, have an indoor beach party. Grab the towels, pull up a paddling pool (minus the water), and pour a few kid-friendly fruit juice drinks. Fill the pool with torn blue tissue paper or a blue sheet. Pretend to splash, all from the cooling comfort of your home.

Sign up for an Outschool course. There are dozens of different courses and classes for every interest. Check out our favorites here.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton and Amber Guetebier

17 Summer Essentials, According to TikTok

by Kate CartiaMay 16, 2023

TikTok has your viral summer essentials covered

It’s that time of the year again! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and TikTok is buzzing with all things summer. If you’re like us, you know that TikTok has become the holy grail of inspiration, and when it comes to summer must-haves, it’s the place to be. Summer is all about fun, and TikTok knows exactly how to make it epic. It’s not just about sunscreen and flip flops anymore, friends. TikTok has revolutionized the summer essentials game with its viral trends, quirky hacks, and jaw-dropping fashion statements. And trust us, you don’t want to be left behind when it comes to the hottest season of the year.

So, my fellow TikTokers, get ready to level up your summer game. This is the ultimate guide to the must-have items that will make your summer one for the books. Whether you’re a trendsetting mom, a teach-lover, or just someone who wants to help make sure your kiddos’ break from school memorable, we’ve got everything you need to win the summer. We’re diving into TikTok summer essentials.

Good Molecules Daily Brightening Serum

Get ready for improved skin texture and tone with this serum from Good Molecules. It targets dullness, dehydration, uneven tone, and dark spots so that summer no-makeup look is even easier (but don't forget your sunscreen!). Good Molecules Daily Brightening Serum ($8.00)—Buy Here!

Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

If the kids are home all summer, that means spills and stains are a pretty good possibility. Especially with kiddos running in and out of the house (hello, grass stains), you need a carpet cleaner that keeps up. Almost 63K Amazon reviews point to the Little Green from Bissell being a lifesaver well beyond the hot months. Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner ($123.59)—Buy Here!

PVO Mini Projector

Those summer nights are perfect for outdoor movies, and the hot summer days make afternoon movie binges a must. The PVO Mini Projector is great for inflatable projector screens, the side of tents during campouts, and blank indoor walls for a full theater experience. It links to your computer, TV, or phone, too. PVO Mini Projector ($69.99)—Buy Here!

FlexiSpot Standing Desk

Customize your work experience with the FlexiSpot Standing Desk. Its sleek minimalist design looks great anywhere while its sturdy, easy-to-use frame allows you to move your office station in any way you want, at any time. Comes in lots of finishes and styles to compliment your space. FlexiSpot Standing Desk (Starting at $149.99)—Buy Here!

Fisher-Price Portable Bassinet & Play Space

Check out this 2-in-1 portable baby bassinet and play space, perfect for use at home, outside, or on summer vacations. It's great both indoors and out—the adjustable canopy protects your baby from the sun's rays (UPF 20) and bugs. Fisher-Price Portable Bassinet & Play Space ($85.99)—Buy Here!

Airtight Food Storage Containers Set with Lids

With kiddos on summer break asking for snack after snack after snack, this set of 24 stackable airtight food containers with included labels are going to be your new best friend. Airtight Food Storage Containers Set with Lids ($69.99)—Buy Here!

Washable Reusable Gel Lint Roller

This little lint roller is small but mighty. It easily fits in your purse or diaper bag and can rinse off, so no more throwing away sticky lint roller sheets. Washable Reusable Gel Lint Roller ($11.99)—Buy Here!

Bluetooth Device Remote Control

From scrolling your Kindle book at the beach, swiping through TikTok for summer recipes, and recording videos and taking pictures, this handy remote does it all. Bluetooth Device Remote Control ($22.99)—Buy Now!

Cooling Gel Patches

Made from a plant-based gel, these cooling patches offer immediate chill for fevers, headaches, and sun fatigue. Definitely keep these handy for summer outings. Cooling Gel Patches ($13.99)—Buy Here!

Hawaiian Shaved Ice Machine

What's summer without shaved ice? This machine makes ice perfectly powdered for perfect shaved ice, margaritas, iced coffees, and more. Hawaiian Shaved Ice Machine ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Shaperx Bodysuit

Those shaping bodysuits that have been trending for a while now aren't going anywhere soon, and if you're looking for a more affordable option, Shaperx delivers (according to almost 11K Amazon reviews, you can't go wrong). Available in several colors and styles. Shaperx Bodysuit ($34.19)—Buy Here!

Huffy Green Machine Drift Trike

Where were these kinds of things when we were kids?! This summer break boredom-buster is made for kids 5-8 so they can easily ride and steer it into drifts and fun spins. Huffy Green Machine Drift Trike ($139.99)—Buy Here!

Revlon Oil Control Facial Roller

A fun (haha) part of summer is getting a shiny-looking complexion, no matter how dry our skin usually is. Forget individual oil blotting sheets; this reusable roller from Revlon not only works better—it's way more environmentally-friendly, too. Revlon Oil Control Facial Roller ($13.38)—Buy Here!

Comfy Drawstring Shorts

These breezy shorts are perfect for staying cool, plus the flowy style is ultra on-trend. They come in lots of colors, too. Comfy Drawstring Shorts ($25.99)—Buy Here!

Hip Seat Baby Carrier

When it's hot, strapping your little one against your front in a traditional carrier doesn't always sound like a good idea. The hip seat carrier frees up one of your arms while supporting babes up to 44lbs. Hip Seat Baby Carrier ($84.99)—Buy Here!

Find & Seek Card Game

No more roadtrip woes! This card game is easy for all ages to pick up, so the whole family can join in. Find & Seek Card Game ($11.99)—Buy Here!

Bubble Rocket Blaster

Fill the backyard with a blast of bubbles and watch your kids have a ton of fun, screen-free. Bubble Rocket Blaster ($34.99)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

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Middle School Graduation Gifts That Prove You Still Know What’s Cool

by Kate CartiaApril 21, 2023

Put a smile on their braces-wearing faces

Middle school graduation gift ideas? Don’t even get us started. Okay fine, let us share our two cents on this one. The thing with middle school graduation is that it’s a pretty big deal. It’s not high school, but it’s also not elementary school. It’s the transition between childhood and preteen years. So, you want to get a gift that’s not too immature or too grown up. Middle school graduation gift ideas can be tough to come up with, especially when you want to find something that’s both thoughtful and age-appropriate.

There are plenty of classic gift options, but as we remember all too well, their image is ultra-important. So, really, it doesn’t hurt to also keep in mind it truly is the thought and the gift that count with tweens. And that’s totally okay! It’s completely normal and absolutely part of growing up. We rounded up some of our favorite middle school graduation gifts that (since we’re still ultra-cool and with it) we feel pretty confident they’ll love (and love showing off to all their friends!). The transition from middle to high school is a big deal and we’ve got the gifts to commemorate it!

Doomlings

They're getting more independent, but an easy way to keep them close a little longer is by rounding up the crew and playing a game that they'll actually want to play. Doomlings is quirky, funny, and perfect for family game night. It works as a 2 player game and up to a party of 6, so it's great for summertime staycations, road trips, and camping weekends, too. With over 4,000 5-star reviews, you seriously can't go wrong. Doomlings ($24.99+)—Buy Here!

Real Review: "I got this for my nephews (ages 8 and 10) and not only did they love it, the whole family did! Loads of fun, really easy to pick up how to play, and really cute graphics!"—Mylène H.

Preppy Aesthetic Wall Collage Kit

No middle school graduate wants bare walls, so make sure they're covered with this kit! Preppy Aesthetic Wall Collage Kit ($10.99)—Buy Now!

“You're Like Really Pretty” Large Neon Sign by Ancient Neon

We are very much anti-blank-walls around here, and Mean Girls quotes are evergreen, right? “You're Like Really Pretty” Large Neon Sign by Ancient Neon ($99.99)—Buy Now!

Kane Revive Sneakers

Designed for athletes and busy kids alike, these recovery sneakers are breathable, sustainable, and feel incredible on! They come in a bunch of colors and are gender-neutral. Kane Revive Sneakers ($75.00)—Buy Now!

iWalk Portable Phone Charger

TikTok isn't going to scroll itself! Don't let them get stuck with a dying phone (which is like, the worst thing ever). This super cool charger comes in 6 colors to match their phones, too. iWalk Portable Phone Charger ($34.99)—Buy Now!

Photo Hanging Clip String Lights

These are the days they want to remember, so give them a place to display all those precious photos! Photo Hanging Clip String Lights ($15.98)—Buy Now!

Jordan Brooklyn Fleece Plaid Pullover Hoodie

Jordan gear will never go out of style, and this sharp plaid hoodie will be the one they reach for over and over again. Jordan Brooklyn Fleece Plaid Pullover Hoodie ($36.97)—Buy Now!

Sprinkles Cupcakes

There's nothing quite like a fancy dessert delivery to make them feel a little more grown up! Sprinkles Cupcakes Favorites Dozens Box ($75.00)—Buy Now!

"Believe in You" Cuff

This is such a sweet cuff with a hidden message (just in case they get a little embarrassed by sentiment—we were 13 once, too)! "Believe in You" Cuff ($12.97)—Buy Now!

LEGO Technic App-Controlled Transformation RC Toy Car 42140

Although we're missing their little baby hands grabbing for Duplo Blocks, this LEGO Technic App-Controlled RC Car is a build your middle schooler will have a blast with! LEGO Technic App-Controlled Transformation RC Toy Car 42140 ($149.99)—Buy Now!

