Okay, Chicago. Let’s live every nice-weather day to the fullest, shall we? On the top of the list, dust off those bikes, grease the chains, strap on a brain bucket and get those legs pumping on a bike path. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the furthest reaches of the suburbs, here are our favorite spots to cycle as a family in Chicago.
What was once a former elevated train line is now Chicago's 606 trail. The 606 gives kids a sweet (rooftop) view of the city while also connecting six neighborhood parks at ground level with numerous art installations. The trail runs along the Bloomingdale Trail for 2.7 miles, between Ashland and Ridgeway, and has a total of 12 access points at approximately every quarter-mile. All access points are accessible for people with disabilities.
1805 N. Ridgeway Ave., Chicago; Online: the606.org
Morton Arboretum is a stunning place to visit no matter the season. The Arboretum has 9 miles of paved tree-lined roads that keep things nice and shaded on hot summer days and their always-cool exhibitions give you great excuses to take a break from pedaling.
Keep an eye open for their Human + Nature exhibit. The exhibit features 5 massive outdoor sculptures that use thought-provoking human forms paired with elements of nature to bring attention to the deep connections between humans and nature.
Chicago's Lakefront Trail is a combined-use path with an 18-mile bike trail and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail. The southern-most access point is at 71st Street in South Shore, and the northern-most entry point is Ardmore in Edgewater Beach. Hopping on this trail is an excellent way to bask in the beauty of our city, as you get lake and city views and easy access to our beaches.
The North Branch Trail System offers 20 miles of unpaved and paved trails along the North Branch Chicago River, with an estimated total length of 36.7 miles. It's most notable for connecting Chicago to Glencoe's Chicago Botanic Garden and includes trail loops through ecological restoration sites with diverse wildlife. Couple this ride with a visit to Chicago Botanic Garden so you can stop to smell the roses. . . and stretch your legs.
The Forge: Lemont Quarries (aka The Forge) is a 300-acre adventure park featuring the largest aerial adventure course in North America. Along with ziplines, hiking trails and paddlesports, they have a biking skills course and pump track. Their setup is fit for new and experienced riders and they have bikes you can rent if you don't want to haul your own.
Besides the gorgeous Lakefront Trail, Chicago Park District maintains paths that run through many of the parks for walking, jogging or biking. A favorite is the 6-mile Major Taylor Trail that runs through Brainerd, Gresham, Beverly, Morgan Park, Roseland and West Pullman. Most of the bike trail is off-street and takes you through the Cook County Forest Preserve's Dan Ryan Woods and Whistler Woods.
You likely won't cover all 61 miles of the Illinois Prairie Path in one ride, but you can make it a goal to conquer it a few miles at a time, perhaps. This multi-use nature trail was the first U.S. rail-to-trail conversion in the 1960s and has access points in Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties. Most of the path is surfaced with crushed limestone, which is easy on little feet and bike tires and sheds water quickly.
Portland is known for its bike friendliness and spring is the perfect time for young bikers to get their peddle on, even if it’s for the first time. Finding bike paths where kids of all ages and abilities can learn and practice their bike riding skills isn’t as hard as you might think. From tree-lined paths to state parks and waterfront trails, we’ve lined up our picks for the the best bike paths for beginners in and around Portland. So grab your helmet, it’s time to ride.
Winding through Greenway Park near Washington Square in Beaverton, Fanno Creek Trail is really great for anyone just starting out. It’s a short trail at 1.8 miles one way, making it perfect for a quick out and back ride. The paved path is flat and is mainly in parks and along the creek, with plenty of trees and occasional shade. The trail continues through several communities if you’re willing to connect the paths, but for a beginner jaunt, just stick with the park section.
1.8 miles one way Location: Scholls Ferry to Denny Rd, through Greenway Park, Beaverton Online: accesstrails.org
Banks-Vernonia Trail
This forested path west of Portland is Oregon’s first rails-to-trails, running from the towns of Banks to Vernonia. Once a set of train tracks to haul lumber, it’s now a beautiful flat path through bird songs and ferns, and over 13 trestle bridges. Six different trailheads allow access along the way, including LL Stub Stewart State Park. The small town of Vernonia prides itself on being bike-friendly. Pro Tip: Check the website in advance for any trail closures (due to logging) or other hazards. The advisories are always being updated.
