Spend the morning identifying dolphins in the wild and the afternoon on an airboat searching for alligators
If your next family vacation must-have list includes lots of sunshine, beautiful beaches, delicious local food, and tons of activities for kids, then Marco Island, FL, should top your list of places to visit. Whether you want to fly across the water on a speeding airboat or explore a barrier beach for all the shells you can carry, Marco Island offers something fun for everyone in the family.
Whether you fly into Ft. Myers or take a family road trip to the island, you will love your family vacation in Marco Island, FL. Many celebrities call Marco Island their home away from home, and it is easy to see why with the white sand beaches and epic sunsets. But there’s so much family fun this town has to offer, and we rounded up our favorites.
Best Things to Do on Marco Island with Kids
The Dolphin Explorer
Angelica Kajiwara
There's nothing quite like seeing wild dolphins jumping and playing in the wake of a boat, and this eco-tour delivers. With over 100 dolphin sightings a year, you're sure to enjoy your family-friendly cruise with The Dolphin Explorer. Both the guide and captain are knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions throughout the tour. After you board the boat, your kids can grab a clipboard and answer questions about the dolphins they see to receive a junior scientist badge. Before returning to the marina, you'll stop at Keewaydin Island to explore the barrier beach and collect intact conch shells and sand dollars. You'll leave with a full shell bag and a souvenir photo.
Sun-n-Fun Lagoon
Angelica Kajiwara
If you prefer sand-free water fun, Sun-n-Fun Lagoon in Naples, FL is an excellent addition to your vacation itinerary. The tiniest swimmer will enjoy the zero-entry wading pool and splash area for kids under 6. And, of course, everyone will want to float around the lazy river or swim in one of the many pools. With life jackets and tubes available, you won't need to pack as much gear. Also, the lifeguards are very attentive and friendly. When your crew is ready for lunch, head to the parking lot and visit the Chef Global food truck. His gourmet fusion menu is delicious, and the homemade passion fruit lemonade is perfect on a hot day.
Pro tip: Leave your cooler at home, as no outside food is allowed in the waterpark.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
Angelica Kajiwara
It's rare to find a place where you can visit a mangrove aquarium, hold a sea star and take a stroll across an observation bridge overlooking Henderson Creek, but we found all that and more at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Take a self-guided tour through this educational attraction, both inside and outside. Watch butterflies land on native plants, and learn about local history as you explore the center's trails. Remember to stop by the classroom in the art gallery for an educational DIY craft.
Wooten's Everglades
Angelica Kajiwara
Get ready for a fast and furious family adventure aboard one of the large airboats just outside of Everglades National Park. Nature puts on a show as you race through the swamps filled with alligators and birds with Wooten's Everglades. Knowledgeable guides take you through the mangroves and ensure you get the best view possible. After the airboat ride, walk over to see the alligator show and take your turn holding a baby alligator. Then, stroll through the animal sanctuary where they house and rehabilitate exotic animals.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Angelica Kajiwara
Don't plan to get too far into the zoo after arriving because your kids will want to stop and climb around on the playground inside the entrance at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. It's a great place to stop and eat as there are tables and shade in the same area. Remember to snap a photo of the zoo map, check when you can meet the keepers, and take a boat ride to see the primates. And, of course, everyone will want to take turns feeding the giraffes after you've explored the beautiful outdoor enclosures and exhibits.
South Marco Beach
Angelica Kajiwara
Known for some of the most beautiful beaches in Southwest Florida, Marco Island delivers the perfect family-friendly beach day at South Marco Beach. With easy public parking ($10 per day) and only a five-minute walk to the beach, you'll be laying out towels and blowing up beach balls in no time. The water is often calm enough to paddleboard, and the white sand is lined with beautiful shells and sand dollars.
Pro tip: The city provides complimentary life jackets along the public beach access available to borrow throughout your trip.
Veterans Community Park
Angelica Kajiwara
When your kids are ready to burn off some energy, head to the newest park in Collier County, Veterans Community Park, where they can climb on the well-lit playground, skate on the covered rink, or play fetch with your fur baby in Rover Run. So grab your gear and enjoy a friendly game of Pickleball, Tennis, or Racquetball together. Remember to check their website for information on family movie nights and local events.
Where to Eat on Marco Island with Kids
Angelica Kajiwara
Deep Lagoon The locals call their food "coastal casual", and you'll want to get a table early to miss the local crowds. This restaurant offers the best marina-side seat in town to catch the sunset over the water, and the happy hour menu is a great way to try a little of everything at a great price. The crab rangoon tops the list of favorites, but your kids will have lots to choose from off the kids' menu.
City Seafood If you want the freshest seafood, you'll want to order the stone crab (sold by the claw) caught daily at this restaurant. While the restaurant seems rough around the edges, the food is excellent, and the casual atmosphere is perfect after a long day exploring the Everglades. You can even try fried alligator. This waterfront restaurant is the perfect stop after the airboat ride at Wooten's.
Mango's Dockside Bistro This restaurant offers the best in family-friendly dining on Marco Island. In addition, you can skip setting your alarm on vacation because they serve breakfast until 1 p.m. every day. It's also an excellent place for lunch and has lots to offer on the kids' menu. You can get a great view of the marina at one of the patio tables outside.
Italian Deli and Market Try this authentic Italian deli for colossal pizza slices and amazing Italian dishes when you've had your fill of local seafood. You can dine in or grab food to go; either way, everyone in your crew will enjoy the food at this restaurant. Remember to stop at the dessert case and pick out a sweet treat made fresh daily.
Where to Stay on Marco Island with Kids
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort
Angelica Kajiwara
With less than 40 villas, the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort skips the crowds and delivers family-friendly luxury. The three-bedroom Signature Collection Villa offers plenty of space to spread out and family-friendly amenities such as a fully stocked kitchen and an in-villa washer and dryer. Thankfully, you won't need to pack as much gear as usual because you can borrow bikes, pool gear, games, movies, and more from the front desk. And the zero entry pool and hot tub (or your screened-in balcony) are the perfect places to enjoy the gorgeous sunsets over the water.
Are you ready to see wild dolphins? Check this out.
Marco Island is the ideal family destination with the perfect balance of epic adventures and lower-key family fun. Check out the Paradise Coast tourism website for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Paradise Coast, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
With tennis courts, on-site boat rentals and pools galore—this relaxing, family-friendly resort on a private 15-acre peninsula located on Coronado Island feels like a luxe country club—without the annoying membership fees
Coronado Island may not be a hidden gem for San Diego families looking for a chill, beach town vibe, but for those outside of “America’s Finest City,” this sandbar (known locally as Coronado Island but may be technically a peninsula), located across the bay from downtown San Diego is a worthwhile drive for families in Orange County and Los Angeles looking for a relaxing, seaside vacation. And while there are plenty of Coronado Island hotels to book when you’re here (Coronado is a resort town after all), we can’t say enough good things about choosing the Loews Coronado Bay Resort when you’re traveling with kids—here are 10 reasons to prove just why this family-friendly resort should be on your go-to vacation list.
10 Reasons to Stay at Loews Coronado Bay Resort with Your Family
1. The Loews Coronado Bay Resort Is Located on Its Own Private Peninsula
Unlike other resorts where non-guests can easily walk in off the street, the Loews Coronado Bay Resort is situated on its own peninsula that juts out into the San Diego Bay, with a gated entrance. Not only does this (somewhat) small detail add that extra layer of privacy to the entire resort—lending it that feeling of an exclusive getaway—guests are given unparalleled views of the San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bridge and downtown San Diego with Instagram-worthy sunrises (for early risers) and sunsets.
Of course this doesn't mean the village on the island or even downtown San Diego are inaccessible—on the contrary. The cute village of Coronado is just an easy, 10-minute drive away while all the fun things to do in San Diego are just 20 minutes away.
Good to Know: Don't feel like driving to the village? The resort offers complimentary shuttle service from the hotel to various stops in Coronado so you can hop on and hop off without worrying about driving or parking.