6 Piece Gold Heart Charm Necklace & Earrings Set

Set them up with a whole jewelry wardrobe for the new school year! This set is perfect for mixing and matching. 6 Piece Gold Heart Charm Necklace & Earrings Set ($12.90)—Buy Here!

DIY Journaling Kit

Middle school to high school means big feelings, and getting tweens into journaling their feelings is a great way to teach them healthy ways of handling them. DIY Journaling Kit ($19.99)—Buy Now!

Everyday California Floating Waterproof Snapback Surf Hat

Not only is this a cool hat, but it's also waterproof and floats! Whether they're into water activities or not, this is perfect especially for the spring and summer. Everyday California Floating Waterproof Snapback Surf Hat ($36.00)—Buy Now!

Initial Travel Jewelry Case

We all love initialed goodies, and these adorable travel cases are available in all the letters of the alphabet! Initial Travel Jewelry Case ($14.99)—Buy Now!

Inspirational Nylon Bracelet

An actual rugged piece of cool jewelry that they'll be happy to wear daily, especially since they'll remember the accompanying message! Inspirational Nylon Bracelet ($14.99)—Buy Now!

Evil Plans & Stuff Composition Notebook

Are they in their Wednesday Addams era? This is the composition book/notebook/journal for them! Evil Plans & Stuff Composition Notebook ($5.99)—Buy Now!

Pottery Barn Teen Light Up Wall Shelf

These shelves are seriously cool. Display pictures, projects, or their prized sneakers! Pottery Barn Teen Light Up Wall Shelf ($169.00)—Buy Now!

Adventure Initial Necklace

Freshman year in high school is the start of an adventure, no question. This necklace reminds them to embrace it! Adventure Initial Necklace ($13.99)—Buy Now!

Solid Ruffle One-Piece Swimsuit

Help them celebrate the summer before high school with this adorable ruffle swimsuit from Maurices little sister line, Evsie. Solid Ruffle One-Piece Swimsuit ($24.90)—Buy Here!

Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap

Gen Z loves their water vessels (and we do, too), so the new spring 2023 colors (Grapefruit, Dew, Lupine, and Oat) from Hydro Flask are must-haves! Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap ($54.95)—Buy Now!

Govee 32.8ft Color Changing LED Strip Lights

It sure seems like we're proud supporters of the customized lighting movement. And that's because we are. The LED strip lights from Govee has vivid colors and lots of options for customization. Govee 32.8ft Color Changing LED Strip Lights ($22.99)—Buy Now!

Pave Lightning Bolt Nap Earrings

Remind them how powerful they are with these lightning bolt nap earrings from Maison Miru! What makes them nap earrings? The flat backs mean they can wear them all the time, even to sleep! Pave Lightning Bolt Nap Earrings ($85.00)—Buy Now!

Throw Throw Burrito

It's a combination of a card game and dodgeball! Players go head-to-head collecting cards, earning points, and throwing squishy toy burritos at one another. From the creators of The Oatmeal and Exploding Kittens, this game is a whole lot of fun! This card game takes 5 minutes to learn and 15 minutes to play. You had us at "burrito". Throw Throw Burrito ($24.99)—Buy Now!

Casetify Reset Check Apple Watch Band

High school schedules can be chaotic, so keep their access to their calls, emails, and calendars, right on their wrist in style! Casetify Reset Check Apple Watch Band ($52.00)—Buy Now!

'How to Draw Cool Stuff'

This step-by-step guide makes it easy for anyone to get the hang of, well, drawing cool stuff! How to Draw Cool Stuff ($14.39)—Buy Now!

Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag

This ultra-popular and highly-rated handbag comes in a ton of colors and has enough room for the essentials! Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag ($67.99)—Buy Now!

Too Faced Better Than Chocolate Cocoa-Infused Eye Shadow Palette

A combination of age-appropriate neutrals and fun pops of sparkly colors make this the perfect on-your-way-to-high-school palette! Too Faced Better Than Chocolate Cocoa-Infused Eye Shadow Palette ($45.90)—Buy Now!

TOSY Ultimate Disc LED

This light up flying disc isn't a plain old Frisbee! As the original and patent-pending invention, the TOSY Disc is 100x brighter than any other light-up flying disc. It looks super cool, especially when you throw it outdoors at night! TOSY Ultimate Disc LED ($39.99)—Buy Now!

Confetti Clear Backpack & Lunchbox

How fun is this set? We all love a matching moment, and making it sparkle is the icing on the cake! Confetti Clear Backpack & Lunchbox ($68.00)—Buy Now!

Star Projector with Bluetooth Speaker & White Noise

Transform their room with this Northern Light projector! Sync music up with the projection so it moves with the beat, too. Star Projector with Bluetooth Speaker & White Noise ($39.99)—Buy Now!

Keyboard Key Caps

Dress up your keyboard to reflect your style! There are multiple color combinations to choose from, too. Keyboard Key Caps ($64.99)—Buy Now!

My Pretty Strap Honeycomb Apple Watch Band

This swanky band is perfect for pairing with every outfit of the week! It also comes in silver, rose gold, and a dreamy space grey. My Pretty Strap Honeycomb Apple Watch Band ($39.99)—Buy Now!

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

Use it for school, as a cooler (it's insulated!), and everything in between. Herschel's iconic backpacks are designed to last for years! Herschel Little America Backpack Pro ($140.00)—Buy Now!

STM Goods Chargetree

Charge all the essentials—phone, watch, and AirPods—all at one time with the super fast and powerful (and compact!) Chargetree from STM Goods! STM Goods Chargetree ($119.95)—Buy Now!

Athleta Excursion Mini Belt Bag

Belt bags are having a moment right now, and we're loving the Mini Excursion from Athleta for our soon-to-be high schoolers! They're the perfect size for anything they need, keep them hands-free, and come in 4 colors. Seriously trending gift? Check! Athleta Excursion Mini Belt Bag ($49.00)—Buy Now!

Crocs Classic Clog

Love 'em or hate 'em, Crocs are back in a big way. It probably has a lot to do with how comfortable they are, but it doesn't hurt that they come in a bunch of colors and styles, too. Crocs Classic Clog ($39.99)—Buy Now!

Allkinds Bath & Body for Kids & Teens

Bath & body essentials they’ll use on a daily basis. The six Allkinds collections have their own active ingredients, colour, theme, and 100% natural signature fragrance. Sweet Talk, Lazy Days, Cosmic Choc, Superfresh, Hey Vacay, and more! They smell unbelievable and are perfect for mixing and matching, too. Allkinds Bath & Body for Kids & Teens—Shop Now!

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera & Accessory Kit

We mentioned the importance of pictures, so make sure they have some to display with this Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera! It comes with everything they could need for capturing important moments. It also comes in four colors! Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera & Accessory Kit ($134.99)—Buy Now!

12’’ Screen Magnifier for Smartphone

If they're into watching a lot of movies and videos on their phone, this screen magnifier doubles their screen size! It also looks really darn cool. 12’’ Screen Magnifier for Smartphone ($16.95)—Buy Now!

HP Sprocket Portable 2x3" Instant Color Photo Printer

A handy little device that allows them to print pictures directly from their smartphones right onto sticky-backed paper? How brilliant is that? HP Sprocket Portable 2x3" Instant Color Photo Printer ($79.99)—Buy Now!

UGG Jella Clear Slide Sandals

The jellies from our youth are back, but way more chic. These Jella Slides are perfect for the pool, and if your middle schooler is anything like ours, they look pretty cute with socks, too! They come in multiple colors, also. UGG Jella Clear Slide Sandals ($95.00)—Buy Now!

Y2K Bracelets

Yep, we said "Y2K". Believe it or not, the styles we wore in high school while wondering if all the computers in the world would shut down on New Year's Eve 1999 are back. We'd be lying if we said we weren't eyeing these bracelets for ourselves. Y2K Bracelets ($9.99)—Buy Now!

Sunset Lamp

Golden Hour at any hour! This fun lamp makes it happen. It's awesome for relaxing, TikTok videos, pictures, and more! Sunset Lamp ($23.99)—Buy Now!

Jake Meets Kate Affirmation Aesthetic Wall Decor

We're all about the affirmations, and this set will help them remember what you already know about them. Jake Meets Kate Affirmation Aesthetic Wall Decor (Unframed) ($19.99)—Buy Now!

Chenille Cosmetic Bags Set

Organization skills are a must in high school, so help them start strong with these cute cosmetic bags! Chenille Cosmetic Bags Set ($39.99)—Buy Now!

Flower Hair Claw Clips

Neutral colors that go with everything and so much more fun than regular elastics! Flower Hair Claw Clips ($11.99)—Buy Now!

Sharper Image Candy Dispenser

M&Ms, jelly beans, peanuts, gumballs—whatever they're into, this dispenser is perfect. After all, now that they're going into high school, you can show that you trust them to keep candy in their rooms. Maybe. Sharper Image Candy Dispenser ($21.99)—Buy Now!

Tortilla Blanket

Maybe they don't use their baby blankets anymore, but who wouldn't want to be wrapped up like a burrito?? Tortilla Blanket ($19.99)—Buy Now!

MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display

Hold the magic of 3D printing in your hand with the MYNT3D Professional 3D Pen! Now you can use FDM technology in any application from drafting and prototyping to spatial learning and 3D sculpting. Young artists and budding engineers will adore this! MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen with OLED Display ($59.99)—Buy Now!

