Looking for kid-friendly eats in Boston? You’ve come to the right place
Nothing sounds better to a tired parent than taking the kids out for lunch or dinner. And Boston certainly has some amazing family restaurants you’ll want to try. From great burger joints and pizza places to savory seafood and classic Italian dishes, Boston’s foodie scene is a montage of family restaurants serving up good eats from Boston Harbor to Jamaica Plain (and beyond). The next time you need a break from kitchen duty (hint: local meal services are another way to win here), head to one of these eateries that truly cater to families. You won’t be disappointed.
Is your family full of seafood fanatics who like to dine with a great view? The Boston Sail Loft will become your next favorite spot for sure. Their clam chowder has been named Best of Boston in recent years and is served in an overflowing mug, topped with oyster crackers. Order with a lobster roll and you’ll have one of the best meals in New England. Don’t worry, they have a great kids’ menu too. With classics like mac-and-cheese and chicken tenders, they’ll have a great time watching the boats they’ll eat every bite. The staff is also known to be super friendly and there is ample space in the restaurant if you have a stroller.
Another Boston favorite for seafood loving families is Joe’s Waterfront. Overlooking Boston Harbor, your dinner comes with a great view. In the summer months, the restaurant offers outdoor dining for some fresh sea air. Opt for the Captain’s Platter for a little bit of everything, or just go for your favorite seafood dish. The kid’s menu will also keep any picky eater from pushing their plate away. It’s also right across from Christopher Columbus Park so you can let the kids run wild either before or after their meal.
All day brunch with a nostalgic diner atmosphere? Yes, please! The Friendly Toast may look a little small from the outside, but it's pretty spacious once you’re inside and quite colorful too. They serve all your classic brunch favorites like chicken and waffles and breakfast sandwiches, but they also have some “monster” plates of giant pancakes or french toast. The “tiny menu” for kids has some fun choices in smaller portions like tiny avocado toast or Mini French Toast Monster and gluten free pancakes too. Plus, the price point is just right. This spot in Boston is definitely a winner.
We can’t think of a better family night out than enjoying some great pizza and watching the kids engage in friendly sports. Luckily, American Flatbread combines the fun of bowling and delicious pizza that is made from organic and local ingredients. With a variety of topping choices, and the option of gluten-free crusts, the kids won’t even notice the wait time while playing a few rounds of candlepin bowling.
Insider Tip: This also makes a great spot for birthday parties.
Teaching the kids to eat healthy is no easy task, but definitely not impossible. Life Alive is a growing chain based out of the North Shore of Boston and has become a popular vegetarian/vegan spot that aims to promote health and wellness. Pastel colors and vibrant dishes like the açaí bowls and fresh fruit juices create a pleasant atmosphere that will have the little ones smiling and asking for seconds. If you choose the Cambridge location, head over to the Harvard Arts Museum afterwards for an afternoon of educational fun.
Multiple locations around Boston and the North Shore Online:lifealive.com
Got gamers in the family? Then the trip to the Bit Bar Salem will be worth the drive. This arcade restaurant is every gamer’s paradise—both young and old. Serving up comfort food classics like burgers, buffalo chicken mac-and-cheese, and chicken fingers, your kids won’t know what to do first—eat or play? They’ll want to stay for hours playing games like Dance Dance Revolution and Donkey Kong. Just make sure to bring the family home before 8 p.m. when the restaurant becomes strictly 21+. Good thing, that’s bedtime anyway.
Craving some southern BBQ for the family? You should check out Sweet Cheeks Q near Fenway in Boston. A great, kid-friendly restaurant that offers all your favorite southern dishes like brisket and pulled pork. Most of the dishes are generously sized so you will be sure to have some leftovers for later. Make sure to order extra biscuits—it's kind of their thing. Another perk of this restaurant? They have an egg-laying chicken game with prizes to keep the kids occupied while the food is being prepared.
What kid doesn’t love pancakes and waffles for lunch? Theo’s Cozy Corner in Boston has all your breakfast favorites to make an easy meal for those days when you just need something to keep you all full and cozy. Their lunch menu is pretty extensive too, combining Italian and Brazilian dishes, so the kids will actually want to try something new each time. Keep in mind, this restaurant closes every day at 3 p.m. and accepts cash only, but the meals are pretty inexpensive and quite tasty too.
This classic American tavern feels like a fine dining experience but with all the features of a family-friendly restaurant. Stockyard offers high quality steak and seafood dinners, but does not leave out favorites like burgers and pasta. Though this restaurant is a little more on the pricey side, the kid’s menu has selections in the $8-10 range. A bigger plus, the menus have fun facts to keep your kids entertained and all kids’ dinners come with an ice cream for dessert.
Finding an authentic Mexican restaurant in New England is tough. El Pelon Taqueria is the exception and a great kid-friendly restaurant in Boston. Hailed for their affordable prices and genuine Mexican dishes like enchiladas and tortas, this taqueria is a treat for any Boston family. The colorful Mexican décor on the walls are also fun for the kids to look at.
Parents everywhere probably give themselves a pat on the back when they come across kid-friendly restaurants with healthy options their kids will actually eat. The Red Lentil Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant has so many nutritious choices you’ll definitely need to try, like the Oyster Mushroom “Calamari” or vegan waffles or french toast. They also serve vegan smoothies and organic kombucha. Tust us, your kids will be begging to come back.
The Blue Nile Restaurant serves some of the best Ethiopian cuisine around the city. The fact that it has a selection of vegan and vegetarian plates your kids will like is a total bonus. Plus, this kid-friendly restaurant gives you a great opportunity to introduce your little ones to classic Ethiopian dishes like Tibs and Azifa, if you haven't already. It'll leave them wanting more.
Boston’s winter months are some of the best around. You can take the kids tubing or sledding, go for a spin at Frog Pond under the twinkling lights, or take a break from the cold at some of the city’s best attractions and museums. But let’s not forget one of the simple enjoyments of living in the city on a cold day—getting to sip on hot cocoa. There’s no doubt that the mere mention of a hot cup of cocoa is enough to brighten up the kids’ eyes after a long day in the snow. With so many choices, you might be wondering who pours the best hot chocolate in Boston? It’s time to find out.Prepare your taste buds and get started with our favorite spots.
If you or anyone in the family is a fan of Nutella, then you’ll have to put The Paris Creperie at the top of your list. Pair this delicious cup of cocoa with a savory Nutella crepe and you have one heavenly breakfast in Boston. They offer a variety of crepes and other yummy drinks, like a Nutella latte to get you going in the morning. Just be ready to get there early or wait around a bit as this is a pretty popular spot.
Though this place is known for its incredible coffee and espresso selections, 1369 Coffeehouse is home to some amazing gems such as their homemade Dutch hot cocoa. They also serve Mexican hot cocoa which is flavored with coriander and cinnamon. If you’re in need of a caffeinated boost, bring the kids to this spot in Boston for a much-needed cup of cocoa, while you check out some of their seasonal choices, like the gingerbread latte.
Does your family have a sweet tooth? This will definitely be one of your favorite places in Boston for hot cocoa no matter the weather. With hand-crafted specialty chocolates among other desserts, you’ll be amazed to try out their hot cocoa which is made with your choice of milk, dark, or white chocolate. For vegan options, you can swap the milk for soy or almond milk.
On the search for your next go to breakfast place while also searching for the best hot cocoa in Boston? Look no further than Curio Coffee in Cambridge. There is no better combination than a nice hot cup of cocoa served with a fluffy, delicious waffle. We are sure your kids will agree.
Best known for their custom gourmet cakes, Oakleaf Cakes offers one of Boston’s best cups of hot cocoa as well. Aside from their yummy, traditional hot cocoa blend, they also make a spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate, for when you are feeling a little adventurous. But their cakes are not the only thing that is handmade. They have handmade, jumbo marshmallows to go along with your cocoa. If this doesn’t have your kids jumping for joy, we don’t know what will.
While Cacao specializes in selling the best nuts and chocolates, they also sell Hot Cocoa mix to take home and make in your own kitchen. With options like classic, dark, and spicy hot chocolate, you’ll be able to make a day of it with your kids and maybe a movie or two at home. Make sure to pick up some of their chocolate covered nuts or fruit for an extra treat.
Who says you can’t have hot cocoa with dinner? Take the family to this popular spot on Newbury Street in Boston and dine on some tasty burgers or a bowl of New England Clam Chowder while also partaking in Stephanie’s hot chocolate experience. It allows you to select from a variety of flavors like classic milk hot chocolate, pumpkin spice, and peppermint chocolate too. Top them off with a mountain of whipped cream and your kids can vote on their favorite. You’ll be returning for another cup for sure.
Wondering what’s open on Christmas Day in San Francisco? Turns out, there are over 15 fun things to do on this special day in SF
‘Tis the season for quality family time! If you’ve plowed through the presents and the kids need to burn off some of that hot-chocolate-supplied energy, or perhaps your family doesn’t celebrate Christmas and you’re wondering what’s open on Christmas Day? We’ve got a slew of ideas for you—17 to be exact—from where to go on Christmas Day to things that are open on Christmas Day. So whether it’s bowling, catching a movie, or simply strolling through a beautifully lit-up neighborhood, make merry with our guide to what’s open on Christmas Day in San Francisco and beyond.
Visit one of the world's largest collections of coin-operated antique arcade artifacts. It's open 365 days a year and admission is free. Bonus: you can snag some clam chowder in a bread bowl next door at Boudin and then visit the sea lions at PIER 39.
Pier 45 at the end of Taylor St. Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco Online:museemecanique.com
2. Get Chinese Food
Follow the lead of the A Christmas Story family and head to Chinatown and grab a delicious bite to eat at one of many amazing restaurants offering up dim sum and hand-pulled noodles. It's the perfect way to make sure the kiddos' bellies are full before moving on to the next activity. While you are there, spend some time at the Willie "Woo Woo" Wong playground which has some amazing art and a dragon-themed climbing structure.