2. Everyone Gets a Pool: A Family Pool, a Kid's Pool & Adult-Only Pool
There are three, generously-sized pools located conveniently in the middle of the resort—one for families (the largest of the three), one just for kid's and the other for just adults. There are also plenty of chairs, umbrellas, and towels at your disposal. You can also upgrade your poolside experience by renting a poolside cabana.
Good to Know: The pools are heated! Three cheers for making this a totally viable swimming option in the winter.
3. Luxurious & Spacious Connecting Rooms at the Loews
The 440-rooms are modern, clean and well-appointed. Add to that, spacious bathrooms and balconies overlooking the bay and gardens—they're almost too nice to leave.
In addition to in-room dining, there are four places to eat on the property.
Crown's Landing: Located just inside the hotel, this is a fantastic spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Decorated in a maritime-theme, Crown's Landing feels like the inside of a ship—without all the swaying. The menus are full of locally-inspired fare with an emphasis on sourcing seasonal, sustainable ingredients. For breakfast, we recommend the pancakes although if your kids love waffles, they'll be just as delighted by those as well. For dinner, the Steak Frites and the Mussels were perfection.
La Cantina: Located next to the pools, this is the spot for poolside lunches or for more casual, shared bites. Family favorites include the Cantina nachos, crispy Baja fish tacos, and cheeseburgers for the kids.
Silver Strand Exchange: Part market (there's wine, beer, and snacks), deli (pastries and sandwiches) and gift shop, here's where you'll also order your lattes to-go, and where you'll come back to later for some of that must-have gelato.
Cay's Lounge: Located deeper within the lobby, here you can order small bites, drinks and where you can take in a game on the big screen television or listen to live music (more on that below!).
5. Entertainment in Cay's Lounge
The lobby is spaciously cozy—and while that may seem like an oxymoron, there are plenty of spots (from banquette seating to low chairs around small tables) to tuck in as a family—whether you want to catch a game on the big screen during football season or listen to live music (Fri. and Sat. from 7 – 9 p.m.), it's a fun spot to grab a drink, a snack and hang out. If the weather is good, head outdoors to the patio—another great view of the San Diego Bay and at night, the fire pits are turned on making it especially cozy.
Good to Know: Happy Hour is Mon.-Fri. from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.—a fantastic post-pool spot for a pre-dinner drink and snack.
6. The Closest Hotel to Silver Strand Beach Is the Loews Coronado Bay Resort
We absolutely love Silver Strand Beach—so much so, we've declared it the "Best Beach for a Staycation" in our guide to the best beaches in San Diego and is by far, one of the best Coronado beaches. The calmer, warmer bayside is great for kiddos who prefer gentler waves, while the ocean side is great for surfing, fishing and hunting for seashells along the beach—word has it that you can find the occasional sand dollar on Silver Strand Beach.
Good to Know: Because crossing the highway on foot is dangerous (there are pedestrian tunnels if you do insist on walking there), Loews Coronado Resort offers complimentary beach shuttles to take you to Silver Strand Beach. So to answer the question, "How far is Loews Coronado Bay Resort from the beach?" Just a few minutes, and you're there.
Not to bury the lede but this may be the best perk of any hotel—thanks to its location on the San Diego Bay, Loews not only offers its own private marina for those heading here by boat (the Crown Isle Marina has 80 slips that accommodate vessels up to 130 feet in length and provides access to all the resort offerings), guests can easily rent any number of water toys from Action Sport Rentals—from wave runners and sailboats and power boats to SUPs and kayaks by the hour.
8. Tennis Courts, Outdoor Spin Classes & Spa
The tennis courts are open in mid-March but if you're looking to work up a sweat, the hotel offers 55-minute outdoor spin classes twice a day most days (although check the schedule for any changes or updates). The spa offers island-inspired body wraps, tropical sea stone massages, facials, and more therapies inspired by surrounding sea.
Of course, if you brought your own bikes (or want to rent them on-site and take a spin along the coast), one of San Diego's best bike paths runs right in front of the property.
9. Fun Lawn Games
There are two ping pong tables and a corn hole set located near the pools—fantastic options when the kids grow tired of the pools and hot tubs (is that even possible?) or if you have some time before dinner and want to sneak in a quick match.
10. The Gelateria in the Silver Strand Exchange
Who doesn't love a little mid-day gelato? Located where you can get snacks, made-to-order coffee drinks, and gifts, kids will love heading here for a mid-afternoon or post-dinner dessert.
Good to Know: If you walk around the property, you'll notice there are raised garden beds on-site. The citrus in the garden is used to make Loews' private label vodka with You & Yours Distilling Co. and the herbs and lettuces are also used at the signature restaurant, Crown Landing.
With over 50 restaurants, 7 art galleries, and over 30 retail shops, there is plenty to see (and eat) along the famed Orange Ave. in Coronado. Add to that all the action sports, activities, parks and playgrounds, museums, farmer's markets, trolley rides, and more beaches to explore—your family certainly won't be bored.
If you are taking a walk along the beach near the Village, make sure to swing by and see The Sandcastle Man—his sandcastle building skills are sure to inspire the next generation!
Good to Know: Looking for a playground? Tidelands Park is the biggest of Coronado’s parks and is a model for inclusive design for people with disabilities.
Raising kids is hard work. That’s why making time for a Seattle date night is important for parents
Despite what the song says, boys just want to have at least as much fun as girls do. So why do so many Seattle date nights for parents slip into the routine rather than the unique? This year, shake that up a bit with Seattle date night ideas that go beyond dinner and a movie. We’re talking cooking classes, old-school sports (not that you’re old of course), gaming spots, and adventure parks that will get the old heart pumping. Who knows? You just might find a new normal to your routine.
Nordo's Room Service
Nordo's Room Service
What if your night out was actually a night in? And it was planned by someone else? That's the idea behind Cafe Nordo's at-home experience kits—Nordo's Room Service. Produced by Seattle-based artists and packed with freshly-made treats, these mystery adventures offer a truly unique experience. There are three experiences to choose from ("Do Not Disturb", "The Witching Hour" and "Curiouser & Curiouser: The Interrogation of Alice") which include video presentations to take you step by step in your adventure, specially curated desserts, non-alcoholic themed drinks (with suggestions on how to spike them) and keepsakes. Boxes can be picked up at Cafe Nordo or they can be shipped directly to your home. All locally picked up boxes can also add-on wine or select Nordo-produced food items-like a charcuterie board featuring Olympia Provisions Charcuteries.
Who says that trampoline parks need to be for kids only? Catapult Adventure Park offers 18 different experiences and some not for the faint of heart. Each one has its own intriguing name like the Launch Zone, Tube-Topia, Strobe Zone, The Paw Pit and Giant Cat Tree. Who know what kind of challenges you and your better half will face with names like that. After all of that running, climbing and jumping around, you’ll need a full snack bar to refuel. They’ve got what you need there, serving up pizzas, wings, cheesy bread sticks, Cinnabon rolls, cookies, brownies and more.
Just waking up after many months of closure due to Covid, Everett Improv encourages you to get off the couch and challenge yourself in front of a crowd. Although the 50% off alcohol sales might be enough some couples to try out Everett Improv's Happy Hour, it's really not about the drinks. Held each Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., this happy hour is all about playing ridiculous games for the sake of playing them and learning a few things too. This venue also offers more traditional courses all year long as well.
Because nothing says "I love you" like a little head-to-head axe throwing competition, you've got every reason to plan your next date night at this Seattle hot spot. Come as a pair or bring your besties to experience a date night that's not easily classified. Book a private lane if you've got a big group or plan to share if it's just the two of you. Then come prepared to learn the ropes from a certified coach who will walk you through how to throw the axe and score the game. Closed-toed shoes are a must to play, but the buffalo plaid is optional. Outside food is a welcomed addition here, but you can also opt for low-key snacks they sell on-site. Blade & Timber became the first axe throwing venue in the state of Washington approved to serve beer, but don't go crazy. Guests are limited to two beers while throwing axes.
