Oh, hey, it’s Earth Day on Apr. 22. If the occasion somehow fell off your radar (same), not to worry. Celebrate all things nature, upcycled and repurposed with these fun and easy projects from our favorite LA museums and kids art studios.
Courtesy of Meri Cherry Art Studio in Encino, this craft project is ideal for little ones. "When they dip the chalk in water it becomes like paint and they can scrape it down to the nub on the branches. Super sensory, super satisfying," writes Meri Cherry (yep, that's the studio founder's real name, too) in her Instagram post.
LA's Craft Contemporary museum shared this fun project, ideal for all ages. Kids can collect petals and leaves on a nature walk and then use their toy toolbox hammers to make art. See the full Instagram tutorial here.
Also from Craft Contemporary, here's a creative way to upcycle the bubble wrap in all those deliveries you've been receiving while stuck at home. Watch the video tutorial.
Culver City's reDiscover Center specializes in making with sustainable, upcycled materials. In addition to offering virtual tinkering classes, they're also sharing ideas on Youtube, like how to make this nifty treasure box.
What kid doesn't love miniature everything? With this project from Cr8 Art Studio in North Hollywood, little ones can craft their own pint-sized playground using cardboard boxes, a paper towel roll and more.
Tune into The Broad's weekly family art projects for ideas like this one, inspired by the works of Nigeria-based artist El Anatsui, who creates oversized tapestries from re-purposed materials including bottle caps, packaging and copper wire.
Pasadena's Kisapace Children's Museum is sharing daily at-home projects, like this DIY birdhouse plus tips on what to serve birds if you're short on seed.
It’s always the perfect time of year to plan a weekend in the San Francisco Bay Area. With the beach, the mountains and wine country all just a short drive from each other, you are bound to pack a ton of adventure into your next family vacation. Book your hotel and leave the planning to us as we researched the best options for every interest. Read on and get inspired!
Where is your adventure going to take you today? Choose your destination and check out all of the iconic Bay Area hot spots while you're there.
Downtown SF Fisherman's Wharf is the place to be if you want to play tourist for the day in the City by the Bay. Make this your hub for the day's adventures. Walk along the water and follow your ears to find the world-famous Pier 39 sea lions. Swing by the sea lion center to learn more about these creatures and why they made their way to Pier 39 after the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. No visit to Pier 39 is complete without a ride on the San Francisco Carousel. See if you can spot the local landmarks carved into its design. For additional recs of what to do when you visit Pier 39, click here.
Don't leave San Francisco without a ride on a cable car! The cable car turntable at Beach and Hyde near Ghirardelli Square will get you on the Powell/Hyde line. This will take you up Hyde Street to Lombard where you can hop off and explore the most crooked street in the city. Pedestrians can walk down the stairs on the side of the street to get the full view. When you are done exploring Lombard Street, get back on the cable car and continue to Powell and California. Walk a few blocks, and you will be in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown. Grab some dim sum and then head to the Willie "Woo Woo" Wong Playground to give the kids time to run and climb.
End your night with a walk to Ghirardelli Square to try one of the city's most iconic desserts. Grab a sundae at the chocolate factory that has been in business since 1852.
Pssst...Hoping to stay downtown? Check into the Park Central Hotel San Francisco, which is offering a great family package. The package includes grab and go breakfasts for two adults (kids 12 and under eat free) and up to four complimentary bike rentals from Blazing Saddles.
Wine Country Just because the kids are along for the ride doesn't mean that wine country should be crossed off your list. There are tons of family-friendly wineries that offer tastings for the adults and grassy areas for kids to run around. The gondola at Sterling Vineyards is an adventure for all ages, or visit the farm animals at wineries like Frog's Leap and Preston Farm and Winery.
Got a little train lover in your crew? Kids will love visiting TrainTown in Sonoma and riding the quarter-scale railroad.
East Bay To hit the iconic spots in the East Bay, all you need to do is pick a neighborhood and go explore. For a sweet hike, book it to the Ice Cream Trail (yep, you read that right!) in the Tri-Valley region. Simply download your passport and hit up one of the participating ice cream shops. Get a stamp at each and if you get five stamps and mail your passport in, $5 will be donated to Valley Humane Society!
If you're looking for an interactive museum experience, beeline it to Oakland Museum of California, or OMCA for short. Their rotating exhibits bring together art, history and natural sciences. Psst...for our full list of the best kid-friendly museums in the East Bay click here. To get the wiggles out, visit Frog Park in Oakland's Temescal neighborhood. This local hot spot was built by over 1,300 volunteers and features a creek, playground and areas perfect for imaginative play—all set amongst towering redwood trees.
The quirky town of Berkeley is often on visitors' must-visit lists and, good news, it offers lots of activities for kids. Check out UC Berkeley and get a bird's-eye view of the happenings below when you visit the Campanile, or bell tower, in the middle of campus. A long elevator ride followed by 38 steps to the top (no strollers allowed) gets you to the epic view. The UC Botanical Garden is a gorgeous spot to spend the day out in nature.
One of the most lively spots in Berkeley is Fourth Street where you can shop, nosh and make art all in one afternoon. Our faves for your Berkeley visit: lemon ricotta pancakes at Bette's Oceanview Diner and a cup of hand-crafted tea from Teance.
Silicon Valley Go back in time to see what life was like in Silicon Valley before all of the tech giants took over. At Moffett Federal Airfield you'll be amazed to see the massive size of Hangar 1, built during the Depression to house blimps. Stop by the Moffett Field Museum to see artifacts from the property's use as a naval air station and a collection of vintage air craft outside. Nearby NASA Ames Research Center also welcomes visitors to tour its visitor center and learn about the research center's involvement in space discovery.
Stay: No matter which part of the Bay Area you choose to stay for the night, we recommend a Marriott International hotel. They offer over 40 properties and 15 brands to choose from just in the Bay Area, which means there is an experience for everyone. Click here to learn more.
Day Two: Get Outdoors
One of the major things that draws visitors (and residents) to the Bay Area is its gorgeous landscape. You can get big city, ocean waves, redwood forests, mountains and the San Francisco Bay, all within a few hours drive of the city center. Pick your spot and get ready to breathe the fresh air!
San Francisco Even if you had a full week to explore only Golden Gate Park you still would be left with items on your agenda. This 1,017-acre park right in the middle of the city will make you feel like you are worlds away from the hustle, bustle and traffic of the big city. You can travel to Japan when you visit the historical Japanese Tea Gardens and then head to the Netherlands when you swing by the tulip garden and windmill located on the western section of the park. Kids will love the recently-renovated Koret Children's Quarter (a massive playground with carousel) and also spotting the bison in the paddock.
Pssst...Don't forget the Park Central Hotel San Francisco's newest deal, which is offering a great family package. The package includes grab and go breakfasts for two adults (kids 12 and under eat free) and up to four complimentary bike rentals from Blazing Saddles.
