When it comes to bright sides, the uptick in RV camping is one pandemic holdover that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Is it any wonder why? Families can find mountain lakes, rugged forests and sometimes even resort amenities just beyond the fast lane of Atlanta’s city streets, with home’s creature comforts along for the ride. That’s why we’ve scoped out our favorite RV parks and campsites near Atlanta for your next family vacation plan. From RV camping in Georgia state parks to private campgrounds just a few hours from the city, there’s no better way to explore the contrast of Atlanta’s city living with the natural beauty that surrounds it. Check out our favorite RV parks and campsites near Atlanta.
Vogel State Park Named the Best State Park for RVers by USA Today, Vogel State Park sits at the base of Blood Mountain, just two hours outside of Atlanta and inside the Chattahoochee National Forest. RV campers can choose from 90 campsites with electric hookups. While at Vogel, you can hike the park's 17 miles of trails that cater to beginner and expert trail hounds alike. Water activities abound too. Families can go fishing and paddling in Lake Trahlyta or hike to waterfalls like Helton Creek Falls and Desoto Falls. Our suggestion? Don't miss the opportunity to see the view from Brasstown Bald, the state's highest point, before hitting the putt putt course.
Sweetwater Creek RV Resort While this RV park near Atlanta is a no-frills place for overnight parking, it's proximity to Atlanta and shady location means you can get to all that Atlanta has to offer in no time at all. Utility is key here, and as far as we're concerned, it's a great spot for an RV camping test run with the kids. Plus, nearby Sweetwater Creek State Park adds a bit of "rugged" to your RV trip. It's where you'll find wilderness adventures with the kids. Wooded trails, gurggling streams and the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company textile mill will delight explorers of all ages.
Jekyll Island Campground Not too far from Driftwood Beach and Clam Creek you'll find Jekyll Island Campground. Park your rig at one of the camp's 167 full hook-up sites to enjoy all of the island's family-friendly amenities. Budding scientists will learn lots at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and history buffs can hit up museums and take tours till their heart's content. Plus you'll have plenty of opportunities to go fishing, boating, biking or horseback riding, play mini golf and visit the epic Summer Waves Water Park to rides the slides. It's the resort feel you're looking for with your roadworthy adventure.
McKinney Campground McKinney Campground sits on the banks of Allatoona Lake, about 30 minutes north of Atlanta. Visitors can take their pick from water activities, including lakeside picnicking, swimming, fishing and boating. Allatoona Lake is one of the most frequently visited Corps of Engineers lakes in the nation, and you can expect to see plenty of wildlife along its 270 miles of shoreline. Plus, there are two swimming areas with sandy beaches. You can fish in Lake Allatoona from the shore, and there's an exceptional mountain biking course nearby with lots of beginner tracks. Check out the Tellus Science Museum while you're there!
6659 McKinney Camp Ground Rd. S.E. Acworth, GA Online:recreation.gov
Stone Mountain Park Campground Considered by some to be the epitome of convenience camping, Stone Mountain Park Campground has 250 full or partial hook-up (water/electric/sewer) campsites for RVs. There are a variety of pull-through, head-in and back-in campsites available, and its location places you just 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta. That means you and the kids can explore the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame and all of Atlanta's other hot family spots. But you can just as easily stay put and explore 3,200 acres, or perhaps hit the amusement park, mini golf and steam locomotive that are all located in Stone Mountain Park. You'll find deck areas with grills at some RV sites, plus a swimming pool, playground, and sand volleyball court.
High Falls State Park Campground Located northwest of Macon, this state park is named for the tumbling cascades on the Towaliga River, where visitors can hike through the forest to the remains of a power plant foundation. In the early 1800s, this area was a prosperous industrial town with several stores, a grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory and hotel. High Falls became a ghost town in the 1880s when a major railroad bypassed it. Today, the park is a popular camping destination and a relaxing side trip for travelers on I-75. The park offers seasonal rentals for kayaks, canoes, SUP and aquacycles. There's also mini golf, maintained hiking trails and plenty of wilderness to explore for those who prefer land pursuits.
Chattahoochee Bend State Park Chattahoochee Bend State Park is one of Georgia's newer and largest state parks and with 2,910 acres. With proximity to the Chattahoochee River, the park is a haven for paddlers, campers and anglers. You'll find five miles of river frontage, including a boat ramp for easy access to the water and over six miles of wooded trails for hiking and nature photography. RV owners will enjoy the camping section with sunny pull-through and back-in sites. Plus, Chattahoochee Bend offers screened Adirondack-style shelters for families and groups who want a unique camping experience, and campers will find bathhouses with hot showers just a short walk from most campsites.
Historic Banning Mills RV Park Located just 45 minutes west of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, this RV park is wooded with graveled sites and a gate-guarded entrance. It has full and partial hookups, and most sites have free internet capability. But when it comes to fun, historic Banning Mills has ziplines, a Crazy Squirrel aerial course for the younger set, horeseback riding, a climbing wall and other recreational opportunities, making it the perfect active family RV destination.
Cedar Creek RV & Outdoor Center Not far from Rome and Cedartown and about an hour and a half from downtown Atlanta, the Cedar Creek RV & Outdoor Center is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. More than 60 full-hookup RV sites dot the family-friendly park that borders Big Cedar Creek, where you can catch striped bass and catfish or fly-fish for trout. The picturesque village of Cave Spring has antique and specialty shops, and a legendary cave to explore in Rolater Park.
Fort Mountain State Park Located near the Cohutta Wilderness, and about an hour and 45 minutes from Atlanta, Fort Mountain State Park boasts access to more than 60 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The campground offers full-hookup RV sites, laundry station, washroom facilities and a playground with easy access to the extensive trail network. Celebrate Native American heritage at Fort Mountain State Park by driving the Chieftain's Trail, where you'll explore sites such as the Chief Vann House Historic Site, Funk Heritage Center and New Echota Historic Site.
181 Fort Mountain Park Rd. Chatsworth, GA Online:gastateparks.org
Take to the trees and go on a zip lining adventure near Atlanta the next time your little daredevils need a new challenge
It makes sense that Atlanta—known as the city in the trees—is home to so many ziplines. Flying from treetop to treetop is the perfect way to shake the heat during our summer months, avoid the crowds, and pump the adrenaline. And, many places offer scaled-down versions for the littlest adventurers. So bring your sense of adventure and get flying!
Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventure
Chattahoochee Nature Center has partnered with American Adventure Park Systems and Historic Banning Mills to bring you Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures. Choose to do the Aerial Adventure Course, Zipline Canopy Tour, or both to see nature from a different perspective and spend a day in the trees.