Athleta Girl Pleat Perfect Skort

Skorts are back, baby! This one from Athleta Girl comes in a bunch of color and is ideal for school, practice, and play. Athleta Girl Pleat Perfect Skort ($45.00)—Buy Now!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Tickle Your Funny Bone: 20 Jokes for Bay Area Kids

by Kate LowethMarch 6, 2023

What’s the safest place to be during an earthquake?

Need a little levity in your life? These Bay Area jokes for kids are a great way to kick your day off in the right direction. Scroll down for silly jokes, corny jokes, and quite a few earthquake jokes. Share them with your little ones to get the laughs rolling!

1. What do you call a seagull living in San Francisco?

A baygull.

2. Why is it so cold in San Francisco?

Giant fans.

3. It took 10 workers 10 days to build the Golden Gate Bridge. How long would it take 5 workers to build the same bridge?

None—it’s already built!

—Liam, age 7

4. Which 49ers player can jump higher than a house?

All of them—houses can’t jump at all.

5. Where do you find hungry 49ers?

The golden arches.

6. What card game do Niners fans play?

Golden Gate Bridge.

7. What runs around Levi’s Stadium but never moves?

A wall.

8. What did 49ers fans think about the new lights at Levi’s Stadium?

They gave them GLOWING reviews.

9. Who put all these mountains in California?

It wasn’t me, it was all San Andreas’ fault!

10. What was the earthquake's punishment?

It was grounded.

11. What happens when you get nervous during an earthquake?

You start shaking uncontrollably.

12. What's the safest place to be during an earthquake?

A stationary store.

13. What did one earthquake say to the other?

It's not my fault!

14. What's the worst nightmare of an Etch-A-Sketch artist?

An earthquake.

15. What do you get when there’s an earthquake at a cow pasture?

Milk shakes.

16. Did you hear about the recent earthquake research?

The information is groundbreaking.

17. What did the ground say to the earthquake?

You crack me up.

18. Where do you find missing angels?

Lost Angeles

19. Where do waffles go on vacation?

Sandy Eggo.

20. Where in California does everyone have minty fresh breath?

Sacra-mentos.

Chicago Hotels with Amazing Kid Amenities for Staycationing

by Wendy AltschulerFebruary 27, 2023

Skip the airport security lines and make your next family vacation a super suite staycation at hotels with everything from indoor pools to bikes for borrowing.

It hardly seems possible, but winter is fading behind us and spring is knocking at the door. Work a quick staycation into your family agenda and get ready to discover a new home away from home—luckily you won’t need to go far to find it. With amazing amenities, like requesting a gaming console delivered to your room or days spent lazing by the pool, you’ll be lucky if you can get your kids to check out of these hotels. Read through our picks for Chicago’s kid-centric hotel amenities that would make even Eloise go green with envy and be a tourist in your own city.

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The Kimpton Gray Hotel

Why we love them: Family-focused complimentary amenities galore!

Kimpton Hotels is now offering complimentary children's kick scooters as an extension of the brand's popular bike loaning amenity. The Kimpton X Micro Kickboard scooters sport a custom design and color scheme and are available in two sizes for ages 2-5 and 5-12. Along with the kid-loved modes of transportation, the hotel also has a hand-picked selection of children's books, they're dog-friendly, yoga mats can be found in every room and they host a complimentary social hour every evening (5 p.m.-6 p.m.).

122 W. Monroe Ave., Loop; Online: grayhotelchicago.com

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago

girls in window at hotel monaco chicago things to do with kids in chicago — Hotel Monaco

Why we love them: This hotel is pet-friendly!

Located just a few steps away on Chicago's Riverwalk, you're located minutes from all of Chicago's best family destinations, from boat tours to Museum Campus.

Hotel Monaco invites you to bring your pet along and even offers fun amenities for your furry friends like plush beds and complimentary bags to use on potty-break walks. In addition, they feature complimentary bike rentals and host a nightly wine hour from 5 p.m.-6 p.m. that you can opt to take to have served in your room. As a bonus, they sell everyone's favorite Jeni's Ice Cream by the pint.

225 N. Wabash Ave., Loop; Online: monaco-chicago.com

The Neighborhood Hotel

Why we love them: All the comforts and coziness of home in close proximity to Lincoln Park Zoo, Fullerton Beach & oodles of restaurants and shops.

Founded by travel enthusiasts, The Neighborhood in Lincoln Park offers a well-equipped, well-designed basecamp for staycationers. The apartment-style property features 14 stylish suites with stocked kitchens, washers/dryers, and a thoughtfully curated collection of art and accessories. Floorplans include 1-3 bedroom options, as well as a coach house.

2616 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park; Online: theneighborhoodhotel.com

Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

Why we love them: Fabulous Riverwalk location and the indoor heated pool.

This pet-friendly hotel is a perfect home base for a family staycation, as it's steps away from Michigan Ave., the Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Mag Mile. (Keep your eyes to the skies for Navy Pier's Wednesday and Saturday evening fireworks, end of May to Labor Day weekend!)

Pack the swimsuits and goggles because kids will be making a bee-line for the indoor heated pool!

301 E. North Water St., Near North Side; Online: marriott.com

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Hotel Zachary

Why we love them: Because we love the Cubs! Also, the architecture is stunning and the activities and energy in the area are rather special.

This relative Chicago newcomer will quickly become a favorite for Cubs fans, as it sits directly across from the iconic Wrigley Field and Gallagher Way, Wrigleyville's exciting town square. Visit during baseball season to soak up the energy that radiates in and around the stadium or plan your staycation around Gallagher Way's packed social calendar that includes outdoor movie nights, ice skating and Santa's workshop during the holidays, seasonal parties and more. This whole area has undergone a transformation every Chicagoan, suburbanite or urbanite, should see.

3630 N. Clark St., Wrigleyville; Online: hotelzachary.com

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel

Why we love them: Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel is located in the world's second-largest building designed by a woman, Chicagoan Jeanne Gang—the first largest building is Gang's The St. Regis Chicago, opening this May.

It's easy to explore our city's rich culture from Radisson Blue Aqua Hotel as it's located within minutes from Mag Mile, Millennium Park, Grant Park and Navy Pier. Kids will love the indoor and outdoor pools, outdoor running track, fire pit, and full-size basketball court, while the parents can head to the steam and sauna rooms. The Lakeshore East Park is also located just behind the hotel.

221 N. Columbus Dr., Loop; Online: radissonhotels.com

Four Seasons Hotel Chciago

Why we love them: Ice cream man who makes in-room sundaes, dedicated play space & 50-foot indoor pool

The kid game is strong with this one. Once kids check in using a special step stool to fill out their registration (name, age, and a promise to have fun), they enter the Sammy the Skyscraper passport program. During their stay, kids complete an activity in each outlet (spa, restaurant, and bell desk) to receive a stamp, which earns them free ice cream. You can also schedule an in-room visit from the ice cream man to treat the family to sundaes, and have complimentary toys and games delivered to the room.

With all the above, a 50-foot indoor pool seen in Home Alone 2, and a concierge team ready to create a personalized itinerary, you won’t have time for anything but fun.

Note: Pool and spa facilities are temporarily closed until June 1, 2023.

120 E. Delaware Pl., Gold Coast; Online: fourseasons.com

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InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

Why we love them: Indoor pool!

InterContinental puts you right in the middle of the action with walkable access to shopping, restaurants, cultural destinations and Lake Michigan. Keep an eye on their Offers page because they're always coming up with creative ideas to engage families like fort-building supplies, build-your-own cookie sets and packages that incorporate favorite cultural destinations. Even if they're not a fun package available, kids will be over-the-moon about the junior Olympic-sized swimming pool.

505 N. Michigan Ave., Mag Mile; Online: icchicagohotel.com

The Langham, Chicago

Why we love them: Kid's Suite, a playroom just for kids & a 12-seat cinema showing kid flicks

Warning: Your family is going to want to make this place your home away from home because the Langham gets kids. Kids receive a Langham Bear that comes in a cute backpack and can hang about in the Kid’s Suite, the hotel’s playroom just for kids. The play space has everything from video games to board games, Lincoln Logs to mini electric guitars, and if that’s not enough, there’s a 12-seat cinema suite that can be reserved for private screenings.

Check out the indoor swimming pool with family changing rooms and showers (be sure to ask for a pool noodle for little swimmers!). Of course, there are kid-friendly menus throughout the hotel so picky eaters are welcome. You can also request a personalized bathrobe and slippers, and each kid receives a free cookie upon check-in.

They have several family staycation packages available, including stays that give private access to the pool and games or the cinema.

Note: As of press time, the Kid's Suite was closed until further notice. Please check their website for updates on re-opening.

330 N. Wabash Ave., River North; Online: langhamhotels.com

The Robey Chicago

Why we love them: Beyond having a great neighborhood location at the intersections of Damen, Milwaukee, and North Avenues, The Robey Chicago has amazing rooftop views that stretch in every direction, plus a cozy outdoor swimming pool!

Families can book the Queen + Loft accommodations for a decent-sized room that has not only a queen-sized bed and twin bunk beds but also, a work desk and a fun schoolhouse vibe. Cafe Robey is perfect for brunch and dinner and when you're ready to explore Wicker Park and Bucktown, you'll be within easy walking distance to The 606, Building Blocks Toy Store, and plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, neighborhood parks, and more.