Get outside for a family skating session at Union Square’s ice rink, which is open on Christmas Day. All skaters must book online in advance, as tickets are not sold in person. Tickets are $15-$20 per person for general admission and include skate rental.
Burn off some of that holiday energy at the Presidio Bowl. The location can’t be beat (heart of the beautiful Presidio of San Francisco) and the menu will please your little ones: hot dogs, hamburgers, and PB&J, and parents will appreciate the wine and beer selection. Open Christmas Eve from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Christmas Day, noon-8 p.m.
Volunteer with a local nonprofit organization such as Glide to serve meals to the needy on Christmas (and many other days, too, if you’re so inclined). Volunteer slots on Dec. 25 typically fill up fast, but if so, there are plenty of other times that you can help.
Spend all day from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. wandering through the 55 acres of stunning botanical wonder that is the SF Botanical Gardens. Usually free to SF residents only, on Christmas Day it is open and free to all, which means you can bring all your out-of-town guests for a romp at no added costs.
7. Explore a Mini Rainforest at the California Academy of Sciences
While you’re at Golden Gate Park, head over to the California Academy of Sciences, which is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Christmas Day. This unique museum has a rainforest, planetarium, and aquarium, to fill you with wonder about the natural world.
55 Music Concourse Dr. San Francisco Online:calacademy.org
8. Dine at the Garden Court Restaurant
Don’t stress about cooking this year. Go out to brunch at the Palace Hotel for a festive three-course prix-fixe served under a 110-year-old glass dome.
2 New Montgomery St. San Francisco Online:marriott.com
The SF Zoo is open all day on Christmas Day, and the animals even get presents! Head out with the kids for a beautiful day outside, climb on the playground, explore the sculpture garden, traipse through the tropical building, ride the carousel, and show off those new holiday scarves! Open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Christmas Day (last admission at 4 p.m.). Regular admission applies.
Sloat Blvd. at The Great Highway San Francisco Online:sfzoo.org
10. Take a Hornblower Cruise with Your Crew
Hornblower’s Christmas Day Supper Cruise is a 2.5-hour excursion with a holiday buffet dinner, including coffee, tea, and soda; live entertainment; beer and wine for purchase and seriously breathtaking views of the Bay. Board at 3:30 p.m. for the 4-6.30 p.m. sail, timed perfectly for the Christmas Day sunset. ($135/person).
Make your Christmas Day fun last well into the evening hours. West Wind Drive-In, with locations in Concord and San Jose, is open on Christmas night. Bundle up the family and catch a flick in the comfort of your own car.
Concord 1611 Solano Way Concord
San Jose 3630 Hillcap Ave. San Jose Online: westwinddi.com
12. Take a Drive Down Christmas Tree Lane
The 3200 block of Thompson in Alameda has been celebrating Christmas by putting on an epic lights display every year since the 1930s. Go and check out the neighborhood of 55 houses known throughout the Bay Area as Christmas Tree Lane, and try not to feel too bad about your own efforts. The lights go up on December 3 and stay on until New Year’s Day, as per tradition.
The Claremont in Berkeley has a new eco-friendly Glice Rink, an outdoor rink set amongst dozens of Christmas trees, festive decor, and hundreds of twinkling lights. The synthetic surface requires no water or electricity to run, making it kinder to the environment than regular rinks.
Step away from the oven and let the chef prepare you a lavish five-course feast, complete with a dessert buffet at the Four Seasons restaurant Quattro in Palo Alto.
This beloved annual holiday extravaganza in Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park is open on Christmas Day, so your whole brood can don their Christmas sweaters and explore the lights, sounds, and fun at Christmas in the Park. The best part just might be the trees and tiny houses decorated by local school groups, community members, and businesses. And the second best part? It’s free! This year, Christmas in the Park is bringing back last year’s popular drive-thru plus the traditional walk.
Prepared to be dazzled by the music, mystery and amazing circus acts of Cirque du Boheme’s brand-new show, “Behind the Mirror”! With shows on Christmas Day, your family can be treated to an enthralling show for a Christmas Day to remember!
Fantastic feasts! These San Francisco restaurants offer take-out and dine-in Thanksgiving dinner for a stress-free Thanksgiving Day
Treat yourself and your family to a Thanksgiving without the stress or fuss this year by pre-ordering your turkey dinner to devour at home or skip the dishes all together and dine at one of our favorite Bay Area’s restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving Day. With either plan, you can relax, put your feet up, and actually have a chance to watch the Macy’s 96th annual parade (there’s a rumor that Bluey plans to make an appearance this year). These are our favorite to-go, delivery, and restaurants offering Thanksgiving dinners in the Bay Area. And once you’ve decided where and what to eat, don’t forget to make a plan to buy your Christmas tree, check out all the holiday light displays happening around San Francisco as well as see how many nearby holiday bucket list events you can check off this year.
In addition to takeout options for Thanksgiving (available for pick-up on Nov. 23 and costs $79/person—more information below), One Market will also be offering a four-course sit-down Thanksgiving dinner. The menu features traditional dishes, like a roasted Diestel turkey, but for non-turkey lovers—they also offer pork, salmon, and vegetarian options.
Chef Michael Mina and his culinary team introduce a very special dinner buffet from International Smoke. Available options include chilled shellfish, a carving station complete with cedar smoked salmon, turkey with cranberry sauce, and Wagyu prime rib, savory sides and sweet desserts—including Ayesha’s bread pudding.
A French Vietnamese restaurant, Le Colonial's menu includes (among many other tasty options!) a clay pot caramel organic turkey with sides of roasted beets, caramelized white pumpkin, and fresh turmeric mashed potatoes. Groups of four or more will be served family-style.
Enjoy Thanksgiving this year with fantastic views of the bay! Options include a cup of clam chowder, house salad, roasted turkey breast, gravy, house made stuffing, mashed potatoes, veggies, cranberry chutney and pumpkin pie a la mode.
Enjoy a three-course traditional Thanksgiving dinner served all day alongside all of The Stinking Rose's regular menu selections. This Thanksgiving, try the Bagna Calda—garlic cloves oven roasted in extra virgin olive oil & butter with a hint of anchovies.
Feast your eyes on this three-course farm to table menu featuring organic turkey and all the sides. Your family will have a choice of inside or outside dining in a heated and covered parklet.
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year? Dine with live music this Thanksgiving while you enjoy Zingari Ristorante's three-course menu. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan selections are available. Pro Tip: book the piano room. It costs an additional $45, but your kiddos will love the live music.
This Thanksgiving, why not enjoy a meal near the Pacific Ocean? Park Chalet offers a 3-course prix fixe meal for adults and a two-course version for children. Start with oysters or fried calamari before moving on to butternut squash soup or radicchio endive salad. And then comes the main event. Choose between roasted turkey with all the fixings, pan seared seabass with stuffing, potatoes, root vegetables and cranberry sauce, or farro risotto.
Want a rock and roll Thanksgiving this year? The legendary Hard Rock Café can give you and your family something to dance about. The menu includes low-roasted turkey breast, roasted fresh vegetables, home-style classic stuffing, creamy sweet potato mash, cranberry sauce, and traditional turkey gravy. A Kids' Thanksgiving Menu is also available, as is pumpkin pie. After dinner, take in the views and explore Pier 39.
Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in the South Bay & Peninsula
Porta Blu Restaurant at Hotel NIA
This fun buffet-style thanksgiving lunch features signature staples like a roasted turkey carvery, traditional sides and decadent desserts, but it also offers cheese and charcuterie plates, a "bruschetta bar" and live jazz from The Charged Particles jazz band.
Cost: $110/person; $85/kid (12-18); $65/kids (6-11); kids under 6 eat for free
Inspired by the season’s best produce, the talented chefs at Quattro Restaurant & Bar offer a meal to be thankful for, in addition to takeout options detailed below, they're offering in-person dining. On the menu is a roasted leg of lamb carving station, cold appetizer buffet, hand crafted charcuterie, buttermilk brined turkey, ash-crusted beef tenderloin, smoked salmon and more! If you have room, enjoy a decadent dessert buffet by Pastry Chef Guillermo Soto.
There is a turkey option, but why not opt for a bone-in ribeye or a petite filet mignon this year! With a full holiday menu, complete with lobster bisque, mashed potatoes, green beans with apricots and onions, and cinnamon orange cranberry sauce—your family is sure to be satisfied. The children's menu is similar to the adults with additions like a cheese and cracker appetizer and a mac and cheese main course.
Get ready for a traditional holiday feast for the entire family. The Macaroni Grill offers three-courses, including turkey, all the usual trimmings, and desserts like pumpkin cannoli, traditional cannoli, and pumpkin tiramisu.
The sister restaurant to Beach Chalet, this East Bay eatery features a delicious three-course turkey dinner and other temptations such as pan seared sea bass and farro risotto.
Cost: Menu is a la carte or 3-course prix-fix $85/person; $37.50/kid
Celebrate a vegan Thanksgiving Day feast with seitan country fried steak with lots of 100% plant-based sides! Souley vegan's Authentic Louisiana Creole Flavor is sure to be a hit for vegans and non-vegans alike! To-go options are also available!
For the first time since their opening, alley & vine will be offering dine-in Thanksgiving. The three-course menu is vegetarian-friendly with substitutions offered across the board, but the classic turkey entree will remain. If you're not into turkey, guests can alternatively order the Wild Alaskan Halibut. Seating will be available both indoors and outdoors.
While the Carneros Resort is offering Turkey To-Go meals, they’re also offering a thoughtfully designed (by Chef John Carney!) multi-course family-style Thanksgiving dinner featuring all the classics with produce straight from their culinary gardens.