Random fact: a "flatstick" is slang for a golf putter. At Flatstick + Pub, couples can combine one of America’s favorite activities with a bar. Each Flatstick Pub location has a similar look and feel highlighting the art of local artist, Ryan ‘Henry’ Ward. But each offers a unique and completely different experience. Expect to find a highly creative nine-hole course with various “water hazards” and obstacles to avoid like beer kegs or whimsical creatures. Ready for a date night bonus? Flatstick Pub is also home to the original Duffleboard, a tabletop version of mini golf. This twist on the game was created by the owners of the pub and requires a special handheld putter. This game is just as simple and can be played by people of all skill levels. Score!
Insider Tip: All Flatstick locations offer beer, wine, cider and soft drinks and will most certainly offer a good time. However, if you'd like to enjoy a meal with your game, the South Lake Union location is the best choice as it features a restaurant overseen by Ethan Stowell Restaurants featuring brick oven pizzas and pub classics such as chicken wings, jalapeño poppers and fried mushrooms.
Remember when roller skating was cool? It still is at Pattison's West. Only now you can hang out with the cool kids during Adult Skate Nights. If it has been a while since you last laced up a pair skates, you'll be surprised to see how much things have changed. One of the highest regarded skating rinks in America, Pattison’s West features a state-of-the-art music sound system, LED lighting and a super smooth maplewood rotunda skate floor. The first Saturday of every night is set aside for Sip & Skate Nights featuring what Pattison's calls "an adult variety of music and adult beverages" (beer and wine) giving a new meaning to "snack bar." The rink also offers Adult Rhythm Skate Nights on Sundays and Wednesdays featuring R&B, Fund, House and Hip Hop music.
The only thing hotter than molten steel is smashing that metal into lifetime memories. Wait, isn’t that also called blacksmithing? For date night? Sure! This is all about playing with fire and gigantic tools (the kind of thing your six-year-old dreams about) and making stuff like horseshoe knives, bottle openers, garden art and even Damascus stainless steel rings. Or use your creativity and immortalize your beloved in iron. Impress guests with a medieval cheeseboard and knife, or bust out chop sticks and wasabi bowls that look like props from Game of Thrones. Anything’s possible. If you can think it, you can forge it. No phones, no computers. Just fire, hammers and gloved hands. And anvils. Don’t forget the anvils.
3600 E. Marginal Way S., Studio 8 Seattle Online:lawlessforge.com
Ocean 5
Ocean5
Have a fun date night and help protect sea life at the same time. That is the goal of Ocean5. Named after the five great oceans of the earth, this entertainment hub goes above and beyond bringing sustainable practices to the entertainment industry, including decorating with carpets made from recycled fishing nets and using locally sourced and reused building materials. However, they know that having fun is just as important. Laser Tag is a really big deal here. Ocean5 features a two-story laser tag arena that can accommodate up to 40 people per game. (Not that you would bring 38 people on your date night, but it's nice to know that you could.) They offer both regular 10 Pin Bowling as well as Duckpin where everything is the same but smaller. Psst! Fans of the sport think it's twice the fun. The game room here also features over 50 classic games and after 10 p.m., it’s adults only.
Insider Tip: Ocean5 offers special events like Paint & Sip nights, rock 'n' roll bingo, concerts, football Sundays, Wine Down Wednesdays, comedy nights and more. Also located on the Ocean5 premises is Table 47, a restaurant and bar featuring over 40 beers and wine on tap, as well as specialty cocktails. The food is special, too. Diners can expect to find pulled pork sliders, crispy Brussels sprouts, flatbreads, burgers, Chimichurri steak, baja shrimp tacos and more on the robust menu.
5268 Point Fosdick Dr. Gig Harbor, WA Online:o5social.com
The goal of Vertex Arena is to connect people through the power of play and provide experiences that are both engaging and healthy by encouraging people to move around. They say that people who come here get a chance to “express their true inner eccentric through jump and movement, connect with their fellow man through lighthearted competition and relax with a shareable food experience.” You can’t beat that. Vertex Arena is also a place to feel like a kid again with a variety of trampolines, Nerf guns, bows and arrows, dodge ball, a ninja course and virtual reality chamber. Who wouldn’t want to freefall into a pool of foam squares, play a game of basketball while bouncing off a trampoline, play a game of tag with Nerf products or balance on an obstacle course?
Good to Know: Recharge at the Sideline Restaurant & Bar featuring freshly made thin crust pizzas, sliders, sandwiches, fish & chips, chicken wings and more, plus a list of beverages that range from Jones Soda to craft cocktails.
Bowling has changed a lot since Fred and Barney’s bowling league days. And Bowerlo has helped to change the recreational sport’s image with the exception of those shoes. Today, these centers feature the latest technology in bowling but with a retro feel. It’s hip without being silly. The lounge areas and sports bars feature oversized shareables and signature cocktails. And the Lynnwood and Tukwila locations features 40 lanes and arcade games for the kid in you. The Garage Billiards & Bowl location is slightly smaller with just 20 lanes, but also features 25 pool tables, outdoor seating and a fire pit.
Bowlero South Seattle 100 Andover Pkwy. W. Tukwila, WA
We experience pangs of envy when the kids go off to the Seattle Aquarium and MoPOP and MOHAI. They get to spend the entire day learning and exploring and wondering. Why do kids get to have all the fun? Enter Field Trip Society, experiential event planners who produce academic excursions for adults. Their motto is “Semper Quaerens” (Always Searching), and that translates to a mind-boggling array of potential outings for curious couples who love to learn. Want to acquire the knowledge of how to make pies, or the history of caviar, or how to forage for mushrooms, or fly fish, or star gaze? Field Trip Society has you covered. No permission slip required. The Field Trip Society locates passionate experts who are excited to convey their know-how to eager acolytes. Small class sizes and informal classrooms make it fun for everyone. Frequent venues include pubs and restaurants, because if you’re going to learn to macrame, wood-fired pizza and a glass of Syrah couldn’t hurt.
If you're a game player–any type of game player–you’ve got to visit Mox Boarding House. It’s a perfect venue that can accommodate any type of date whether it’s just you and your significant other, a double date or even (sigh) a date night out with the kids. No really. This place features every kind of board or role-playing game you can imagine. Simply check them out from their library for free while dining in their full-service restaurant or enjoying drinks in the bar or a simple dessert for two. And if you fall in love with the game, you can purchase it in their retail store. Just remember, the one who wins the game has to put everything back in the box like you found it.
Always wanted to play drums, bass or drumandbass? Dusty Strings is where souls soar on the wings of music. Grab your partner and find your mutual melody. Dusty Strings gives group and private lessons for the musically inclined or curious. Private lessons provide the most individual attention, and they’re the best choice if you prefer learning two-on-one. Or hold hands, take a deep breath and brave a group class. They are fun, welcoming and stress-free. In this safe group environment, couples bring their instruments and dive in, gaining confidence playing music together. Teachers might encourage an electronic tuner, picks, staff or TAB paper, a capo, music stand, foot stool, recording device or other items. No idea? No problem. Just call or email the friendly staff and tell them you are a musical noob and they will guide you. The best part is choosing from a vast list of obscure instruments (think: bouzouki, button accordion, concertina, dobro) and giving them a try with someone you love. Isn’t being a couple all about making beautiful music together?
Let’s face it, no matter how athletic and active you were before kids, having a Little or two at home makes workouts just a tad more, well, work. Why not grab your spandex and your sweetie and head to Edgeworks for an exciting evening helping each other balance, stretch and climb your way to the top? Dubbed “The Climbers’ Gym,” Edgeworks offers many beginning climbing courses every week at all three locations. Learn the basics including climbing safety checks and belaying (climber-speak for managing the climber’s rope). The student-teacher ratio is always 4:1. Absolutely no experience is necessary and all gear can be rented on site. The best news is, all classes include a two-week membership that will allow you (and maybe your kids, next time) to come back and test out your mad climbing skillz. What better and fun way to get your sweat on with your significant other?