Distance: 21 miles one way Location: West of Portland, Vernonia Online: oregonstateparks.org
Springwater Trail
Another one of Portland's iconic bike trails, this trail winds along Johnson Creek, jumping back and forth along at least 10 bridges on it’s way out to Gresham. You can start either downtown at the Willamette River, or jump on the trail from several parks and other access points like Beggars-Tick Wildlife Refuge, Leach Botanical Gardens, Powell Butte Park, and Gresham’s Main City Park. The wide paved path is easy to follow and nice and flat for all levels of riders. If your older kids are ready for a challenge, tell them you’re going to ride all the way to where the trail ends at Boring, Oregon, to see if it matches up with it’s name!
Distance: 21 miles one-way, though it’s easy to cut into shorter bits Location: Downtown Portland through Gresham to Boring Online: portlandoregon.gov
Tualatin River Greenway Trail
If you are looking for wide scenic bike paths, this local trail is worth checking out. Your family bike ride will follow a 12 foot wide multi use pedestrian and bike path that meanders through trees, along the Tualatin River, by creeks, and past wetlands. The biking option is 4.6 miles long and runs from Brown's Ferry Park to Tualatin Community Park into Durham Park and Cook Park in Tigard. There are plenty of places to stop, play and explore along the way.
Get ready for a gorgeous bike ride that takes you back in time. The 4 miles of paved path winds through Champoeg State Heritage Area, where early settlers to Oregon held their provisional government and young bikers can access the trails. You’ll ride through wildflower meadows, riverbanks, and forests on a path that never feels too busy. Off-path, you can dig into history at old farmsteads and interpretive centers.
Distance: up to 4 miles of trails Location: 5 miles south of Newberg, OR Cost: $5 vehicle pass required Online: oregonstateparks.org
Waterfront Park Loop/Eastbank Esplanade
This trail is one of Portland's iconic bike rides, looping around the Willamette with bridges, skyscrapers, fountains, and a floating bike path. When you’re ready to cross the water you can choose which bridge you want to use. Choose between the Steel Bridge, Hawthorne, or best of all—Tilikum Bridge, which doesn’t allow cars. There are lots of options for breaks, with two fountains on the downtown side, and on the other side you’ll find OMSI or the floating bike path—perfect for dipping hot feet into the river come summer!
Distance: approximately 6 miles looped, easy to cut into shorter parts Location: Downtown Portland Online:portlandoregon.gov
Marine Drive Trail
One of the best Portland bike trails, this is a flat, wide, straight trail great for beginners, running right alongside the Columbia River you can expect gorgeous views of the water, boats and the marina. This is part of Portland’s 40 Mile Loop, but it’s super easy to access anywhere for a quick ride. It’s a great place to practice bike skills. The western side starts at Kelley Point Park and goes through some industrial areas. Another good option is to start at Blue Lake Regional Park, where you can end your day with some splash pad fun when hot weather eventually hits!
Distance: 17 miles one-way Location: NE Portland Online: traillink.com
Trolley Trail
An urban interpretation of a rails to trails, this 6 mile path follows an old streetcar route from Milwaukie to Gladstone. The path has roots way back in 1893! Today it winds through neighborhoods and parks. Start at Riverfront Park in Milwaukie and follow the paved path as far you’d like. Several parks along the way make great stopping points, and the trail ends in Gladstone, or can be easily extended to Oregon City.
6 miles one-way Location: Milwaukie Riverfront Park to Gladstone Online: ncprd.com
Spring flowers and the return of the sun are just two reasons to head to one of Seattle’s best picnic spots with the kids. The best part about these parks is that they serve up a side of fun with whatever goodies you’ve got packed in your picnic basket. Playgrounds, walking trails and bike paths are all on the menu at these places. So the next time you need to wear the kids out before bedtime (and the sun is shinning), head to one of these scenic and peaceful spots.
Although locals know this West Seattle park, it's considered a well-kept secret by those in the know. Its grassy lawns and tables are both perfect spots to set up your summer picnic, and the secluded beach will keep the kids busy skipping rocks and keeping track of the containers being loaded and offloaded in the distance. The play area is intriguing to say the least, and it makes a great launching point for a family bike ride. You can ride all the way from Jack Block to Lincoln Park without much interruption, although Salty's is a great stopping point for tots and just-learned riders.