Start with a bowl of clam chowder and a Ceasar salad before moving onto the main event—turkey breast with gravy, stuffing, cranberry relish, potatoes, veggies, and pumpkin pie.
This 4-course prix-fixe dinner includes butternut squash soup, Fuyu persimmon salad, and a traditional roasted turkey with mashed potatoes, stuffing, Brussel sprouts, candied yams, and orange cranberry relish. Or—if turkey isn’t to your liking, try the salmon with roasted root vegetables, the butternut squash and kale ravioli, or the grilled pork chop. All meals come with a choice of pumpkin or apple pie. Bonus: There’s a special kids menu, too, a 2-Course Prix Fix for $15.
Thanksgiving dinner with all of your favorite foods! Start your meal off with family style appetizers (spiced pecans and marinated olives). Enjoy butternut and sweet potato soup and a little gem wedge salad before moving on to your entrée. You’ll have a choice between roast turkey with traditional sides, or grilled salmon with melted leeks, Brussel sprouts, squash and wild mushrooms. Sweet dessert options include pumpkin pie, chocolate, cheesecake, and sorbet.
Cost: $78/person; $30/kid (12 and under)
120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. San Anselmo Online:insalatas.com
Where to Pre-Order Prepared Thanksgiving Dinner in San Francisco
Below are some of our favorite spots that are offering mouth-watering Thanksgiving-themed dinners for pre-order and pick-up across San Francisco. But if you can't commit to just one delicious spot and would rather get your favorite items a la carte like your favorite pie from that amazing bakery across town or your turkey from across the Bay? Enter Locale—the food delivery service that offers family-style meals, baked goods and more from local favorites like Bouchon Bakery and Frog Hollow Farms, along with a slew of other noteworthy restaurants, cafes and grocers. It’s like shopping from the best of the best, with one low delivery price of $5.
Good to Know: Products aren't restricted to your geographical area—you can get your favorites from across the nation too. Thanksgiving pre-orders are now open.
With a wide variety of raw birds, Luke’s Local offers a smoked (whole or half) turkey from Willie Bird Farms. And you can choose from a wide selection of sides. Some options are more traditional, like stuffing, candied yams and mashed potatoes, but other seasonal options include arugula salad with persimmon, candied walnuts and goat cheese or stuffed squash with quinoa and pepitas. Pies are also available. And whether you’re hosting or not, why not throw in a seasonal bouquet or holiday wreath?
Cost: Whole House-Smoked Willie Bird Turkey is $148
Scopo Divino offers a Thanksgiving dinner to go that will make your mouth water. Complete with herb-rubbed & roasted split turkey, Madeira gravy & cranberry sauce, deviled eggs, stuffing, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, autumn salad, and pumpkin pie with homemade chantilly cream. This meal serves 2-4 people and can be picked up on Nov. 23. And don’t forget to add some champagne and wine—award-winning Scopo Divino is one of the best wine bars in the city.
Cost: $130/person
2800 California St. Unit 101 San Francisco Online:scopodivino.com
Lily
This Thanksgiving, Lily is offering a three-course set menu. It features a choice of salad or soup, salt-baked Diestel turkey breast, confit turkey sweet potato hash, baby bok choy, shrimp and lap xuong fried rice, black truffle mushrooms jus, and scallion ginger relish. Personally, we can’t wait to try the “Change Your Life” Warm Pumpkin Pie. Pay ahead and pick up your meal at noon on Thanksgiving day.
Credo is offering Thanksgiving to-go for pick-up on Nov. 22 & 23. Your Thanksgiving Dinner Kit feeds a family of 6-8 people and includes the following: organic sous-vide turkey (14-16 lbs.), Yukon gold mashed potatoes, chestnut sage stuffing, balsamic roasted carrots, roasted forest mushrooms, classic Caesar salad, roasted turkey gravy, and cranberry orange sauce.
One Market is also offering a pick-up three-course Thanksgiving menu featuring a Pear & Arugula Salad, Roasted Willie Bird Turkey with cornbread-sausage stuffing (non-sausage version available), root vegetables and shallot-thyme gravy, along with a pumpkin tart with peach caramel. Pick up your meal on Nov. 23.
A-Five Meat Company, a distribution company that provides the finest cuts of wagyu to the world’s top chefs, is now available to the consumer at home. Order the new Wagyu Feast, which features 6 pieces of wagyu and wagyu ground beef and includes Kobe beef and the Sanuki Olive Fed A5 Grade for a turkey alternative with a group. The company also offers a Wagyu Sampler and Wagyu Essentials pack.
This boneless turkey breast dinner serves 2-5 people and comes with all the fixings: butter whipped potatoes, andouille cornbread dressing, green beans, biscuits, and cranberry compote. And to fill your kitchen with autumnal holiday aromas, add spiced wine or cider! Pick-up is on Nov. 23 for both locations.
Chef Matt Accarrino offers an Italian-inspired Thanksgiving feast in two packages—one for 3-4 people and the other for 6-8 people. Both packages include: roast turkey, black truffle gravy, root vegetable stuffing, insalata rossa, prosciutto, salumi & cheese with focaccia, baked crespelle, four side dishes and a choice of one pie.
Where to Pre-Order Prepared Thanksgiving Dinner in the East Bay
Pomella
Mica Talmor’s mains, sides and desserts, made with her distinctive Mediterranean and Eastern Europe influence, are returning for another Thanksgiving Day treat! Order a la carte from a special holiday menu that includes roasted turkey, mushroom “Bastilla,” Moroccan-style phyllo pie, Yukon gold and celeriac mashed potatoes, shaved Brussel sprouts with butternut squash and brandied cherries, house-made biscuits, sweet potato cheesecake with candied ginger, pecan-caramel bars, and more! And apple pie from Oakland-based baker Edith’s Pie will be available whole and by the slice. Order by Nov. 17 for pick-up on Nov. 22 or 23.
Pitmaster Matt Horn (best new chef, Food & Wine Magazine 2021) is at it again! This year, he offers smoked turkey ($150), whole smoked brisket ($250) or smoked beef rib slab (3 bones) ($120). Sides include mac & cheese, collard greens, and Granny’s potatoes. For dessert, try the banana pudding or the bread pudding. Pick-up is on Nov. 23.
This traditional Thanksgiving feast for a family of four to six is a steal at $80/person! The turkey with all the trimmings will be just as delicious as their famous pies and with a couple of locations around, there's one bound to be nearby.
229 Broadway Oakland Online: buttercupdiner.com
Montperi Caterers
Order Chef Lamont’s Thanksgiving specials for pick-up or delivery. This years menu includes a 15-18 lb. turkey ($200) or maple glazed ham ($70), and traditional sides in either small (6-8 servings, $40) or large (10-12 servings, $60). Think stuffing, mashed potatoes, mac n cheese, cranberry sauce, Brussel sprouts and citrus green beans. For dessert, you have an option of pumpkin pie ($25) or apple cobbler ($35). Run, don’t walk—Montperi Caterers have limited availability.
Good to Know: Delivery is available throughout the Bay Area
This Thanksgiving, from the comfort of your home, savor a fully prepared meal by the chefs at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley. Each family-style menu includes butter-basted young turkey, Beechers cheddar whipped mashed potatoes, smashed yams, roasted squash, baby carrots and parsnips. Also included is a celeriac and roasted apple soup. Your choice of dessert includes pumpkin pie or white chocolate cheesecake with caramelized apples. Place your orders on the Hotel Website from Oct. 18 to Nov. 17. Pick-up at the hotel’s Quattro Restaurant & Bar on Nov. 24.
Cost: Meals for four are $450, for 6 is $550, and 8 is $650
This year, Manresa Bread features seasonal favorites made with house-milled flour: Panettone, Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Cheesecake, Babka, Apple Pie, Butter Buns, Snack Tins, and more! Pre-order now for pick-up on Nov. 22 or Nov 23.
The entire menu is a la carte so feel free to create the Thanksgiving meal of your dreams. Think organic turkey (10-12 lb.: $125; 24-26 lb.: $265), traditional stuffing, Brussel sprouts with chestnuts, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, cranberry-orange relish and more! Place your orders by Nov. 20 for pick-up on Nov. 23.
Where to Order Prepared Thanksgiving Dinner in Marin County
via iStock
Carneros Resort & Spa
Carneros Resort is offering Turkey To-Go meals for those that want to enjoy the deliciousness of FARM's award-winning culinary team within the comfort of their own home. The package features a Willy Bird organic grain-fed turkey with traditional sides, all featuring the abundant flavors of Napa Valley. It's $385 for 4-6 people. To order, email market@carnerosresort.com.
Thanksgiving at Insalata’s looks a little different this year, but we're sure it will be just as delicious. With large a la carte options for sides and desserts, there is no turkey this year, but there IS a turkey kit (how fun!), which includes herb butter, sage leaves, onion, lemons, oranges, thyme, and Chef Taylor’s instructional video. Your house will smell as delicious as your meal will taste! Cocktails for six adults and wines by the bottle are also available.
120 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. San Anselmo Online:insalatas.com
More Spots to Order Prepared Thanksgiving Dinner throughout the Bay Area
Jessie & Laurent: Save your sanity and order up a gourmet meal from Jessie & Laurent this Thanksgiving. This San Rafael-based company has delivered delicious, chef-made meals to the Bay Area for nearly 40 years. Thanksgiving offerings from Jessie & Laurent include:
Traditional Whole Diestel Turkey Dinner for 4-6 people ($195) or 8-10 people ($395). Sides include classic stuffing with crimini and oyster mushrooms baked to a golden brown, creamy whipped potatoes, roasted Brussel sprouts w butternut squash, a winter chicory salad, some cranberry apple pear chutney, and last but not least—a large Amaretto pumpkin pie
A la carte options (like a whole cooked turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and homemade square ravioli) for those who want to do some cooking, but not all of it.