Screaming Eagle is open weekends until Memorial Day. Reserve online or call 770-992-2055 x280.
9135 Willeo Road Roswell, GA 30075 770-992-2055 ext. 280 Online:cncziplines.com
With two locations in Atlanta—Dunwoody and Gwinnett—Treetop Quest will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Once you’re equipped, we’ll teach you how to operate your equipment and you’ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours. Both locations offers adventures for ages 4 & up, plus a harness-free obstacle course area.
Dunwoody Location at Brook Run Park 2341 Peeler Rd. Dunwoody, GA 30338 770-365-0356
Gwinnett Location at The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford, GA 30519 404-277-6113
Experience the Zoo from the perspective of our planet’s amazing animal tree-dwellers. Zig, zag, climb, walk, and balance as you navigate a series of rope ladders, bridges, nets and tightrope-style foot lines on a two-level challenge. Participants will be safely secured and tethered with full-body harness and lanyard to an overhead tracking system.
800 Cherokee Ave. SE Atlanta, GA 30315 404-624-9453 Online: zooatlanta.org
Historic Banning Mills
S. Massey
Experience the largest zip line adventure park resort in the world—verified by Guinness World Records—that offers 135 ziplines that would take you 12 hours to complete if you tried to do the whole enchilada at once. For guests who want to stay over, you can spend the night in tree houses & other lodging, relax at the day spa, go horseback riding, and grab dinner.
Climb to new heights on one of the nation’s largest family adventure courses, where no two hikes are the same. Choose your path and challenge yourself while secured to the patented overhead safety system. While not a zip line, this aerial course allows you to explore via harness and cables suspended wooden bridges and other obstacles. Leap from one wooden slat to another. Balance on a single rope high above the ground, or climb to the top on vertical net bridges.
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA 30083 800-401-2407 Online: stonemountainpark.com
Looking for ways to celebrate Black History Month in NYC? We compiled the following list of NYC museums, cultural institutions, monuments and more that celebrate and honor the history, culture and talents of Black Americans year-round, as well as special events and exhibits taking place to celebrate 2022’s Black History Month. (Many are free to visit, see and attend.) Read on for ideas of places in NYC to see with kids during Black History Month—or any month!
Black History Month 2022
Bronx
Black History Month at the New York Botanical Garden
All month long NYBG is hosting events in-person and online for kids and adults. Children's programming includes storytelling at the Everett Children's Adventure Garden and activity time to discover the cultural influences of the African Diaspora and reinforce the importance of green space and caring for the natural world.
Black Future Festival at Brooklyn Children's Museum
Brooklyn Children's Museum
Join BCM for a week of reflection and future-forward fun inspired by the national celebration of peoples of the African Diaspora and Black History Month. With the help of a curator from Àṣẹ Dance Theatre Collective, the museum will present interactive dance performances and a Genea-Djali workshop, plus storytelling inspired by Crown Heights, quilting and genealogy workshops, local eats and much more. Tickets must be reserved in advance.
African/American: Making the Nation’s Table at Museum of Food and Drink
MOFAD
The Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) presents African/American: Making the Nation’s Table. Displayed within the newly-constructed home of partner The Africa Center at Aliko Dangote Hall, this first-of-its-kind exhibition celebrates the countless contributions of Black chefs, farmers, and food and drink producers who have laid the foundation for American food culture. Highlights include the Legacy Quilt, which depicts, a selection of hundreds of stories; those who wish can contribute their own stories via an online interactive component. Also on display is the Ebony Magazine Test Kitchen—saved from wreckage thanks to preservationists Landmarks Illinois and accessible to the public for the first time in history. Described by The Chicago Tribune as “the most distinctive test kitchen ever created,” it was the site where recipes from Ebony food editors created dishes such as oyster gumbo to sweet potato pudding. The multisensory experience features a soundtrack curated by musician, farmer and chef Kelis, and video interviews with former Ebony food editors.
Opens February 23, Wed-Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 1280 5th Ave. East Harlem 201-371-3550 Online: mofad.org
The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem
Coinciding with Black History Month, Walt Disney’s regional jazz exhibit, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” will open at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem on Feb. 10. Kids will recognize Joe Gardner – the musician, mentor and teacher from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – on a tour as they discover the rich and surprising history of jazz. The exhibit was Introduced at The American Adventure inside EPCOT at Walt Disney World, and illustrates the many different cultures and creators who influenced this evolving genre. While in Harlem, the exhibit will include a unique collection of artifacts curated by The National Jazz Museum, including a player piano, a working 78rpm Victrola and Duke Ellington’s white grand piano. Additionally, there will be maquettes of characters Joe Gardner and Dorothea Williams, and virtual experiences via the Play Disney Parks app.
Tickets: Free. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Feb. 10-Aug. 31, 2022 Thurs.-Sat., Noon-5 p.m. National Jazz Museum in Harlem 58 W. 129th St. Online: jmih.org
It's an amazing thing that you can visit legend Louis Armstrong's house in Queens, and in honor of Black History Month the museum is offering a special tour highlighting Armstrong’s relationship to civil rights in America from February 10 26. The Armstrong Archival Collections, which are among the most significant Black archival collections in the world and the largest single jazz archives in the world, document Armstrong’s life as a seminal figure in the histories of civil rights, social justice, African-American culture, music, and film. Get tickets for that tour ($12-15/person) here.
Open Thurs. - Sat. Tickets: $12-15/person; free/kids five and under Louis Armstrong House Museum 34-56 107th St. Corona 718-478-8274 Online: louisarmstronghouse.org
Founded in 1914, the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem has been a major cultural force and venue for American music and artists, showcasing genres such as jazz, R & B, gospel, soul and hip-hop. Its world-famous amateur night began in 1934, with many future legends taking the stage early in their career. Other giants of music and entertainment who have performed here include Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Sarah Vaughn and Billie Holiday.
Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
Located in the neighborhood that served as the heart of the Harlem Renaissance, the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling works to provide children with the opportunity to see and talk about art, as well as make art from their own stories. The museum seeks to support kids challenged by poverty by fostering creative and cognitive skills that prepare children for social and academic success.
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is dedicated to the research, preservation, and exhibition of materials focused on African American, African Diaspora, and African experiences. The research library also hosts public programs and exhibitions, as well as events such as the popular Black Comic Book Festival. Check out the Center’s Black Liberation List for Young Readers.
