12 Petting Zoos That Offer Barnyard Fun for City Kids

by Nella DuBon-KochOctober 11, 2018

With fall right around the corner, what better time for some farm fun (not to mention cute photo ops)? No need to venture far from city comforts to get your barnyard fix. If you have some little animal lovers in your herd, check out these 12 Bay Area petting zoos and wildlife education centers, open year-round to explore.

photo: David Goehring via flickr

San Francisco

San Francisco Zoo
Don’t ex out the big attractions as too obvious a choice. Tucked among this urban wildlife preserve, is a quaint Family Farm, complete with a red barn, free-roaming goats, chickens, and alpacas that you and your little farmers can feed, brush and enjoy.

Location: 1 Zoo Road, San Francisco
Online: sfzoo.org

Aquarium of the Bay
Get ready to Touch the Bay at the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco, where kids can visit some of the interactive touch tank exhibits and get up close and personal with Bat rays, Leopard sharks, sea stars and anemones. Your little naturalists will go overboard as they explore and discover, through hands-on encounters with native SF Bay creatures.

Location: Pier 39 Embarcadero and Beach St., San Francisco
Online: aquariumofthebay.org

Randall Museum
Visit the Randall Museum every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. for Meet The Animals. At this free event, your mini scientists will learn about a variety of non-releasable wildlife and get a chance to meet some of the museums animal ambassadors up-close.

Location: 199 Museum Way, San Francisco
Online: randallmuseum.orgEast Bay

Kennedy Park
This Hayward park is good for birthday parties or a full day of exploration. Circle the grounds on a train ride before heading to the Triple Pines Ranch where you can visit with ducks and chickens and pet the goats, for a small $2.00 entry fee. Check out the carousel and bouncy while there.

Location: 19501 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Online: haywardrec.org

Tilden Regional Park Little Farm
Bring some celery and lettuce and meet some friendly cows, sheep, rabbits, goats, and more at this cute and educational working farm. After the animals have had their fill, visit the Environmental Education Center, go for a ride on the steam train, merry-go-round, or just walk any of the nature trails throughout the park. Jewel Lake is only a short walk away from the farm, and definitely worth a visit.

Location: 600 Canon Drive, Berkeley
Online: ebparks.org

Oakland Zoo
Located at the lower entrance of the zoo, within the Wayne and Glady’s Valley Children’s Zoo, is the goat and sheep barn where you can pet, brush, feed or just hang-out with the friendly, resident ungulates.

Location: 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland
Online: oaklandzoo.org

South Bay/Peninsula

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
In addition to the rides, puppet theater, play structure, and animal exhibits, this family-friendly San Jose attraction has an Animal Barn, found in the Double H Ranch Exhibit. This mini zoo within the zoo has domestic animals that the kiddos can pet.

Location: 1300 Senter Road, San Jose
Online: happyhollow.org

Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo
This fun and free zoo is home to over 50 species including bobcats, jungle bats, fish and giant tortoise! All part of the science outreach program with local schools. Your little zoologists will love to discover and play in Racoon Creek, where they can explore a giant magical “redwood tree” and come nose-to-nose with racoons or dive into imaginitive play at The Kitten’s Den exhibit where they can become bobcats by climbing and pouncing over logs and boulders in this sculpture garden.

Temp. Location: The Junior Museum has temporarily relocated to Cubberley Community Center: 4050 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, to make way for the construction of their new facility at Rinconada Park opening in Summer 2020.
Online: cityofpaloalto.org

Lemos Farm
Located in Half Moon Bay, this former dairy farm features a petting zoo, train, hay and pony rides, jumpers, snack bar and seasonal attractions like a harvest pumpkin patch and cut-your-own Christmas trees. Check their website for seasonal hours of operation.

Location: 12320 San Mateo Road (Hwy 92), Half Moon Bay
online: lemosfarm.com

Gilroy Gardens
The Gilroy Gardens petting zoo is back weekends, in August and September. Meet goats, ducks, chickens, rabbits and pigs. $5 per person, not included in park admission. All proceeds go toward the care of the animals.

Location: 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy
Online: gilroygardens.org

Marin

Slide Ranch
Head out to Marin this Fall for one of Slide Ranch’s exciting family programs. Family Farm Days and Toddler Days include, milking and feeding goats, collecting eggs from the chicken flock, meeting the ranch’s feathered, furry and wooly friends and lots more family-friendly activities.

Location: 2025 Shoreline Hwy., Muir Beach
Online: slideranch.org

Marin Treks
Friday night Science nights at Marin Treks, is the perfect way for your aspiring herpetologist to kick off their weekend. In addition to learning about natural history, they’ll enjoy games, contests, snacks and handling the amazing reptiles, amphibians and insects, of course! Check their website for new dates and schedule.

Location: 1559 H So. Novato Blvd., Novato
Online: marintreks.com

— Nella DuBon-Koch and Renee Macalino Rutledge

Photos by Nella DuBon-Koch, except where noted.