Local Artisan Cheese & Charcuterie Platter ($75)
Stuffed and Glazed Cornish Hens for two (with potatoes, roasted Brussel sprouts with butternut squash, gravy, cranberry apple pear chutney, a winter chicory salad, and a small Amaretto pumpkin pie! All for $110)
Whole Foods Market: Whether you want an entire Thanksgiving feast for 12, just sides, soups and sauces, or a vegan celebration, give Whole Foods a try. With options of a fully cooked or raw turkey and sides fully prepared or just the ingredients, they really do cater to everyone.
Omaha Steaks: Build the perfect Thanksgiving dinner at Omaha Steaks. With dinner packages for families or 4, 6 or 8, you can customize your holiday meal. Want a whole roasted turkey or a fully cooked prime rib roast? Why not try the turkey roulade or the the country ham? Available sides include everyone’s favorite green been casserole, creamed corn, garlic mashed potatoes, caramel apple tartlets, and more!
Williams Sonoma: Not only does Williams Sonoma offer beautiful cookware and dinnerware collections, they also offer a full Thanksgiving feast to be simply heated at home and served to your eager guests.
These San Diego restaurants offer take-out and dine-in Thanksgiving meals for a stress-free Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving is the best holiday to gather family and friends around the table—especially when you’re not stressed about burning the bird or fitting all the side dishes in the oven at once. This year, give yourself (and your kitchen) a break—and support local businesses—by either ordering your Thanksgiving dinner from one of our favorite local restaurants that’s a hit with the kids, or dine-in at a top San Diego restaurant that’s open on Thanksgiving Day. We’ve also found the best bakeries for that perfect, made-in-San Diego dessert.
The Best San Diego Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day
Treat yourself to a meal you'll remember for years to come. Rancho Valencia offers a buffet stocked with everything from a cold seafood station to a full kids' buffet. There's live music from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and desserts that'll have the whole family feeling grateful.
Cost: $195/adults, $55/kid (3-11); Kids under 3 dine free
In Little Italy, Chef Brian Malarkey adds a Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired flair to the traditional Thanksgiving spread. Guests can choose from a turkey roulade with lemon rosemary stuffing, lamb shank, or a brown butter blondie with pumpkin mousse.
Choose from any of the three Park Hyatt restaurants to book your Thanksgiving reservation this year. Ember & Rye and Ponto Lago both offer guests a sit-down dinner option, while The Park Hyatt hotel serves a Thanksgiving buffet from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: $155/adults; $65/kid (3-12) for brunch and $125/person for dinner at Ember & Rye; $105/person for dinner at Ponto Lago; $140/adults and $60/kids at The Park Hyatt
This year, George’s at the Cove is serving a three-course prix fixe menu in the Ocean View Room with roasted turkey, along with sausage and chestnut-stuffed leg and potato puree with turkey gravy. The turkey special will also be available along with the regular menu at the Ocean Terrace and Level2. Don't miss George’s bourbon pecan and brown butter apple crumb pie, which you can also pre-order. Kiddos will love sitting at a premium table, closest to the sea, which includes credit toward food and drinks.
The iconic San Diego restaurant at the end of Harbor Island is offering a smorgasbord of seasonal favorites. The carving station will have free-range turkey with rosemary gravy and roasted tri-tip. Other accompaniments include clam chowder, brown sugar sweet potatoes with marshmallows, and creamy green beans. The grand seafood bar will have Maine lobster claws along with oysters and scallops on the half-shell.
Cost: $72/adult; $24/kid (age 6-12), kids 5 and under eat for free
Del’s Hideout, Pioneer BBQ or Coaster Saloon (Cohn Restaurant Group)
Bring this Thanksgiving BBQ Feast to your table this year from either of these three Cohn restaurants or choose to gather the crew and dine in. Either option will satisfy your family and keep you frazzle-free.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by: 3 p.m. on Nov. 22; pick-up Nov. 25 between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Serves 6-8 servings for $190; add on a pie for an additional $20; Purchase the main a la carte: $115for turkey or $130 for brisket
Mix and match a cornucopia of delights by choosing all of your Thanksgiving dishes a la carte. Choose from roasted and carved natural turkey (fully cooked, heat and eat) and such delectable sides as Focaccia-leek & pistachio stuffing, caramelized Brussels sprouts, truffle parmesan mashed potatoes or a poached pear salad. It may take you a while to decide on the sweet ending with choices like Frangelico chocolate truffle lollipops to Meyer lemon bars or pies.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by noon, Nov. 21; Pick up or have it delivered on Nov. 23 Cost: Whole turkey is $155
Seaside Market in Cardiff, is known for its mouthwatering Burgandy Tri-Tip, infamously nicknamed "Cardiff Crack" by locals. And, this Thanksgiving, you can swap the turkey for their tri-tip Feast which comes with sides like roasted vegetables, candied sweet potato mash, broccoli gorgonzola salad, and more (served chilled in aluminum pans with reheating and serving instructions). Or, keep it traditional with their Complete Turkey Feast and side dishes. Seaside also offers a vegan meal with lasagna as the main dish. Whatever your crew is craving this holiday, you can order it at Seaside Market and sit back and relax because your meal is certain to be an utter crowd-pleaser.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hours in advance Cost: $250 for Complete Turkey or Cardiff Crack Tri-Tip Feast that feed six; $90 for Vegan Feast that feeds 2-3 people
Ranch 45 is just what you need to help with holiday hosting. They offer traditional fare with a modern twist that'll impress any foodie at the table. Try their olive oil mashed potatoes or gluten-free carrot cake to switch things up this year—orders are fully cooked, heat and eat.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 21; Pick-up from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Nov. 23 Cost: All items are ordered a la carte; approx. $185 for 3-4 servings
512 Via De La Valle Solana Beach Online: ranch45.com
Celebrate the season with Whole Foods Market's catering menu which has something for everyone. You’ll find the classics like organic turkey, and prime rib with all the sides, but also paleo-friendly paleo and vegan-friendly options that are fully cooked, ready to heat and eat. Holiday appetizer platters are also available.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: All Holiday Selections orders must be placed a minimum of 48 hours ahead of pickup date and time Cost: Thanksgiving Extravaganza for 12, $569; Classic Thanksgiving Feast for 12 is $400
Take the hassle out of Thanksgiving Dinner this year and order out from Ruth’s Chris Steak House. They have a family meal that's chilled, fulled cooked and ready to heat and eat that serves four and includes roasted turkey and all the trimmings, including four personal pumpkin cheesecakes.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hours in advance; pick-up on Nov. 23 from noon-6 p.m. Cost: 4 servings for $175
Bring home a fresh scratch-made feast just like grandma used to make. Choose from a Family Feast that serves 6-8 or a smaller Family Meal that serves four and you’ll get an herb-roasted cage-free turkey breast, mushroom stuffing, homemade gravy, sweet cranberry relish, artisan bread and a choice of two sides (everything comes chilled, fully cooked with heating instructions). Add on a scratch-made dessert made in-house by their pastry chef: mango tart, seasonal pumpkin & walnut layer cake or a Hummingbird Cake, among others. Order early, they sold out last year!
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Order by Nov. 20; Pick-up on Nov. 22 or Nov. 23 Cost: A la carte sides $18 each; desserts are $24-$59; A turkey plate that serves one is $24; Turkey Family Meal serves four for $100; Turkey Family Feast serves 6-8 is $169
Chart House is big on holidays, which means you can expect a mouthwatering Thanksgiving dinner without having to lift a finger, except to carry the bags into the house. The Chart House Thanksgiving To-Go offers a choice of slow-roasted prime rib or turkey, stuffing, cranberry dressing, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, and pecan or pumpkin pie.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 18; Pick-up times are based on store hours—delivery is also available Cost: $105 for turkey, or $130 for prime rib for a group of four
Having your Thanksgiving meal delivered doesn’t get any easier than this! Order your classic Thanksgiving meal from Elijah’s and they’ll bring it right to your front door—all dinners are freshly cooked with no reheating is required! Just put it on the table and eat. Choice of turkey, beef brisket, or ham served with two classic side dishes to choose from, and add on an apple, pecan, or pumpkin pie for only $15 extra.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: 48 hrs notice; Schedule a time with the restaurant for pick-up, delivery is available for an additional charge Cost: Servings are for 10 people, $179 for turkey dinner, $199 for beef brisket dinner, and $179 for spiral ham dinner
Southern California's go-to artisanal bakery for all things encased in crust, Pop Pie Co. will whip up your Thanksgiving pie the morning you need it. Choose from Salted Honey, Honey Bourbon Pecan, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel Apple Crumble or Apple Crumble (vegan).
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders by Nov. 17 or until they’re sold out; Pick-up Wed Nov. 23 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. or Nov. 25 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $35/pie
Top off your day of eating this year with a non-traditional Thanksgiving pie from Nutmeg Bakery. They’ve got all kinds of cream pies: Chocolate, Banana, Boston or Coconut; as well as Key Lime and Maple Pecan (gluten-free). But if you want to go the traditional route they’ve got you covered there with Apple Lattice, Apple Crumb and Pumpkin. Now if you want a Thanksgiving cake, well they’ve got plenty of options too with everything from Carrot Cake to chocolate chip cookie dough, vanilla (vegan) or lemon raspberry, orange cranberry, lemon blueberry, coconut rum hummingbird, Italian cream and oh so many more. Many of these options are gluten-free so be sure to ask.
Order Deadline and Pick-Up: Place orders with 72 hrs advance notice; Pick-up times are based on order Cost: $20-$35/pie
This quiet town on California’s Central Coast is the perfect family vacation escape
California’s Highway 1 is full of picturesque beach towns and Morro Bay is one of our favorites. It has a small-town vibe with welcoming locals, loads of wildlife, and not-too-crowded beaches for a day in the sun. Whether you are road tripping from the Bay Area or Los Angeles, Morro Bay is the ideal destination for families looking for coastal relaxation without all the cheesy souvenir stores you’ll find in many of the other California beach towns.