Magnolia is where you'll find this expansive grassy park that offers visitors some of the best views in the city. You can't beat eating lunch (or an early dinner) at this local favorite on a sunny Seattle day. It's another spot where kids can hit the playground and bike or scoot their little hearts out for some post-picnic play. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Nestled in Madrona’s business district, Alvin Larkins Park provides a relaxing spot for the community. It features benches set along a path that winds through the park, and it's landscaped with maple, pine and fir trees. Its expansive grassy area is perfect for picnicking or playing. Don’t forget to bring a frisbee!
Ballard’s Greenwood Park is the epitome of a community park and has recently grown to the size of an entire city block. In addition to plenty of space to picnic, families will enjoy a sports court, P-Patch garden, large trees and wide walkways (bike riding anyone?) when you visit. We're crossing our fingers that the recently added “game garden,” featuring tetherball, ping pong and cornhole will open in the near future, but until then, enjoy the wide open spaces on a warm summer day.
Before you set up a picnic inside the big purple gazebo at Wallingford’s Meridian Park, take the kids to tour the Seattle Tilth Children’s Garden that borders the park. There the kiddos can roam through Sweet Cicely and fennel plants and check out strawberry bushes, too. Talk about healthy eating inspiration!
Westcrest Park is Seattle’s seventh largest park, filled with sprawling spaces and gorgeous views. It provides a flat open meadow, a short walking path and an off-leash dog area that makes this a great spot to bring your fur babies to. Traipse through a vast network of forest trails featuring large Douglas fir, red cedar, maples and madrone trees. Don’t miss the view platform that offers panoramic views of Seattle's downtown skyline. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Baker!
Cedar Park sits adjacent to Cedar Park Elementary and is a favorite of neighborhood families. While the playground is closed, kiddos can bring scooters or balance bikes to ride around the paved walking path that encircles the expansive lawn, great for running and exploring. There's also a basketball court where you can challenge your kids to a game of HORSE or one-on-one. Score!
Over 100 years ago, two families gifted the city of Seattle 2-plus acres of land and Sunset Hill Park was born. Located in west Ballard, Sunset Hill Park sits atop a bluff so the unobstructed views of the Olympics and Puget Sound are magnificent. Walk down the path and take in breathtaking views from new vantage points. Bring a blank for the grass or snag a picnic table to enjoy dinner with a view.
Close to the heart of Columbia City, Genesee Park bumps up against breezy Lake Washington. The green space features a gazebo for picnicking, bike trails and an off-leash dog area, too. This park provides the picture-perfect setting, you provide the fixings for your family picnic here.
When it comes to city parks, we can't get enough of the Maple Leaf Playground and not just because it's got lots of grass for picnicking and running around. You won't want to miss Noah’s Butterfly Garden, a sweet spot at the far end of the park, featuring a gazebo and sandbox. Plus, the loop trail that circles the park is a great spot for tots to bring bikes, trikes and scooters.
Located between Ravenna and Wedgwood, Dahl Playfield is a hidden gem in the northeast pocket of the city. You'll find plenty of room for the kids to roam and the artfully arranged rocks hollowed into half moons are perfect for crawling and sitting. Don't forget the skate park; it's great for those on two or four wheels.
A quaint village nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Miles of bike and hike trails along a gorgeous river. Nope, you’re not in the South of France: you’re in Washington, Missouri, and it just might be the hidden gem vacation your family is longing for. Read on to find out why we love this little spot in the heart of Missouri for an unexpected, sophisticated family vacation that won’t break the bank.
1. Katy Trail
The Katy Trail is a hike and bike trail created from 240-miles of the former path of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. It's known for being the country's longest rail-trail and includes 26 hiking trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way. Bonus tip: Make your way to the section of trail located between Cooper County and St. Charles County, which has been designated as an official segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail!
2. Historic Downtown
Washington is home to a lively Historic District with seasonal street festivals, including BBQ and Bluesfest, Art Fair and Winefest and Fall Festival of the Arts and Crafts. For an exciting excursion, play a game of Where's Waldo throughout the neighborhood. Simply obtain a "passport" at participating stores then discover hidden gems along the way in your scavenger hunt adventure. Make a stop at the Iron Spike Model Train Museum and the Washington Firehouse Museum—two favorites for kids.
3. Locally Owned Eats & Treats
From pizza and froyo to more sophisticated eateries, you’ll find an array of family-friendly, owner-operated establishments to suit any craving. Want to treat your little ones to a super-sized milkshake? Head to Main Street Creamery for intricate concoctions that are topped with donuts, cookies, cupcakes, brownies and even cotton candy.