Featured image by Niall David Photography

9 Petting Farms & Zoos to Visit with Your Wild Child

by Nikki WalshAugust 12, 2018

If your little bunny wants to walk with the animals and talk with the animals… or even touch, pet, feed and hug them too, we’ve got just the ticket for a hands-on safari. From ponies, pigs and talking parrots to goats, camels, alpacas and so many more amazing creatures, your little tyke will go wild for these petting zoos. Read on for the details.

Surfside Ranch

Reach out and touch a chicken, goat, pig or a llama. To start, it's free if you just want to take a look... or pay a nominal fee to pet and feed the animals. Also, there's no age requirement at this zoo, except little tykes four and under need to have a grown-up with them. Even more, if you love this local ranch they offer birthday parties, pony rides, summer programs and more. Let your little one pet the animals and check out the ranch!

Insider's Tip: Wear long pants and closed toed shoes.

Cost: petting zoo, $3/person for 15 minutes
Hours: Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-dark

Surfside Ranch
2225 Hollister St.
San Diego, Ca
619-443-3517
Online: surfsideranch.com

Sugar Sweet Farm

It's a family affair! Invite the grandparents too. Further, be ready for a bunny snuggling, chicken feeding, pony-riding adventure. For one fee, everyone's (siblings too!) invited to this local farm in Encinitas for a full-hour of barnyard fun. Even more, splurge and have your little farmhand (three and older) take a pony ride. There will be plenty of great photo-ops on this private farm tour.

Insider's Tip: Wear long pants and closed toed shoes.

Hours: By appointment only.
Cost: $80/family; $40/person for a half hour horse ride

Sugar Sweet Farm
Encinitas, Ca 92024
760-815-6616
Online: sugarsweetfarm.com

Children's Nature Retreat

It's day trip time! This gorgeous, serene retreat is about a 40-minute ride (from downtown San Diego) and it's well worth the drive. You'll see and touch an amazing array of animals. Even more, each entrance fee includes a big bucket of grass for feeding the animals. You and your fam will interact with horses, llamas, pigs, chickens, cows, zebras, camels, tortoises (yes!) and more. Prepare to be in awe of nature.

Read our full review of Children's Nature Retreat here.

Insider's Tip: Pack a lunch to eat at the picnic tables by the great oak tree.

Cost: $25/adult; $15/child; free for kids under two
Hours: March-Oct., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov.-Feb., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Children's Nature Retreat
5170 Japatul Spur
Alpine, Ca
619-320-4942
Online: childrensnatureretreat.org

Pony Land

Giddy up to South San Diego and pet a pig, hug a cow or ride a pony. You'll find a plethora of animals at this working farm that your little one can pet and snuggle. After the animal encounters, kiddos can play in Dodge City or the Western-themed play area. Also, half-pints ages 2-8 can take a pony ride (three laps around the corral) hand-held with an experienced guide.

Insider's Tip: You can go during the week if you make an appointment.

Cost: $10/person for petting zoo; free for kids under two; $5/pony ride
Hours: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Pony Land
2606 Hollister St.
San Diego, Ca
619-947-3952
Online: ponylandsandiego.com

Free Flight

Birds of a feather flock together! Say hello to the parrots and they say hello or sing to you too! Even more, feed your feathery friends and gently pet them on the back. The docents provide information and help. Also, little ones love to check out the giant koi fish as an extra treat. This small non-profit bird sanctuary makes a fun and unique day outing for the crew.

Good to know: Free Flight is small, but a visit makes for a great afternoon.

Cost: $7/adult; $3/child (under 13 years old)
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; except Weds., 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

2132 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar, Ca
858-481-3148
Online: freeflightbirds.org

Petting Paddock

This is a first-rate place for future veterinarians to interact with the animals and it’s educational too. Go into the petting paddock (it’s in the Children’s Zoo) and your little animal-lover may let out a tiny “whee” of excitement while petting and brushing the soft sheep. These baa-u-tiful creatures love small-hands giving their back a soft sweet stroke. You can ask your wee ones to compare the feel of a wooly sheep’s coat to a pygmy goat’s hair. You’ll also appreciate the cool playground and other learning experiences outside the petting paddock.

Hours: Open daily, hours vary by day
Cost: $54/adult; $44/child (includes zoo admission)

San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Dr.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sandiegozoo.org

Zoomars

Bunnies and guinea pigs? Sound like smiles are close at hand. Your little bunnies will love to meet theirs (bunnies, that is). Not only is there a huge walk-in corral fabulously-filled with bunnies and guinea pigs, your little peeps will get a kick out of feeding the goats, sheep, llamas and donkeys too. This hands-on place has plenty of options for small-critter fun. Just be prepared for activity fees. We’re giving you a good ol’ heads-up so you can manage your little farmers’ expectations.