Has your dinner routine fallen into the same ho-hum category as laundry, unloading the dishwasher and vacuuming Cheerios out of the minivan? Luckily, the wide (as in enormous) variety of jaw droppingly delicious cooking classes at Hot Stove Society will turn ho-hum into hot tamale in seconds. Founded by beloved Seattle restaurateur Tom Douglas (who sometimes shows up to teach a class), Hot Stove offers the freshest, fun and most downright delicious cooking classes this side of Le Cordon Bleu, at a fraction of the price. Classes such as Potsticker Love with Hsiao-Ching and Knife Skills will bring your cooking game up a notch, but we’re partial to the classes that let you snuggle up with your favorite adult while you cook. Along with classes like Wine Press and Tom Douglas’ World Famous Triple Coconut Cream Pie, you really can’t go wrong planning the perfect date night with Hot Stove Society.
Insider Tip: Classes fill up quickly, so if you see a class that sounds interesting sign up now!
As if you needed yet another reason to get out and enjoy Seattle's spelndid scenery, the folks at Cycle Saloon have found one for you. This crazy contraption seats 16 guests who peddle around the streets of Ballard on various pub crawls or brewery tours. It will surely make your kids jealous, but tough nuggets kiddos, parents need their exercise. Despite its name, riders don’t actually drink and drive (drinking on the bike is the same as drinking in public and carries all the same consequences under the law). But during this excursion, you don’t have worry about driving at all. That's because each oversized bike comes with its own driver. There are five pedaling seats on each side of the vehicle, a bench in the back that seats three non-pedaling guests and one standing spot in the middle for what they've deemed for the “dancer.” And guess what? You can bring any food and non-alcoholic beverages aboard as well. You can book individually or as a group. Just remember...all riders must at least 21 years of age and all peddlers need to be at least 5’3”.
Insider Tip: The company also operates the Cycle Saloon Pontoon which operates with the same principle on water taking you around South Lake Union. Although dubbed the "booze cruise,” the pontoon doesn’t make any stops for liquor during its 1.5 hour tour. Even so, you still must be 21 to hop aboard.
Head to Solvang, CA and have one of the best weekends with your family experiencing all things Denmark without leaving the country
Solvang (aka the “Danish Capital of America”) has a lot more going for it than windmills and waitresses in dirndls. While the town has lots of fun kitschy charm worth checking out, there are also plenty of modern, swoon-worthy restaurants, boutique hotels, tucked-away tasting rooms, along with hidden gems the kids will love uncovering. Whether you head up to Solvang for a day trip from LA or have the opportunity to spend a day or two (or more), Solvang is a must stop for any family looking for off-the-beaten-path fun.
The entrance to the park is through a fairy tale-esque “castle” archway but most notably, HCA Park has tons of great features like a nice walking trail that begins near the park’s entrance to the right (about where the Vinland Hotel is located—in fact, some of the Vinland’s rooms overlook the park). HCA Park has a newer, modern playground structure which is often way less populated than Sunny Fields Park, an awesome skate park, free municipal tennis courts that were recently resurfaced, and brand new pickleball courts. There are also secluded wooded picnic BBQ areas and loads of nature areas to explore.
Good to Know: Like all nature spots around California, mountain lions and bobcats are known to frequent the park, so it’s best to stay alert—and of course, also beware of rattlers (in season) and poison oak (always!).
Hop aboard this old-fashioned streetcar (but modernized thanks to its new electric motor) for a 25-minute tour of the town's most popular landmarks. Along the way, your guide (dressed in traditional Danish garb) will regale you with fun facts and local lore. We don't want to give too much away, but be prepared to discover the town's one authentic thatched roof and the meaning behind those wooden storks perched atop many of the local buildings.
Cost: $14/Adults; $9/Children ages 3-11; free for children under 3
Just outside of town you'll find this Danish-inspired playground complete with a Viking ship, windmill, and mini gingerbread house. Of course, there are also the requisite swings, slides, and climbing structures that kids love. Added bonus? Bathrooms are typically very clean just in case your little one needs a potty break on the way in or out of town.
There are loads of places to taste wine in town but this is the only one we found with outdoor games for the kids to play. While this tasting room opened in 2018, Dana Volk, the owner and winemaker behind the label, has been in the industry since 1996. Part of the growing movement of women winemakers (the number of women winemakers is particularly high in the Santa Barbara county region), Dana proves that you can marry your passion with your lifestyle (aka kids and family). Dana V. Wines is the direct (and delicious) result of that effort.
Owned by local dads, this adorable boutique offers unique toys, books, and gifts for babies and kids, along with gently (as in barely) worn clothes on consignment. Tucked inside one of Solvang’s most famous windmills, it's an under-the-radar local favorite featuring finds that are both whimsical, well-made, and socially conscious (like one of our fave discoveries the Women's March Puzzle). Just a warning: You won't be able to leave empty-handed.
Kids will go cuckoo for this shop featuring cuckoo clocks galore. There are traditional, hand-carved wooded clocks with elaborate scenes, along with cute, tail-wagging cat clocks. If you can't manage to time your visit on the hour (who can blame you?), not to worry. Friendly shop workers can manually adjust the clocks to chime for kids.
The tiny museum is a hidden gem, and is located upstairs in the independently-run bookstore. It's an intimate space that details the life and the legacy of Denmark's most famous author (The Ugly Duckling, The Princess and the Pea and The Little Mermaid to name a few) with knick-knacks and childhood home replicas—even your littlest ones will be delighted by all the exhibition pieces. Once you're finished with the museum portion, spend some time exploring all the wonderful used and antique books on the same floor.
For anyone with a love of housewares, home decor, and gifts, this store is a must-stop for the best in Danish design (so beautiful and functional). Kids can get in on the retail action by checking out the clever toys. Not only do they claim the largest selection of Hoptimist in the US, but there are some LEGO sets here and the cutest stuffed animals that might have you lifting any purchase bans of soft loveys. And don't miss the adorable wall of clogs made in teeny-tiny kids' sizes.
Sit outside on the large patio and enjoy food that's fresh from local farms, ranches, and coastal waters, sure to please both “big” and “little” kids. Chef/owner Michael Cherney helms the craft-food eatery, relying on his serious restaurant industry résumé—with time spent in Michelin-starred kitchens in Los Angeles, at Ortolan, and in Las Vegas, at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon—to turn out signature lunch or dinner items like seasonally-shifting grilled cheese creations, Instagram-famous sandwiches such as their Solvang Hot Chicken, or smash burgers (including a kid-sized version), straight-from-the-farm-stand salads, and family-friendly soups which utilize local, seasonal crops. Can't-miss desserts include house-made ice cream, plus freshly-baked cookies and a family-favorite frozen lime pie.
Stop by the register to order your meal before taking a seat (don't worry about the long line—it moves quickly!) at this sweet breakfast joint that offers a full breakfast menu that is sure to delight everyone in the family including gluten-free waffles that are all the rage. Other favorites? Breakfast burritos with a tater tot surprise, veggie omelets stuffed with vegetables, and for the kids? Banana Nutella pancakes of course.
Almost as famous as the windmills within the town's limits, this breakfast hotspot fills up fast. If you don't get there by 8 a.m., expect to wait for your Danish pancake fix—thin pancakes served with whip cream and fresh fruit. The kids will like the chocolate chip pancakes (what's not to love about that) and you'll love that the coffee is strong and refilled regularly.
This Solvang-staple coffee shop is the place to go for your morning joe, your afternoon pick-me-up, or honestly, everything in between. The coffee is roasted locally and the baked goods are organic with vegan and lots of gluten-free options.
Don't miss out on the superfood lattes. The turmeric was a cup of cozy with a snappy finish thanks to the ginger and cinnamon. Definitely worth the stop and be prepared to linger—the cool Nordic vibes coupled with the local staff’s warmth make it hard to leave.