515 Malcolm X Blvd. (135th St and Malcolm X Blvd.) Harlem 917-275-6975 Online: nypl.org/locations
Founded in 1968, The Studio Museum Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. While it is currently closed, you can see more about its educational and community engagement programs here.
The Shabazz Center facilitates thought exchange around racial equity, justice, and cultural production in the spirit of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, his wife. The building was previously known as the Audubon Ballroom, and is where Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965. (The current center opened in 2005 after significant renovation and restoration.)
Founded by trailblazer Alvin Ailey in 1958 with the goal of celebrating black culture through dance, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues that tradition today. In addition to performances by its repertory companies, the theater offers workshops and classes for kids as young as two years old.
405 W. 55th St. Midtown 212-405-9000 Online: alvinailey.org
The largest and earliest African burial ground in the United States and a National Historic Landmark, the African Burial Ground dates from the middle 1630s to 1795. Discovered in 1991 during the construction of a building at 290 Broadway, it was determined to contain, over six acres, the intact skeletal remains of as many as 15,000 enslaved and free Africans. The site is now home to a public monument, where remains of more than 419 Africans are interred; an interpretive center, and research library to honor and commemorate the lives of enslaved and free Africans in colonial New York.
26 Wall St. Financial District 212-238-4367 Online: nps.gov
Before the land became part of Central Park, the area between W. 82nd and W. 89th Streets was home to Seneca Village, a predominantly Black Community. Built on what was previously farmland, Seneca Village existed from 1825 to 1857 and was exceptional in that about half of its Black residents owned their homes, which also provided a pathway to voting rights. You can take a virtual tour of Seneca Village here.
Between W. 82nd & W. 89th Streets Central Park Upper West Side Online: centralparknyc.org
A Great Day in Harlem Stoop
Wikimedia CC
On August 12, 1958, 57 jazz musicians gathered at 10 a.m. on a stoop in Harlem for what would be one of the most iconic images in music history. Among the giants of the form were Count Basie, Sonny Rollins, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Farmer, Thelonious Monk, Lester Young and Mary Lou Williams.
You can find two statues of the famous abolitionist, writer, orator and publisher in New York City. One, at the entrance to the New York Historical Society (you’ll find Abraham Lincoln at the other entrance) and a second near the northwest corner of Central Park. Find the eight-foot Gabriel Koren piece at Frederick Douglass Circle at 110th Street and Eighth Avenue.
170 Central Park West at 77th Street Upper West Side 212-873-3400 Online: nyhistory.org
Frederick Douglass Circle 110th Street and Eight Avenue Harlem Online: nycgovparks.org
This impressive tribute to composer, jazz musician and bandleader can be found at the northeast corner of Central Park at 110th Street and Fifth Avenue. Rendered in bronze by sculptor Robert Graham, the groundbreaking talent and longtime Harlem resident stands next to a grand piano, and the monument measures 25-feet-high.
Duke Ellington Circle 110th Street & Fifth Ave. Harlem Online: nycgovparks.org
Find this powerful bronze statue of trailblazing abolitionist Harriet Tubman at Harriet Tubman Square, located at the intersection of Frederick Douglass Boulevard, St. Nicholas Avenue and 122nd Street. Also known as "Swing Low", the sculpture is by Alison Saar. The figure of Tubman is shown pulling the roots of slavery out of the ground with faces on her dress representing the people she helped gain freedom through her work as the leader of the Underground Railroad.
Located in Central Brooklyn, Weeksville was one of the largest free Black communities in pre-Civil War America. Weeksville is home to the Hunterfly Road Houses, which were purchased by James Weeks and other investors in 1838 to create a community of Black land-owners, and you can visit them today. The Weeksville Heritage Center works to educate the public about Weeksville and similar communities, as well as serve as a center supporting Black culture, community and creativity and social justice initiatives.
Named for Brooklyn-born Shirley Chisholm, the first African American Congresswoman and the first woman and African American to run for President, this New York State Park is a waterside green space that opened in TK. Rising 130 feet above sea level, the park provides visitors with spectacular views of New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay, the Empire State Building and beyond. The park has 10 miles of bike trails and a bike loaner program, waterside access via a pier and patio, environmental education programs such as guided bird-watching and fishing.
Built in 1849 and located in Brooklyn Heights, the historic Plymouth Church was a major stop on the Underground Railroad, sometimes referred to as its "Grand Central Depot." Its first minister was abolitionist Henry Ward Beecher, brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe author of her anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin. Abraham Lincoln also visited and worshipped here in 1860—apparently he sat in pew 89!
The building at 227 Duffield Street in downtown Brooklyn is also an important place in New York's anti-slavery movement. Dating to the mid-19th century, the former residence of abolitionists Thomas and Harriet Truesdell is located on what is now called "Abolitionist Place." The area was a center of anti-slavery activism, containing numerous safe houses and stops on the Underground Railroad. Just this month, it received landmark status.
The world-renowned instrumentalist and vocalist Louis Armstrong AKA “Satchmo” settled in Corona, Queens with his wife Lucille in 1943, and never left. His home, now a National Historic Landmark, has been preserved in all its mid-century glory, and you can learn more about the man, his music and humanitarian work here.
Located in Staten Island, Sandy Ground is the oldest continuously inhabited free Black settlement in the United States. Established by oystermen who migrated from Maryland fleeing restrictive laws, the community also served as a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad. The Historical Society stages exhibits, events and offers tours, and contains the largest collection of documents detailing Staten Island’s African-American history and culture.
Explore one of DC’s many historically Black neighborhoods and Black historic sites and landmarks in celebration of Black History Month this February. From reflecting on the Civil Rights movement on the National Mall to getting a hands-on education about Black Civil War regiments at the African American Civil War Museum, we’ve rounded up some of the most notable sites and some off-the-beaten path locations to help guide you when exploring Black history here in DC.
Home of the Bison, this historically Black university sits on the edge of the U St. corridor (see below) in DC's Shaw neighborhood. Famous graduates includes our first Black, first Asian and first woman Vice President Kamala Harris, the Supreme Court's first Black justice Thurgood Marshall, author Toni Morrison, the first Black mayor of NYC David Dinkins and more. The university's library, Founders Library, is listed on the national registry of historic places; it's bell tower can be seen prominently beyond campus.
Editor's Note: Founder's Library is temporarily closed to the public.
This memorial depicting one of the first Black Union regiments formed during the Civil War is on permanent display in the National Gallery of Art. The bronze work of art depicts Colonel Robert Gould Shaw parading to the Boston docks before departing for South Carolina with his troop. When you visit, be sure to check out this National Park Service guide that shares the 1,500 names of the men who served this regiment.