Insider’s Tip: Take a potty-break before you get there (the restrooms are outhouses).

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $12/adult; $10/child ($3 train ride; $5 animal food, $6 pony ride)

Zoomars
31791 Los Rios St.
San Juan Capistrano, Ca
Online: zoomars.com

Petting Kraal

Not only will the kiddies get a little giddy, they might also let out a small “baa-baa” when they get a gander of the Zoo Safari Park’s petting kraal. The perfect-place for timid toddlers to reach out and gently feel a goat’s hair or a sheep’s wooly-softness, little farm-hands will also delight in brushing the animals too. Enter a large fenced-in area with plenty of space and introduce your little one to first-hand farm-fun. An extra bonus is watching the newborn animals (located right before you enter the petting kraal).

Read our Insider's Guide to the Safari Park here.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m-5 p.m.; longer hours in the summer
Cost: $54/adult; $44/child (includes park admission to the park)

Zoo Safari Park
15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd.
Escondido, CA 92027
Online: sdzsafaripark.org

Bates Nut Farm

Head north up the 15 freeway to Valley Center and you’ll find Bates Nut Farm is a sweet stop for some rustic romping. Not only can little farm-helpers shout a hee-haw to mini donkeys and hand-feed the goats and sheep, they also get a look-see at the llamas, pigs, emus, chickens, peacocks, ducks and geese and a tortoise. The animals will eat from your hand and bags of animal feed can be purchased for 50 cents. Wrap up the morning with a byo-picnic (bring your own) under the big shade trees. Let the littles run, blow bubbles, bounce balls and they’ll be ready for that afternoon nap. Head on home with the happy tank—full.

Good to know: The farm zoo has lots of farm animals, but you don’t actually get in the pen with them.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m
Cost: .50 cents for animal feed. Farm & parking free. (Except: $5 parking October)

15954 Woods Valley Rd.

Valley Center, Ca 92082
Online: batesnutfarm.biz

Don’t forget to always wash your hands after petting the animals!

—Nikki Walsh

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12 Reasons You Need to Visit Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

by Kristina MoyJuly 4, 2017

If you’ve been looking for an easy weekend getaway where you can unplug from electronics and plug into nature, consider a trip to Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort. This rustic-luxe mountain retreat, located just outside the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth on the banks of Icicle Creek, offers families a distinct Northwest experience—from sustainable gourmet cuisine to cozy cabin-like accommodations to a wide range of recreational activities. Still not convinced? Read on for a list of 12 reasons you and your kid crew need to pack your bags and head to Sleeping Lady before summer’s over.

1. Cedar-Beamed Guest Rooms with Forest Views. Guest rooms are arranged in six clusters and take their names from nearby natural features like cottonwood, rock, pond, meadow, fountain and forest. All rooms come with at least two beds and if you request a Loft room, your kids can climb up to an over-sized loft which holds a full-sized bed and dresser (and doubles as a fun lookout tower). The cabin-esque décor and the floor-to-ceiling windows let in tons of natural light and provide spectacular forest views. Psst… the rooms do not come with TVs, mini bars or refrigerators, but don’t worry. There is free Wi-Fi, so if you must plug-in, you can. And since there’s no TV, you don’t have to worry about your kids fighting over the remote. That’s a win-win in our book!

photo: Sleeping Lady Mountain Lodge

2. Farm to Table Northwest Gourmet Cuisine. Sleeping Lady has three dining options (two of which are family-friendly) and all use organic and locally sourced ingredients—many from Sleeping Lady’s own Organic Garden which the culinary team visits daily to harvest fresh ingredients and plan its upcoming menus. Kingfisher Restaurant and Wine Bar is the main dining spot and where you the fam can enjoy delicious daily buffet breakfasts and dinners. This four-star restaurant showcases the freshest available produce, wild seafood that is sustainable and harvested when in season, meat that is produced naturally from Northwest farms and other local products supplemented with seasonal offerings from the resort’s garden. The restaurant also offers gluten-free menu options, a dessert bar that totally rocks and the best pancakes, waffles and French toast we’ve ever tasted. O’Grady’s Pantry & Mercantile is another great dining option for families. This cozy restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is known for its scratch-made Pacific Northwest favorites, some even infused with house-smoked meats. O’Grady’s also serves gluten-free options as well as desserts, ice cream and a fine selection of beer, wine and spirits. Psst… O’Grady’s is the perfect place to grab lunch or an afternoon snack and dine al fresco on the patio.