4. Local Wineries
Did you know that Central-Eastern Missouri is home to more than forty wineries, all within an hour’s drive of Washington? Move over, Napa! These wineries are never as crowded and feature world-class wines and cuisine. All that's left to do is map out your vino trail!
5. Right on the Amtrak
Washington is conveniently located along the Amtrak Missouri River Runner line, a 283-mile route that runs between St. Louis and Kansas City and makes stops in Kirkwood, Jefferson City and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can bring your bikes on the train for a car-free adventure your family will never forget.
6. Unique Family-Friendly Lodging
Sure, you may have explored Washington and absorbed its rich history while on foot, but what about spending a night (or two) in one of its historic homes? There are many historical residences and charming B&Bs you can stay in right downtown. Many of them let you rent out an entire floor or the full home so your family has plenty of space to sprawl.
7. Parks and Trails for Outdoor Fun
Washington has plenty of parks to explore on bike, including the Riverfront Park, which features an asphalt trail ideal for young riders (and rollerbladers!). You can also explore Lion’s Lake, where you’ll find an All-Abilities Playground and a lovely walking trail around the lake. Our favorite is Busch Creek Disc Golf Course at Burger Park, which features an 18-hole disc golf course that the whole family can try.
If you want a place to visit that is off the beaten path with plenty of fresh air and history, visit Washington, Missouri and book your vacation today!
Each word you speak to your child programs their concept of reality. Sounds, just like words, have meaning woven through them. Every word or sound is infused with your thoughts and intentions conveyed through the tone, cadence and through the subtle non-verbal cues accompanying it.
Parenting Cornerstones
From the very beginning, set an intention to talk to your child with conscious awareness. What do you want to be the cornerstones of your child’s reality? Love? Peace? Harmony? Joy? Security? Safety? Bliss? Happiness? Balance? Abundance? Nurturance? Empowerment? Compassion? Give this some thought and list your top three to five parenting cornerstones on a piece of paper to be posted in several places in your home where you will frequently see them.
Remember these buzz-words when you talk with your children; whatever age they may be. A newborn that is spoken to with intention and love hears this in your voice and senses your intention as extrasensory input. The preschooler feels your inner smile and love and senses that you are one hundred percent present with them if even for a few minutes. The school-age child notices how your eyes and body language tell a story and models their behavior after yours and thereby becomes a proficient communicator. The preteen appreciates your attention and affection as they begin the journey of forming their own identity. The high school age young adult/child knows on a deeper level that you are a steady pillar nearby in case they falter providing them with consistent messages of life’s most precious cornerstones.
You are empowered to use your words and communication skills to teach your child. Through this conscious choice, you model the deeper concept that each person creates their reality. In doing this for your child you will find yourself transforming as well. You too will become an aware, empowered communicator and will draw to you more of the same. Words can be a path to conscious living.
Empathy & Compassion
To teach children compassion, invite them to treat others as they want to be treated. Speak this aloud to your child in a variety of ways: Smile at others the way you’d like to be smiled at. Say words to others that you would like to hear. Do things to help others the way you would like to be helped. Provide examples of this in daily life, like “Pat that doggy gently the way you would like to be patted if you were him.”
Say it and live it. Invite children to be empathetic by modeling compassion for others. Lots of times having children in our lives teaches us to live better, more mindful lives. Allow your child or children’s presence to inspire you to be more peaceful, compassionate, and conscious. Choose to empower yourself and live a life of honor and peace.
Conscious Parenting
Remember children live what they learn. You are an inspiration to your child and everyone you meet. Raising a child is always an immense learning opportunity for the adults in the child’s life. To embrace this and be truly present to it is the embodiment of conscious parenting.
By choosing to parent with presence and consciousness you are providing an opportunity for your child to learn to be a conscious individual. You are providing a framework for healthy, ecologically responsible, spiritually connected living. You are the model, and one day your child may become the model for you.
Enjoy this journey. It is an expression of beauty; sometimes poignant, often joyful, frequently challenging and it is totally unique. You, your child and all life are soul essence. You are spiritual beings and spiritual beings learn from each other. Watch your child, learn and grow and watch your own life transform as you walk a conscious path together towards ever-expanding awareness.