Constitution Ave. NW, Between 3 & 9th St. National Mall Online:nga.gov
Stretching two blocks on 16th St. (south of K St.), the Black Lives Matter Plaza feature a boldly painted yellow mural in all caps declaring: Black Lives Matter. The Plaza along with a street sign bearing the same name, were dedicated on June 5, 2020 (the birthday of Breonna Taylor). Originally used as grounds for demonstrations due to the close proximity to the White House, in Oct. of 2021 it became a permanent installation and remains a pedestrian-friendly walkway where people often come to photograph the 50 ft. letters.
Starting at K & 16 St. Downtown DC
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglas National Historic Site
It took two generations to establish and restore this spot as a National Historic Site. Cedar Hill, the Southeast DC home where escaped slave turned preeminent orator and scholar,Frederick Douglass, lived his final years. Now serving as an educational center, Cedar Hill runs tours, and sponsors family-friendly events throughout the year, including Douglass’s birthday celebration.
Insider Tip: You can tour this property from the comfort of your home here.
1411 W St., SE Anacostia 202-426-5961 Online: nps.gov
The U St. corridor was once known as the Black Broadway district. Flanked by Howard Theatre on the east end and 14th St. on the west, this neighborhood was DC's cultural epicenter from the early 1900s to the mid '60s. Explore this cultural stomping ground by starting at Howard Theatre, the iconic stage where legends like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and Nat King Cole got their start and heading northwest and pass the Bohemian Caverns (a former speakeasy hidden by a first floor pharmacy where Duke Ellington was a frequent performer), and continue west to historic Lincoln Theatre; don't forget to stop in near-by DC landmark Ben's Chili Bowl, a black-owned
Pay tribute to the iconic abolitionists Mary and Emily Edmonson. The bronze memorial at 1701 Duke St. in Alexandria (directly across the street from Whole Foods) sits steps away from the former the Bruin's Jail where the sisters, then 15 and 13, were held after they tried to escape the clutches of slavery on a New Jersey-bound schooner, The Pearl. The sisters were later freed by their father (with the help of a abolitionist and minister Henry Ward Beecher) when he paid $2,250 for their emancipation. Bruin's Jail is now an office building, but you can read the historical plague in front of it at 1707 Duke Street.
To honor the most powerful voice of the Civil Rights movement, this memorial has 15 quotes etched in granite to inspire the next generation. From "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope" on the Martin Luther King Jr. statue to "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice" on the north wall, these inscriptions etched in granite offer a chance for families to collectively reflect on some of Martin Luther King Jr's most moving words.
Take a ten minute walk from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and you will reach the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his most famous speech, "I Have a Dream." Step into history; eighteen steps from the top of the memorial is an inspiration dedicated to the very spot Martin Luther King Jr. stood when he addressed the crowd of 250,000 on the National Mall.
Editor's Tip: Take part in history! Download the "I Have a Dream" speech from PBS and listen to it as you stand in the very spot it was delivered. You'll also find educational lessons to do at home on the PBS site.
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir. NW National Mall Online:nps.gov/linc/
This church is the oldest Black church in Washington, DC. Once a slave and tobacco trading site in the early 1800s, it became a church in 1816 and later a station on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It is believed a vault on the Burial Grounds was used to hide enslaved people as they made their way north. You can learn more about the church's history as well as the original Black citizens of Georgetown at the church's Heritage Center (2906 O Street). To note: tours are by appointment only. Other near-by points of interest on Georgetown's African American Heritage Trail include Rose Park Recreation Center, the John H. Fleet residence, the Emma V. Brown residence, and more.
1334 29th St. NW Georgetown 202-234-0148 Online:mtzionumcdc.org
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects—the good and the gut-wrenching—of the African American experience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family. See our in-depth guide here.
Editor's Note: This museum is closed on Mon.-Tues. Get your timed entry pass here.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW National Mall Online:nmaahc.si.edu
For a peek at the first DC statue to honor both a woman and an African-American, head to Lincoln Park to visit the Mary McLeod Bethune memorial (erected in 1974). Bethune is remembered as a civil rights leader, a suffragist and the first African-American woman to head a Federal agency. She may be best known for her contributions to education; she founded the Bethune-Cookman University, which is today’s only historically Black college to have been founded by a woman. What better way to celebrate Bethune’s passion for education than with the game I Spy with sight words. Come prepared with flashcards for the following words, which can all be found in the statue's inscription: LOVE, HOPE, EDUCATION, RESPECT, FAITH, and DIGNITY.
"Spirit of Freedom,' which sits at the corner of Vermont Avenue and 10th Street, honors the 209,145 Black soldiers and officers who served under the Bureau of United States Colored Troops in the fight to free enslaved Black Americans. Across the street, you'll find the African-American Civil War Museum. Tours of the actual museum are by appointment only; this living museum has a number of must-book programs that bring history to life through re-enactments, including the one-hour, award-winning School of the Soldierprogram for elementary and middle schoolers.
Richmond is steeped in important Black history and here are just a few of the ways you can experience it with your kids.
Visit the home of Maggie Lena Walker, a newspaper editor, bank president and champion of civil rights for African Americans and women. Join a tour of her home and an exhibit hall, watch a short film about her life and walk in the footsteps of a great activist of the early 20th century. There's also a Maggie L. Walker Memorial Plaza.
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture and history African Americans people in Virginia and has permanent exhibits that explore Jim Crow, Reconstruction, Emancipation and more.
You can also explore Richmond’s monuments: Virginia Civil Rights Memorial on the Capitol grounds, Slavery Reconciliation Statue, Henry Box Brown, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson monument and the Arthur Ashe monument on Monument Ave. There's also a self-guided Richmond Slave Trail: Walk along and discover seventeen different markers that display the somber truth about slavery in Richmond.
At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts entrance along historic Arthur Ashe boulevard, you'll find Rumors of War, a powerful sculpture by Black artist Kehinde Wiley’s. You'll also currently find the the Marcus-David Peter Circle (Robert E. Lee Monument) where artist Dustin Klein's light projections on the statue of Robert E. Lee include images and videos of Black citizens who are victims of police brutality, including Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, as well as projects of iconic Black leaders like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Billie Holiday, and Malcom X.
It’s Black History Month, and lucky for us North Texans, the metroplex is a culture-rich place to discover spots and learn facts we might not know about Black history. From Deep Ellum to the Bill Pickett statue in the Stockyards, here are our top picks for places to learn about Black history in DFW.