Wine Country If your weekend home base is in wine country, you are right in the middle of some of the most gorgeous land in all of California. Beyond the miles and miles of picturesque vineyards, you can spend a day exploring other unique features of the area like Calistoga's Petrified Forest. Be a witness to redwood trees that once grew in abundance here and were turned to stone 3.4 million years ago by a local volcano. Just down the road from the petrified forest you can find another geological marvel—Old Faithful Geyser of Calistoga. Learn about why the geyser erupts at regular intervals and is a good predictor of earthquakes. Another curious find on the same property as the geyser are the Tennessee fainting goats. Find out why they "faint" when you meet them up close.
East Bay One of our favorite things about Northern California is its generally temperate year-round weather. Hiking and biking in the fall and winter? Yes and yes! Grab your bikes, trikes and helmets, and head to Danville or Pleasanton/Dublin. Each locale offers a self-guided biking tour. Experience historic sites and stop for lunch along the way.
A day at Berkeley's Tilden Park is not one that the kids will soon forget. This larger-than-life spot has more opportunities for adventure than you could imagine. Start off by visiting Tilden's Little Farm. This working farm and petting zoo is home to cows, goats, sheep, chickens, geese, rabbits, pigs and more—and it’s totally free to visit. After meeting all the animals take a ride on the steam train and merry-go-round (both open only on the weekends).
For kid-friendly eats, we love Rudy's Can't Fail Cafe in Emeryville. Here you'll find diner menu options and tables decorated with vintage toys.
Silicon Valley If your Bay Area visit just isn't complete without a beach day, head to Half Moon Bay. After the morning fog burns off, you can spend your day splashing in the waves and flying your kites at one of the many beaches along Highway 1. Half Moon Bay is home to the James Fitzgerald Marine Reserve where you can find some of the area's best tide pools (check for the timing of low tide before you visit). Spend some time exploring the quaint downtown and the many farms in this area.
Day Three: Make It a Museum Day
Kate Loweth
With literally hundreds of museums and science centers making the Bay Area their home, you can learn about everything under the sun from textiles to cable cars to model trains to earthquakes. You can find all of the ones that offer free days here, or check out some of our faves below. (Note for out-of-town visitors: If you are a member of your own local children's museum, check to see if they offer reciprocal memberships to these Bay Area museums. Many will offer free or heavy-discounted admission to other network museums.)
San Francisco Located right on the SF Bay at Pier 15, the Exploratorium is a mecca of hands-on exhibits that promises to teach you something. With six galleries to choose from, you'll be able to learn about everything from human behavior to weather. Another great spot for scientific discovery is the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. Part aquarium, part planetarium and part natural history museum, the Cal Academy will have you seeing the world around you in all new ways. Make some time to swing by and visit Clyde, the Academy's resident albino alligator.
Wine Country Charlie Brown and Snoopy fans flock to the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa to learn all about the famous comic strip.
East Bay If art is your jam, head to the East Bay and explore one of the many kid-friendly museums. Arts and culture abound in the Tri-Valley area. Dublin's Heritage Park & Museums is a 10-acre park offering up preserved buildings from the 1850s. There are two museums on site, which are free during during regular hours. Don't forget to pack a picnic!
Wee ones will especially enjoy a visit to Habitot, a children's museum in Berkeley that promotes imaginative play through art, pretend play and more. MOCHA (Museum of Children's Arts) provides an environment where families can create, share and connect through art.
Silicon Valley It's a no brainer that Silicon Valley is full of STEM-focused museums that are perfect for kids of all ages. The Intel Museum will give you a glimpse inside an ultra-clean, highly automated silicon chip factory and teach you how technologies give us new ways to work, learn, play and communicate. Downtown San Jose is home to the Tech Museum of Innovation and the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, both great spots for scientific learning. For more STEM-learning opportunities, check out this post.
Stay: After so much exploring you'll want a welcoming and comfortable place to return to. We recommend one of the many family-friendly Marriott International hotels located in the Bay Area. Many offer on-site restaurants, kid-friendly pools, double beds and cribs to make your stay enjoyable for everyone. Click here to learn more.
With Marriott Bonvoy™, members can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check-in and the ability to earn and redeem points at Marriott’s thousands of hotels. Not a Marriott Bonvoy member? Join for free when you book! Save up to 20% on your trip to San Francisco here!
In addition to checking out NYC glorious lights displays, lacing up and taking a spin on one of New York City’s many ice skating rinks, or getting a snap with Santa, one of the best things to do during Christmas season in NYC is head to a holiday market. It’s a perfect ways to take in a festive scene, shop for gifts and goodies, and enjoy delicious hot food. The Union Square Holiday Market and Columbus Circle Holiday Market are two of the best, having become iconic additions to the NYC holiday season. What can you expect at the markets in 2019? Check out our guide to the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market below!
Holiday Markets: What's the Big Deal?
Sunshine M. via Yelp
Hitting up a holiday market during the holidays in NYC is a must-do. Why? In addition to being a fun way to soak up some cheer, these markets aren't stocked with your ordinary, everyday made-in-China items you'll find in a mall. Instead, they're filled with a curated group of vendors from around the Northeast that sell unique, handcrafted items that make truly special gifts. The markets are a great opportunity to find meaningful gifts for everyone on your list—kids, friends, pets, grandparents and beyond. From home decor, jewelry, clothing and art, to ornaments, toys, dolls and foodie gifts, it's all here!
Add to that dozens of food options from favorite local eateries, free activities and music and you've got all the makings of an efficient, festive, filling and fun holiday outing in New York City!
Note that depending on when you go, it can get very crowded at these holiday markets. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but something to consider if you need to roam freely and hate lines. Weekends can be hectic!
Both the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market are operated by UrbanSpace (the people behind the holiday market at Bryant Park, and others). The uptown market is now in its 16th season, while downtown returns for a 26th this year; both shopping destinations serve up homespun treats and hand-crafted items from hundreds of local and regional vendors.
Hot tip: to really make the most of your trip, get maps of each site, and lots of gift ideas for all types of people, take a look at the Urbanspace Holiday Market Gift Guide here!
The popular Holiday Market at Union Square opens before the one at Columbus Circle. (Shopping started downtown on November 21; doors open on December 4 uptown.)
Union Square gets refreshed this year, with an upgraded look, and new sections, like "Little Brooklyn", featuring artisans and makers from the borough, and Urbanspace Provisions where you can get locally-produced "food, drink and 'spice of life' supplies. There's also a kid's area with free art projects, and live music to enjoy while you shop.
If you get chilly in Union Square, head to the Warming Station and Lounge Presented by Citi, where you can get free hot chocolate from United Chocolate Works and snap pic in a photo booth.