Opened in September 2021, this family-owned and operated gelato shop focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and is determined to bring authentic Italian gelato to the Santa Ynez Valley. And with up to 18 flavors on display, they've made the choice between Belgian cookie gelato, dark chocolate, or salted caramel extremely difficult. Of course, now you have all the more reason to frequent this gelato shop more than once while you are in town.
From the wood-burning oven pizza to the fresh and tangy Puttanesca, the food here is everything you want rustic-Italian cuisine to be—comforting, satisfying, and delivering on all taste levels at the end of a long day. And while the restaurant is "casually elegant," the staff and the atmosphere are warm, welcoming, and accommodating—including delivering an order of plain spaghetti with no butter, no oil, and no decorative "greens."
The Danish Mill Bakery, one of Solvang’s “fab five” Danish bakeries, has fun animatronic bakers in the front window, along with a life-size animatronic baker inside the restaurant who gives this whole little speech. Trust us, it's fun and not creepy. Treat yourself to their aebleskiver (similar to doughnut holes), chocolates, pastries, breads, and one of our favorites—Napolean's Hats.
Opened in September 2021, this family-owned and operated gelato shop focuses on using locally sourced ingredients and is determined to bring authentic Italian gelato to the Santa Ynez Valley. And with up to 18 flavors on display, they've made the choice between Belgian cookie gelato, dark chocolate, or salted caramel extremely difficult. Of course, now you have all the more reason to frequent this gelato shop more than once while you are in town.
For contemporary Danish style, a stay at The Landsby is a must. Wood accents, muted colors, and tactile fabrics all layered together in that enviably effortless, hygge way that transports you directly to Denmark without ever leaving the country. The lobby sets the tone for an entirely welcoming atmosphere while the outdoor seating area, complete with fire pits, makes sitting outside a comfortable treat day or night. The 50-room hotel is in the middle of downtown Solvang. Plan to leave the car in the parking lot and easily walk everywhere from its central location. The Landsby is also dog-friendly.
Insider Tip: The Landsby’s onsite restaurant, Mad & Vin, is a great option for a family-friendly breakfast, brunch, dinner, or even Happy Hour nibbles, but it does book up in advance—meal-time reservations are recommended.
Copenhagen, meet California! This pet-friendly, modern hotel offers 82 guest rooms and is located right in the middle of town—meaning you can leave your car in the parking lot and walk to all of the must-go spots Solvang has to offer. The kids will love the hot tub and heated pool while parents will love the V Lounge which features local wine, fresh fare, and innovative cocktails.
No Solvang trip would be complete without a stop at this big bird mecca. Totally kitschy and kinda strange (birds are the descendants of dinosaurs after all), this roadside staple is everything you need and expect it to be. Little kids will probably need help holding the food and heed the warnings that the birds can bite.
With its mild weather, relatively affordable hotel rates, and minimal crowds (shhh... don't let word get out), there is really never a bad time of year to visit Solvang. That said, if you're looking for something a little "extra," here are four yearly events worth checking out:
Danish Days: Traditionally the third weekend in September, this 3-day celebration of all things Danish includes a Viking encampment (with reenactments!), live music and folk dancing, an artisan marketplace, a parade, and more.
Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch: This event occurs Sept.-Oct. and features a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and fresh-made kettle corn.
Scarecrow Fest: From Oct. 1-31, more than 100 scarecrows will populate the Santa Ynez Valley. Can you find them all?
Solvang Julefest: For more than a month each holiday season (Nov. 26, 2022-Jan. 6, 2023), Solvang turns into one of the most "Christmas-y" towns in America.
Pack up the kids and set out on the open road because there’s no better time to visit one of these DMV destinations than right now
If fall foliage, u-pick farms, and holiday-themed amusement parks are topping your fall bucket list, make a weekend of it by sojourning at one of these near-by getaways for fall activities and autumn adventures. Take in the changing colors of the leaves as you head out of town for one of these quick, easy trips that will check off loads of must-do autumn events in a single weekend. From peeping leaves aboard a Strasburg train to enjoying a crisp, fall hike in the Appalachian Mountains to holiday thrills at Hersheypark, we’ve found the best places to get the most out of a fall weekend near Washington, DC.
The Best DC Road Trip for Leap Peeping | Shenandoah Valley, VA
What to See For possibly the best leaf peeping on the East Coast head to the must-visit jewel of the valley Shenandoah National Park which stretches 105 miles from Front Royal to Waynesboro-Charlottesville, straddling the Blue Ridge mountains.Start your adventure at the Visitor Center for a map of the best kid-friendly hikes in the park.
When you've explored all there is to see above ground, duck underground to to ooh and ahh over stalagmites and stalactites. Caverns grow like weeds in the valley, but Luray Caverns is our top pick because you get more bang for your buck. You pay just one admission ($32 for adults, $16 for kids 6-12, and $29 for seniors) and get to enjoy three museums in addition to the main attraction. After you tour the caverns, head over to see coaches dating back to 1725 in the Car & Carriage Museum, compare the toys of yesteryear to today's favorites at Toy town Junction and then take a fall stroll through Shenandoah Heritage Village for a quick lesson on 19th century farm communities.
Where to Eat Route 11 Potato Chips is famous for their unique flavors (Dill Pickle or Chesapeake Crab anyone?) and quality ingredients like unrefined sea salt and organic sweet potatoes from Virginia’s very own Quail Cove Farm. Fans can stop by the factory to see what really goes into making small-batch potato chips. The plant is open to the public Mon–Sat, 9:00 am-5:00 pm, but call in advance to make sure they’re cooking on your visit day. And did we mention the free samples?
Where to Stay The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club manages cabins throughout the DMV, including a few inside Shenandoah National Park. Ranging from primitive (no electricity or running water) to modern, the cabins are a delightful and budget friendly way to experience the park.
The Best DC Road Trip for Holiday Fun | Hershey, PA
What to See More than “just” chocolate, the city of Hershey, PA also draws visitors for its famed amusement park with more than 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, live entertainment, games, food, shops and even a simulated tropical rainforest where visitors learn how cocoa beans grow and are harvested. Ticket purchases include admission to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo that includes more than 200 animals from five regions of North America. Every weekend (through Oct. 30), Hersheypark is transformed into a spooktacular Halloween adventure featuring flashlight tours of the zoo, trick-or-treating through Treatville and a glow-in-the-dark dance party. Get merry at Christmas Candylane from Nov. 11-Jan. 1 when the park glows with over 5 million lights.
Where to Eat Take a break from park food and make a reservation at The Chocolatier, a family-style restaurant that offers hints of Hershey in lots of its dishes. You’ll find everything from chocolate drizzled potato chips to flatbreads with Hershey’s chocolate balsamic glaze and epic entrees like a Heath Bar crusted salmon and a burger topped with a Reece’s cup!
Where to Stay Get a sugar rush at Hershey Lodge where indoor play includes a 30,000 square foot pool at the sweetest place on earth. From a Twizzlers Twists water slide to a Reese’s Water Walk that features, you guessed it, oversized peanut butter cups, the hotel pool at Hershey Lodge checks off every candy lover’s list.
The Best DC Road Trip for Rail Enthusiasts | Strasburg, MD
What to See Arriving in Amish country invites your family to step back to a more peaceful time. Take a leisurely ride on the Strasburg Rail Road. Across the street from the Strasburg station is The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania ($10 adults, $9 seniors and $8 for kids 3-11) where you can explore one of the largest collections fo locomotives in the world (over 100 trains are on display). You can also tour the cars virtually. For serious train collectors, the Toy Train Library at The National Toy Train Museum is a must-stop.
What to Eat Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant has been serving really good food since 1929. They offer multiple dining options and tons of delicious dishes. Many of their ingredients come from local farms. Check their website for family specials and coupons.