Established in 1873, Deep Ellum is one of Dallas’ oldest cultural hubs and has deep ties to the Black community. It began as a Black farming community, but according to Wikipedia, by the 1920s, “the neighborhood had become a hotbed for early jazz and blues musicians, hosting the likes of Blind Lemon Jefferson, Robert Johnson, Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter and Bessie Smith in Deep Ellum clubs such as The Harlem and The Palace.” It is once again a hotspot for nightlife, and you can still sense the history, especially when viewing the street art, which can be found in murals depicting the rich culture and history of the area.
Offering one of the largest collections of African American Folk Art in the United States, this hidden gem of a history center has impressive permanent and rotating exhibits, as well as programs and musical events.
Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts - Dallas
In 1892, the city of Dallas established its first high school for African American pupils; in 1922, it was moved to a larger location and renamed Booker T. Washington, after the education pioneer. For years, it was the only high school in Dallas for Black students. In 1942, Thelma Paige Richardson (with the help from the NAACP), sued the Dallas school district, demanding equal pay for educators—and won. The case helped to increase awareness of discrimination in the public school systems. In 1976, the school was repurposed as an Arts Magnet school and became a prototype for magnet schools across the country. Many well-known performers are alumni of Booker T. Washington, including Erykah Badhu, Nora Jones, Roy Hargrove and Edie Brickell.
Bill Pickett Statue - Fort Worth Stockyards - Fort Worth
He was one of Texas’ most famous cowboys, and in honor of his achievements, the famous statue in the Stockyards depicts Pickett in the act of what is know known as steer wrestling—which he originated. He was also a member of Buffalo Bill Cody’s “Wild West Show” and was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame as well as the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.
The Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House - Dallas
Ms. Craft was a leading figure in the Civil Rights Movement—both President Lyndon B. Johnson and the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. paid her a visit at her home on Warren Avenue. She started 182 rural chapters of the NAACP and was the second African American to serve on the Dallas City Council. Now, the South Dallas Cultural Center of the City of Dallas’ Office of Cultural Affairs manages the programing at this landmark spot where she lived for 50 years.
Located in the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, the Dallas Civil Rights Museum houses original speeches, art, artifacts and other things that help visitors get a perspective of our country's Civil Rights journey. There are four main areas of focus at the—The Underground Railroad, The Civil Rights Movement, Black Wall Street and the Trail of Tears.
Established in 1861 as a burial ground for Dallas’ early Black population, this is one of the largest Freedman Cemeteries in the country. The memorial plaza was established in 1990 to honor the history and cultural contributions of the thriving North Dallas community, that from the Civil War to the 1970s, was the largest segregated African American community in Dallas and one of the largest in the country.
The Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum - Fort Worth
Home to The Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society, the museum was named in honor of Lenora Rolla, a noted African American activist, businesswoman and historian. The granddaughter of slaves, Ms. Rolla was a civil rights leader in DFW; she founded the Society in 1977 and is responsible for the preservation and protection of most of Tarrant County’s African American artifacts. The museum has programs and tours; check the website for more info.
The South Dallas Cultural Center is a hub for Black culture and arts in DFW. From theatrical performances and film series to classes and exhibits, the SDCC hopes to promote a more empathetic, equitable community by giving the public a chance to experience programming that celebrates and is influenced by the African Diaspora.
Indoor playgrounds, snowy slopes, and movie theaters beckon your family to do fun things in Portland in winter
Winter is one of the best times of the year for Portland families and people visiting PDX for a winter getaway. From snowshoeing to skiing to hitting the ice skating rink and more, your family will be pressed to fit everything in before the warm weather returns. These 50 activities are guaranteed to keep the winter blues away. See how many you can fit in while Portland’s colder season is in full swing.
1. Make winter fun for kids in Portland when you spend a day tiring out your rambunctious kid at an indoor play space built to exhaust the little ones.
5. From Finnegan’s to Made You Look, Portland is home to some awesome independent toy stores. Purchase new toys that will keep your kiddos busy on those dreary days at home.
27. Huddle around your fireplace or your stove and pretend you’re camping with some delicious homemade s’mores.
28. Cuddle up with a book. Here are some must-read picks straight from our friends at Chronicle Books.
29. Put on some warm clothes and venture around Portland to all of the famous Beverly Cleary statues and follow the paths that some of her beloved book characters did, including Ramona.
30. Arrrrr, mateys. Plan an indoor treasure hunt for your kids that will have them entertained all morning long.
32. How many sweets can you load up on this winter? Cookies, donuts, chocolates, and more, Portland is delicious any time of year!
33. Winter days are perfect for exploring textile arts like finger knitting, crocheting, or knitting with needles. If your kids are ready, get started here.
Ignite the enchantment of the season with a special excursion that brings holiday movie magic to life for your whole family. Holiday train rides are waiting to take Portland families on Christmas-themed adventures through the scenic Pacific Northwest landscape. Think Polar Express, Portland style. Our suggestion? Don’t wait too long, as those golden tickets get snapped up fast. Grab your little railroad enthusiast, and get ready for one of the season’s most beloved experiences. Who knows? You might even meet Santa.
These Portland Holiday Train Rides Add Magic to the Season
Head to the Hood River for a gorgeous mountain experience and an unforgettable holiday train ride. The Mt. Hood Christmas Train captures the magic and the spirit of the Christmas season with warmth and charm your family will love. Upon arrival your family will be greeted by the cheery and festive staff before the conductor calls “All aboard! Characters from The Train to Christmas Town book are magically brought to life to welcome and accompany passengers on an entertaining trip to Christmas Town. Everyone is served hot chocolate and a cookie by the cast and The Train to Christmas Town story book is read aloud for all to enjoy. Your kiddos might even get a chance to meet Santa Clause and his elves.
110 Railroad St. Hood River, OR Online:mthoodrr.com
Chehalis Centralia Railroad & Museum Polar Express Train Ride
Families ride in comfort and privacy on this vintage railcar during their trip to the North Pole on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, you and your little elves will relive the magic of the story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Hot chocolate and treats are served as you listen to the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Then Santa and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Chefs aboard each car lead passengers in singing Christmas carols on the ride back to the Depot. Tickets for all ages cost $39 and children under age of two are free but must be on adult's lap.