3. Bike Rentals for Family Trail Adventures. If you’ve got a family of pedal heads, Sleeping Lady is surrounded by several biking trails and Leavenworth’s new (and totally awesome!) Pump Track. If you don’t want to schlep your bikes with you, Sleeping Lady rents bikes at the Mercantile (inside O’Grady’s Pantry). Rates are $20 for the full day; $15 for a half day. Click here for a list of biking trails.

photo: Sleeping Lady Mountain Lodge

4. Woodland Rock Pools. Sleeping Lady’s swimming pool is open seasonally (typically May through September) and is by far one of the coolest pools we’ve ever seen. Nestled right into the hillside, this pool looks like something you would see penguins swimming in at Woodland Park Zoo. Your little fish will love swimming underneath the waterfall, jumping off the rocks, and doing laps around the pool. For tots who prefer a calmer scene or for parents who could use a good hot soak, there’s an adjoining hot pool which is heated year-round. Psst… after your soak (and before you slip into your complimentary robe), hit the sauna which is open 24-hours a day and located next to the pool. The swimming pool is also open until midnight which means you and the kids can swim right up until bedtime and everyone will be too tired to care about the missing TV in the room.

5. An After-Hours Spot to Relax & Unwind. The Grotto is an intimate after-hours meeting place that serves beer, wine and spirts alongside a delish tapas-style menu. The interior features a faux granite wall crafted to represent local stone and an impressive Chihuly icicle chandelier along with petroglyph-laced rock walls and carvings of wildlife which gives this spot plenty of mountain charm. The Grotto also boasts an outside terrace with a fire pit and a little waterfall—both complimentary to dining al fresco—and a good reason to bring grandma along, so you and your significant other can sneak off to the Grotto for a nightcap.

6. A Play Barn to Keep Kids Busy. If your kids love to play games, you must hit The Play Barn. This space, which is not really a barn but rather an uber-cool large cabin, is where you can play pool, act out plays or puppet shows on the stage, view family-friendly movies (during the summer), play table tennis, foosball or a variety of board games (available at the main office) or make arts and crafts at one of the large tables. The best part? The activities (and the mess) stay in The Play Barn and not in your room. Score!

7. Hiking and Fishing and Horseback Riding. Oh My! During the spring, summer and fall months, you and the kids can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, nature walks, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and wine tasting (reason number two to bring along grandma). The Waterfront Park Trail in downtown Leavenworth is a great trail for kids since it offers a gentle three-mile trek along the Wenatchee River and through several quiet riverbank forests as well as plenty of benches to rest tired feet and interpretive signs to explain the natural and cultural history of the area. Bookmark this list of Leavenworth trails and don’t forget to pack your sturdy walking shoes. If your kid crew prefers to ride through the river and the woods (literally), all manners of horseback riding are also available in Leavenworth. Visit leavenworth.org for more info. And if kayaking or rafting is more your family’s beat, check out this list of excursions available for newbies to adrenaline junkies.

8. Signature Spa Treatments & Amenities. Reason number three to bring along grandma—Aspen Leaf Day Spa. While the kids are swimming at the pool or hiking on the trails, you can enjoy a relaxing full body massage, facial or body treatment in one of the private treatment rooms. We guarantee you’ll emerge feeling serene, rejuvenated and ready to take on your crazy kid crew.

9. Self-Guided Art Walk. Sleeping Lady offers an inspiring landscape of art and nature. And its walking art tour provides a comprehensive view of works by professional artists (think Dale Chihuly) as well local craftspeople that contribute to the beauty of the resort’s buildings and surroundings. Start at the office and follow the map (provided at check-in) to 11 awesome pieces of art inspired by the natural elements of the Cascade foothills. From bronze and stone sculptures, to prints and paintings, to fiberglass salmon sculptures and Chihuly Icicles, you and your petite posse will enjoy finding the creative expressions that fill the property.

10. Canine Companion Rooms. If you’re planning on bringing Fido along for the weekend, Sleeping Lady offers Canine Companion rooms for an extra $20 per day. These rooms, which can accommodate up to four people and your family’s furry friend, include cozy doggie beds, water and food bowls and complimentary treats. Now, that’s what we call doggie-friendly treatment.

11. Three Miles from the Bavarian-Themed Town of Leavenworth. If you’re looking for even more activities, you’ll find lots of fun things to do, see and eat in the town of Leavenworth. Take a hatchery tour at the Leavenworth Fisheries Complex, see thousands of nutcrackers (in all shapes and sizes) at the Nutcracker Museum, sample to-die-for chocolates at Schocolat, explore Waterfront Park and Blackbird Island, enjoy a bite to eat at Munchen Haus, hit Smallwood’s Harvest for tons (and we mean tons!) of farm fun on the cheap or take a hike through Icicle Gorge Nature Loop Trail.

12. All Inclusive Pricing. Sleeping Lady offers a Great Escapes package which includes accommodations for two people (additional adults are $65; kids are $27; and tykes 4 & under stay and eat for free), a gourmet dinner and breakfast buffet at Kingfisher Restaurant and full use of the resort’s amenities including the woodland pool and sauna. Add on a Signature Relaxation or Resource Renewing Treatment massage and this weekend getaway screams R&R.