Located just north of San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay is most recognizable for the iconic Morro Rock, which was formed 23 million years ago from the plugs of now-extinct volcanoes. We’ve tried out quite a few activities while visiting Morro Bay and you can find our favorites both on land and on the water below.
Wildheart Coastal Adventures
Mandy at Wildheart Coastal Adventures is your key to learning about what makes the Morro Bay Estuary the unique spot that it is. She will craft the perfect kid- and dog-friendly adventure that can include hiking to the top of the Black Hill Trail to see the estuary from above as well as kayaking adventures for all levels of paddlers. During our paddle, she pointed out sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and tons of birds and other wildlife. We especially appreciated how conscientious she was regarding keeping our distance from wildlife so as not to disturb them in their natural habitats.
Sub Sea Tours Whale Watching and Harbor Cruises
For a less active way to explore Morro Bay from the water, we recommend reserving a spot on a three-hour whale watching tour or one-hour harbor tour with Sub Sea. The whale watch tour takes you out past the calm harbor waters to see if you can spot gray or humpback whales that come to feed on the abundant sea life offshore. A shorter, less bumpy option (for those who might get seasick) is the harbor tour. A glass-bottomed boat takes you to visit the sea lions that have taken over a wooden platform in the harbor and the sea otters that frolic near shore. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards from this location.
Black Hill Trail Hike
For some killer views of Morro Rock and an easy hike for the kids, head to the Black Hill Trail. To find the trailhead to this 0.62-mile round trip hike, turn off Main Street just past the Inn at Morro Bay and on to Park View Road. Keep left on to Upper State Park Road and follow that to the end where you can park. The trail meanders up to the peak where there are boulders to climb and great spots for a family picture.
Morro Bay Maritime Museum
Your little explorers will love visiting this museum that has a tugboat, a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle, and a commercial fishing vessel as part of its fleet. The museum is free to visit and open from Thursday-Monday but you can always walk through the outdoor exhibits and learn about things like pulleys from the information displayed. Indoor you can watch a video that shows what powerful waves do to Morro Bay Harbor and why its layout makes it particularly difficult for captains to navigate.
Morro RockBeach
Spend some time with your toes in the sand at Morro Rock Beach. You can walk there from downtown or drive out and park in the free lot. If you are lucky, you will get to see some surfers catching gnarly waves just offshore. This is also a great spot to fly your kite as the wind whips around the rock. Head to the harbor side to see what the sea otters are eating today. If you make your way to the back side of Morro Rock, you’ll be rewarded with climbing rocks and many stone cairns.
Shopping in Morro Bay
You can easily spend a whole day exploring downtown Morro Bay. From the life-sized chess board that resides in the center of town to the many souvenir shops along the harbor, there are lots of spots that the kids will enjoy.
The Garden Gallery is a favorite spot to pick up some succulents or garden art to take home with you.
Pick up a surrey at Farmer’s Kites and Surreys and head out along the bike path to check out Morro Rock up close.
Swing by The Shell Shop to grab some crustacean art to take home with you. Since 1955 this shop has been selling jewelry, corals, and shells of all types. We especially love their windchimes made out of seashells.
Looking to learn a little more about the sea life in Morro Bay? A great spot to stop is the Estuary Nature Center. This free spot will teach kids (and grown-ups) all about protecting our natural resources for generations to come. It is located on the second floor in the Marina Square Building.
If thrift shopping and treasure hunting is on your must-do list, Morro Bay has at least a dozen spots where you can find your new favorite outfit or that perfect gift.
With easy access to super fresh seafood, Morro Bay is a seafood-lovers paradise. We love the easy dining that’s offered at the many fish markets in town like Giovanni’s Fish Market (pictured above). Here you can get fish tacos and clam chowder, along with any type of fried fish you could dream up. The outdoor dining is particularly kid-friendly.
Tognazzini’s Dockside is another favorite as the portions are big and the service is friendly. You’ll have a lovely view of the harbor while you enjoy fresh-caught fish and some of the best desserts in town. Their Fish Market next-door is perfect for when you want something a little more casual.
Grab a table at Dutchman’s Seafood House at sunset and enjoy the colors changing with Morro Rock in the background. This family-owned restaurant also owns its own dock, ensuring the freshest fish for its patrons while supporting the sustainable fishing methods of local fishermen. Try the sand dabs and a cup of clam chowder.
Another option just above the life-sized chess board downtown is Dorn’s Original Breakers Cafe. Open since 1942, Dorn’s offers fresh, local seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pasta, and salads. It’s also a great spot for your weekend brunch.
Just outside of town you’ll find the unassuming Taco Temple where you’ll definitely want to make a stop. Huge portions are the name of the game so feel free to split meals. Go for whatever is listed as the catch of the day and enjoy it taco style with horchata on the side.
The Bayside Cafe has some of the best no-frills dining in the area. The California Chowder in a bread bowl is a crowd favorite. This side-by-side combo of clam chowder and green chile soup is the perfect balance of spice and the sea. Save room for their boysenberry crisp, generously topped with whipped cream, it’s not to be missed! Be sure to check out all the cool ceiling art on your way out.
Sweet Treats
There’s no shortage of spots to stop and grab some sweets in downtown Morro Bay. Embarcadero Fudge and Ice Cream has just that—fudge and ice cream—with samples of whatever you are thinking of purchasing. Carousel Taffy is a must-visit spot with taffy by the pound.
You may never get the kids to leave Kelli’s Candies with their massive selection of jelly beans, ice cream, taffy, and more. With arcade games in the back, you might as well get yourself an iced coffee and a piece of fudge as you’ll likely be there a while.
Kate Loweth
Where to Stay in Morro Bay with Kids
We love the location of 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites for your Morro Bay visit as you can easily walk to all of the great restaurants in town or hop over to one of the kayak rental spots to book your day on the water. Rooms are large and many have balconies so that you can enjoy your coffee while breathing in the fresh ocean air. The property also has a hot tub for relaxing in the evening hours.
Just outside of downtown near the golf course is the Inn at Morro Bay (pictured above). It’s a great option for families looking to stay a few days as the rooms are large and each has a private deck that looks out over the harbor or the pool area. The pool is kept at a nice, warm temp and there’s a hot tub if you want to relax with the jets on.
What a Weekend in Morro Bay Looks Like with Kids: *Spoiler Alert* It’s Awesome
Morro Bay is an easy three-hour drive along 101 from San Jose. There are tons of spots for detours to break up the journey a bit. Swing by the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery on your way out of town. It’s 45 minutes north of Morro Bay in Cambria. Kids will love how close they can get to these massive creatures. Volunteer docents are often available to answer questions.
Head up the hill to tour the majestic Hearst Castle on your next Morro Bay Visit. This massive property is accessible to visitors via buses from the visitors center (believe us, you wouldn’t want to attempt the steep, windy roads in your minivan). On your way up, you might spot some of the unique animals that make this property their home before you enter the walls of the property that was built for W. R. Hearst by architect Julia Morgan. Adults and older children will enjoy seeing the swimming pool that is lined in gold, as well as the massive dining room and other opulent spaces.
Morro Bay is the ideal family destination with the perfect balance of things to do and also ways to relax. Check out the Morro Bay Tourism website for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure. You can find out about seasonal events like the Maritime Family Fun Day.
Note: This trip was paid for by Morro Bay Tourism but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
When was the last time you and the kids played tourist in the Emerald City? If it’s been a while, now is a great time to reintroduce your family to the Seattle Waterfront. With the removal of the old viaduct and the promise of a new city park, the waterfront is looking better than ever. On a sunny day, you can’t beat it. And if we’re being honest, it’s just as fun (and maybe less crowded) on a rainy day. From the Great Wheel to Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, there’s a treasure trove of things to do for families of all ages. Just mix and match any of our favorite spots to plan the ultimate Seattle Waterfront outing.
What to Do on Land
For our guide, we found places that are within walking distance of each other along the Seattle Waterfront, but parents with toddlers know that’s not always a standard measure. Don’t sweat it; you don’t have to do it all in one trip. Pick one or two attractions that fit your family and you’ll have a great time without feeling pressured to “do it all.”
photo: Seattle Aquarium
Swim with the Fishes The Seattle Aquarium is home to all kinds of colorful tropical fish, shorebirds, jellyfish, otters and a giant Pacific Octopus that kids can’t seem to resist. Its newest residents include Casey, a harbor seal who is friends with two others, Barney and Hogan; and Chiidax, a male northern fur seal and is friends with Flaherty. (We are not making this up.) The most impressive exhibit here is the Underwater Dome, where you’re surrounded by all kinds of sea life. Other exhibits include the Family Activity Center and the ever-popular tide pool where kids are encouraged to reach in and touch sea urchins, anemones and other underwater wonders.
Take a Spin Over the City
Standing at 175 feet tall and reaching 40 feet over Elliott Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel is the largest Ferris wheel on the west coast. Each of the 42 climate-controlled gondolas can carry up to eight people, making for a perfect ride whether rain or shine. While on the ride, you will see views of Century Link Field, Mt. Rainier, T-Mobile Park, Pike Place Market and the Space Needle. At it’s just as spectacular at night when it is covered with over 500,000 LED lights making for a free walk by light show.
photo: Wings Over Washington
Take an Indoor Flight Patterned after Disney’s Epcot’s “Soar’n” attraction, the Wings Over Washington “flying theater” will transport your whole family to locations all over the state. Your journey begins in a “ranger station” where you’ll get a short briefing on what to expect. From there, you’ll exit into a “forest” and climb into your theater seat, and you’ll be on your way experiencing the sights, sounds and even smells of the PNW as you “fly” over the Olympic National Forest, Mt. Rainier, San Juan Islands, the Tieton River, Husky Stadium and even become part of the Walla Walla Valley Balloon Stampede.