Where to Stay What would a train-themed weekend be without a stay in a real caboose! The Red Caboose Motel & Restaurant is home to 38 red cabooses, a mail car and a baggage car. Family caboose accommodations include bunk beds and can sleep up to 6 in a train car.
What to See This quaint town in West Virginia has beautiful paths that wind through the National Park. Your family can stand where Thomas Jefferson stood when he said it was a view worth crossing the Atlantic Ocean for. Be sure to stop by the Visitors Center so your kiddos can pick up the Jr. Ranger packet. They’ll get the most adorable badge from a park ranger. Don’t forget to hop on the shuttle on your way into Lower Town. It is stroller-friendly and the only stop with easy parking.
Where to Eat Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee is the perfect place to pop in for quick picnic noshes. You'll find hearty sandwiches that will help fuel your hike and, for the picky eaters, PBJ, pastries and cookies.
Where to Stay Connect with nature around the area and get a little more of the great outdoors by staying in one of Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA’s cabins. There is room for the whole family and your sweet fur baby too. Your kiddos will love bouncing on the jumping pillow, splashing in the pool and the Saturday morning all-you-can-eat pancakes at the campground.
The Best Fall Road Trip Near DC for Historic Tours | Williamsburg, VA
What to See History never gets old in this almost 400-year-old town. Help your child “get into character” by renting an adorable period costume. The stories will come alive and make the whole experience more real. Hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a truly authentic way to see the city. Drive 30 minutes up the road to the Powhatan Indian Village to learn about Pocahontas and her way of life.
Where to Eat Stop by Dubois Grocer to satisfy that afternoon sweet tooth. The friendly store attendant will be more than happy to send you home with some rock candy. At Food for Thought, you’ll dine surrounded by thought-provoking quotes. Cute discussion cards are left on the table to help with dinner conversation. Pick an eclectic dish from the gluten-free or senior’s menu. The kid’s menu is little foodie heaven with salmon, ribs and pot roast, to name a few.
Where to Stay Holiday Inn Club Vacations Williamsburg Resort features 2 and 3-bedroom villas with fully-equipped kitchens and in-unit laundry. A home away from home with everything your family needs to kick back and relax. Pools, Putt Putt, playgrounds and tons of family-style amenities are fun for the whole gang.
The Best Fall Road Trips Near DC for Farm-Fresh Fun | Franklin, VA
What to See Visit Goose Hill Farm for a classic pumpkin patch experience and get lost in their corn maze. Beyond pumpkins, Southampton County is known for its peanut farms, peanut shops and peanut museums. Stop by Hope & Harmony Farms to grab a few gourmet bags.
What to Eat Fred’s Restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Franklin. It has been a local tradition since 1945. Saturday mornings draw a crowd for the all-you-can-eat buffet and fish fry. Grab a seat on their “secret garden” patio complete with wrought iron fence and brick fireplace.
Where to Stay Check in to PandA Homestead for an authentic farm stay experience. Your kiddos can help with farm chores by hand feeding their friendly goats, cuddling baby chicks and trying out their best turkey calls. You’ll get to relax in the 2-bedroom guest cottage. Wake up to homemade strawberry jam and fresh eggs in the fridge.
The Best Fall Road Trip New DC for One-Stop Fun | Hot Springs, VA
What to See Omni Homestead resort activities include horseback riding, fly fishing, falconry lessons, golf, hiking, skiing in the winter and more. And if you want to explore all the resort has to offer sans kids, you can do that, too! Adventure Kids programs offer hours of activities ranging from crafts to hikes for kids ages 5-12 (geared mostly towards 5-10, but 11 & 12 year olds are welcome) so that your kids can have fun while you sneak in a date night dinner or a trip to the spa.
You can easily spend your entire time on property and never run out of fun, but if you want to explore the area, take a quick drive to a waterfall you can see from the road! Set your map to Falling Spring Falls which is located off Route 220 and about 15 minutes from the resort. There is a parking lot before the falls on your right.
Where to Eat There are a number of options on property, from fine dining to tap room saloons, but our favorite for family-friendly bites is Woody's. You'll find hand-crafted pizzas, soups and sandwiches at this casual eatery.
Where to Stay It’s hard to believe you are still in Virginia when a turn off Highway 81 leads to incredible elevation, vistas and the grand Homestead Resort. Twenty-three US presidents have visited this 2,000 acre property and you’ll feel the Presidential treatment your entire stay! The indoor pool is still heated by the hot spring water naturally flowing beneath the resort (so the temperature of the water does fluctuate). Consult the Resort Guide, printed weekly and provided at check-in, for restaurant hours and available experiences.
Family life is busy, and with the start of the school year on the horizon, it’s even busier. Between after school activities, trying to get a dinner on the table, and carving out time for family fun, there’s barely a minute to spare. If you’re feeling pressed for time, these Seattle-area companies can simplify your hectic routine and maybe even give you back a few minutes of much-needed family time. From dinner hacks to an easy way to sell your stuff, pepper your life with these Seattle parent hacks when you need a minute.
This article is sponsored by InnovAsian Cuisine, a world-class provider of pre-packaged, frozen Asian component meals, appetizers and sides. From the freezer aisle to your kitchen table, your kiddos can enjoy a delicious meal in less than 20 minutes. Made with quality white meat chicken and flavorful chef-crafted sauces, InnovAsian Cuisine offers restaurant-quality meals that will delight the whole family. Click here for inspiration for your next dinner.
courtesy Sella
When unused stuff is piling up…
It’s amazing how much gear kids require. From their first bucket carseat through their last pair of soccer cleats, there’s a constant flow of outgrown and no-longer-used stuff cycling through our homes. Who has the time to sort through the piles and pass them along, donate them or try to sell them online? That’s what inspired one Pacific Northwest dad to create Sella. An online service that pairs busy families with expert sellers so you can “turn your clutter into cash.” The process is pretty simple. Gather up all that unused Kindle, the baby carrier your kiddo has outgrown, or the baby monitor you don’t need anymore, because baby (finally!) sleeps through the night. Then ship it all out to Sella. They take it from there, snapping pics, listing it on different sites, and writing the listing. All that’s left is for you to approve the listing and wait for it to sell. What will you do with all that free time and space?
Insider Tip: Sella has plans to launch locally in Seattle so parents can drop-off items in person soon, but for now mail-in is how to get things done.
How lucky are we that Seattle is home to so many amazing indie bookstores? Some love to leave new books in Free Little Libraries around town. Some host storytimes and author meet and greets for kids. Others help parents keep their kid’s bookshelf fresh with a monthly subscription box. We’re big fans of Phinney Books’ Phinney By Post Kids program that delivers a new picture book to your doorstep monthly or every other month. What could be easier? The books are aimed at kids ages birth through five, and are hand-selected by the discerning staff at Phinney Books. While they have a lot things they take into consideration when selecting the books, the one that matters most to parents is that your kids will want to read it over and over and over again.
Insider Tip: If you’re short on time, but aren’t quite sold on a new book a month, call your local bookstore to get recommendations. Trust us, they know their stuff and have spot-on picks for every kid.
If you’ve got a toddler you know how quickly they move from one toy to the next. They’re a physical embodiment of the “ohh! squirrel!” phenomenon. And while we know how much you’d love to spend all day playing dress-up, reading stories, or heading out on the next pretend Paw Patrol rescue with them, there’s only so much time in a day to play. Enter Sensa Play Rentals, a parent-owned, Seattle company that makes gorgeous sensory play kits for kids, delivers them to your door, and even picks them up one week later. It’s what every kid wants (and every parent needs).
This Tukwila-based company has been helping Seattle families get dinner on the table since 1998. For those nights when sports, or theater, or working late leave you pressed for time, you can grab an Innovasian frozen protein, choose a family-friendly recipe, and have dinner ready in around 30 minutes. Inventive dinner ideas, like Asian Chicken & Waffles or Simple and Easy Spam Musubi are kid crowd-pleasers that fill them up just in time to shuttle them out the door (or maybe off to bed?) again.