For families who love holiday train rides this one runs year-round. It offers a six-minute excursion that is perfect for the littlest locomotive lovers in your household. The regular daytime zoo loop offers an overview of the animals and the rides last just long enough for the wiggliest ones in your crew. Best of all, you never have to wait longer than 15 to 20 minutes to catch this excursion. While you can take this train ride all year long, it turns into something special during the holiday season! The holidays just wouldn't be the holidays in Portland with out a spin on the Zoolights run. This ride gives you the best view of the dazzling display of more than 1.5 million lights in the zoo.
During the winter, this beloved holiday train rides takes the area's natural beauty to the next level with the Candy Cane Express. Passengers take in spectacular views on this steam-powered trip while enjoying hot chocolate and cookies. Kids get to write letters to Santa while traveling along, and enjoying the lights! The train is lit up with Christmas lights to add festivity to the evening trips. Santa visits one-on-one with each family to spread the cheer. This round-trip excursion departs Garibaldi and runs to Rockaway Beach for a total of one hour.
Portland is the only U.S. city to own two operating steam locomotives. and you and your young train fanatics can explore and get up close to these giant marvels of the past. On Saturdays, you can hop aboard the charming, family-owned Oregon Pacific Railroad passenger train for the short trip down to the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Trains travel on the Oregon Pacific Railroad along the Willamette River in SE Portland, but when the holiday season rolls around, you won't want to miss The Holiday Express! Join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives. Santa joins every ride!
There’s a chill in the air, and it’s not just the changing season. Portland’s spooks are coming out, and your family has a chance to experience them. It should be no surprise that spine tingling stories of ghost-sightings abound in our weird town. In fact, did you know we were once on the top ten list of most haunted spots in the U.S.? If you and your little ghosts are in the mood for a screaming good time, we’ve got your map of local haunts all picked out. Read on for all the ghostly details.
This abandoned stone structure deep in Forest Park was a mid-century ranger station, but it can be a spooky sight to stumble upon during an October hike. Located a half mile from Upper Macleay parking lot, it’s an easy hike for younger explorers. Pack a picnic and venture up the road to the Portland Audubon Society next, for an up-close visit with an eerie bird. You can cap off your day with a tour of Pittock Mansion which has a modest list of hauntings, such as windows closing suddenly and picture frames moving.
Pittock Mansion 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tours run on the hour from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. 3229 NW Pittock Drive 503-823-3623 Online: pittockmansion.org/ Tours with admission is $7 for members, $20 for non-members.
Benson Hotel
This hotel in downtown Portland is said to be haunted by former owner Simon Benson. Built in 1913, it has hosted many U.S. presidents since William H. Taft., but that’s not what it’s best known for. Visitors regularly report visits by the resident spirits (there’s even a guest book dedicated to spooky encounters), and apparently they’re mostly friendly ghosts. For best results, plan an overnight with your ghostbusters in a room on the 7th, 9th, or 12th floors, which have had the most reports of ghost-sightings. The next day, you can complete your mini staycation with an excursion to Forest Park. (See our recs below.)
This 1926 historic landmark, is a favorite spot for locals to catch a flick while keeping an eye out for the resident ghosts. Most sightings have been in the upstairs lobby and screening rooms, but you never know. While the theater is currently shut down, they are streaming movies you can watch to support this local gem until it is opened again. You can even stop by an grab some bites from the concession. You never know, you might just catch a glimpse of a local ghost while you are there.
Open from dawn to dusk year-round, this is one of Portland’s oldest cemeteries, with a remarkable history that is well-tended by the Friends of Lone Fir Cemetery. While their regular ghostly tour is canceled due to COVID, the cemetery is the perfect place to stroll with your kiddos and tell ghost stories while reading the ancient headstones. Bonus: It's also gorgeous this time of year. You might find walking through the leaves becomes one of your favorite fall family activities!
On 72 acres, the Edgefield property’s 3-par golf course, warm soaking pool, restaurant, and movie theater make it a great choice for a family getaway any time of year. But it’s the hotel’s haunted history that make it a spooky choice for Halloween. Room 215 has the most reports of ghostly sightings, and you can check out the log of paranormal activity at the front desk, where guests record what they see. Even if you don’t catch a glimpse of a ghost, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable stay.
If you’re willing to venture a little further afield for your fright, head south to Salem for a visit to the Capitol building, where paranormal activity abounds. The current building was built in the 1930s, after the previous two Capitol buildings burnt to the ground. Reports of strange sightings have been common, and recorded since the mid 1990s. Witnesses have seen and heard everything from disembodied footsteps and soft voices in empty rooms, to doors slamming shut for no reason, and the apparition of a former representative, now deceased. If you don’t experience your own ghostly encounter at the Capitol building, visit the nearby Willamette Heritage Center, also said to be haunted, or consider a tour with Salem Ghost Tours.
This historic tavern is reportedly the most haunted restaurant in Portland, with a resident ghost named Nina (Nigh-na) who is frequently spotted wearing a black dress and studying diners. The restaurant was built in the former lobby of the 1880 Merchant hotel, and sits right on top of the controversial Shanghai tunnels, a series of underground passageways with an unproven history and documented paranormal activity. Old Town currently offers curbside pickup! It's the perfect place to grab an easy Halloween bite.
They’re back! And the Washington State Fair is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to family-friendly fall festivals. These 18 fests feature everything from farm animals and U-pick pumpkins, to celebrations that highlight cultures, music, even LEGO bricks. Scroll down and get ready to fill your calendars!
Editor’s note:As safety measures continue to evolve due to the Delta variant, please remember to follow local and state guidelines regarding masks, social distancing and more, and double check information for last-minute changes before heading out with the kids.
Harvest Festival at Nelson Farm
courtesy Suncadia
Whether you've got a Suncadia stay planned for the fam (lucky you!) or you're just heading up for the day to enjoy the mountains, the Harvest Festival at Nelson Farm puts all things fall at your fingertips. If you haven't picked out your pumpkin yet, stroll through the Nelson Farm patch to find the perfect one. Stay to enjoy a wagon rides as a family, live music and a vendor market. Your kids will love wandering through the hay maze, climbing the hay pyramid, getting their faces painted and meeting animals at the petting zoo. Plus, everyone can take aim at the archery range. You've got two weekends to make it happen!
Families in Washington have been "doing the Puyallup” for over 100 years, and after last year's hiatus everyone is excited it's back. This year's state fair opened Labor Day weekend and will be open daily (with the exception of Tuesdays and Wed., Sep. 8) through September 26. If you want to see and do it all, you’d better plan on waking the kids up early. In addition to returning favorites that families love, like The Farm at SillyVille and Outpost 47 (the family-friendly, free concert stage), you and your crew will want to catch the Budweiser Clydesdales at the Western Rodeo Cattle Drive & Parade or in the Pierce County Arena during draft shows (Sep. 10-16) and the new Hall of Heroes exhibit that immerses visitors in the world of crime fighters, superheroes and spies. Plus enjoy the amusement park rides and games, fair food (Hello, fair scones!), 4-H animals, arts and crafts and hundreds of vendors.