Anchored by the USS Maine monument at Columbus Circle, The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is a destination for shoppers both local and international looking for an elegant and unique holiday shopping experience.
Located at the entrance to Central Park, at 59th street and Central Park West, the market is now in its 15th year, and has the added bonus of not only being near the nature of Central Park, but also the upscale mall of The Shops at Columbus Circle. (Which is home to its very own light display, that you should check out!)
We were sad to see one of our all-time favorite food vendors was not at Union Square this year (we miss you Sonrisa Empanada!), but you will not go hungry at these markets. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy under the warm heated lamps in Union Square or at the communal picnic tables in Columbus Circle.
Here are some of our favorites:
If your kids are fans of pizza (and let's face it, who isn't?) the pizza balls at Arancini Bros (Union: D17) will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. They're crispy on the outside and warm and gooey on the inside, like a compact pizza perfect for little hands. (Parents, we recommend the Thanksgiving special!)
Nothing warms you inside better than soup, and there are a few options to choose from: The borscht from Veselka Pierogi Bar (Union: D16) was sweet and filling (and came with a few slices of soft bread), while the spice-infused soups of Taste of Persia (Union: D18) are great if you love lots of flavor in your soup (and they come with a slice of pita).
Columbus Circle has more options for food if you're looking for a meal (not just a tasty treat). Here, you'll find tacos and burritos from Frida's Favorites Mexican Cantina (Columbus B39), sweet and savory bureks at Balkan Bites (Columbus: B33), and more!
Hot chocolate and other warm winter drinks are also easy to find here, but this writer's personal favorite is the hot (non-alcoholic) gluehwein from German Delights (Union: B40, C37, Columbus: A10, B41).
And no matter which holiday market you go to, Wafels & Dinges (Union: D11, Columbus: B62) is a must — if you haven't already, try the speculoos and fall in love!
What to Do at the Holiday Markets
Yuliya Geikhman
Besides shopping and eating, the Union Square holiday market in particular is also home to the Art Stationfor kids, where kids can make art for free, courtesy of the Children's Museum of the Arts. The station is open after school on weekdays and all day on weekends and is a warm and inviting place for little ones to spend some time creating. There are plenty of art supplies and staff is on hand to lead kids in the projects—when we stopped by, kids were making their own tunnel books (cut out diorama-style mini-scenes) but future crafts include puppets, 3D lanterns, hanging stars, and winter cityscapes.
Alternatively, kids can pet and comb—yes, comb—the walls of the art station (pictured here), which are covered with the soft fur of the friendly art monster whose smile greets you from one of the walls when you enter.
For a sensory experience, visit Spices & Tease (Union: B31, Columbus: B35) to enjoy the scents and colors of their assortment of spice and tea mixes (and maybe take some home—they're all delicious!).
Union is also home to a few other spots of interest, like a tree made of flat wood lit up by lights, where people have written positive messages for visitors, and a whole section dedicated to Brooklyn-made crafts called Little Brookyn.
Shopping for Kids at Holiday Markets
Yuliya Geikhman
You can shop for all ages at the holiday markets, but you'll also find so many whimsical creations that will be especially appealing for kids. There are too many options to list but we've picked out some of our favorite spots that kids will love to explore—and that would make perfect gifts for the little ones! And here's a bonus: Want to save a bit when you visit? SquareSpace has three pages full of coupons starting on page 24 of their Holiday Gift Guide.
There are lots of cute toys this year, many of which are handmade and are really one-of-a-kind. For a toy with a purpose, check out Dragonette by La Muse Kalliope (Union: C13), whose adorable critters will help you meet your goals in different ways: One creature, for instance, has a piece of rectangular felt on his back into which you cut a spike for each goal you accomplish and help him meet his own goal of becoming a dinosaur!
If your kid wants a new miniature twinsie, stop by Hazel Village (Union: D9, pictured here)), where children can pick out an adorable animal plush, dress him up in a cute outfit, and get the same outfit for themselves so they can match their new friend.
You can also snag plenty of unique toys for tots at booths like Craftspring (Union: A50, Columbus: A20) for handmade felt ornaments, Little Poland Gallery (Union: C5) for wooden eco-friendly toys, New York Puzzle Company (Union: C28, Columbus: B51) for the jigsaw lovers in your life, and so many more.
Unique Gifts for Pets, Friends & Others
Yuliya Geikhman
This is just a small sampling of all the vendors on display this year! Besides the many child-oriented options, you can really find something for everyone—whether you're looking for a gift for your eco-conscious cousin (try Three Bluebirds' reusable washcloths—Union: C42, Columbus: A22), your bestie (maybe they'd appreciate With Roots' gorgeous plant-based pendants—Union: A76), or your pet (Manhattan's Meow Parlour has a cat loaf bed your just has to have—Union: A61).
Get out and explore these amazing museums for free
While it’s true visiting New York City with kids can get expensive, there are also a ton of free museums so you can make the most of your time in the city on a budget. From free days at museums to free museums for students, this list will help you get into some of the best free museums New York City has to offer. Read on for our list of the best places to gain free entrance to museums in New York.
The National Museum of the American Indian is actually part of the Smithsonian family of museums, which grants free entrance to museums. It houses the world's most expansive collections of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, archives, and more.
The mission of the Museum is to advance knowledge of fashion through exhibitions, programs, and publications. The museum also features student and faculty exhibitions, including the Art and Design Graduating Student Exhibition every May.
The next free museum in NYC is the American Folk Art Museum. Since 1961 the American Folk Art Museum has been showcasing self-taught artists through its exhibitions, publications, and educational programs.
El Museo del Barriowas founded nearly 50 years ago and is dedicated to preserving the art and culture of Puerto Ricans and all Latin Americans. Tiny visitors can join the Coqui Club, a bilingual program offered monthly.
Fans of the musical Hamilton can see first-hand where Alexander Hamilton lived with his family Uptown. Not only can you gain free entrance to this museum, but kids can also become Junior Rangers since this site is part of the National Park Service.
This National Historic Site is a recreated brownstone that depicts life as it was when our 26th President was a child. The first U.S. President to be born in NYC, visitors will learn about what his life was like, including how he overcame serious health issues.
One of the coolest buildings in Williamsburg, the Kings County Savings Bank building built in 1867, is the home of the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center. Besides ongoing music, dance, theatrical productions, poetry and stage readings, symposia, and lectures, the WAH Center created annual festivals such as the Williamsburg Film Festival, the Williamsburg Dance Festival, and more.
BRIC features a public media center, a major contemporary art exhibition space, two performance spaces, a glass-walled TV studio, and artist work spaces. They are also behind the popular BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn Festival that happens annually in Prospect Park.
This urban botanic garden connects people to the world of plants through events, workshops, and of course, their beautiful 52 acres of lush plants and flowers. In the off-season, admission to the garden is free.