2018 W. North Ave., Wicker Park; Online: therobey.com

Great Wolf Lodge

Why we love them: The entire hotel is kid-focused, while still being fun for adults

Let’s be honest, the real thrill for kids when it comes to Great Wolf Lodge is the pools. And, the 80,000-square-foot indoor pool with slides and an interactive water fort treehouse and an outdoor pool with a cabana area has no chance of disappointing. In addition to the water play, you'll find a variety of activities including a ropes course, bowling, mini-golf, arcade and rock wall. For kids that like their fun to include a bit of thinking and intrigue, they’ll dig MaqiQuest, the brand’s exclusive live-action adventure game. Kids scour the resort using magic wands to uncover relics and runes needed to defeat dragons and goblins.

1700 Nations Dr., Gurnee; Online: greatwolf.com/illinois

Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park

Why we love them: Location, location, location

The best part of this gem? It's just steps from Chicago's world-renowned museums, restaurants, and of course, Millennium Park, where your kids can take an obligatory Bean selfie. Enjoy numerous packages and hotel discounts when you book early, including the Weekend Escapes Offer, the Park and Stay Package, and the Embrace the Season offer.

200 N. Columbus Dr., Millennium Park; Online: fairmont.com

Swissotel Chicago

Why we love them: Beyond being one of the best hotels along the Chicago River, Swissotel Chicago is mere steps from the Magnificent Mile and many of Chicago's award-winning attractions.

Suites and adjoining accommodations are available for larger families. The Swissotel Kids Suite, a magical escape full of special amenities, is available year-round. You can expect the room, which is connected to a separate adult room, to be outfitted with age-appropriate games, toys, and books. Families can watch an in-room movie, inclusive of a movie theater welcome amenity, plus complimentary breakfast for two adults and two children at The Palm restaurant.

323 E. Wacker Dr., New East Side; Online: swissotel.com/hotels/chicago/

Omni Chicago Hotel

Why we love them: Backpacks full of fun activities & American Girl Doll package

Kids get an Omni Junior Chefs tote with a lunch bag, Annie's Organic Bunny Graham Friends Mix, Honest Kids organic juice box, to-go cup, crayons, activity book and a Say Goodnight to Hunger postcard. If kids color and return the postcard, a meal will be donated to Feeding America.

The American Girl Place Package includes a set of doll pajamas, robe and slippers, an American Girl doll bed so AG has her own place to rest, American Girl bedtime books, cookies and milk turndown service and much more.

676 N. Michigan Ave., Mag Mile; Online: omnihotels.com

Loews Chicago and Chicago O'Hare Hotels

Why we love them: Kids amenities galore, electronics to borrow & child-proofing kits

Loews loves kids, but they obviously love parents too. Their signature Loews Loves Families program is designed to make overnights fun with a complimentary activity book, board games and books, baby bath amenities, and childproofing kits. The Streeterville location has PS3 systems, iPads, and pool toys available for loan. For pets, they offer gourmet in-room food service, specialized bedding, leashes, collars, and bowls. You can also request kid and pet-watching services for a night out.

455 N. Park Dr., Streeterville; Online: loewshotels.com & 5300 N. River Rd., Rosemont; Online: loewshotels.com

Hilton Chicago O’Hare

Why we love them: Location next to the airport, which means you can start your vacation early

Make getting to the airport for those early flights a whole lot easier—and majorly affordable. On top of being directly connected to Chicago O’Hare’s domestic terminals thru underground walkways, so you don’t have to deal with iffy Chicago weather, you also get spacious studio suites with a large sitting area, king bed and sofa bed, 42-inch HDTV, mini-bar, WiFi and on-demand movies, video games and access to the indoor pool. Worried about trying to catch some z’s so close to the runway? Sound-resistant windows and blackout drapes will help with all that, so you can arrive bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at your final destination.

O'Hare International Airport, 10000 W. O'Hare Ave., Chicago; Online: hilton.com

Graduate Hotel Madison

Why we love them: Super cool vintage summer camp vibe

This is stretching the staycation notion a bit, but we promise the short drive to Madison, WI will be worth it when you see what Graduate Hotels has to offer. They teamed up with Camp Wandawega and Land of Nod to create their own Camp Wandawega inspired suite.

Never heard of Camp Wandawega? What began as a speakeasy in the 1920s in now . . . well, basically an adult summer camp. All the charm of this retreat that features a fleet of vintage bikes, fishing boats, archery, a swimming beach and so much more is all rolled up into the Camp Wandawega suite in Madison.

The suite features a large main room with entertainment and sleeping areas with a king bed and a workstation, as well as an adjoining semi-private kid's room with bunk beds and a library stocked with summer camp-themed movies. Original camp artifacts such as an antique troopmaster hat, custom Sanborn canoe paddles, and Faribault Woolen Mills blankets are found throughout the space.

601 Langdon St., Madison, WI; Online: graduatemadison.com

Additional reporting by Maria Chambers & Jo Aaron

40+ Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him (That Aren’t Another Tie)

by Kate CartiaFebruary 5, 2023

Every year we wonder what to get the men in our lives. Not this year. These are the best Valentine’s Day gifts for him!

Although women are traditionally the largest gift recipient demographic on Valentine’s Day, that doesn’t mean leaving the guys out entirely. The husbands, partners, boyfriends, coparents, men in our lives certainly deserve to be recognized! They fill our days with love and laughter and lots more, so we definitely want to find them something special. But it is just us, or does it kinda feel like shopping for the guys is harder than shopping for the ladies? It’s completely possible it’s because the focus is on women on the Day of Love, so it feels like there are fewer options readily available. That doesn’t mean we’re totally lost, though. We’ve done some leg work and have rounded up the best Valentine’s day gifts for him!

This is not a drill. These goodies are as diverse as all the men out there, so you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect present in our list. We’re almost sure of it. Whether he’s a super snacker, a handsome homebody, a fabulous fixer, or a creative chef, he’s going to adore our ideas (and, of course, adore you knowing him well enough to pick the perfect one!). Gifts aren’t necessary to show your love. We know that. But it’s so much fun to see his eyes light up! And they will, because these are the best Valentine’s Day gifts for him.

Lacoste Home 100% Cotton Pique Bathrobe

The Lacoste Home robe is ideal for lounging, after a shower, or morning coffee!

Lacoste Home 100% Cotton Pique Bathrobe ($47.99)—Buy Now

PROfit Handheld Percussion Massager

He doesn't have to be an athlete to appreciate this highly-rated percussion massager! It's got a 4.7 out of 5 on the Macy's website.

PROfit Handheld Percussion Massager ($40.49)—Buy Now

Clinique Happy For Men

Fresh, bright, and clean, the Men's version of Clinique's iconic Happy fragrance is sure to win V-Day points!

Clinique Happy For Men ($48.00)—Buy Now

DIY Whiskey Infusion Gift Set

All he has to do is start with his base spirit of choice and use this kit to customize it to his tastes!

DIY Whiskey Infusion Gift Set ($65.00)—Buy Now

The Loe

A classic jade succulent and a rustic ceramic elephant is perfect for a desk, kitchen, or shelf! And he doesn't have to have a green thumb to take care of this one; succulents are super easy to keep healthy.

The Loe ($55.00)—Buy Now

Strawberries for Him

The classic chocolate covered strawberries get a fun touch with blue white chocolate ribbon! Available in 3 sizes. We're pretty sure he'll share. Pretty sure.

Strawberries for Him ($32.99+)—Buy Now

Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers

When Kizik says their shoes are "slip-on", they mean it (don't believe us? Click below and check out the video.). No stuffed tongues caught in the laces, no mashed up heels thanks to the reinforced back, and ultra-comfortable all-day wear. They also come in a bunch of colors!

Kizik Athens Slip-On Sneakers ($129.00)—Buy Now

de Buyer Mineral B Pro Carbon Steel Fry Pan Set

Carbon Steel pans are the #1 choice for searing, grilling, and frying. Why? They're excellent for achieving the "Maillard reaction" where caramelization of natural sugars on the surface of foods seals in the flavor and moisture. Drooling yet? Carbon Steel is heavy-duty, and without any artificial coating it becomes naturally nonstick as it becomes seasoned. Your home chef will love these at first sight!

de Buyer Mineral B Pro Carbon Steel Fry Pan Set ($169.00)—Buy Now

OLLY Pre-Game Energize Gummy Rings

Give him the boost he needs to get through his workout with these amazing-tasting gummies from OLLY. With an almost 5-star rating, they're sure to be a daily go-to!

OLLY Pre-Game Energize Gummy Rings ($19.99)—Buy Now

The Children's Place Family Coordinating Tropical Vacay Collection

Between Valentine's Day, Spring Break, and Easter, the photo ops are endless! The Children's Place is at it again with their family coordinating collection, but this year, they're featuring football legends Eli Manning, Shaun O’Hara, Justin Tuck, Emmanuel Sanders, Brian Westbrook, and their families! We're partial to the Tropical Vacay print for V-Day gifts, but make sure you check out the whole collection.

The Children's Place Family Coordinating Tropical Vacay Collection ($16.07+)—Buy Now

Compartés Award Winning Original Dark Truffles - 20 Piece Gift Box

The LA-based chocolatier creates incredibly delicious chocolate that's whimsical and artistic at the same time. They're seriously gorgeous.

Compartés Award Winning Original Dark Truffles ($54.95)—Buy Now

Timeless Message Personalized Leather Watch Box

Personalize this ready-to-display watch box with your choice of quote, names, and closing sentiment for a beautiful and functional gift! Available in 5 or 10 watch slot options.