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort
7375 Icicle Rd.
Leavenworth, Wa 98826
800-574-2123
Online: sleepinglady.com

Do you think your family will be visiting Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort this summer? What are you looking forward to the most? Tell us in the comments below.

— Kristina Moy (all photos courtesy of the writer, unless noted)

This trip was paid for by Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

What’s In the Bag: 9 Things Portland Moms Carry at All Times

by Marianne WaltersDecember 23, 2015

A Portland mom has to be prepared for spontaneous adventure at any moment, rain or shine. We’ve come up with 9 things you’re bound to find in just about every Portland parent’s diaper bag, purse, stroller or car. How many of these ring true for you?

photo: Marianne Walters

1. A woven wrap, ring sling, or SSC (soft-structured carrier)
Portland parents love to wear the babies. We wouldn’t be caught without our SSC that allows us to be hands-free.

2. Reusable shopping bags for the next trip to Powell’s
Paper or plastic? It’s a non-issue for Portland parents. We carry our own bags and chances are, a few of them say Powell’s right on the front.

3. Shower caps for wet bicycle seats
It’s not a problem to get caught in a rainstorm with this handy tool tucked away. A shower cap for each bicycle seat means that your tots’ tushes will stay dry for the ride home.

4. Sunscreen for (surprise!) a sunny day
Yes, we get the occasional burst of sunshine, and our kids don’t get a lot of that natural Vitamin D so we like to get outside as soon as the clouds break. Whether it’s cloudy or sunny, we all still need sunscreen.

photo: Dave H. via Yelp

5. Extra supplies for meals at the food carts
Napkins and plastic forks are necessary when it’s lunch time and the kids decide they just won’t make it home without stopping at, say, the Grilled Cheese Grill or The Waffle Window.

6. Punch cards for indoor play
Yes, we know we live in a rainy climate, and luckily, so do our local business owners. Portland’s fantastic selection of indoor playgrounds means that parents have options when the weather demands that we all stay in.

7. Towels for muddy adventures
Portland has some of the best places to park the car or bike and head out into nature. Keeping towels in the car or bike carrier after a trip to Sauvie Island for farm fun or wildlife viewing is a great way to keep the muddy aftermath to a minimum.

photo: Marianne Walters

8. Extra TriMet tickets
Public transit is the way to go when you’re exploring the city. Whether hopping onto MAX and heading to OMSI, grabbing a street car from Pioneer Square to Jamison Square or riding the bus all the way home, Portland kids are well-versed in riding etiquette.

9. Hand wipes for the late-afternoon trip
Whether your kids prefer Blue Star Donuts, Voodoo Donuts or any of the sensational options we have here in town, there’s nothing quite like a treat at the end of a day out. Smart parents get the sticky fingers taken care of before climbing back into the van. Wipes for all!

10. Supportland card
One rewards card that gives you a little virtual pat on the back for shopping locally. Check supportland.com to see who’s an indy biz hooked up with the program, then start shopping to earn merits good for things from cookies to cocktails, bike lights to eye exams.

What else can’t you leave home without? Let us know in the comments below!

–Marianne Walters

The Coolest Playgrounds in the Western Suburbs

by Kelly AiglonApril 23, 2015

Looking for sliding, climbing, swinging fun? Go west! Whether you live in the western ‘burbs or are up for a quickie road trip, you’ll find a whole bunch of fantastic playgrounds there. Keep reading to discover nine cool choices. They’ve got everything from swooshing zip lines to water blasters to topsy-turvy climbing structures.

For Getting Loopy: Knoch Park - Naperville

Round, round, round you go on the colorful loop that encircles a rope web. With different sized holes and cutouts, kiddos have to try some fancy footwork. Even Spiderman never had this much fun! This park next to Naperville Central High School also has tall slides, climbing walls, ample swings and convenient restrooms.

724 W. West St.
Naperville
630-848-5000
Online: napervilleparks.org

For Playing All Day: Maryknoll Park - Glen Ellyn

The crowning glory of Glen Ellyn's oasis is the Adventure Playground, which will make any kid feel like Tarzan. It has a 75-foot-long zip line, net climbers, a treehouse and swings. Turn a playground romp into an entire day of fun by taking advantage of the adjacent splash park, mini golf course, disc golf course, bocce ball courts and horseshoe pit. You can also just bliss out around the nature ponds and large open grassy area. Because every little explorer deserves a break.

845 Pershing Ave.
Glen Ellyn
630-469-7888
Online: gepark.org

For a Tree House & Zip Line: Harvester Park - Burr Ridge

Playground Pointers

Known even to locals as a "special occasion park," Harvester has it all -- and then some. Climb inside the big gnarly faux tree and slide down before racing over to the mini zip line for a wild glide. The playground is massive and has all the family favorites. Unwind on the walking trails, cool off in the splash area or play in the sand. Phew!