Dates worth noting: Stay for fireworks on Fridays (starting at 10 p.m.); watch master pumpkin carver, Russ Leno create masterpieces at the fountain (Sat. & Sun.); enjoy Animals of the World (Sep. 9-13); and cultural days like Asia Pacific Cultural Center day (Sep. 11), Fiesta Patrias (Sep. 19) and Native American Days (Sep. 22 & 23).
Dates: Sep. 3-26, 2021 (excluding Tuesdays and Sep. 8) Times: Varies (see website) Cost: $11-$15/person; Free, kids 5 & under. Parking is $12 Mon.-Fri. and $17 Sat. & Sun.
Washington State Fair Events Center 110 9th Ave. S.E. Puyallup, WA 98371 253-841-5045
Music that's good for your soul. That's the vibe of this good-time street festival that features brass bands of all shapes and sizes, plus African and Brazilian drum and dance, too. Sixteen bands will make music throughout the day at this outdoor festival, and the whole shebang ends with a community jam at 7 p.m. Get ready to tap your feet and cheer on these phenomenal musicians. And don't forget those ear plugs for the kids!
Editor's note: The Sep. 18 festival in Gig Harbor has been canceled due to weather.
Celebrate ChuSeok, the Korean Harvest Moon Festival, in the South Sound in 2021. The Asia Pacific Cultural Center is making it easy for families to get in on the celebration by hosting two events (one in Gig Harbor and one in Tacoma the following weekend) guaranteed to double the fun. We know your kids will love watching the Mun Dance Team and UW student-led K-POP group, The Kompany. Then wander the grounds in search of your favorite Korean eats, cultural presentations, Tae Kwon Do demos and a thrilling drum performance by Thunder and Wind.
Dates & Times: Sep. 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. in Gig Harbor; Sep. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. in Tacoma Cost: Free
Fiestas Patrias is an expression of Latino culture including music, dance, food, folklore and more. The annual two-day event will be celebrated virtually and in-person this year. Families can enjoy a livestream presentation on September 18, starting at noon, in partnership with Seattle Festál. Then on September 19, there will be an in-person health fair (including a vaccine event) at the Sea Mar Community Center in the South Park neighborhood.
Take the whole fam to Remlinger Farms for a super-fun fall outing. In addition to a hay maze, corn maze and pony rides ($5), there will be plenty of mini-carnival rides—25 to be exact—including a roller coaster and Ferris wheel, electric cars, flying pumpkins and a horse carousel. If that’s not enough excitement, head over to the barn to visit with the farm animals, pick the perfect jack-o-lantern at the U-pick pumpkin patch (included with your ticket price) and enjoy plenty of yummy food and apple treats (think pies, turnovers and caramel apples) at the farm market.
Good to know: If your little wrangler has their heart set on a pony ride, be sure to reserve your spot in advance.
Dates: Sat. & Sun., Sep. 25-Oct. 31, 2021 Times: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (admission gate closes one hour prior to closing) Cost: $24.95/person; Free for kids under 2
Remlinger Farms 32610 N.E. 32nd St. Carnation, WA 98014
Enjoy a night of fab food, live music and entertainment and more at the Chinatown-ID Night Market. Located in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District, the Night Market is where your family can feast on variety of international food items from street vendors and local restaurants, and stroll through the outdoor market to browse local handmade goods, fresh-cut flowers, Asian-inspired items and more. Psst! Don't miss the all ages dance party.
Date: Sept. 25, 2021 Time: 1-9 p.m. Cost: Free
Chinatown-International District Seattle, WA 98104 206-382-1197
Be a part of this floating festival that bring light, hope and a sense of connection to families across the country. The Water Lantern Festival will be back at Green Lake this year for another launch. Families can enjoy food, games, activities, vendors and music as they work to create and then decorate their own floating lanterns. Then as the sun begins to set, everyone gathers to launch their message of hope, peace, health and happiness along the shores as participants Light the Water. Take time to enjoy the glow!
This annual festival, produced by Northwest Folklife, is returning in its virtual format again this year! Last year's event featured a virtual smorgasbord of kid-favorite activities including music, dance, stories, educational programming and more, paired with a virtual passport. Although details are still being worked out for this year's festival, families can expect the same thoughtful programming that brings fun and a sense of community home.
Fox Hollow is bringing the fun to fall this year with two different festivals families can attend. During the day Fall Fun event, families can meander through the adventurous trail that leads them through a hay maze, along the Issaquah Creek, ending at a pumpkin patch, full of gord-geous pumpkins waiting to go home with you. The trail takes about 35-45 minutes to complete and you'll need to purchase tickets (for a two hour window) online before heading over. If you've got older kids, give the Haunted Hollow trail a try on Saturday nights. Thousands of twinkling lights, bonfires and torches will light the way along the path and there will be s'mores waiting for you at the end. Tickets are also needed for this event.
Good to know: Fall Fun runs Fridays through Sundays until Oct. 3 when it moves to Wednesdays through Sundays. Haunted Hollow is Saturdays, starting September 25.
Insider tip: Put Fox Hollow’s Halloween Carnival on your calendar for Oct. 30. It’s a chance for kids to don their costumes and treat bag and make their way around the farm gathering candy goodies.
Dates: Sep. 17-Oct. 29, 2021 Times: vary (check website) Cost: $55/car (6 people or less)
Fox Hollow Farm 12123 Issaquah Hobart Rd. S.E. Issaquah, WA 98027
Since 1988, Festa Italiana has been a labor of love from a community of Italian American volunteers providing this free event of Italian food, arts and culture at the Seattle Center. And this year, the event coordinators are thrilled to announce it's the first in-person event at Seattle Center in nearly two years. Highlights of the two-day fest include cooking demos by celebrity chefs, a bocce tournament, a grape stomping competition, kids' activities and the hugely popular group pizza toss.