Timeless Message Personalized Leather Watch Box ($62.99)—Buy Now

Paint Your Life

Take those precious photos and make them into a masterpiece! With Paint Your Life's team of artists, you'll receive a stunning custom portrait in the style of your choice (charcoal, oil, watercolor, and more!), created just for you. These are truly a happy-tears-gift!

Paint Your Life (Starting at $150.00)—Buy Now

BrüMate Toddy 22oz

His new cup holder friendly, 100% leakproof, 22oz mug for his favorite drinks on the go. Fully insulated and portable to keep hot, cold, and carbonated drinks the perfect temperature. It's available in a bunch of colors and prints, but we think he'll dig this walnut finish!

BrüMate Toddy 22oz ($34.99)—Buy Now

KURU Pace

KURU makes the most stylish orthopedic shoes out there! Check out the Pace. It can be worn two ways: flip the heel down for a slip-on style!

KURU Pace ($125.00)—Buy Now

Google Pixel Buds Pro

Pixel Buds Pro use Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal to adapt to your ear and help block outside sounds, making your calls, podcast, or music shine through. With up to 31 hours of battery life and a 4.5 star rating on Amazon, you can't go wrong!

Google Pixel Buds Pro ($189.50+)—Buy Now

SmartBidet SB-1000

If we hadn't already given the SmartBidet as a gift, ourselves, we wouldn't be so sure he'll love this. It's remote-controlled, heated, offers warm air drying, and more! Truly, bidets are definitely having a moment.

SmartBidet SB-1000 ($238.27)—Buy Now

Oak & Eden Toasted Oak Bourbon & Spire Whiskey

Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in-bottle with a 5-inch long spiral cut piece of toasted American Oak. This Texas spirit has notes of vanilla, coconut, and honey for a smooth finish any Bourbon lover will appreciate.

Oak & Eden Toasted Oak Bourbon & Spire Whiskey ($39.99)—Buy Now

G-SHOCK Men's Analog Digital Black Resin Strap Watch

Function and fashion? The G-SHOCK is rugged and stylish featuring shock resistance, magnetic resistance, auto LED, flash alert, world time, four daily alarms & one snooze, stopwatch, speed indicator, countdown timer, mute function and 12/24-hour formats. Quartz movement. Water resistant to 200 meters.

G-SHOCK Men's Analog Digital Black Resin Strap Watch ($150.00)—Buy Now

Oka-b Maxwell Sandal

Give him a foot massage every time he slides into these sandals! They're designed to support his arch and prevent chafing or rubbing, and they're wide-width friendly. He'll have these on all spring and summer!

Oka-b Maxwell Sandal ($38.00)—Buy Now

SNOW Limited Edition Teeth Whitening Wireless Kit

Nine minutes a day is all it takes for a whiter smile with the SNOW System! It can whiten teeth up to one shade in just one session and is designed with sensitive teeth (and gums) in mind. It also helps remove stains from things like coffee and wine, so your beautiful smile will be even brighter!

SNOW Limited Edition Teeth Whitening Wireless Kit ($199.00)—Buy Now

Cabeau Evolution S3 Airplane Travel Neck Pillow

Whether he's a jet-setter, a subway commuter, or getting geared up for a couples retreat, this is a must! As featured on CNN, this is the best travel pillow of 2022.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Airplane Travel Neck Pillow ($39.99)—Buy Now

Brightland Persimmon Vinegar

One of our favorite AAPI-owned brands, Brightland, has a range of delicious offerings, but right now we're swooning over their newest persimmon vinegar, FOLKLORE. Made in partnership with the White Buffalo Land Trust, a non-profit based in Summerland, CA, FOLKLORE is made with certified organic Fuyu and Hachiya persimmons regeneratively grown on family farms on California’s central coast. This brand-new persimmon vinegar is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it ideal for anything from a winter-inspired salad to a seasonal mocktail or tonic.

Brightland Persimmon Vinegar ($25.00)—Buy Now

Boden Safari Jacket

Spring is right around the corner, and this sharp safari jacket will become a fast favorite that lasts years!

Boden Safari Jacket ($180.00)—Buy Now

Google Nest Thermostat

Meet the Nest Thermostat, the helpful thermostat with a cozy price. It can turn itself down to save energy when you leave the house. You can control it from anywhere with the Google Home app - whether you're on an errand or in bed. And it's easy to install yourself. What dad wouldn't love this?

Google Nest Thermostat ($129.99)—Buy Now

Seed Ranch Hot Sauce Variety Pack

If your dude is into the hot stuff, this set from Seed Ranch is right up his alley! As seen on Hot Ones, this bundle offers a medium to hot experience in four unique and delicious blends he's sure to love.

Seed Ranch Hot Sauce Variety Pack ($39.99)—Buy Now

Everyday California Floating Waterproof Snapback Surf Hat

Know a guy who loves the water? The Everyday California Waterproof Snapback holds up in rainstorms, rushing rapids, or splashing in the waves, floats so that it always ends up back on your head, and looks great even when he's not facing the elements!

Everyday California Floating Waterproof Snapback Surf Hat ($36.00)—Buy Now

CLEARSTEM Men's Starter Kit

These are the 3 items that keep things simple but effective, especially for your guy's facial hair and thicker skin. They help resurface, repair, and hydrate the skin to decrease signs of aging and refresh the complexion!

CLEARSTEM Men's Starter Kit ($165.00)—Buy Now

Motorola Bluetooth Speaker with Wireless Charging Pad

A slim speaker with built-in wireless charger and Bluetooth microphone for hands-free calls. It's perfect for music, podcasts, and calls, and can be used all around the house!

Motorola Bluetooth Speaker with Wireless Charging Pad ($69.99)—Buy Now

Guess in 10 Marvel Card Game

Marvel lovers of all ages will have a blast playing this trivia and strategy game that's great for the whole family!

Guess in 10 Marvel Card Game ($18.99)—Buy Now

Swoveralls

Sweats + Overalls = Ultra Comfort! As Swoveralls says, they're "at the intersection of 'I take comfort V seriously' and 'but I also love a good dad joke once in a while.'" Sweats meet overalls in a ton of colors, made with organic cotton and recycled polyester, Swoveralls are made for relaxing. Available in sizes XXS through 4XL.

Swoveralls ($98.00)—Buy Now

UGG Men's Neumel Classic Boots

These boots come in 4 neutral hues that are sure to match his vibes, and they're extremely comfortable in classic UGG form!

UGG Men's Neumel Classic Boots ($140.00)—Buy Now

Men's Stainless Link Bracelet

We think the texture and unique color combo would make this a super cool jewelry gift.

Men's Stainless Link Bracelet ($68.05)—Buy Now

Rayban Sunglasses

We can't think of anyone who doesn't look great in aviators, and no one leads the sunglasses game quite like RayBan. These are sure to be year round faves.

Rayban Sunglasses ($100.00-$210.00)—Buy Now

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2

App controlled, auto sleep, and safe to hand wash, this smart mug was named Best New Product 2022 by the Specialty Coffee Association!

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 ($149.95)—Buy Now

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player

For the music lover, this vintage record player has Bluetooth output and comes in a bunch of different colors. Its also such an awesome decorative statement piece!

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player ($45.99)—Buy Now

Beard King Beard Bib Apron for Men

As seen on Shark Tank, this beard trimming cape attaches with suction cups to the mirror to catch all those trimmings and keep your bathroom clean! This is sorta a gift for both of you, if we're being honest. Over 23K Amazon reviewers give it almost a full 5 stars!

Beard King Beard Bib Apron for Men ($18.17)—Buy Now

Enno Vatti Top 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster

Enno Vatti created this bucket list interactive poster for movie buffs and cinema lovers to track which globally acclaimed films they've seen by scratching off the title and displaying the colorful icon! Display it in a gameroom, office, theater room, and more, and make sure to check out all the Top 100 posters from Enno Vatti!

Enno Vatti Top 100 Movies Scratch Off Poster ($29.99)—Buy Now

Homesick Candles

Homesick Candles offers a scent-filled reminder of his home state and is available in all 50! They're also hand-poured and smell amazing.

Homesick Candles ($38.00)—Buy Now

PMD Clean Smart Facial Cleansing Device

Help remind him to keep his skin a priority with the PMD! It cleans and massages, so it feels incredible on top of improving his overall complexion!

PMD Clean Smart Facial Cleansing Device ($99.00)—Buy Now

Nightstand Organizer & Docking Station

Everything he needs will be right at his fingertips with this nightstand organizer and docking station! Available in multiple finishes.

Nightstand Organizer & Docking Station ($43.99)—Buy Now

Material Kitchen Knives + Stand

Material Kitchen designs stunning kitchenware that's as functional as it is beautiful. Featured as one of Oprah's Favorite Things 2021, this set includes The Trio of Knives and The Stand. Select the knife handle color and stand finish for a unique and convenient gift for the guy who spends his time in the kitchen! Both are also available to purchase separately.

Material Kitchen Knives + Stand ($225.00)—Buy Now

Big Blanket Co Hideout Hoodie

This massively oversized hoodie includes cozy extras like sherpa lining, a built-in eye mask, zippered kangaroo pouch and cuffed sleeve with thumb holes for oh-la-la lounging!

Big Blanket Co Hideout Hoodie ($119.00)—Buy Now

Big Blanket Co Sateen Sheets

Yeah, new sheets are nice, but ones from Big Blanket Co are epic. Never fight with your fitted sheet again (extra thick elastic and super deep pockets keep it in place), and don't worry about yanking your side of the top sheet away from your partner thanks to the extra 20" width!