15 W. 400 Harvester Dr.
Burr Ridge
630-920-1969
Online: brparks.org

For Water Play: Ty Warner Park - Westmont

Yelp

For a modest entrance fee, you get lots of bells and whistles ... plus mega water action. Your kids will go nuts on the soft-surface play area featuring water cannons, waterfalls, spray anchors and dumping buckets. For a break, spread out on the shaded picnic tables and grab an ice cream from the concession stand. Note: This spray park opens May 23 for the season.

801 Blackhawk Dr.
Westmont
630-963-5252
Online: wpd4fun.org

For Peace of Mind: Hudson Crossing Park - Oswego

The never-too-crowded Hudson Crossing Park lies on beautiful grounds where wagons and stagecoaches used to trundle by and cross the Fox River. Let the kids have the run of its playground, which has six slides, climbers, swings, a seesaw, spinners and a tot playhouse. Then take a walk or bike ride on the Fox River Trail bicycle/pedestrian bridge over the Waubonsie Creek. As Red Tricycle reader, Beth, says, "We've caught many a crawfish under that bridge!"

65 N. Harrison St.
Oswego
630-554-1010
Online: oswegolandparkdistrict.org

For Two Playful Worlds: Katherine Legge Memorial Park - Hinsdale

A rainbow of colors draws you to the main playground -- a wonderland of monkey bars, slides, tunnels and climbing structures. But what will really turn your head is the adjacent “natural” playground. While not as flashy, it feels like a true wilderness adventure, thanks to wooden balance beams and stepping stones.

5901 S. County Line Rd.
Hinsdale
630-789-7090
Online: villageofhinsdale.org

For Farm Fun on Speed: Adventure Playground at Blackberry Farm - Aurora

The Fox Valley Park District’s scenic living-history museum is as active as it is educational. On the playground, which looks like a rustic farmstead, there are several multi-level buildings connected by climbing decks, slides, rope tunnels and catwalk-style bridges. Maze-like, but not claustrophobic, the layout prompts you to dash from one enticing environment to another. Swoosh down the tunnel slide from the yellow-shingled house. Climb through a suspended net to go from one barn building to another. Break away to glide on the zip line attached to a towering silo next to the playground. And that’s just the start.

100 S. Barnes Rd.
Aurora
630-892-1550
Online: foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

For Young Explorers: Proska Park - Berwyn

Karina A on Yelp

Picnic in a beautiful green grove before bolting to the toddler-friendly playground and children's garden. There is a small slide and climbing wall for younger kids. Taking a peaceful walk around the ponds will also do any family good.

3001 Wisconsin Ave.
Berwyn
708-795-2892
Online: berwynparks.org

For Musical Merriment: Longfellow Park - Oak Park

Playgrounds are usually loud, but this one has a catchy beat. The music-themed spot will make your mini rock star very happy, thanks to a drum set, xylophone and rhythmic scale. It even has notes blended into the synthetic surface. Of course you'll find diversions like a slide, tunnels and climbing bars, too. Hit it!

610 S. Ridgeland Ave.
Oak Park
708-725-2200
Online: pdop.org

Did we miss your favorite playground in the western ‘burbs? Let us know in the Comments below!

— Kelly Aiglon

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Willkommen a Weekend Getaway with Bavarian Charm

by Myriam Gabriel-PollockJune 25, 2014

Memorial Day Weekend is mere days away. If you’re aching to get out of town but fearing there isn’t a viable destination at this eleventh hour, consider heading east to the Cascade Mountains. While only a two-hour drive from Seattle, a few days in Leavenworth will transport you to a sweet little slice of Bavaria. And with so many fun things to see, do and eat, you’ll be planning your return visit before you can even say bis später.

Where to stay?
The Enzian Inn (pictured below) is right across the street from downtown Leavenworth, and the decor is a warm, gorgeous, Bavarian-style that both grown-ups and kids will find comfortable and fun. They offer several room styles, with the Family Room being a popular pick — with two queens plus a sleeper sofa, it offers plenty of room to kick back and enjoy the view of the outdoor pool. Plus, the complimentary breakfast buffet is especially popular with the kids because of the daily alphorn performance (think Ricola cough drops!).

At the expansive Icicle Village Resort at the town’s western entry off Highway 2, you can choose from rooms at the Best Western Plus Icicle Inn or the Aspen Suites Condominiums. Either way, you will be a skip and a hop away from all the fun at the Icicle Junction Activity Center (more on this later).

For accommodations closer to nature, check out Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, a beautiful 67-acre property surrounded by mountains and creeks. Here, you will find a variety of cabin and bunk room styles, an onsite spa and several dining options as well as a cool outdoor pool and family play barn — just a few of the amazing amenities at Sleeping Lady. If you want more room and privacy, or if you’re traveling with extended family or friends, a vacation home rental is a super fun way to go. Check out Leavenworth’s own site for finding a weekend place that’s just right for your family.