Become Curious
Located on Pier 54, the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop is a hybrid museum and gift shop that has been entertaining families since 1899. It prides itself of being home to the “weird, freaky and curious.” Among the tourist t-shirts and coffee mugs, you’ll find displays of shrunken heads, mummies, natural oddities, “taxidermy treasures” and an assortment of human-made wonders. You’ll see jewelry made from real insects, hand-blown ornaments, Northwest Native American hand-carved totem poles and a lot more.
photo: Visit Seattle
Go to the Market While not technically one of the Seattle Waterfront attractions, it’s hard to resist a trip to the Pike Place Market when you’re so close. A family could almost spend a whole day just at the Market! Hint: it’s also a great place to park. The market is filled with 500 or so small businesses, so there is a lot of ground to cover. The best places to take the fam? Watch the fish fly by at the fish stands, check out the comics at Golden Age Collectables, take a (quick) stroll through the Old Fashioned Candy Store, say hi to Billie the brass pig and be fascinated with the iconic gum wall. If you’re good, the kids might even let you stop at the original Starbucks.
photo: Alabastro Photography
Where to Go on the Sea
The water is pretty to look at, but it’s even better to experience. Hop aboard one of these ships for incredible views and memory-making.
Argosy Cruises Argosy Cruises have been doing their thing for 70 years. Known as “Seattle’s Original Harbor Cruise,” Argosy offers one-hour long narrated cruises. “From the skyline to the shipping port, there’s views and history everyone will enjoy,” they say. Each cruise offers a live narration about Seattle’s present and mini history lessons about its past while taking in the panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. A full-service bar is on board with cocktails, wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
Salish Sea Tours Salish Sea Tours offers hour-long catamaran tours of Elliott Bay with an audio tour of Seattle and the surrounding areas. Two full-service bars are on board as well offering beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, salmon meals, sandwiches and snacks.
Seattle’s Tall Ship
For a change of pace, check out Seattle’s Tall Ship, a classic schooner departing from Pier 66 Bell Harbor Marina. The 85-foot traditional gaff-rigged schooner is a family-friendly ship. Yes, the twin-masted ship offers a similar tour with fantastic views, but this ride is wind-powered and is two hours long. It too offers and drink and snack bar and plenty of outdoor seating.
photo: Visit Seattle
Bainbridge Island Ferry
For a simpler (not to mention cheaper) tour option, take a Bainbridge Island Ferry ride. Just walk on the 400-foot-long boat for a 35-minute ride to Bainbridge Island. Who knows, you just might see an orca. The best part? You’ll only pay a fare going to the island; it’s free on the way back.
Seattle Waterfront Restaurants
With all of that walking around and exploring, you’ll need some time to refuel. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a number of restaurants options that might fit the bill, but if you’re wanting to complete your day with an experience, check these out.
Ivar’s Acres of Clams
Ivar’s has been a Seattle institution since 1938. Ivar’s Acres of Clams is known for their “world famous” clam chowder, grilled wild salmon and true cod fish ‘n chips. The menu also includes deep-water halibut, Alaska King crab, Dungeness crab, jumbo prawns, Manila clams and weathervane scallops. The kids menu is pretty extensive with kid-sized portions of the classics plus butter noodles (with or without chicken), cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwich and more to chomp on. Got a picky eater? How about a fruit cup? Done!
Ivar’s Pier 54 Fish Bar
However, if the weather is cooperating, you might want to take the clan to Ivar’s Pier 54 Fish Bar right next door to the Acres of Clams. They serve up many favorites including cod, halibut and salmon fish ‘n chips, clams, prawns, oysters, scallops and even chicken. Enjoy white or red clam chowder or Alaska smoked salmon chowder in a cup or bread bowl or grab a side of French fries, cole slaw and shrimp cocktail and mix it up.
The Crab Pot
Here, you actually encouraged to play with your food. Sort of. The Crab Pot is a casual restaurant’s specialty is the Seafeast where buckets of steamed seafood is dumped directly on the table and your family can have at it. Four feasts are offered, but the most popular is The Alaskan which consists of king crab, snow crab, Dungeness crab, clams, shrimp, mussels, andouille sausage, red potatoes and corn on the cob. If that is not your thing, they also offer more traditional items including grilled seafood, barbecue ribs, chicken and vegetables, burgers and sandwiches.
The Fishermen’s Restaurant and Bar
Located right next to the Seattle Great Wheel, Fishermen’s Restaurant and Bar features indoor dining as well as a large patio to take in the views or just watch the Wheel go round and round. Dishes here include fresh-shucked local oysters, coconut prawns, local crab and smoked salmon.
Trying to keep the family off the screens and into nature this summer? How does free entry to 200 California state parks sound? Check out a state park pass from your local library for up to three weeks and enjoy free entry to California’s stunning lakes, beaches and forests with your family. We’ve rounded up our favorite family outdoor adventures in participating state parks, so head to your local library, grab your California State Library Park Pass and have fun exploring the golden state this summer!
How to Get your Free California State Park Pass
All you need is a library card to check out a state park pass. First, you can find your nearest library and state park on this interactive map. Each library has a limited number of passes that can be checked out. Second, find out if one is available at your library by either calling up or type California State Library Park Pass into your library website’s search bar. You can make a reservation if one is not immediately available. In short, the pass gives one car free day use parking at participating state parks but is not valid for camping, boating or museum fees.
Set off on a Sierra Adventure
Jamie Kingham/ Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
Head to Emerald Bay State Park and arrive early to park at Vikingsholm car park for a refreshing swim in the clear cool waters of Lake Tahoe. Display your pass on the dash and head down the mile-long gravel trail to the beach. Families with children aged four and over can rent a kayak and paddle out to Fannette Island, a tiny island located a short distance from the shoreline with a crumbling stone tea house to explore. Later, tour Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-inspired castle, which is open to visitors in the summer (an extra fee applies).
Another great option is to walk among the tall trees in Calaveras Big Tree State Park, a two-hour drive from San Francisco. The forest has two groves of giant sequoias, which grow up to 325 feet high. There is a tree stump so large it was used as a dance floor after it was cut down during the gold rush. Just show your pass at the parking lot entrance for free admission.
Are your kids fascinated by the Wild West? Head to Coloma, the town where gold was first discovered in California, sparking the famous gold rush. Check out Marshall Gold Discovery State park, where you can pan for gold in the American River, go on a gold mining walking tour and enjoy the interactive exhibitions at the museum.
Discover the Sonoma Coast
Sarah McDonald
Russian River Valley is only one hour north of San Francisco and has been a favorite vacation spot for generations of Bay Area families. Stay in the charming town of Guerneville and go for a shady hike in nearby Armstrong Nature State Reserve. Park at the visitor center car park and check out the Pioneer Nature Trail, an easy path with interpretive signs. Look out for the tree hugging platform, banana slugs and a huge 310-foot old-growth redwood tree.
In the afternoon, drive to Fort Ross State park, a restored Russian fort. Complete with towers, an armory and cannons to explore, California history will come alive for kids! Just outside the fort, down a short trail, is a beach. It’s a nice open space to run around, hunt for shells or dip your feet in the gulch that flows into the ocean.
On your way home, make a detour to Bodega Bay and spend some time on the beautiful beaches at Sonoma Coast State Park. Shell Beach is popular for tide pooling where kids can search for anemones, crabs and starfish hidden among the rocks. Watch out for sneaker waves along this part of the coast—stick to the sand for safety. After that, stop by Spud Point Crab Company in Bodega Bay for a delicious clam chowder after your adventures!
Use your pass to show your family California’s natural treasures: the ancient coastal redwood groves in Humboldt County. A six-hour drive north of San Francisco, these preserves are a bit of a trek from the Bay Area but if you break up the drive with an overnight stop at Mendocino, you can take a memorable redwoods road trip this summer.
Don’t miss the short hike through incredible Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park. This canyon, covered in emerald-green ferns, was used for scenes in Jurassic Park: The Lost World. Hollywood loves this stunning part of California! Be sure to secure a permit in advance of your visit, these are free and available online.
Big Sur Break
Amanda Findlay
Take the family to the Central Coast this summer, using your free pass to explore the beautiful state parks and beaches of Monterey County. Point Lobos Natural State Reserve, dubbed the “jewel in the crown” of California’s state parks, is included in the program. Just south of Carmel, the reserve is home to a wealth of wildlife both on land and under the water.
Continue down the coast to the wild and remote region of Big Sur, where you can explore miles of unspoiled beaches and forests. Similarly, both Andrew Molera State Park and Garrapata State Park have beautiful beaches you can hike to. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park features a spectacular waterfall which can be viewed after a short hike, perfect for families with young kids.
Many of Southern California’s best beaches and state parks are also included in the pass, so head south for some sunshine. In Los Angeles, relax on Malibu Lagoon State Beach, where modern surfing culture was born, or follow the oak-shaded trails into the hills at nearby Malibu Creek State Park. You might recognize some of the abandoned props from TV show M*A*S*H, which was filmed here.
Or head into the desert at California’s biggest state park, Anza-Borrego State Park. Adventurous kids can hike the Borrego Palm Canyon trail, which leads to a magical fan-palm oasis. Fed by an underground spring, this oasis will be a treat for their hard efforts!
There’s a reason Santa Barbara’s been coined the American Riviera. The central California city boasts nearly perfect temps year-round, is home to pristine beaches and gorgeous Spanish architecture, and has a laid-back vibe that makes it the perfect retreat for families to unwind and reconnect. From the coolest museums and must-see exhibits to outdoor adventures and the best gelato in town—here’s an ideal itinerary for exploring Santa Barbara with kids.