Big Blanket Co Sateen Sheets ($179.00+)—Buy Now

LensDirect Varick Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Save his eyes in style with these acetate blue light blocking glasses! They're really flattering and come in three colors.

LensDirect Varick Blue Light Blocking Glasses ($29.00)—Buy Now

Geekey

It's a bottle opener, screwdriver, ruler, wrench, bit driver, file, bike spoke key, and more, all in a sleek minimal design!

Geekey ($19.99)—Buy Now

WACACO Portable Espresso Maker

This little beauty doesn't even require battery power or electricity! It's a portable espresso maker that only needs boiling water to create perfect coffee.

WACACO Portable Espresso Maker ($54.90)—Buy Now

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

All Aboard These Incredible Train Car Vacation Rentals

by Kate LowethJanuary 6, 2023

You don’t have to ride the rails to enjoy a train experience when you book an overnight in a caboose

If you are looking for the ultimate vacation for the train enthusiast in your family, look no further. This list is full of vintage railroad car vacation rentals, a WWII troop kitchen train car, and loads of cabooses—all of them decked out for sleeping. There’s even a whole resort in Northern California full of train car rentals. All aboard for some major railfan fun!

Santa Fe Boxcar | Hutchinson, KS

This boxcar was built in 1941 and your family will love booking it for a few nights. You will have the entire boxcar to yourself with a pool and beach chairs in the backyard. There also is a firepit, a charcoal grill, and a patio table. Sit outside and enjoy the Kansas sunsets!

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $91/night
Online: airbnb.com

Vintage Caboose | Lockhaven, PA

Conveniently located near Interstate 80 between Williamsport (home of Little League World Series) and State College (home of Penn State University). Everything in the Caboose has been restored to its original condition. This unique space has all the comforts of home while being able to enjoy history.

Sleeps: 2
Cost: $108/night
Online: airbnb.com

Train Caboose & Cabin | Knox, ME

You get the best of both worlds with this rental that comes with a cabin and a caboose. You also get to experience farm life as this property has free-range chickens, an emu, 4 Muscovy ducks, and a Great Pyrenees. Send the kids to sleep in the two bunks in the caboose and you can enjoy the queen bed in the cabin!

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $200/night
Online: airbnb.com

Train Caboose in the Redwoods - Cupertino, CA

How totally cool is this? You can stay in your very own train caboose in the South Bay that comes with three beds and a kitchen. There are lots of nearby hiking and biking trails, as well as other exciting outdoor activities. Being so close to Silicon Valley, yet feeling so far from it all is a truly unique experience unlike anywhere else.

Sleeps: 4 guests
Cost: $190/night
Online: airbnb.com

Centennial Inn | Livingston, MT

A wonderful and spectacular fishing adventure awaits you on the Yellowstone River. This unique opportunity is all yours AND you get to head home for the night in your own personal Northern Pacific Railway Parlor Car. You will experience all that Montana has to offer on this breathtaking 13 acres of private property and 1000 feet of Yellowstone shoreline.

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $182/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Depot - Joseph, OR

Wake up to this gorgeous view in your green caboose. The caboose is located behind an original Train Depot built in 1906 which used to be located in Enterprise, Oregon. It was moved in 1980 to its present location, one mile north of the town of Joseph, to serve as a residence. The caboose is completely self-contained with a small fridge, electric stove top burners, table and stools, a shower with rainfall shower head, linens and towels, cooking utensils, and an RV-style toilet room. There is one main bedroom with a full-size bed with a memory foam mattress. There are two twin bunk beds that are separated from the main bedroom with drapery.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $215/night
Online: airbnb.com

Little Red Caboose - Lincoln, NH

This ultra-cute caboose has the coveted sleeping spot in the cupola. You'll find that the caboose is located near lots of outdoor recreation spots like swimming holes and waterfalls, as well as a number of restaurants.

Sleeps: 4 guests
Cost: $200/night
Online: airbnb.com

1926 C&O Train Caboose + Tiny House - Waynesville, NC

Just 10 miles from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this 1926 wooden train caboose has been transformed into one of the most unique vacation destinations in the area. This bright red storybook caboose was part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. The caboose cottage itself is located on a private 20-acre residential farm. It sits atop authentic 1920s railroad tracks and joins with the incredible bath house also known as the Depot.

Sleeps: 4 guests
Cost: $289/night
Online: airbnb.com

Platform 1346 - Maryville, TN

Platform 1346 is a WWII troop kitchen train car turned into a luxe overnight Airbnb space at the base of the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is beautifully decorated and has free WiFi and streaming TV. This posh destination is only 29 minutes from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a very short ride to Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport. Two beds are perfect for families, and you'll be amazed when you see the train car's gourmet kitchen!

Sleeps: 4 guests
Cost: $197/night
Online: airbnb.com

Cap's Caboose - Ashland, AL

This 1940s-era caboose has been beautifully transformed into a tiny home. Cap's Caboose is a one-of-a-kind overnight rental in a quiet, friendly community. It is a 30-minute drive to the beautiful Cheaha Mountains and the town of Ashland is only 6 miles away.

Sleeps: 4 guests
Cost: $109/night
Online: airbnb.com

Seaboard Coast Line Caboose on a Bison Ranch - Clyde, NC

Looking for a unique getaway to the mountains? Kids and adults both will love to sleep in this completely-renovated 1960s train caboose. To add to the fun, this caboose is located in the Smoky Mountains of NC on a 65-acre buffalo ranch. Help feed the buffalo, hike to the BC Corral, play in the Pigeon River, and more.

Sleeps: 5 guests
Cost: $189/night
Online: airbnb.com

Historic Railcar on Skaneateles Lake - Homer, NY

This historic railcar was built in the '30s by The Budd Company and is located on Skaneateles Lake. Enjoy morning coffee and evening barbecues overlooking this most beautiful of lakes. Ideal for train enthusiasts, boaters, swimmers, fishermen, and those wanting to simply kick off their shoes and relax in this most unique property on Skaneateles Lake.

Sleeps: 7
Cost: $337/night
Online: airbnb.com

Railroad Park Resort - Dunsmuir, CA

Northern California is home to Railroad Park Resort where you can bed down in vintage railroad cabooses that sleep up to five people. You’ll have a fridge, full bathroom, WiFi, and microwave as well as an on-site pool, restaurant (serving breakfast and dinner in a rail car!), and a creek for exploring. The nearby area is full of railroad history, waterfalls, fishing spots, and lakes for boating.

Sleeps: up to 5 guests
Cost: $120/night and up
Online: rrpark.com

Izaak Walton Inn - Essex, MT

Ride in on Amtrak's Empire Builder and stay in a caboose off the tracks in Glacier National Park. Enjoy modern amenities in surprisingly well-appointed cabooses with decks that overlook the spectacular scenery and the train tracks. Kids will especially love sleeping in beds in the train's cupola with a view of the gorgeous property beyond. Spend the day hiking in the summer and cross country skiing in the winter.

Sleeps: up to 4 guests
Cost: $169/night and up
Online: izaakwaltoninn.com

The Canyon Motel - Williams, AZ

The Canyon Motel & RV Park is located on 13 acres in the City of Williams, AZ on the famous Route 66. Surrounded by the mountains of Northern Arizona, the Kaibab National Forest adjoins the property, and Grand Canyon National Park is 52 miles to the north. Choose to sleep in one of the cabooses that accommodate up to six people, or pick a spot in the 1950s Pullman classic that has three separate railway car suites, fully modernized with all of the conveniences of any motel room.

Sleeps: up to 6 guests
Online: thecanyonmotel.com

Northern Rail Traincar Inn - Two Harbors, MN

Made up of authentic train boxcars renovated into guest accommodations, the Northern Rail Traincar Inn is nestled in the wilderness near Two Harbors, Minnesota. Guests enjoy quick, convenient access to all of the North Shore's amazing activities including the Superior Hiking Trail, Split Rock Lighthouse, and much more. Northern Rail features 16 rooms in authentic train boxcars, and each room has its own theme. The depot-style main building serves as the breakfast area as well as a place for guests to play games or sit by the fireplace with a good book.

Sleeps: up to 4 guests
Cost: $159/night
Online: northernrail.net

Seaboard Coast Line at Buffalo Creek - Clyde, NC

Choose between two fully-renovated cabooses when you come to stay at Buffalo Creek Vacation Rentals in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. The cabooses each sleep up to five people and have full kitchens, A/C, charcoal grills, decks, and everything you'll need for a railfan vacation. Best of all, lucky guests just might catch a glimpse of bison walking by in the field from the caboose windows! Kids will love the property's playground and model railroad.

Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
Cost: $185/night
Online: buffalocreekvacationsnc.com

Twin Mountain KOA Caboose - Twin Mountain, NH

This KOA campground in New Hampshire's scenic White Mountains is the perfect spot for railfans looking to do a little "glamping." The property's caboose can sleep up to six people and includes a charcoal grill and picnic table for outdoor dining. Take advantage of the KOA's many amenities, including a heated swimming pool, game room, store, and dog area. Kids will love the activities like mining for gems, riding the barrel train, and the jumping pad in the playground.

Sleeps: 6 guests
Cost: $101/night
Online: koa.com

Whistle Stop Bed & Breakfast - New York Mills, MN

These turn-of-the-century train cars are ready to be your home away from home in Minnesota. Choose from a room in one of the three railway cars or bunk down in the 1893 caboose. All rooms have private baths and a queen bed with rollaway and inflatable mattresses available for kids. Breakfast can be taken in the house or served in your railcar if you wish.