What to do?
Wow, where do we start? Leavenworth is a town that likes its festivals; there is at least one for every month! Mother’s Day weekend in May has Maifest, with plenty of traditional German music, dancing, and even medieval knights and horse-drawn wagons. June features the Bavarian Bike & Brews festival — perfect if you and the kiddos love to watch or participate in road racing (and if the grown-ups like microbrews). In July the Kinderfest and Independence Day festival is all about celebrating children; hayrides, a bike parade, tons of hands-on activities, and of course, music, crafts, and loads of tasty treats.

Downtown Leavenworth has Front Street Park, with its charming gazebo and maypole; a prime spot for sitting under a shady tree and people-watching while eating an ice cream cone. Waterfront Park, nestled along the Wenatchee River just a few blocks from downtown, is a birdwatcher’s dream. Enchantment Park has play fields, a playground, and several hiking trails and bike paths, as well as a bridge that connects you to Blackbird Island.

The Leavenworth Summer Theater features kid-friendly shows in a beautiful outdoor theater just a few minutes from downtown. If your family loves The Sound of Music or Fiddler on the Roof, add this venue to your list of to-do’s. You may even get to sing along with the Von Trapps!

For something totally offbeat, check out the Nutcracker Museum on Front Street. Yes, we said nutcrackers! At this awesome museum, see over 6,000 nutcrackers dating back 500 years. Your kiddos will go nuts for it (couldn’t help ourselves there). Or stop by Smallwood’s Harvest for tons of farm fun on the cheap. You can also pick up fresh fruits and veggies, grab a scoop of ice cream, and shop for unique gifts and specialty food and wine while your kiddos feed the goats, chickens, and alpacas or pan for gold.

Looking to get wet?
River tubing, stand-up paddle boarding, whitewater rafting, and kayaking are all excellent options. Rent equipment and go it on your own, or book a guided trip. The folks at Leavenworth Outdoor Center will hook you up.

But wait, there’s more…
There are so many fantastic ways for you to enjoy all the incredible outdoor activities Leavenworth has to offer — fishing, biking, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, birding, zip lines, wagon rides. You name it, and Leavenworth very likely has it. At Icicle Junction Activity Center it’s all about playing, with its 18-hole Bavarian-themed mini-golf, arcade and game room, and sport court.

Of course, if you’d rather take it easy this weekend, then strolling through the charming streets of downtown Leavenworth may be more your pace. Unique kid-pleasing shops abound — from Kris Kringl, a year-round Christmas store, to The Wood Shop, featuring handcrafted toys and games, to Mainz Haus of Rock, where your little geologists will go goo-goo eyed over the crystals, fossils, and petrified wood.

Where to Eat?
Gustav’s is a family style pub that has been a Leavenworth favorite since 1982. A full selection of burgers, fries, sandwiches, and salads are available; when weather permits, the rooftop patio is lovely. Pavz is a creperie that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; choose from savory or the sweet crepes, it’s all fantastic. You can’t go to Leavenworth and not have a brat — the German sausage kind, not the in-a-bad-state-kiddo kind. Leavenworth Sausage Garten makes it own sausages on the premises; wash it down with what’s on tap. For the little ones, regular beef or veggie dogs are available and all seating is outdoors! Blackbird Bistro, one of the newer places in town, has a cozy spot on a street corner and a hip vibe. Coffee, breakfast, and lunch is what they do, and they do it well.

Don’t forget your sweet tooth! Das Sweet Shoppe on Front Street has ice cream and all kinds of fun candy including a few blasts from the past! And the Gingerbread Factory is a cafe/bakery that will charm your kiddos with their cute exterior and their delish goodies — don’t miss their gingerbread houses (available all year-long) and melt-in-your-mouth cookies.

Will you be taking a trip to Leavenworth this spring or summer? Let us know in the comments below.

-Myriam Gabriel-Pollock

Photo Credits: Myriam GP, Ferrol H., Enzian Inn

A Must-Visit Farm in the Heart of Bellevue

by Kristina MoyApril 15, 2014

If the lyrics in your tot’s favorite song include E-I-E-I-O, it’s time to take your little farmer to a real working farm. Lucky for us, you don’t have to drive out to the country to see a moo-moo here and a moo-moo there. Located in the heart of Bellevue, Kelsey Creek Farm has been entertaining kiddos and their parents for generations (really, since the 1930s) and it’s where you’ll find tons of free farm fun along with plenty of spring chicks, baby bun-buns and other animals.

And on his farm he had a…
On any given day, you can visit with the horses, bunnies, chickens, sheep, goats, rabbits, waterfowl and pigs in their pastures from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. If babies are your thing, you’ll find the farm’s newest arrivals including baby chicks, goat calfs, and piglets during the springtime. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to see the horses being sized for new shoes or the sheep being sheared. Psst! Be sure to look for the fun animal facts as you make your way around the farm.