Located on the Queens College campus, the Godwin-Ternbach Museum features gallery talks, workshops, films, concerts, and tours. It is the only comprehensive collection of art and artifacts in the borough.
Klapper Hall, Queens College Flushing, NY Online:gtmuseum.org
Socrates Sculpture Park is an outdoor museum and public park featuring sculptures and multimedia installations. Families can enjoy outdoor movies, weekly sculpture workshops for kids, and much more at this free museum in NYC’s trendy LIC neighborhood.
The cultural center and garden are part of 23 historical buildings, nine botanical gardens, and 10 acres of wetlands—set on 83 acres. Visitors can experience history, theater, dance, music, and so much more.
1000 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, NY Online:snug-harbor.org
Pro tips:
Many museums offer pay-what-you-wish admission. Check before you head out!
Active duty military can show ID to receive free admission to many attractions around NYC.
Check the museum’s stroller policy before you head out. You don’t want to get there to find out they don’t allow strollers in their galleries, or that they don’t have a stroller check-in.
Every parent wants the best for their child. Because you want them to succeed and probably never want them to feel sad, frustrated, embarrassed, or anxious, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of trying to control every experience your child has. Not only is this impossible, however, but it’s also not going to set your child up for success in life.
An overbearing parenting style doesn’t usually yield the best results. So what can you do instead to raise confident, resilient kids? Take your cues from modern leadership theory and learn how to be a transformational parent.
The Power of Transformational Leadership
Transformational leadership is one of the most successful leadership styles in the modern workplace because it focuses on motivating and encouraging employees instead of relying on micromanagement or authoritarian tactics. This leadership style is respectful, encourages creativity and innovation, and empowers people in the workplace to grow and thrive. Successful transformational leaders are good role models and provide inspiration, support, and guidance, but ultimately trust their employees to make good decisions and to do things their own way.
Leadership skills that you can develop from an MBA aren’t just useful for your career, but also in navigating your family and personal relationships. Transformational parenting helps kids learn strong values and become their own people. Children thrive under the power of transformational leadership and learn to become more self-sufficient, confident, and feel motivated to push themselves to greater heights.
How Kids and Teens Respond to Transformational Parenting
Today, parents must protect their children from a host of threats. Vaping, the latest danger threatening adolescents, is especially troublesome. Statistics show that 18% of eighth-graders have tried e-cigarettes, which is enough to make any parent want to watch their child 24/7. Unfortunately, you can’t protect your kids from these kinds of dangers by trying to force them to do your bidding.
Instead of using an authoritarian approach and telling your kids they’re forbidden from doing something, it’s better to use a transformational approach and encourage individual decision-making while establishing rational boundaries. This involves not only modeling the correct behavior but also explaining why limits are placed and listening carefully and responding thoughtfully to your child’s feelings and opinions on the subject.
Kids whose parents approach tough subjects like vaping with communication and respect for their views and ability to make decisions often respond by making healthy decisions, rather than rebelling against authority.
Mutually Realized Growth Through Transformational Parenting
One of the most interesting and powerful aspects of transformational parenting is that it helps both children and their parents grow, evolve, and heal. Because the transformational approach requires you to assess your own feelings and reactions when making parenting decisions, you’re likely to learn a lot about yourself and feel motivated to take responsibility for your behavior. After all, one of the essentials of transformational parenting is being a good role model.
We all have wounds from earlier in our lives, which are often acquired during childhood. It’s all too easy to pass those wounds on to our own children if we don’t consciously acknowledge them and actively rewrite the narrative for the next generation. Through transformational parenting, you will grow and heal while helping to prevent secondhand trauma in your children’s lives.
Tempering Your Expectations
At its core, transformational parenting is all about letting go of your own expectations and trusting your child to build an identity that makes them happy, fulfilled, and productive. You will guide them along the way, but good transformational parenting involves knowing when to step back.
Your child is an individual. While they may look just like you, in reality, they’re their own person with their own needs and desires. Your ambitions and visions for their life have no place in transformational parenting. If they want to become a doctor, they will. But if they want to make art and live in a commune, that’s okay too.
A lot of parenting is tempering your expectations. Your kids will do best when you encourage and support them without forcing them down a particular path. The best part? By practicing transformation parenting, you’ll probably find yourself feeling happier and more relaxed because you won’t be on edge (as much) about test scores, future athletic prospects, or college applications.
Instead, you’ll get to enjoy the ride—and see what an incredible person your child becomes.
Sarah Daren has been a consultant for startups in industries including health and wellness, wearable technology, and education. She implements her health knowledge into every aspect of her life, including her position as a yoga instructor and raising her children. Sarah enjoys watching baseball and reading on the beach.
While session sign-ups are great for consistency and development, sometimes it’s great to get out and do something different. Luckily in the Bay Area, the options for drop-in classes are pretty awesome. From art to yoga classes and STEAM to indoor play, we’ve rounded up our favorite activities and got you covered every day of the week. Check out our list, grab the little ones and have some fun!
Playtime at Broadway Babies and Kids This quiet little studio tucked in downtown San Carlos is perfect for little ones learning the world around them. Ideal for the 5 and under set, drop-in playtime includes a dance and sing-along party at every session. With a quiet train room, soft play toys and even a mini playhouse studio. It’s a great place to meet other moms in a small space that encourages community.
Playland at Mt. Tam Adventures Promoting exercise, socializing, community and fun for families, this indoor playground is a great way to spend the morning, but their weekly drop-in classes are what really make this Sausalito space special. Music and Reptile classes are hosted every day, where kids 7 and under can learn something new in a fun way. Classes are free with admission and parents can take advantage of the complimentary Peet’s coffee and tea while kids play.
610 Coloma St. Sausalito, CA 94965 Phone: 415-377-9678 Online: mttamadventures.com
Spanish Story time at Charlie’s Corner The independent neighborhood bookstore gives us all the feels, and not just because of the wide variety of titles for kids. Their interactive story times are something else, with dramatic storytellers bringing the book to life with music and play. Story time is offered everyday in various languages, like Spanish, several times during the week and on the weekends. Kids of all ages can drop-in for free in a creative and cozy space.
4102 24th St. San Francisco, CA 94114 Phone: 415-641-1104 Online: charliescorner.com
Art Class at Studio 4 Art Voted Best Art Studio in Marin for two years in a row, kids can reserve a spot for a hands-on art session at this fantastic space. With locations in Mill Valley, Novato and San Anselmo, activities include wheel throwing, clay sculpting, mosaics, hand sewing, printmaking, screen painting and painting on canvas. All materials are included and drop-off is available for kids ages 5 and older.