Day 1: Beachfront Bike Ride, Stearns Wharf, MOXI: The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
There's no better way to ease into vacation mode than with a beachfront bike ride. Rent a bike from Wheels of Fun. The pick-up location is just one block away from the beach and Stearns Wharf, in the heart of the Funk Zone, so there's easy access to all the bike paths by the beach. Depending on age and skill level, you can pedal all the way to Butterfly Beach (a three-mile ride one way) or stick closer to the wharf and harbor. The full ride takes you on the Cabrillo Bike Path which is mostly flat but does get hilly once you approach Butterfly Beach. Extra bonus: you'll cruise by the Santa Barbara Zoo so be on the lookout for giraffes hanging out on the feeding deck.
Insider Tip: If you decide to take the path all the way to Butterfly Beach instead of going towards the roundabout in Montecito, veer right where East Cabrillo Boulevard meets Channel Drive, take a right on Channel Drive and keep pedaling past Santa Barbara Cemetery before arriving at an overlook surrounded by beautiful flower blooms, with the sparkling seas of Butterfly Beach waiting below to continue your ride into Montecito and Coast Village Road.
Break for lunch at one of the many eateries around the wharf and harbor. Brophy Bros is always bustling and a true Santa Barbara mainstay. Located on the waterfront, it's a lively and fun place to come for great, fresh fish dishes—the clam chowder and fish & chips are especially popular. Upstairs patio seating offers a great view of the harbor and the more than 1300 boats docked there. Before or after lunch be sure to explore Stearns Wharf, the West Coast's oldest working wooden wharf, and a beloved Santa Barbara landmark.
Insider Tip: Every Saturday there's a Fishermen’s Market where you can check out the haul of fresh fish for sale or taste sea urchin, a local delicacy, straight from the shell.
After lunch, choose to stick around the harbor and take a boat ride with your crew. Options are plentiful and include a water taxi ride with 'Lil Toot or Santa Barbara's only all-electric charter boat "Whisper", meant for small groups of up to six people. The captain gives a tour of the harbor and Stearns Wharf and you have the chance of seeing seals, sea lions, dolphins, and a variety of sea birds. There's space on the boat to bring food and drinks if you want to take your Brophy Bros' to-go or pack a dessert.
Block a few hours in the afternoon to explore, play and discover at the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. The 17,000 square foot space is less a museum and more like a multi-floor, hands-on, interactive space that kids won't want to leave because everything spins, beeps and or lights up in the very coolest way. Imagine the best science class ever! Try starting at the rooftop, where kids learn how solar power works by testing it on musical instruments. Then make your way down floor by floor where you'll run into games of velocity, speed, a maker space and even a Foley studio where visitors can make their own soundtrack.
Dig into a bowl of spaghetti and teach the kids how to play Bocce at Arnoldi's restaurant, an old school (i.e., it was established in '37) Santa Barabara establishment. The menu is filled with authentic Italian dishes including desserts like cannoli, tirimsu, and gelato. You can sit on the lovely patio outside (overlooking two full Bocce courts) or choose a booth indoors.
Day 2: The Natural History Museum, State Street, The Santa Barbara Botanical Garden, Eat at Lucky Penny
Enjoy breakfast at Jeannine's. It's a Santa Barbara institution that started by serving scones to the community more than 30 years ago. Since then it's opened three locations, the most recent on State Street, and enhanced its menu to Kahlua-soaked banana french toast, lobster Benedict, and a buttermilk pancake breakfast that will get the whole family smiling and ready to start the day.
Explore the National History Museum, which is a relatively small museum and not at all overwhelming—just perfect for kids. The museum is housed in Spanish Revival-style buildings on an extensive property with lush gardens and most of your visit will be spent outdoors. The 72-foot Blue Whale skeleton that greets you upon entrance will have kids excited to see more. The current Butterflies Alive exhibit is a must-see. There are more than 1000 butterflies, many from Costa Rica and they're spectacular to see them up close and personal. You'll need to wait in a short line outside of the pavilion as they only allow a certain amount of guests in at a time.
Fuel up with lunch on State Street. It's the place to stroll through shops and stop for a frozen treat at Tondi Gelato.
Visit the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden where kiddos can walk and wander through 78 acres of California's endemic plant life. It is a great place to walk and wander, though they offer plenty of more structured, docent-led tours. There's also a Japanese teahouse on-site worth checking out.
Insider Tip: Reservations are necessary for the Botanical Garden, you can make them online here.
Treat your family to dinner at Lucky Penny. It’s hard to miss the small stand-alone eatery in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone: The outside of its building is covered with 164,456 real copper pennies. Specializing in wood-fired pizza, salads and sandwiches, Lucky Penny is the perfect stop for families after a long day of adventuring. Grab a table in the inviting courtyard and dig into the restaurants' locally sourced, seasonal dishes. Don't miss the ice cream sandwich that are yummy and big enough to share!
Day 3: Hit the Beach, Walk the Trails, Kayak in the Harbor or at Haskell's Beach
Stop by Dune's Coffeeand fuel up for the day. They have multiple locations in Santa Barbara and brew a magical cup of jo.
Spend time at the beach or walking the trails overlooking the ocean. Choose from either Goleta Beach Park, which has a playground, grassy area with barbecue pits and ample room for picnicking, Carpinteria State Beach, or Haskell's Beach.
Insider Tip: Haskell's Beach, formerly Tecolote Beach, has long been one of Goleta's best-kept secrets. It's located at the base of Bacara Resort and there is beach access and a parking area for public use. A wide easy-graded path leads to a small park-like area with grass and picnic tables just above the beach. Here you will find the "Beach House" which has restrooms, showers, and a shaded alcove.
Discover the Labyrinth Trail on Lagoon Island. To get here you can park at UCSB (just pay for short-term parking in lot 23) and walk the trails near the campus.
Go kayaking with Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Or choose a different water-sport adventure. There's everything from SUP, to surfboard rentals to keep young water-lovers entertained.
One of the best things about a trip to Santa Barbara is that it's so easy to get to from anywhere in southern California! There's now a direct flight from San Diego to Santa Barbara (via Alaska Airlines), you can take the train, or make it a road trip. Whatever you choose the journey there is easy-breezy. Once you arrive there are plenty of hotel options for families where you can take advantage of third-night free promotions when two or more nights are booked. The Leta Hotel in Goleta is a family-friendly option where you can explore both downtown Santa Barbara and all that Goleta has to offer. The kids will love the heated swimming pool and laid-back vibe.
Editor’s note: This trip was sponsored by Visit Santa Barbara and The Leta Hotel, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
If you’ve got summer on the brain, we’re right there with you. When it comes to water play, planning your (many) trips to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in 2022 tops the list (psst..we’ve got what you need to know about the park’s opening day too). It’s got all you need to execute an easy day with the kids (think: food, rides, water, even movies) any day you go. Dive into the details on the area’s primo amusement and water park so you can really make a splash this summer.
First things first, Wild Waves will has plans to open for the 2022 season on May 28, over Memorial Day weekend.
The least busy times at Wild Waves are school days, chilly days and wet and windy days. You would think going to the park on a rainy day would be a bummer, but our kid reviewers say the rides are just as fun and with less people, the lines are a lot shorter too. We’ve also had good luck visiting on July 4, since many families are busy at picnics and parades.
The busiest times are, as you may have guessed, long holiday weekends and summer days when school’s out. But even when the park is packed, you can still have a great time—just be sure to pack your patience. On those days, it’s best to arrive right after the park opens to give your family a jump start before the big crowds arrive.
Wild Waves hours vary from day to day. Be sure to check their current schedule online.
We suggest bringing a change of clothes for each member of your family. Of course, you’ll need a swimsuit for Wild Waves. Shoes are not allowed on water attractions, but they are required for the theme park rides. Easy slip on waterproof sandals work well—flip-flops are fine, but you’ll have to take them off on some rides like the Hang Glider and the Soaring Eagle or they may fly off! The park suggests that you wear dry shirts and pants (or shorts) on all attractions and we couldn’t agree more! It’s not fair to make other guests sit in a puddle that you left from your soggy swim gear. You’ll probably be a lot more comfortable too.
We suggest you bring goggles, swimsuit cover-ups, swim diapers for your little ones, beach towels, sun screen, sun hats or baseball caps and a personal floating device if your kiddo needs it. (It must be US Coast Guard approved or you can borrow one for free near the locker rentals—first come, first served.) You might also want to bring a few plastic bags to put your soggy swim gear in, a few empty water bottles (you can fill them up with water at the drinking fountains) and don’t underestimate the importance of flip flops or shoes. Those concrete pathways get hot during the summer! A stroller can be nice to have as well. If you don’t want to pack them, single stroller rentals are available for $8, double strollers for $11, wheelchairs for $12 and motorized scooters for $30.
Hint: If you forget anything, you can buy swimsuits, beach towels, sunglasses, flip-flops and sunblock at the park, but it’s going to be a bit pricey!
There’s plenty of fun-filled activities for everyone in your crew at Wild Waves’ water park. From the exhilaration of hurtling down a twisting water slide or catching the big one in the Wave Pool, to cruising down the Lazy River or relaxing in a warming tub.
Young pirates can raid Hooks Lagoon (minimum height is 36″; maximum is 54”), paddle in the shallows, squirt mom with a water cannon and play in the waterfalls. Climb up the stories of a tropical tree house and zip down no less than seven slides (minimum height for the slides is 42″). But look out below! Every ten minutes the Cap’n’s bucket dumps 200 gallons of water onto little scallywags!
Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex
Helen Green
There are lots of slides to discover at the park. Some of the best are found at the Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex—three outrageously fun twisters that will send you racing towards splashdown at high velocity (a slight exaggeration!). Try all three, vote on which one you think is the best and go back for a final run before moving on.