Get in some playtime
The playground is the perfect size for toddlers with swings, a seesaw, and climbing toys. There’s also two miles of walking trails that wind through the park, over the creek, and by the pastures and enough green space to host a polo tournament. Insider Tip: Restrooms are located next to the playground so you don’t have to hoof it all the way back to the barn.

What to bring
You won’t need to dress the kiddos in their old boots and clothes for a trip to this farm. Kelsey Creek Farm is owned by the City of Bellevue and operated by the Parks and Community Services Department which means the farm is well maintained 365 days a year. Most of the paths around the property are paved which means there’s no big mud puddles to tromp through…. unless you’re planning on going on a super rainy day. Dress the kiddos in their play clothes and be sure to bring along a light jacket for the spring and fall months. The wind can pick up when you’re on the hill by the barn.

If you’re planning on spending a good part of your day at the farm, pack along some snacks and a picnic lunch. There’s plenty of grass to throw down a blanket as well as picnic tables and a picnic shelter. Also, be sure to bring along your camera for those fun photo opps with the farm animals. The paths around the farm are stroller-friendly, but if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, bring along the baby carrier and go on a hike in the woods behind the farm.

Classes and camps and tours. Oh my!
The farm offers Little Farmers and Farm Explorers classes for kiddos ages 2-8 and day camps for kiddos ages 5-7. During farm classes, kids will get the opportunity to experience farm life through fun hands-on activities including animal care and feeding, barn chores, pony rides, and baking and gardening. Curriculum is also integrated into the classes with seasonal themes, craft projects, stories and games. Little Farmers and Farm Explorer classes meet three to four times per month and are offered in September, December, January, February and March. Psst! Mark your calendars. Registration for fall will take place in August at myparksandrecreation.com.

If you’re looking for a fun summer camp experience for your little one, Little Farmers Camp is the summertime version of the farm’s popular Farm Explorers class. During camp, kids will participate in animal care and feeding, barn chores, cooking, gardening and arts and crafts. For kiddos who want a taste of pioneer life, Log Cabin camp takes place in the farm’s 1888 authentic cabin. During a weekly session, campers will learn how to churn butter, grind wheat, wash clothes (by hand), create craft projects, and play old-fashioned games just like Laura did in Little House on the Prairie. Registration is currently available at myparksandrecreation.com.

In addition to camps, the farm offers fun tours with Farmer Jayne for kiddos ages two and older. During the springtime, kiddos can meet the farm’s newest baby animals, learn about their special care and feeding, tour the farm’s historic barn and finish up in the garden planting pumpkin seeds. During the summer months, tours include lots of farm exploration as well as meeting the goats, ponies, sheep and rabbits, touring the barn, learning interesting animal facts and experiencing the old-fashioned skill of wool carding. Kids will also get to create fuzzy sheep from real wool. Tours cost $85 for the first 15 participants; $5.50 for each extra child and $2.50 for each extra adult. For groups will less than 15 participants, the minimum fee per tour is $85.

Celebrate like it’s your birthday!
For the birthday boy or girl who wants to celebrate their big day on the farm, Kelsey Creek offers a fun hands-on birthday party experience. Parties include 45 minutes with the animals (including petting and interacting), a visit to the barn, a craft project made from sheep’s wool, and cake and present time in the Farm Room. Birthday parties for up to 15 children cost $150 for Bellevue residents; $165 for non-residents. Additional children over the age of two are $5 per child; maximum party size is 30 children and adults.

Mark your calendars
The farm holds two yearly festivals which are a ton of fun—one in the spring and one in the fall at pumpkin time.

Sheep Shearing takes place on Saturday, April 26, 2014 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. At this popular event, you can watch the sheep being shorn of their winter coats and enjoy a variety of farm activities including spinning demonstrations, 4-H exhibits, kids’ crafts, tractor-pulled hay rides, and pony rides as well as inflatables, food, and more. Admission is free, but costs vary for some activities ($1-3).

The Kelsey Creek Farm Fair takes place on Saturday, October 11, 2014 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. This annual fall celebration includes fun crafts for the kids, inflatables, pony rides, entertainment, tractor rides and vintage tractor displays as well as pumpkin decorating. Admission is free, but there is a small fee for most activities.

Good to know: Parking for both of these events can be tricky so use the free shuttle service available from the Wilburton Park and Ride and Bannerwood Sports Park. Also, remember to bring cash. The farm does not accept cards.

Hours
The playground, picnic tables, and picnic shelter are open daily from dawn to dusk; farm animals are in their pastures daily from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. No reservations are needed to visit the farm and there are no entrance fees.

Kelsey Creek Farm
410 130th Pl. S.E.
Bellevue, WA 98005
425-452-7688
Online: farmerjayne.com
Reservations: Call Farmer Jayne at 425-452-7688 or email jayne@farmerjayne.com

Have you taken your kiddos to Kelsey Creek Farm? What is your favorite part of the farm? Let us know in the comments section below.

–Kristina Moy, words and photos

ML Interest Tag: farm-fun

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