Your family has been invited by the Lord of Camlann to go back in time and attend his Michelmasse Festival with demonstrations of fresh cider pressing, puppetry and music by Jacob Priestly’s Troop Man in the Moon. Plus experience long bow archery, sheep petting and fascinating demonstrations of wool dying, blacksmithing, spinning and pottery making. You and the kids will get to imagine (and experience) what cottage life would be like in 1376 in the colorful world of Chaucer’s England. Join in the fun by renting fine attire and taking in the Michelmasse Feast. Psst! Don't forget to stop by the Scribe Shop where you can purchase books, gifts and replica pottery with medieval art to take home as keepsakes.
Dates: Sept. 25 & 26, 2021 Times: noon–5 p.m. Cost: $10/Adults; $8/Youth (6-12) and Seniors (60 & older); Free for kids 5 & under. Feast & festival tickets are $50/person.
10320 Kelly Rd. N.E. Carnation, WA 98014 425-788-8624
Leavenworth's beloved annual Oktoberfest will have a significantly different vibe this year, but there's still every reason to visit this themed mountain village this fall. Families will love the "street fair" vibe and casual feel of this year's festival that focuses more on local shops and makers than it does on beer. Lining the streets of downtown Leavenworth, you'll find 100 vendors, crafters and artists showcasing their wares. But families can still expect the special Kinderplatz area with activities kids will love. The upside of the changes? There's no cost to attend the event.
Issaquah’s Salmon Days is a celebration of the return of salmon to their "birth-waters” as well as the city’s history, culture and diversity. Each year, the festival attracts hundreds of artists and crafts people and presents live music and entertainment, plus sporting events, a carnival, a huge food court. Much of this year's festival is still in the planning stages, but families can rest assured that the salmon will be welcomed in style this year too.
Celebrate fall (and everything it brings with it) at Kelsey Creek Farm again this year. That's right, one of the Eastside's best fests is back for 2021! It features a variety of old-time activities and plenty of farm fun. Look forward to animal encounters, a petting zoo, 4-H animal demonstrations, interactive children’s activities and food, plus heritage demonstrations and activities by the Eastside Heritage Center, tractor-pulled wagon rides and more!
Good to know: As there is limited parking, there is usually a shuttle that runs from Wilburton Park & Ride and Banner Park.
Who says LEGOs are just for kids? BrickCon is an annual convention put on by adult LEGO hobbyists that runs every year (except for 2020) during the first week of October. During the last two days of the convention, the public is invited to see what these creators of colorful bricks have come up with at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall. And this is no ordinary LEGO store display. Here, you will see hundreds of builders with their models that feature tens of thousands of pieces. Some will even be on hand to share their love of brick building with you and will give out a few pointers as well. Plus, you can find cool sets, parts and minifigs at the Brick Bazaar.
Good to know: No strollers are allowed.
Dates: Oct. 2 & 3, 2021 Times: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Cost: $25/person. Tickets are good for one 2.5 hour window and can be purchased online.
Seattle Center Exhibition Hall 301 Mercer St. Seattle, WA 98109
At this annual event, now in its 16th year, families can expect to find all things German (think: beer, brats, authentic entertainment), plus wiener dog races, fab family entertainment like the Chicken Dance and May Pole dance, a Family Fest Zone & Kinderfest with arts and crafts, a root bier garden, pumpkin decorating, dance lessons, games, face painting and much more!
Dates: Oct. 8-10, 2021 Times: Fri., noon-midnight; Sat.,11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (All ages until 6 p.m. on Fri. & Sat., and all-day Sun.) Cost: $12-$17/Person (12 & under free all weekend). Half-price tickets on Sun.
Washington State Fair Events Center 110 9th Ave. S.W. Puyallup, WA 98371
Celebrate Día de los Muertos (a.k.a. the Day of the Dead), a Latin American holiday honoring relatives who have passed away, at the Phinney Neighborhood Association. This year's celebration includes a community procession and dedication of a traditional altar for offerings to the deceased (bring your offerings!). Plus, families can enjoy live music and dance, do arts and crafts, nosh on delicious food and warm up with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate.
Red Tricycle is an anti-racist company against the systemic racism toward Black people and all people of color. We stand for justice, equality and humanity, and we support our Black families, co-workers, partners and community. One of the ways to do that directly is by supporting Black-owned businesses, many of which have already been affected by the coronavirus outbreak. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites below.
Head to TeaLee’s Tea House & Bookstore where it's nothing but high quality loose leaf teas, food and specialty drinks. The afro-centric atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and even enjoying a beer or wine.
Lakewood's African Grill and Bar is the place to be if you want authentic cuisine. The family-owned restaurant sources their ingredients from their native Africa, and whips up vegan, vegetarian and halal meat that is unsurpassed! Enjoy Akwaaba, Moimoi, Chakalaka stew and plenty of other Ghana-inspired meals.
Whittier Cafe is Denver's first African espresso bar and social justice cafe. Enjoy the exclusively African coffee and espresso bar that serves, hand-crafted coffee, sandwiches, African beers and wines while sharing in the lending library and sipping java on the patio.
Welton Street Cafe has been serving Caribbean Cuisine and Soul Food for over 20 years. Diners can get a taste of fried fish, rum cake and jerk chicken in this hot spot right off the light rail.
Matter Design is Denver’s only design studio, manufactory, and design (book) shop––all in one! Matter specializes in Typography, Design, Design Education, and Resistance-focused books and products, and customers can shop tons of products that also include wearables, games and stationary.
SOAR's main goal is to help adolescents conquer difficulties and grow to become successful adults in their community. Programs include community mentorship, counseling, advising, and tutoring as well as workshops, shadowing programs, one-on-one and group counseling, life skills education, and college prep.
The mission of the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center is to promote an understanding of the role that African Americans played in the settlement and growth of the western United States through its collections, programs and exhibits.
Rachael Harding of Miss Rachael's Dance has been teaching for over 20 years. Her studio focuses on teaching dance to littles of all ages, and providing an experience that helps them grow physically and mentally as dancers.
Family-owned and operated, Yellow Door Collective is an eco-conscious small business. Each of their goods are handmade in Denver, and they specialize in fabric work and repurposing. Many of the designs utilize African diasporic patterns and fabrics, and you can shop from tons of goods that include pillows, bags, hats, jewelry, kitchen and kids!
New dessert store Sweet Sweetz is doing more than just serving treats––they are focused on supporting the local community by providing a space for families and youth to come together in a positive way. You can enjoy tons of homemade baked goods like pies and cobblers, in addition to plenty of Blue Bell ice cream!
Tween boutique is more than just outfitting your budding young ladies in fashionable clothes––it's about empowerment, too! Preteens can shop everything from accessories and shoes to dresses and jackets, with uniquely hand branded products that are bright and beautiful––just like your tween.