Cost: $135/night and up
Online: whistlestopbedandbreakfast.com

Red Caboose Motel - Ronks, PA

Sleep in one of 38 cabooses at this spot that goes all out for train fans. Many of the cabooses have bunk beds for kids, and some have two bedrooms to allow even more privacy. The on-site Casey Jones' Restaurant offers breakfast all day in addition to lunch and dinner with all sorts of train paraphernalia available for purchase in the gift shop. Climb to the top of the 50-foot silo for a spectacular unobstructed view of the surrounding farmland, the Strasburg Rail Road and, of course, the Red Caboose Motel. Kids will also love spending some quarters at the Whistle Stop arcade.

Sleeps: up to 6 guests
Cost: $200/night and up
Online: redcaboosemotel.com

Wildlife Prairie Park - Hanna City, IL

Wildlife Prairie Park is the Central Illinois spot where you can spot elk, bison, eagles, otters and more wild animals. You can also spend the night in the park near the elk and bison range. Here the park has a number of vintage cabooses available for guests, each sleeping up to five people. Each unit has a bathroom, microwave, small fridge, and A/C to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Sleeps: up to 5 guests
Cost: $169/night and up
Online: wildlifeprairiepark.org

Mason House Inn Caboose - Keosauqua, IA

This unique cottage is in a real railroad caboose and includes a bedroom with a queen-size bed, satellite TV, wireless internet access, a kitchenette, a dining area, a bathroom with shower, heating, and A/C. For the adventurous types, you may climb up to the cupola to look around at the beautiful scenery, or sit up there and read or play a card game on the little fold-down table. The dining table folds down into a twin-size bed for a child. A full country breakfast is served in the 40-foot dining room when you wake in the morning.

Sleeps: up to 4 guests
Cost: $110/night and up
Online: masonhouseinn.com

Caboose Inn - South Haven, MI

Step back in time with a stay at the historical Caboose Inn, featuring refurbished cabooses from the 1920s and the original Pomeroy Building, located right next to the draw bridge on the Black River. These unique accommodations feature an in-ground heated pool, private parking, decks, covered porches, and more. They are located at the original train depot in downtown South Haven, just steps from all the beaches, shopping and dining South Haven has to offer.

Sleeps: up to 2 guests
Cost: $189/night
Online: oldharborinn.com

The Antlers Inn - Kingsland, TX

The train cars at The Antlers Inn were once actual working railroad cars. Choose from one of three identical cabooses or a wooden rail car. Refurbished within the original framework of the car to provide family fun accommodations, each caboose houses the original cupola with seating, so little ones can oversee the train just like a real conductor. All have climate control, beds, baths, living area with TV, efficiency kitchens, and an outdoor gas grill with a picnic table.

Sleeps: up to 6 guests
Cost: $130/night and up
Online: theantlers.com

The Caboose Motel - Titusville, PA

The Caboose Motel is on the tracks next to the Perry Street Station in Titusville, PA. Each of the 21 caboose cars has its own heat and air conditioning unit, television, telephone, and bathroom with shower. Cabooses have one king-size bed with cupola-style windows or two full-size beds with bay windows. Deck chairs are provided so you can relax during your evenings in the Oil Region. Located one block from downtown Titusville and five minutes from Drake Well Museum and Park, be sure to enjoy the Historic Titusville Walking Tour while in town.

Sleeps: up to 4 guests
Cost: $91.95/night
Online: octrr.org

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

35 Black History Books for Kids of All Ages

by Amber GuetebierJanuary 6, 2023

Your little kids will love the two from Brad Meltzer’s I Am series

Did you know that African American inventors are responsible for the modern-day supermarket and for cell phone microphones? Or that a nine-year-old was arrested at a Civil Rights protest in 1963? Here are 35 Black History books for kids that celebrate the rich history of Black people in the United States. Enlighten, encourage, and inspire your kids with these titles.

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans

Heart and Soul is an important Black history book for kids

If you want to talk about Black History with your kids, this book will take you back to the beginning. Told from the point of view of a 100-year-old African-American woman, Heart and Soul takes kids on a journey through the history of slavery to Jim Crow laws to the quest for equality and freedom in our schools and beyond. It shows them the reality and the inspiring truth about the men, women, and children of all colors who rallied to change education laws and end segregation and who fight still for truth, justice, and the American way. Kadir Nelson is an award-winning author and illustrator whose honors include the Coretta Scott King Author and Illustrator Award.

Recommended age: 6–10

Buy it here, $7

Free at Last

Do your young ones know the story of Juneteenth? Originating in Texas, this holiday marks the day slaves were finally free: June 19. Told in a simple poetic style and coupled with beautiful illustrations, this is the perfect Black history book for little kids.

Recommended age: 4-8

Buy it here, $18

The Undefeated

A poem about the reality of slavery and all of its trauma, the power of the civil rights movement, and the determination of some of our country's greatest heroes, this historical book is a must for your bookshelf. Kids will get a deeper insight into an integral period of our nation's history and learn the words of change-makers like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Gwendolyn Brooks.

Recommended age: 6-9

Buy it here, $9

Sweet Justice: Georgia Gilmore and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

Sweet Justice is a good Black history book for kids

It was Dec. 5, 1955, and Georgia Gilmore no longer had to boycott Montgomery, Alabama busses alone. After Rosa Parks was kicked off a local bus, things had to change. With her cooking skills by her side, Georgia uses her love of justice (and her friendship with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) to make sweeping changes for integration. This book by Mara Rockliff is accompanied by stunning illustrations by Caldecott Honor Winner R. Gregory Christie.

Recommended age: 4-8

Buy it her e, $16

I Am Harriet Tubman

In Brad Meltzer's Ordinary People Change the World series, we learn the story of Harriet Tubman and her bravery as she fought to abolish slavery. She helped hundreds of African Americans escape slavery and find freedom through the Underground Railroad and is and this is one book that will inspire your kids to become heroes themselves.

Recommended age: 5-8

Buy it here, $11

Segregated Skies: David Harris’s Trailblazing Journey to Rise Above Racial Barriers

Segregated Skies is a good Black history book for kids

After serving for years in the United States Air Force as a B-52 bomber pilot, David Harris began applying to be a commercial airline pilot. He was turned down until, in 1964, American Airlines hired him, making him the first African American commercial pilot in history. The story itself discusses a lesser-known hero in the fight for justice, and perhaps most importantly, the book itself is exquisitely written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author and renowned journalist Michaelell H. Cottman, who spent more than two years researching, interviewing, and getting to know David E. Harris.

Recommended age: 9-12

Buy it here, $27.

Speak Up, Speak Out!: The Extraordinary Life of Fighting Shirley Chisholm

Coretta Scott King Honor Winner Tonya Bolden introduces kids to the first Black woman to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives: Shirley Chisholm. Expertly researched, this story follows Shirley on her journey of speaking up and out.

Recommended age: 10-14

Buy it here, $13

Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy

Before there was Misty Copeland, there was Aesha Ash, Debra Austin, Raven Wilkinson, and so many more. Copeland's book, filled with stunning illustrations by Salena Barnes, shares how each Black ballerina who came before her influenced the dance community, and how Misty herself has changed the world for Black dancers.

Recommended age: 8+

Buy it here, $15

Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth

Alice Fay Duncan shares the straightforward and inspiring history of Opal Lee and her journey of advocating for this important day to become an official holiday. She was 94 years old when Juneteenth was finally acknowledged as a holiday and has no plans to stop fighting until everyone is free. Illustrations by Keturah A. Bobo.

Recommended age: 6-8

Buy it here, $11

The New Black West: Photographs from America's Only Touring Black Rodeo

While this is not a children’s book per se, this stunning collection of photographs is both about Black history and Black history in the making. It belongs on every bookshelf (or coffee table) in America. The collections of full-color photographs by Gabriela Hasbun showcase the modern Black cowboys of the annual Black rodeo in Oakland, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. Simultaneously it brings to life the legacy of Black cowboys, including Bill Pickett, in America.

All ages

Buy it here, $34

My Little Golden Book About Kamala Harris

The beloved My Little Golden Book series celebrates the history-maker Kamala Harris, the first woman, the first Black woman, and the first Indian American woman elected as Vice President. The simple format is ideal for young children.

Recommended age: 2-5

Buy it here, $4

Bold Words from Black Women

This collection from Tamara Pizzoli celebrates Black womanhood with Monica Ahanonu's 50 different gorgeous illustrations of 50 different Black activists, leaders, and artists, all accompanied by powerful quotes.

Recommended age: 4-9

Buy it here, $13

The 1619 Projects - Born on the Water

This picture book is a kid-appropriate version of the New York Times' groundbreaking 1619 project. Created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Nikole Hannah-Jones, bestselling author Renée Watson, and Artivist Nikkolas Smith, it chronicles the consequences of slavery in America.

Recommended age: 7-10

Buy it here, $15

A Voice Named Aretha

In this gorgeous picture book by award-winning Author Katheryn Russell-Brown and illustrator Laura Freeman, kids are introduced to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The story follows the life of Franklin as she overcomes shyness as a child to become a legend, and of course, as she earned a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T along the way.

Recommended age: 4-8

Buy it here, $11

A Ride to Remember

The summer of 1963 was an important time in America. Not only did Martin Luther King Jr.'s March on Washington take place, but the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Maryland became desegregated and open to everyone. As the first African-American child to ride the carousel at the park that day, co-author Sharon Langley shares her story about how a community came together for positive change.