Insider Tip:Follow them on Instagram for creative ways to use Innovasian’s entrees, sides, and apps.
Although you had high hopes for your pandemic garden, it’s a little overgrown at this point. And strolling the Farmer’s Market just isn’t in the cards this week. Let local Seattle farmers help get fresh produce from their fields to your fridge when you sign up for a fall or winter CSA share. In fact, it’s the right time to sign up for the next share with local farms like Skylight Farms, Local Color Farm & Fibre, Jubilee and Full Circle. (Hint: These are just a few of the local area farms growing fresh veggies right now). Then it’s as easy as picking them up on your way home from work (or after your last playdate) to have your fridge stocked for the week ahead.
Sometimes just the thought of prepping dinner for your entire family can be exhausting. Even the thought of doing dishes after prepping a pre-made meal is too much. After a day of drop-offs, pick-ups, play time, and general kiddo chaos, going out and treating yourself to a nice meal out can seem more like a dream than a reality. Will the kids enjoy their meal? Will they refuse to eat what’s in front of them? Will you spend more time stressing about the bill than actually enjoying your time together? Put your worries away. We’ve compiled your go-to guide of all the Portland area restaurants where kids eat free (yep, you read that right), or can get meals so cheap they feel like they’re free. So what are you waiting for? Indulge yourself and enjoy at one of these local favorites or family-friendly chains tonight.
Looking for an interactive dining experience your kids will be talking about for days? Kingkong offers an authentic Korean BBQ experience everyone will enjoy. Served family style, you can grill your meal right at your table. It’s tasty fun for everyone.
The Deal: Kids under four eat free daily. Kids ages 4-8 years are half price (only on all you can eat options).
Choose your meats and veggies at the buffet, add as many ingredients as you’d like, then watch the restaurant’s talented cooks roast everything together for a truly yummy lunch or dinner.
The Deal: Kids under four eat free with a paid adult. Offered daily.
Head on over to the Evergreen State to enjoy mouth-watering ribs and a whole lot more (seriously, their menu is huge). Kids four and under get a one piece chicken and fries meal on the house at this Vancouver family hotspot! Nope, we’re not ribbing ya, this is a real deal!
The Deal: Kids under four can receive a one piece chicken and fries meal on the house. Dine-in only. Offered daily.
14415 S.E. Mill Plain Blvd., Unit 117B
Vancouver, WA Online:ribcity.com
Head to Pepino’s Mexican Grill on Tuesday nights for fresh, healthy Mexican food that everyone can agree on. This family-run business has been dishing up traditional faves for more than 20 years and continues to make customers smile on the reg.
The Deal: Kids 12 and under can choose between free bean and cheese burrito or a flour quesadilla with a side of rice, pinto beans, chips, and a 12 oz. beverage.
This Pacific Northwest institution has been serving up comfort food and delicious pies since 1978 so they definitely know what they’re doing. Plus, kids eat free every Tuesday whether you’re dining in, picking up, or getting delivery.
Insider Tip: Have a craving for something sweet? Come in on a Wednesday and receive a free slice of their famous pie when you order an entree or family meal.
The Deal: One free kids meal with any dine-in or Sharis.com order all-day on Tuesdays.
With locations in North Portland, Tigard, and Newberg, 48 North Pizzera is the perfect way to end a busy weekend with a bang. Their custom pizzas and delicious wings will have the adults salivating, while kids 10 and under enjoy their free cheese or pepperoni pizzas. Plus, they have vegan and gluten-free options available.
The Deal: Kids eat free all day on Sundays. Kids under 10 can get a cheese or pepperoni kid’s pizza. Please note there is a limit of one pizza per kid, and requires the purchase of any regular-priced pizza.
This national barbecue chain prides itself on its quality meats and its commitment to family fun. Everyone—from your pickiest eater to your hungriest little one—will find something to satisfy their appetite at Dickey’s.
The Deal: Kids 12 and under eat free all day on Sundays with the minimum of a $12 purchase. Please note this offer is available at participating Dickey’s locations only (please call ahead to verify) and is not valid with any other coupons, offers, discounts, or promotions.
Locations: Portland, Lake Oswego, Hillsboro & Beaverton Online:dickeys.com
Why not try out this Portland favorite? This casual dining spot gives off relaxed vibes and the para ninos menu prices can’t be beat. Enjoy a much deserved margarita (happy hour is Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.) while the kids feast on the bean and rice bowl ($3.50) or a bean and cheese taco ($2.50).
The kids menu might be limited but the portions are huge. The kids bowl comes with a generous serving of green rice, beans, lettuce, and fresh avocado. It’s so big your kids can split it or take home the leftovers for lunch the next day. Even better? The whole thing costs a cool $4.
If you are looking for that extra-special spot to celebrate a birthday or an impressive report card, look no further: These kid-friendly restaurants bring more to the table than your average burger and fries joint. Picture mini golf courses, rain showers, cat company and more—the kids will be entertained and you’ll get a fun family date night out without having to resort to digital bribery. Win-win!
Golf & Food Trucks: Stagecoach Greens
Nella DuBon-Koch
This kid on the mini-golf block was destined to be a major fave for families in the SF area. After it opened several years ago in Mission Bay, everyone fell in love with the amazingly-detailed putt-putt holes from the Chinatown dragon to the 1906 Victorian complete with earthquake. Located right across the street from the food truck mecca SPARK Social SF, it even has a number of food trucks of its own. Al Pastor Papi and Hookt Donuts will be mainstays while other trucks rotate through. Rent a cabana and make it a family night!
Skip the Rainforest Cafe and go to the real deal instead. Opened in 1945 within the Fairmont Hotel, this campy and yes, touristy lounge showers visitors in old-school Tropicana. The Polynesian-esque ambiance includes the Tonga Room’s epic rain showers every 30 minutes and a lagoon where a live band plays on a thatch-covered barge. Happy hour (Wed.–Fri., 5–7 p.m.) offers a sweet deal on food and drinks for the whole family, and bartenders are happy to whip up a colorful, fruity, booze-free concoction in a coconut for the kids. All ages are welcome until after 10 p.m. when it goes 21+.
The Fairmont Hotel 950 Mason St. San Francisco Online: tongaroom.com
Table Tennis & Graffiti Art: SPIN
Kate Loweth
This spot near SFMOMA and Yerba Buena Gardens is the place to go when you want to up your table tennis game in style. SPIN is definitely not your mom's garage—it is a funky industrial space with custom graffiti-style artwork on the walls and old-school jams playing. Open from noon until late, kids are welcome at SPIN until 9 p.m. when it goes 21+. You reserve table time in one-hour increments and there's a menu full of shareable plates and cocktails to go along with your game.
Choose one of the two tables in their patio area and you'll have your own space to lounge, eat and play. Kids will love the SPIN Burger or the always-dependable pepperoni pizza. Check their calendar for upcoming family-friendly events.
Chocolate Lover's Paradise: Ghiradelli Chocolate Experience Store
While this sweet spot near Fisherman's Wharf has been dishing up chocolate treats for decades, it just recently underwent renovations meant to engage locals and tourists alike. The new, improved Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store now includes a behind-the-scenes look of the making of its famous hot fudge sundaes in an open kitchen, more than 20 flavors of Ghirardelli chocolate squares in a huge Pick & Mix selection and a live chocolate bar creation. While the line at the main ice cream shop is usually long any time of the day, it has a fun old-school ambiance that kids love.
Not only is The Japanese Tea Garden the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States but the tea house is reportedly the first place to serve fortune cookies in the US at the turn of the century. The gorgeously landscaped gardens with an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stepping stone paths koi ponds and a Zen garden are both lovely and fun to explore, and the tea house serves treats like green tea cheese cake, sweet rice cakes and cookies, and Udon noodles and miso soup for the chilly Golden Gate park weather.