For an adventure the whole family will enjoy at the same time, try the larger-than-life Zooma Falls. This giant slide allows up to four riders to experience large curves and turns before cruising under a waterfall. Other slides include the four serpentine Konga Slides, each one guaranteed to twist, wind and send you flying out of the tube!
Ever wondered what it feels like to be flushed down a toilet? If so, the Riptide’s for you. After a steep drop, you’ll swirl around and around the bowl before being sucked down the drain. Other wet fun can be found on the Raging River Ride (which you can go solo or ride with a friend) and the Activity Pool (for strong swimmers only).
After a hair-raising go on the slides, take a relaxing trip down the Konga Lazy River as it winds its way under the slides. It’s a pretty tranquil ride except for a few sprinklers popping up here and there. And you can go round and round as many times as you like (but we suggest shorter trips during the peaks times in the park.) Both our big and little kid reviewers give it two thumbs up!
Tubes are available for free at every slide, but if you want to skip the line you can choose to rent your own personal tube for $10 per single or $13 per double plus a $2 refundable deposit. We’d only recommend purchasing a tube if it’s a super busy day, as we’ve never had to wait long to get one.
Details for the 2022 line-up have been finalized for the season, and let's just say Thursday nights are even more fun at the Wave Pool as Wild Waves presents its “Dive In” movie theater. The best part of this outdoor movie experience is that the new-last-year LED screen means families don't have to wait for the sun to set to enjoy the movie. Movies start at 5:30 p.m., and the first showing, Finding Nemo, is scheduled for June 23. Dive-In Movies are free for both Season Pass ticket holders and those with a daily park admission ticket. Stay after the park closes, grab a tube, and hop in the Wave Pool to kick back with a new release or fan favorite flick!
Other "waves” can be found across the way in the theme park area in the form of roller coasters. Atop the hill, sits the Timberhawk Ride of Prey—the largest wooden roller coaster in Washington and this park’s crown jewel. The cars take a leisurely climb to the top with amazing views of the park, then whoosh you’re off, plummeting down drops, hurtling through twists and turns dare you not to duck as you go through the mine shaft.
The Wild Thing with its loop-de-loop and two corkscrews is guaranteed to raise your heart rate. And as if one trip around isn’t enough…The Wild Thing goes around twice. (Psst…when you go upside down, keep your eyes open and look straight ahead, so you don’t get dizzy.)
Over at the Klondike Gold Rusher, there are no precious metals to be found, but it’s a fun ride just the same. We have a warning though. This “mad mouse” type ride is quite jarring and quite a bit scarier than it looks, but it’s a thrill if your kids are up for it. There are sudden drops, sharp turns and your cart will seem like it’s about ready to fly off the tracks. Don’t worry though, it won’t.
A big kid fave in the park is Lumberjack Falls—a log flume ride that’ll send you plunging 50 feet into the water. “It feels like a tsunami is washing over you,” said one of our big kid reviewers. You will get wet…but so will the people standing on the bridge, if they’re not careful.
The Brain Drain is perhaps the scariest ride in the park. After getting strapped in you’ll be raised to the top of the 85-foot tall tower that drops with forces equivalent to 3 G’s! Only big kids need apply as the minimum height is 52”.
If that doesn’t scare you, maybe The Ring of Fire will. Our grownup reviewers voted it the scariest ride in the park and it receives stellar reviews from kids. It’s a 360-degree looping coaster that propels you back and forth up the sides of the track until it picks up momentum and spins you right around. Then, halfway through the ride you will reverse and go in the other direction! What’s not to love about that?
The Timber Axe is another gravity-defying stomach churner that’ll swing you back and forth before flipping you upside down.
Hoist the Jolly Roger and board the Pirate Ship if ye dare—this galleon rocks back and forth until it’s almost vertical. According to one kid reviewer, “Each time you go up it feels like you’re touching the sky, but if you’re at the back of the ship it feels like you’re going to land on your face.”
The Disk’O Flashback won’t remind you of John Travolta or the Bee Gees, but it may make you dizzy as it spins on its half-pipe track.
The park offers two extra thrills if you are up for it or are ready to shell out a few bucks more to experience them. (Those with an Annual Pass receive special discounts on these.) The Soaring Eagle zooms you high above the ground for terrific views of the park, before zipping back down again. For the real adrenaline addicts in your fam, the attention-getting I-5 Dive Skycoaster is an exhilarating, high bungee drop that will give you a good view of the park if you dare to open your eyes.
For a more leisurely pace there’s The Hang Glider, where you can take a gentle spin in the air and cool off on a hot summer day. This one is surprisingly fun for both kids and their parents. Kids yearning to go on the Pirate Ship but won’t go because it’s “too scary” may enjoy the similar, kid-friendly Coastal Clipper which but quite a bit tamer. There’s also the mild thrills aboard the giant spinning roulette wheel known as The Gambler, the high-flying Paratrooper and the oldie-but-goodie Scrambler which are all great for breaking younger kids in for the scarier rides. And for some good old fashioned fun, hop aboard the Dodge ‘ems Bumper Cars.
Little pilots will enjoy buzzing grownups in Red Baron biplanes, while budding train drivers clatter down the tracks of the Enchanted Railway. For kids who like to bounce (and who doesn’t?) there are two star attractions: the Frog Hopper and Kang-A-Bounce. After you bounce, take your tiny thrill-seeker for a go on the Kiddie Coaster.
For the littlest members of your family, the Kiddie Combo and Ferris Wheel are a must. On the Kiddie Combo, kids can pick their mode of transportation—a fire engine, moon buggy, antique car, dune buggy or sports car. The mini Ferris Wheel offers a gentle spin and cool views from a not-too-high vantage point. There’s also Safari Jeep (watch out for giraffes and lions!), the Kiddie Boats, The Space Racer, The Wagon Train and the beautiful antique carousel.
Check the website to see how tall (or how small) you need to be to go on each ride. If you have a kiddo between 48″- 54″ tall they can go on everything —these lucky guys and gals are tall enough for the big rides, but not too tall to still enjoy the little kid rides!
What to Eat
Helen Walker Green
Outside food isn’t allowed inside Wild Waves, but we’ve found that packing a few granola bars in your bag to keep everyone going is fine with staff at the entrance gate. You can bring your own non-glass water bottle (or buy an official Wild Waves cup) and refill it with ice water for free from any concession stand.
There’s lots of food choices available in the park including burgers, fries, clam chowder, tacos, ice cream, caramel apples and homemade fudge. The Dipping Dots are very popular and don’t leave the park without trying the Ultimate Elephant Ear (it’s so big, a family of four could share one). Topped with cinnamon, sugar, raspberry jam, whipped cream and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s pure decadence! Find them at the Snack Shop near the main gate, along with cotton candy and other treats.
Like many theme parks, the food here is expensive and not very nutritious. You may want to pack a cooler and leave it in your car. When everyone’s hungry, just head to the car for a quick bite to eat. It’s also a great break away from the crowds. Just be sure to get your hand stamped when you exit so you can come back in.
Regardless of the type of tickets you want, ordering them online is the way to go. You’ll save anywhere from $5-$21 per ticket this way. You can print the tickets at home or save them to your phone. Plus, purchasing your tickets online will significantly shorten your waiting time getting into the park.
If you are a military family, the park offers discounts on single-day admission tickets. In order to purchase a discounted military admission ticket, show a valid, active military ID at any of the front gate ticket booths. And kids three and under are always free.
Wild Waves Season Pass & Parking Info
Wild Waves
If you plan on going to Wild Waves more than twice this summer, consider purchasing a season pass which is currently on sale for $70, but jumps up to $100 for both adults and kids after May 28, 2022. You can save some more if you purchase your seasons pass at a participating Safeway or Albertsons store. Season pass members also receive a bunch of extras too, including three free friend tickets (see specific day limitations), free Dive-In Movies, free Fright Fest admission in October 2022, free parking, a free souvenir bottle, exclusive in-park discounts and more.
Parking is fairly steep ranging from $15 a day (regular) to $25 (VIP Parking). However, you can save $2 when you purchase online in advance and season parking passes ($50) are available, too.
Single Day Ticket (Valid any operating day in 2022.) Adult: $50 (online) or $55 (at the gate) Child (48” or shorter) and Senior (age 65+): $32 (online or at the gate)
Regular Season Pass :(for Adults and Kids online): $70, before May 28, 2022; $100, after May 28, 2022. Gold Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $90, before May 28, 2022; $135, after May 28, 2022. Platinum Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $140, before May 28, 2022; $200, after May 28, 2022.
Season Pass Dining Plan (for Adults and Kids): $70 Season Pass Parking: $50 Season Pass Locker Add-On: $49.99
Note: Kids ages 3 & under get in free. All ticket prices are plus 10% state tax, and a 5% city of Federal Way admissions tax.
There are two EMT-staffed First Aid stations at the park near the Kong Slides and also near the Timber Axe ride.
It’s a good idea to designate one spot where you will all meet in case you get split up. Also, tell your kiddos to check-in with a staff member if they get lost.
Renting a locker and keeping your valuables in there while playing in the water is the best way to keep cell phones, wallets and other items safe and secure. Lockers can be rented near the water slides and are available for $10 (standard), $20 (large) and $25 (jumbo).
If you plan on carrying your valuables with you while riding the attractions, you’ll be happy to know that every ride has cubbies for purses and cell phones. Just drop them off as you get on and pick them up when you get off.
Note: Cash and debit/credit cards are accepted everywhere (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex), but you must have ID with you. There are four ATM machines available: outside of the front gates, the Shoe Hut, Arcade and Candy Factory. Checks are not accepted. Season pass holders can add “stored value” to their membership EZ Band that can be used anywhere inside the park.
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park
36201 Enchanted Pkwy. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
253-661-8000
Online: wildwaves.com