Recommended age: 6-9

Buy it here, $11

Black Is a Rainbow Color

When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. Vibrant, stained-glass-like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is. It's an exceptionally designed, written, and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities.

Recommended age: Suggested age, is 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points at the back of the book.

Buy it here, $13

A Song for Gwendolyn Brooks

Celebrate the life and voice of poet Gwendolyn Brooks with this thoughtful story that combines Brooks' legacy with her life story. Known for being one of the foremost poets on the Black experience and the role of women in society, Gwendolyn Brooks went from a young child writing all the time to become the first Black author to win the Pulitzer Prize and authoring 20 books of poetry, two autobiographies, and one novel. Celebrated author and children's librarian Alice Faye Duncan makes Brooks come to life on the page for the young reader.

Recommended age: 5 and up

Buy it here, $16

The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA

Written by Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author Brenda Woods, The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA, tells the story of a unique friendship between a young white boy and a black WWII veteran. Mr. Meriwether Hunter returns to Jim Crow South in 1946; when he saves little Gabriel’s life during a bike accident, Gabriel’s father offers Meriwether a job as a mechanic at their family garage. Gabriel and Meriwether form a friendship that endures despite the extreme prejudices in the world around them. A beautiful read.

Recommend age: 10 and up

Buy it here, $17

The Quickest Kid in Clarksville

Little Alta is the quickest kid in Clarksville, Tennessee, and tomorrow is the big parade where three-time Olympic gold medalist Wilma Rudolph will be riding on a float. Just like Alta, Wilma was once the quickest kid in Clarksville, and just like Alta, Wilma once had holes in her shoes. What will happen when a new girl comes to town, a new girl with shiny brand new shoes, and challenges Alta to a race? This clever story teaches kids about Wilma Rudolph and the power of dreams and grit, in a manner that they'll get (and remember).

Recommended age: 5-8

Buy it here, $7

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History

This little book packs a big punch! Featuring forty trailblazing women in African-American history, each entry is accompanied by a beautiful illustration. From pilot Bessie Coleman to crooner Nina Simone to poets, inventors, athletes, and more, this book will inspire children of any gender to be bold, and beautiful, and make history.

Recommended ages: 3 and up, but we think you should read it to your baby.

Buy it here, $9

Starstruck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil deGrasse Tyson was starstruck when he first visited his local planetarium in New York City as a young boy. His quest for knowledge knew no bounds, and this is the story of how young Neil went from stargazer to one of the most respected astrophysicists in the world. Beautifully illustrated and excellent for young readers.

Recommended age: 4-8

Buy it here, $13

We Are the Change: Words of Inspiration from Civil Rights Leaders

Black history books for kids like We Are the Change are important

Sixteen award-winning children's book artists illustrate the civil rights quotations that inspire them in this amazing book. With an introduction by Harry Belafonte, words from Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the book includes illustrations by Selina Alko, Alina Chau, Lisa Congdon, Emily Hughes, Molly Idle, Juana Medina, Innosanto Nagara and many, many more.

Recommended age: 8-12

Buy it here, $13

Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten

Singer-songwriter Laura Veirs brings the story of the folk singer Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten to life in this beautiful book illustrated by Tatyana Fazlalizadeh. Libba, best known for the song g Freight Train, taught herself to play guitar as a child: upside down and backward no less (Libba was left-handed and did not have a left-handed guitar). She wrote the song Freight Train when she was just 13 but wasn’t really “discovered” until she was in her 60s. Learn about the woman behind the song and teach your children that creativity and productivity are important no matter your age.

Recommended age: 5-8

Buy it here, $18

You Should Meet: Katherine Johnson

Who was Katherine Johnson? This book will tell you: she is said to be one of the greatest minds of all time! She worked in the 1950s for the NASA space program and was such a brilliant mathematician that she figured out the math needed to send a rocket to the moon in her head. She didn't even use a computer or a calculator. This book will teach kids about her early life as a child growing up in a small town in Virginia that didn't have a high school for African Americans (schools were segregated then), how her family moved to a town with a high school she could attend, and her incredible career as a scientist and mathematics marvel.

Recommended age: 6-8

Buy it here, $5

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library

Afro-Puerto Rican immigrant and hero Arturo Schomburg was a law clerk with a passion: he collected books, letters, art, and music from Africa and the African diaspora. When the collection got too big for his shelves, he turned to the New York Public Library where, in 1905, he curated a collection known then as the "Negro Division." Not only does this book take you through the life and times of Schomburg, but it also details critical and often overlooked African Americans and African American history throughout events in the forming of the United States of America, including revolutionaries, the woman who wrote poems in praise of George Washington, the writings of Frederick Douglass and the whitewashing of African history.

Recommended age: 9-12

Buy it here, $11

Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans

Marvelous Cornelius is a Black history book for kids

This heartwarming book tells the story of a New Orleans sanitation worker who would often dance down the streets along his route, inspiring other native New Orleanians to follow along. Find out how this humble man made a lasting impact in the aftermath of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.

Recommended age: 5-8

Buy it here, $17

42 Is Not Just a Number: The Odyssey of Jackie Robinson, American Hero

Jackie Robinson was an all-star from a young age: in baseball, basketball, and football, he excelled. Jackie joined the Negro Leagues, setting records and impressing the manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers. In 1946, Jackie became the first African American EVER to play in MLB. He faced cruelty, protests, and violence. But he persisted: he displayed courage, determination, restraint, and an incredible ability to win the game. This detailed chapter book will help parents and kids to remember never to give up.

Recommended ages: 8-12

Buy it here, $15

Of Thee I Sing: A Letter to My Daughters

Written by President Barack Obama as a letter to his own daughters, this is the story of 13 key players in American history. From Jackie Robinson to Georgia O’Keefe to George Washington, Obama illustrates how his own children—and all kids—have these heroic traits in themselves. Uplifting and encouraging, your kids will gain an understanding of the history of the United States and know that “yes!” they can. Illustrated by Loren Long.

Recommended age: 5 and up

Buy it here, $11

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin's Big Words is an important Black history book for kids

Both a picture book and a biography, this intro to the life, times, and actions of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a bestseller for a reason. Illustrated with stunning, lush pictures by Bryan Collier, author Doreen Rappaport has hit the sweet spot by telling the true history, making a book kids won’t want to put down.

Recommended age: 5–8 years

Buy it here, $9

Maya Angelou (Little People, Big Dreams)

Like the “I Am” series, the Little People, Big Dreams series explores amazing men and women of history, from artists to scientists to activists, teaching kids that one person can make a difference. This book covers the inspiring Maya Angelou’s journey, from a traumatic childhood to one of the world’s best-loved authors. If you thought you knew who Maya Angelou is, you are in for a treat: this book will leave you even more in awe than you already were. Written by Lisbeth Kaiser and illustrated by Leire Salaberria.

Recommended age: 5–8 years

Buy it here, $9

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist

Cynthia Levinson brings this true tale of the youngest known child to be arrested at a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama. Kids will cheer for Audrey, equality, and the rights of all children. Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton.

Recommended age: 5–10

Buy it here, $12

What Color Is My World?: The Lost History of African-American Inventors

Co-authored by NBA great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, learn about 16 inventors who not only broke the color barrier but created some of the most widely used and extraordinary things in the world. From refrigerated trucks to the ice cream scoop to open-heart surgery, join Kareem and his team as you explore the history you use every day. Co-authored by Raymond Obstfeld and illustrated by Ben Boos and A.G. Ford.

Recommended age: 8–12

Buy it here, $7

I Am Rosa Parks

You are never too young to learn about real-life heroes and Brad Meltzer’s “I Am” series proves it. I Am Rosa Parks shows kids how Rosa Parks dared to stand up for herself by staying seated and refusing to give up her seat. Not only will they learn about her courage and her role in helping to end bus segregation and fight for Civil Rights, but they will also be empowered with the idea that one person, one small act, can change the world. Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos. Also in the collection are I Am Jackie Robinson and I Am Martin Luther King Jr.

Recommended age: 5–8

Buy it here, $11

Loving vs. Virginia: A Documentary Novel of the Landmark Civil Rights Case

Loving vs. Virginia is an important Black history book for kids

This Black history book for older readers tells the story of a landmark civil rights case. Richard and Mildred Loving met in 1955 in Caroline County, Virginia, during a time when segregation, prejudice, injustice, and cruelty were the norm. They fell in love and their love was at the heart of the Supreme Court case that legalized marriages between races.

Recommended age: 12 and up

Buy it here, $16

African Town

This historical fiction novel for young adults chronicles the story of the last African slaves brought illegally over the Atlantic to America in 1860. Their journey includes being hidden in swamplands near the Alabama River, being divided among plantations, and finally, creating a community called African Town, which still exists today. Told from the point of view of 14 different characters, this novel is a gripping tale of Black history.

Recommended age: 12 and up.

Buy it here, $13

—with additional reporting by Karly Wood

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

All book covers courtesy of the publishers unless otherwise specified

Here’s how you plan a Friday night for the kids

1. Hold a family meeting.

2. Make pizza.

3. Watch the sun go down.

4. Build a fort.

5. Have a reading night.

6. Set up an ice cream sundae bar.

7. Camp out at home.

8. Create a comic strip.

9. Start a family band.

10. Take a stroll.

11. Have a family game night.

12. Set up a scavenger hunt.

13. Have a family Top Chef competition.

14. Have an artistic happy hour.

15. Get literary.

16. Have a family movie night.

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