Get your cat fix at this cafe that is also home to 16-22 adorable rescue kittens just waiting for love. There are two options here: choose the cafe side and watch the kitties through the window or select the cat lounge where you get to meet the cats in person. Sandwiches and salads are available for purchase and you get your choice of green tea. They also offer hot chocolate for the kiddies. To access the cat lounge side, kids need to be at least 9 years old (ages 5-9, give them a call and they might be able to get you in). Bonus: many of the cats here are available to adopt!
1266 Valencia St. San Francisco Online: kitteasf.com
Before I quit drinking alcohol back in 2010, a typical date night for my husband and I meant dinner (plus drinks) and drinks. Oh, and then drinks after dinner. Then, if we still had anything left in us after the date, more drinks at home after the kids were in bed.
Especially after we had our first baby, when we got a rare date night, we didn’t want to waste our time doing anything but drinking our new-parent frustrations away and trying to find the “old” us that was hidden under layer upon layer of sleep deprivation and Elmo-induced brain atrophy. In fact, back in those days, a date night activity that didn’t involve alcohol felt like punishment. Why even bother?
Then, I quit drinking, and I remember feeling very lost when we got our first, long-overdue date night. What on earth were we supposed to do on a date night now if I couldn’t drink? I’d be lying if I said that I remember what we did on those first few sober date nights, but now that I’ve been doing sober date nights for a while, I feel like I have a better-stocked arsenal of date night ideas that don’t involve drinking.
So, in case you’re a teetotaler (like me), maybe you’re pregnant and miss being able to drink on date night or maybe you’re just looking for ways to have fun without the hooch every now and then, here are 8 date night ideas that don’t completely revolve around alcohol.
1: Go to the movies: Of course, there’s a new wave of movie theater “experience” that incorporates drinking into enjoying a movie. We have Alamo Drafthouse where we live and fancier versions in the larger cities nearby, but I enjoy a good movie on a date night. I think it’s a real treat to go and watch a movie that I choose, that doesn’t involve a Pixar character, nor an animated version of Justin Timberlake singing top-40 hits. Plus, I’m all about getting candy or another sweet treat that I don’t have to share.
2: Play mini-golf: Going to play mini-golf WITHOUT your kids might seem cruel, but nobody said that you have to tell your kids where you went on date night, right? I think that mini-golf is all kinds of fun. Do you want to know what makes it even more fun? When you can get fiercely competitive with your partner and play your heart out without having to give up a shot for your kid or wait as your 1st grader takes 52 shots on a par 4.
3: Costco run: Lame, right? But, imagine this: Costco After Dark. Way less crowded than your usual Saturday, at 11 am Costco run. Plus, you and your partner can carefully critique the differences between the latest and greatest televisions that Costco has to offer. You can wander around, gathering samples without having to bite your Kirkland-brand peanut butter cup into four equal portions so that your toddler and 4-year-old don’t lose their minds in the middle of the store. Better yet? Pick up the toilet paper and kitty litter that you’ve been putting off purchasing and have your spouse load it in the back of your minivan for you. Now, that’s what I call foreplay. Meeeeow!
4: Go to the museum: Many museums offer an after-hours happy hour every month or so. Yes, booze is usually the primary focus of these events but you can take the opportunity to see the museum without the large crowds who are typically there during normal business hours. A museum membership is sometimes required to attend these events, but museum memberships are awesome for families to take advantage of anyway. They always pay for themselves in just a couple of visits and they afford you the luxury of going to the museum on a rainy day to see the one thing that your kid cares about seeing and then leaving directly after. No need to try and get your money’s worth out of a single-day ticket.
5: Linger at a coffee shop: Since I quit drinking, coffee shops have become a favorite place of mine. I never cared to have coffee after the hours of about 10 am before, but now, an after-dinner coffee is a special treat (and sometimes necessary to stay awake past 9 pm). Coffee shops are also good places to go and have a nice, uninterrupted conversation with your spouse. I love to people watch there also. All good things.
6: Take in some community theater: Most communities—no matter how small or large—have community theater. Some of the productions are really, really good and some of them…aren’t. But, on date night, it doesn’t matter. You’re out of the house, sans kids. There’s often beer and wine available in the lobby of these productions, but it’s not pushed on you like it is in, say, comedy clubs. Go check out a production and remark on how talented (or not!) your neighbors are.
7: Church activities: Most churches have opportunities to be social with other couples every now and then (if not more often). I’ve heard great things about “small groups,” that give you the opportunity to meet other people from the church outside of services. Our church has classes and seminars as well that would be good to do on a date night.
8: Shopping: There’s something rather appealing about going shopping with your spouse without the kids in tow. To leisurely browse on your own time and look at what YOU want to look at, without having to divide your time with your spouse, watching the kids play in the indoor mall playscape while the other runs quickly into Sears to grab a refrigerator filter and a new shirt. Use date night shopping as an opportunity to pick out new dress clothes or new granny panties—whatever makes you feel good. Or, shop at a furniture store for your (perhaps fictitious) dream house. No purchase necessary.
I used to see date night as more of a “treat yo self” night—a night that I could escape my day job and drink to alleviate the stress of parenthood. Every time though, I’d end up feeling like a worse parent—especially when I was hungover the next morning and unable to properly perform even the simplest of parenting duties for my kids. Now that I’m sober, date night is truly a recharging night for me. I get to enjoy my husband’s company and then wake up refreshed the next morning, ready to do this crazy job called “parenting” to the best of my abilities.
I'm Jenny, a married mother to two kids and a whole gaggle of pets. I quit drinking in 2010 when I realized that alcohol was calling too many of the shots in my life and turning me into a person that I wasn't proud of. I haven't looked back.
Donuts aren’t just for breakfast anymore. It’s true. While you can still find the classics just about everywhere, your kids’ favorite morning sweet treat has been spotted going gourmet with unique flavors, crazy toppings, and wild shapes (our apologies to the circle). From Cajun-inspired concoctions to creations you have to see to believe, check out our list of the best places in the metroplex to indulge.
Welcome to the best donut shop in Dallas. From their house-made glazes to one-of-a-kind toppings, this is a must on your list of “donut shops to try before I die.” We’re drooling over menu items like the “Peace-stachio,” the “Breaking Bad,” and (of course) the “Homer.” Did we mention they also serve chicken and biscuits? Be still, our hearts.
Heart-shaped donuts for Mother’s Day? Snowflake donuts for the holidays? Funnel cake donuts? Yes, please. This artisan donut shop is bound to have a flavor, shape, and theme for any moment you get a craving.
We need to be honest. Some of the best donuts in Dallas can be found at this spot, and they look more like cakes than breakfast food. And with names like the Horchata Donut, the Key Lime Meringue Pie Donut, and the Carmel Toffee Crumb, we see no reason why you shouldn’t have one for dessert. Plus, they’ve got cold brew growlers to go, and for you donut junkies out there, be sure to sign up for their rewards program.
Park Place Donuts
Here’s where you’ll find crazy character donuts like Minions, Hello Kitty, and Baby Shark, alongside Nutella Oreo donuts, Fruity Pebble donuts, and Strawberry Cream Cheese donuts. Don’t worry! You’ll find all your go-to flavors here too.
This fun shop is in historic Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth. Not only do they serve a monthly rotating menu of donuts like Root Beer Float, Hibiscus Lime, and Strawberry Shortcake, but they’ve got beer and wine for purchase too, which means you can stop here later in the day (open until 3 pm Sun-Thurs, and 10 pm Fri. & Sat!) and everyone in your crew can enjoy happy hour.
One of the best places in Garland to get a fix for your sweet tooth, this family-owned shop brought their favorite recipes from Louisiana and has been serving donuts, kolaches, breakfast sandwiches, boudin, and beignets since 2013.
The menu at Detour changes every month, and the options are totally different. Think Thai Tea & Coconut, Blueberry Goat Cheese, Tiramisu, Lemon & Earl Gray and much more. And don’t worry, donut traditionalists, there’s a menu of classic options like glazed, chocolate, old-fashioned, apple fritters, and the ever-popular donut holes.