1133 Grant Ave. Novato, CA 94945 Phone: 415-596-5546 Online: studio4art.net
Art Studio at Children’s Art Center This non-profit, Reggio Emilia-focused community organization is all about unleashing that inner creativity. With a 6:1 student/teacher ratio, toddlers and preschoolers can participate in a variety of guided art classes. Tuesdays are for the older set, with about two hours to create something of their own with various art materials. While drop-ins are welcome, if an art class is something your little wants to do, be sure to register ahead of time to avoid a potential meltdown if the class is full.
Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Blvd. Building C San Francisco, CA 94123 Phone: 415-771-0292 Online: childrensartcenter.org
Story time & Craft at IHeartArt Little ones that aren’t afraid to get messy need to check out the Open Studio at IHeartArt in Pleasant Hill. Classes are offered as drop-in only and taught by expert teachers or founders (who also happen to be moms, teachers and artists themselves). Tables are set up with different projects including a paint wall, LEGO wall and “makers table”. On Tuesday mornings, story time is followed by a craft for a fun experience.
15 Vivian Dr. Pleasant Hill. CA 94523 Phone: 925-602-0140 Online: iheartartstudio.co
Special Needs Jump Time Every Tuesday, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of guests. Jump sessions for kids with special needs and their families is a passion project for Sky High founder Jerry Raymond. The father of a special needs son, Jerry has witnessed how jumping can help improve motor and sensory skills, social interaction and overall fitness for kids and young adults on the Autism spectrum as well as young people with Down Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy and other disorders. During special jump sessions, each jumper is $5 from 3-6 p.m. with one parent or therapist free. Family members who jump are also just $5.
Toddler STEAM at Stemful This San Francisco play space for the 10 and under set is all about “sprouting curiosity” through STEAM. If you've got a toddler or preschooler, check out the drop-in class for Toddler STEAM and Mini STEAMster where hands-on math and science activities support development while songs and stories develop language comprehension. Other fun activities include movie night for the kids 4-10 years old and Community Play Space where kids can have unstructured play during open hours.
30 29th St. San Francisco, CA 94110 Phone: (415) 660-5975 Online: sf-stemful.com
Gymnastics at Junior Gym Check out open gym at this fun, friendly and colorful gym ready to help your little ones get out a ton of energy in an unstructured environment. With locations in San Mateo and Santa Rosa, the gym also holds birthday parties, summer camp and parents night out. Open gym is from 12-1 p.m. on weekdays for $8 and available to buy as a single pass or as a punch card for multiple visits. Current enrolled students are free.
811 South B St. San Mateo, CA 94401 Phone: 650-548-9901 Online: juniorgym.com
Art Class at MOCHA Art Studio Open to all artists of any age, this newly-relocated studio in Oakland has transformed their open studio space with new themes every month. Kids can create robots and experience maker space with materials appropriate for their age. At $7/person, it’s an inexpensive way to unleash their inner creativity in a fun way. Kids under one are free.
1221 Broadway, Lower Level, Suite 49 Oakland, CA 94612 Phone: 510-465-8770 Online: mocha.org
Parkour Class at Sessions Academy This spot is the place to be for kids who need to burn off some serious energy. On Wednesdays, those in the 5-8 age group can drop in at 5 p.m. and the 9-13 crew at either 4 p.m. or 6 p.m. Classes are an hour long and include American Ninja Warrior-style drills, stretching, balance and jumping. They also offer classes the rest of the week, including a girls-only Sunday class.
Little Learners at SF Zoo For little ones who never want to leave the bears, lions and tigers, check out the children’s classes at the San Francisco Zoo. Pre-registration is required, but with a little planning, kids (and their caregivers) as young as 18 months to 3.5 years old can participate in the Little Learners class on Thursdays where they focus on a different animal and includes a craft, small snack and animal visitor. Check out the other classes available for younger (Stroller Safari) and older kiddos.
Sloat Blvd. and Great Hwy. San Francisco, CA 94132 Phone: 415-753-7080 Online: sfzoo.org
Toddler Playgroup at AcroSports Little ones can crawl through an LED tunnel, swing in hammocks and go through an obstacle course in this fun and colorful space that focuses on gymnastics, circus, dance and creative movement. Check out the Toddler Playground on Thursdays for an unstructured, parent participated play time. If you’ve got an older kiddo, drop-ins are available when there is space for any of the classes offered including Tumblecircus and Jr. Parkour. You’ll need to create an account and register beforehand in order to save that spot!
639 Frederick St. San Francisco, CA 94117 Phone: 415-665-2276 Online: acrosports.org
Digital Art Lesson at YoungArt USA For a last minute, super cool activity for kids of any age, check out YoungArt’s art classes. Located in shopping malls around the Bay, this drop-in only studio lets kids walk in at any time of the day and put their paintbrushes (or digital pens) to work while you shop. Sessions are as short as 15 minutes or as long as two hours, depending on age, interest and ability. A caregiver must accompany kids ages 2 and younger, older kids can be dropped off.
Hillsdale Shopping Center (other locations available on website) San Mateo, CA 94403 Phone: 650-554-9044 Online: youngartusa.co
Friday
Baby Yoga & Massage at It’s Yoga Kids If some Zen is what’s needed to end the week, check out a class at the family-focused yoga studio in the Presidio. With classes for preschoolers all the way up to teens, the goal is to include the whole family in the benefits of yoga. Friday morning hosts a morning class for babies 12 months and younger with gentle movement, songs and massage that benefits the connection with your new little one. Registration is required for all classes.
569 Ruger St. San Francisco, CA 94129 Phone: 415-750-9990 Online: itsyogakids.com
Musical Playgroup at Rockin’ Kids Sing Along Bring the whole family to dance, sing and play at this drop-in only East Bay spot. Hosted by a licensed clinical social worker and former punk/rock singer and guitarist, Stephanie Pepitone takes everyone through a variety of musical activities. Whether it’s a jam session, finger plays, nursery songs in different languages, stories, or instrumental “petting zoo”, it’s always a good time at Rockin’ Kids Sing Along.
La Pena Cultural Center 3105 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94705 Online: rockinkidssingalong.com
Recycled Art Fridays at Habitiot Museum Take recycled items to new levels at this award-winning East Bay children’s museum built for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Kids can create whatever they want, whether it’s a monster house or a space station with free materials like toilet paper rolls, plastic caps and Styrofoam blocks donated by StopWaste Alameda County. Afterwards, feel free to roam the museum with tons of space to play and learn.
2065 Kittredge St. Berkeley, CA 94704 Phone: 510-647-1111 Online: habitot.org
Saturday
Saturday Science at Randall Museum Part of the San Francisco Parks and Recreation, this science, nature and arts museum has gotten a lot of buzz with its re-opening last year after a $9 million renovation. On Saturday mornings, kids can take part in project-based activities that bring the “WOW!” to science. Whether it’s building a rocket to launch or learning about polymers, it’s all about making learning fun. Themes include Scribble Bots, Air Science and Popup Planetarium, among others. As a bonus, participants are able to take their project home.
199 Museum Way San Francisco, CA 94114 Phone: 415-554-9600 Online: randallmuseum.org
Family Yoga at Nandi Yoga Nandi Yoga has a great kids program for those with little ones wanting to get more into the practice. While the more intensive program is being re-vamped, check out the family yoga class on Saturday morning. Focused mainly for ages 2-7, a certified yoga teacher will take you and your little ones through gentle poses and breathing exercises to calm the mind and challenge the body in a friendly and fun environment. Advanced scheduling is required.
309 8th Ave. San Mateo, CA 94401 Phone: 650-343-9642 Online: nandiyoga.com
Family Art at Red Poppy House Located in the Mission district, this “hub” for connecting artists with community has been able to live and grow with volunteers and donors that believe in the vision. Saturday afternoon is open to the public with the Family Art Program. This engaging, creative and best of all free event is meant to bring people together in the name of art. Volunteers bring out a variety of art supplies and organize different activities for kids, teens and adults. It’s a great way to meet new families and get creative.
2698 Folsom St. San Francisco, CA 94110 Phone: 650-731-5383 Online: redpoppyarthouse.org
Mini Program at House of Air If you’ve got an active 3-6 year old and a Saturday open, the Mini Program at House of Air is a good one to check out. The class leads kids in beginning gymnastics positions like pike, tuck and candlestick as well as obstacle courses at the big indoor trampoline park. It’s structured enough to hold kids' attention while having a ton of fun and definitely getting all that energy out. Grip socks are required and can be purchased on arrival.
926 Mason St. San Francisco, CA 94129 Phone: 415-345-9675 Online: houseofair.com
Sunday
Splash & Dash at La Petite Baleen (depends on availability) With 40 years under their belt, La Petite Baleen is a favorite for parents around the Bay Area. The swim schools are privately owned and have a custom built and designed swimming pool to give kids the best experience in the water. The Splash and Dash program lets enrolled and non-enrolled kids drop-in to any class in one of their four locations if there is a spot open and available that matches their age and ability. Just call up to seven days in advance to schedule!
434 San Mateo Ave. San Bruno, CA 94066 Phone: 844-339-5015 Online: swimlpb.com
Story Time and Family Garden Walk at SF Botanical Gardens The San Francisco Botanical Garden is already a beautiful, tranquil space to hang out, with 55 acres of landscaped gardens and around 9,000 different plants from around the world. On the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month, the garden hosts a story time in the library’s book nook followed by a docent garden walk to bring those stories to life. The event is free, with different themes like pollination, California plants and trees. Admission to the garden is free for all members and SF residents. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy afterwards!
Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture 1199 9th Ave. San Francisco, CA 94122 Phone: 415-661-1316 Online: sfbg.org
Family Fun Day at Asian Art Museum From story times, museum tours and art projects, the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month are dedicated to family fun. Developed and led by Art Speak interns, the immersive classes are meant to make art appreciation a friendly event for everyone. Themes and projects change regularly, so visitors can go again and again to learn something new. Be sure to check the age ranges for events listed for the best experience. Street parking is available and free on Sundays.
200 Larkin St. San Francisco, CA 94102 Phone: 415-581-3500 Online: asianart.org
Art is an ongoing experience and it helps teens (and young kids) express themselves. The best art is a conversation between the artist and the audience, and this conversation happens entirely without words. Connecting your child to art is important and your attitude and approach to art will help shape how your teen thinks about art and the world around them. And while we all know that creating art and painting is a great way to express yourself and build confidence, if it’s not something you’ve done before, getting into art can be a daunting task.
So how do you get your child interested in art and painting? Here are some test-proven ways.
1. Have Art Supplies Ready
You don’t need a studio, just a corner of a room or even a drawer. Whatever it is, make a dedicated space in your home for your teen to create. Show them where everything is and what it is.
2. Make Art with Them
Lead by example and do it regularly. Even if your teen seems to be too cool for art projects, take some time to make art together. Even if it’s just you painting the first time, they’ll see what you’re doing. Give them time to come around. See if your teen is interested in an art party and invite their friends over for an art party and provide food and painting supplies.
3. Don’t Be Negative
Art requires an open-minded environment to flourish. How you respond to your teens’ art matters. No matter what your teen’s art looks like, find something positive to say about it. Try statements like, “I really like what you’ve done with XYZ.” If they ask for feedback about something they’re struggling with, offer suggestions, but do it in a way that is positive. And remember; this goes for your art too. When you and your teen make art together, avoid the temptation to criticize or put down your own work. If you’re struggling with a part of your art, try statements like, “I’m struggling with XYZ. What would you do to make it more like XYZ?”
4. Explore Different Types of Art
Not everyone can or should paint like Rembrandt. Think of Piccaso. Think of Jackson Pollock. Think of the impressionists, expressionists, the modernists. Each has a very different look and that’s what makes it all wonderful. There are many styles of paintings. Some are made to look like real life, some are made to look like alternate versions of life, some are symbolic, and some are abstract. Google search individual artists and artistic movements and share your findings with your teen. Browse local bookstores and libraries and look at books about art. Remember, your art is yours. It can be any style you want.
5. Make Your Home a Personal Gallery
Find a good-sized, visible wall (or walls) within your home where you want to display your family’s art. Tell your teen you want to display a painting of theirs and a painting of yours in the space. Be sure to include all members of the household. Ask them what they’d like to see in that space. Whenever they make new art, find a place in the home for it. If your teen is prolific enough, you may even cycle paintings out as they create them.
Looking for a little creative inspiration for your kids this summer? Add some hands-on art to your must-do list with these classes that encourage little Picassos to let their creative juices flow. Many are free or are included as part of admission to a museum; for most of them you don’t even have to make reservations in advance (because let’s be frank, that’s a little ambitious for the summer). Best of all, you’ll avoid having to be on clean-up duty!
Third Haus, San Francisco
Anita Chu
This amazing and unique creative studio just moved to a new, larger space in the Mission. Third Haus is a paradise for dreamers and creators alike, with a full array of the latest tools and technology from digital drawing tablets, 3D and laser printers, to traditional building materials and art media. The trained, enthusiastic staff all have art backgrounds and assist kids with almost any creative project they can dream up, from writing and illustrating their own comic book, to painting a watercolor mural, to 3D printing and assembling a building model. You can drop into themed classes during the week, or open studio on the weekend if you have your own project in mind. They’re also offering two week-long summer camps around a variety of themes.
Location: 455 Valencia St. San Francisco, CA Hours: Open studio 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun Online: third.haus
This creative spot in Marin offers a variety of art classes for all ages, from from painting to sewing to sculpture. This summer they have drop-in classes for ages 2-5 on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings (parent supervision required), and for drop-in open studio time for ages 2-13 on Friday afternoons. In addition, they offer also after school classes, summer camps and drop-off movie nights.
14 Ross Ave. San Anselmo, CA 415-295-7037 Online: littletreestudios.net
The de Young has always been a hot spot for families who love to enjoy and make art together. On Saturdays, Family Art Making, a drop-in art project led by a local artist, is included with your admission. Projects change every 3-4 weeks and are typically inspired by a current exhibition. The de Young also offers after school and summer art camps; check the website for details.
Golden Gate Park 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. San Francisco, CA 415-750-3600 Online: deyoung.famsf.org
I Heart Art is a studio that encourages kids and adults to explore their creativity through a wide array of arts and crafts projects. It's is an oasis for children and their parents seeking a safe, energizing and beautiful place to enjoy an art experience in a nurturing environment. There are many ways to experience I Heart Art, including drop-in open studio time Tuesdays through Saturdays, where a variety of different projects will be set up around the space for you and your kids to choose from. Check the website for typical projects being offered and specific times.
15 Vivian Dr. Pleasant Hill, CA 925-602-0140 Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. -1 p.m. Sat. Online: iheartartstudio.co
MakeArt Family Day at Museum of Craft and Design, San Francisco
courtesy of Museum of Craft and Design
MakeArt Family Day occurs on the first Saturday of every month; events feature tactile materials introductions for toddlers, guided activities for kids, gallery tours and in-gallery hands-on projects for families. Check for upcoming workshops here.
2569 Third St. San Francisco, CA 415-773-0303 Hours: Saturdays, times vary, please check website for details Cost: Included with admission cost of $8/adults, $6/students and seniors, 12 and under are free Online: sfmcd.org
Art Studio at Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito
You can make art every day of the week at the Bay Area Discovery Museum. The Art Project is available all day for anyone to stop by and get inspired with a project that changes every two weeks. Artists ages 3 and up will love Art Lab where they get to explore various techniques and mediums. In the Local Artist Spotlight, kids ages 5 and up will explore a specific artistic technique through a project inspired by a professional artist. Inspirational, indeed!
557 McReynolds Rd. Sausalito, CA 415-339-3900 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Cost: $14.95/general; $13.95/babies 6-12 months. Free admission the first Wednesday of every month Online: bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
Art Pushcart and Drop-in Art Studio at the Contemporary Jewish Museum, San Francisco
Andria Lo
Sunday is the day to make a stop at the CJM for some hands-on art making for all ages. On the first and second Sundays of the month, the drop-in art studio features a teaching artist to help you and your kids experiment with different art techniques and materials. If you are there one of the other Sundays of the month, look for the roving Art Pushcart that’s full of games, materials and questions meant to inspire visitors.
736 Mission St. San Francisco, CA 415-655-7800 Hours: First and second Sundays of the month, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Cost: Included with admission cost of $14/adults; kids 18 and under are free Online: thecjm.org
Family Fun Day at the Asian Art Museum, San Francisco
courtesy of Asian Art Museum
Leave the country without ever having to go to the airport! On Family Fun Days, the Asian Art Museum offers kid-friendly tours, storytelling hours, and creative art projects. Immerse yourself in Asian art and culture with a constantly changing selection of art activities. Check the website for the next Family Fun Day.
200 Larkin St. San Francisco, CA 415-581-3500 Hours: Every 1st and 3rd Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: Included with admission cost $15/adults,$10 seniors and teens; kids 12 and under are free Online: asianart.org
Second Sunday at Stanford’s Cantor Arts Center, Palo Alto
Angela Drury
When you have one of the world’s most prestigious universities in your backyard, you play in your backyard! Every second Sunday is family-focused at the Center. Your family will enjoy tours, hands-on art projects, independent sketching and special programs such as storytelling, book readings, and movie screenings. Bonus perk: You can also sign out an art pack from the main lobby front desk. Stocked with themed activities, colored pencils, and sketching paper, you can encourage your Baby Buonarroti to create amongst the greats.
328 Lomita Drive at Museum Way Stanford, CA 650-723-4177 Hours: Second Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: free Online: museum.stanford.edu
Exploring Art for Children at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts, San Francisco
MIssion Cultural Center for Latino Arts
Explore traditional Latino art and techniques every Saturday using textiles such as clay, flour, paints and paper cuts. Think paper mache and those big, bright, beautiful paper flowers we see all over the place during Dia de los Muertos, and so much more! The class is geared towards children between ages 5-12.
2868 Mission St. San Francisco, CA 415-821-1155 Hours: Saturdays 11 a.m. -12 p.m. Cost: $10 Online: missionculturalcenter.org
Art Studio at Habitot Children's Museum, Berkeley
courtesy of Habitot
Drop in anytime during museum hours to visit the art studio at Habitot. The focus here is on the process, not the end product, and nowhere is that more evident than on your child's paint-speckled clothes and smiling faces. Choose between Clay Play (think GAK and scissors) and Mixed Media (think coffee filters and glitter). Don't fret over the inevitable mess, as apron—and clean-up—are provided and all materials are non-toxic!
2065 Kittredge St. Berkeley, CA Spring/Summer Hours: Mon.-Thu., 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. (Sun. parties only.) Cost: $12/person, under 1 are free Online: habitot.org
Afternoon Art at The Randall Museum, San Francisco
courtesy of The Randall Museum
Design, craft then play with your very own yo-yo or top, turn a simple game of connect-the-dots into a layered oil pastel painting, make wallets and medicine bags—even mix and make your own paint! Yes, we are talking about the Randall Museum. Catch all of these excitingly artful opportunities at Afternoon Art Saturdays. Register at the front desk when you arrive. Activities are geared towards kids age 3 and up.
199 Museum Way San Francisco, CA 415-554-9600 Hours: Saturdays, 1-3:30 p.m. Cost: $10 adult/child combo, $5/each additional person Online: randallmuseum.org
Stop in anytime during museum hours to take advantage of the wonderful array of materials from which to create your own unique piece of art. Although you'll walk away with something fun, the end product isn't the goal here—it's all the mess, creativity and learning that happens along the way! Art projects offered include, but aren't limited to, sculpture, printmaking, painting, drawing and collage.
180 Woz Way San Jose, CA 408-298-5437 Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun, noon-5 p.m. Cost: $15/person, under 1 are free Online: cdm.org
Young Art Lessons, Various Locations
courtesy of Young Art USA
With four Bay Area locations, you will want to run, not walk, to these fantastic drop-in art classes! They offer art lessons to your kids while you shop, eat or take a coffee break. The concept is easy. Your child tells the instructor what they want to draw, the instructor walks them through drawing step by step and teaches them how to paint. Voila! Your little artist has created a masterpiece! Read our full review here.
Hours: Vary by location Cost: $14.95/15 minutes, $21.95/30 minutes and up. Bundle Options: $110/4 hours Online: youngartusa.co
When you combine trains, technology and barbecue, the only place you can be is Kansas City. This kid-friendly Missouri town offers loads of attraction for visiting families. We’ve gathered up a slew of our favorites below and visit our Kansas City events calendar for the full scoop on events for kids during your stay.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Spend day wandering through world-class galleries. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is the cultural jewel of Kansas City and just three blocks from the Country Club Plaza. Bonus: admission is free
National WWI Museum and Memorial
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is America’s leading institution dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding this war and its enduring impact on the global community. The museum offers activities for kids like a scavenger hunt that will take you all over the museum.
Arabia Steamboat Museum
The Arabia Steamboat Museum is a favorite Kansas City attraction, a history museum housing 200 tons of cargo from life on the American frontier in 1856. This steamboat was recovered in 1988 and and serves as a time capsule of American frontier life.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Opened in 1991, this museum is a tribute to some of baseball’s best-unknown players. The NLBM is a self-guided tour experience. The exhibition features text panels, hundreds of photographs, artifacts and several film exhibits that is integrated with a timeline of baseball and African American history. Length of tour varies but we recommend a minimum of an hour to fully enjoy the exhibit.
The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
This two-acre garden is part of the Kauffman Legacy Park in the heart of Kansas City. Open year round, the park serves as a tranquil place for families to visit.
4800 Rockhill Rd.
Kansas City, MO Online:kauffman.org
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
This museum features the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collection of antique toys on public display. Visit on Wednesdays and Saturdays and you can take an in-depth tour of one of the exhibits.
Kaleidoscope
Provided by Hallmark Cards, Kaleidoscope nourishes the creative spirit. It is a place where all children and their families are invited to be creative, have fun and feel good about their own special ideas. Admission is free. Children use their imaginations to make art with materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes. Some are cut into shapes, while others are left just as Hallmark sends them. And Hallmark provides different materials so the projects are ever-changing!
Science City at Union Station
See how astronauts train for space missions or discover the chemistry behind some of your favorite beverages. Kids and adults alike will be entertained for hours at this center dedicated to showing how science is a part of our everyday lives.
Kansas City Zoo
Explore the Kansas City Zoo, with more than 1,700 animals on 202 acres. It’s the most affordable family fun for kids of all ages. Hop aboard the Zoo Sky Safari for an aerial view of the park and then ride the Zebra Tram when the kids get tired.
SEA LIFE Kansas City
SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium will transport you into an amazing underwater world! Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish, seahorses and graceful rays.
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Kansas City
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Kansas City events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms.
True New Yorkers know how to score the best deal on anything; New York parents can be especially savvy about getting the most bang for every buck. One way you and your brood can save big in the city is with Family Memberships — which also happen to make great gifts, whether you’re giving or receiving. Perfect for family visits, one-on-one time with a kid, play dates, or even killing some time between appointments, a family membership to one of the following spots can make your life easier (and cheaper) all year long.
photo: Wildlife Conservation Society
Wildlife Conservation Society
Most kids love animals, but going to the same zoo over and over (no matter how awesome) can get a bit tired — not to mention expensive! Wildlife Conservation Society has created an easy, convenient, cost-effective way to visit NYC’s five zoos as often as you’d like, for one price: The Family Premium Membership.
For the deluxe package (and the best value) go for the Conservation Supporter level, which gets two adults, one guest and all your under-18 children free unlimited access to the Central Park Zoo, Bronx Zoo and attractions, such as shows in the zoos’ theaters (with free parking), New York Aquarium (again with free parking), Prospect Park Zoo and Queens Zoo, plus entry into a range of special events. Cost is $370.
The organization’s efficient website even makes it easy for the grandparents to gift you a family membership (hint, hint). Additional perks: early admission to the parks and a discount on Central Park’s wildly popular holiday and summer camps.
Inside tip: If Conservation Supporter is too rich for your blood, consider the Family Zoos and Aquarium level for $270, which gets your admission for two adults and up to four children, or just the zoos for $170. You can review all of the membership options here—there are many!
First off: if you live in or even close to Jersey City, this is the way to go. The massive Liberty Science Center is a fantastic way to spend a rainy day, boiling hot day, snow day, vacation day, etc. (The Infinity Climber alone, pictured above, is a great way to kill good chunk of time.) Its size means there’s plenty to explore, and with rotating exhibits, movies and shows, it’s pretty much never the same place twice. And in the summer, the museum takes it outside for “dino digs” and other sunny-weather activities. You can read our full guide to LSC here!
What you get: Creating a place that rich and robust isn’t cheap, so a single visit can set you back (starting at $19.75 for kids and $23.75 for adults—and that not even with the cost of special exhibits and shows added on.) A LSC family membership gets all of you you free admission to the Center for a year, plus tons of other goodies. Those include: members-only events and activities, when you get exclusive access to the museum; free single tickets to LSC shows; discounts on special exhibits, camps, laser shows and film, the Center store and cafe; free visits dates at local museums including the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, The Intrepid, The New York Hall of Science, the Garden State Discovery Museum, and more. Plus: free admission to 340+ science centers and museums worldwide.
Cost: $175 per year, for two adults and four children (other membership levels available for more, or fewer people.)
Closed on Mondays
Tickets: $23.75/adults; $19.75/kids 2 -12
Liberty Science Center
222 Jersey City Blvd.
Liberty State Park
201-200-1000
Online: lsc.org
MoMA is a NYC institution, beloved by art aficionados, tourists and yes, city families. That’s because the museum does a brilliant job of making art accessible and interesting to visitors of all ages. Among the many family-friendly programs and events at MoMA are regular Family Gallery Talks, hands-on art workshops, family visit days, family-friendly art films, MoMA Art Labs and a number of apps and websites that allow kids and their grownups interact with the works of art housed at MoMA.
For older kids, the museum offers classes created just for teens. MoMA’s collection of bright, intriguing art is just the kind of stuff kids love to look at, and you will, too. The MoMA does contain a few works of decidedly adult themes. Go to the exhibitions page beforehand so you’ll know what to expect; there may be areas of the museum you want to skip.
Inside Tip: The museum has also established itself as a place for must-see art events such as Marina Abramović: The Artist Is Present and “Rain Room” (a kid-friendly art event if there ever was one), the waits for which often become extremely long. Members get early entry and line-skipping privileges, which you will be so glad you have when you need them most!
Cost: $175 for the Family Level, which is for two adults and all children who live in the same household.
What you get: Free entry to the MoMA and MoMA PS1 in Long Island City, free no-wait entry to the both museums, free entry into family-friendly events, including Family Films, Little Member Mornings and the Family Festival. Plus: members-only early hours, members-only shopping days, discounts at the MoMA gift store, museum cafes and restaurants, group tours and parking. And, you’ll get a hands-on educational activity guide.
11 W. 53rd St.
Midtown
888-999-8861
Online: moma.org