Amy Leigh Mercree is a holistic health expert, medical intuitive and best selling author of 11 books including, A Little Bit of Mindfulness: An Introduction To Being Present and The Mood Book to name a few. Mercree teaches internationally sharing Next Level Healing, Meet Your Guides, Mindfulness Meditation, and Bestseller Bootcamp classes.
Nicknamed the “Heart of Screenland” (movie classics like Gone with The Wind, The Wizard of Oz and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial were filmed here) Culver City still feels like a place out of a movie. Even though big, new neighbors like Amazon Studios, Apple, and TikTok have moved in, Culver City has maintained that charming, small town feel thanks to a blend of thoughtfully-designed, urban spaces for gathering and carefully-restored, nature preserves for walking and hiking. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in America—eating here is like taking your family’s tastebuds on a mini trip around the world! Scroll down to explore our must-visit list of local gems and to see how you can spend a full day of fun in Culver City with the kids.
Located just south of the 10 freeway, Culver City is tucked between Venice and Mid-City although you don't need a car to explore this neighborhood. You can easily come by bus, metro train, and even bike and leave your car at home. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll see (and enjoy) how pedestrian-friendly Culver City really is.
If you do decide to drive, there are loads of parking options downtown that include public structures, meters, as well as some residential side streets—just make sure to read the parking signs as a lot of residential streets are permit parking only.
Where to Get Breakfast in Culver City
If you've arrived in the morning, it's time to grab some coffee (and food for the kids). These cafés and patisseries are just the caffeinated jump you need to start your day.
If you need a good nosh, follow the intoxicating aroma of pastrami and corned beef and head straight to Wise Sons Jewish Delicatessen on the corner of Irving and Washington Blvd. The good news is, they serve breakfast all day so you know everyone (including the under 5 set) will be happily fed and more than satisfied (even if you land here closer to dinnertime). Don't miss the Challah French Toast for the kids and the Manny's Breakfast Burrito for yourself (eggs, pastrami, caramelized onions, roasted peppers, potatoes, melted cheese and smashed avocado served with house-made tomatillo salsa).
This corner shop not only offers specialty coffee or tea (vanilla bourbon latte, anyone?) but you can treat the little ones to a “babyccino” —a hot chocolate with mini marshmallows and rainbow sprinkles. The cycle-themed café also carries a particularly wide array of dairy alternatives like soy, oat, hemp, and even, pistachio milk.
Insider Tip: The shop sits catty corner to the city’s iconic Rainbow art installation—a symbol for imagination and optimism as well as a cultural nod to The Wizard of Oz (it was originally filmed on the old MGM studio lot which is now the home of Sony Pictures). This dazzling steel arc, rises almost 100 feet into the air and can be seen from all over town. For visitors interested in an up-close look, Sony Pictures’ long-running studio tour program is open to the public, with tickets available at sonypicturesstudiostours.com.
People in-the-know flock to this pastry shop to get their hygge-fix and experience the true taste of Denmark’s featherweight, just-sweet-enough pastries (although with over 1200, 5-star reviews the secret is definitely out). Favorites include the almond-y Kringle, the Copenhagen (described by some as “sunshine caught in a pastry”), adorable Napoleon Hat cookies, and, for adults—the Rumkugle (cake meets truffle with dark chocolate and rum).
Stoneview Nature Center: Ready to really run around? Head to free-to-the-public, Stoneview Nature Center, where your kids can explore five acres of fruit trees, art gardens and stroller-friendly paths. You can sample edible plants from their hydroponic garden, observe butterfly habitats, and learn about a bee hotel. You can even borrow an “Everybody Explores” backpack from the visitor center, packed with discovery tools to further your little ones’ connection with nature.
Insider Tip: There are clean public restrooms here and a touch-less water bottle refill station inside the visitor center.
Culver City Park: This park has something for everyone—an undulating skate park, multitiered playground, rollicking dog park and expansive grassy areas. While you’re there, be sure to explore the epic, zig-zagging boardwalk that connects visitors to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook for beautiful vista views.
To get to this small adventure: From the playground, follow the path of blue dog prints, painted on the sidewalk (like a real-life Blue’s Clues trail!) until you see a crosswalk to a small parking lot, where the path to the wooden ramp begins.
Village Well Books & Coffee: If you need a spot to catch your breath with a snack or just a coffee, stop by this book and coffee shop. While you're there, you can shop the latest staff picks and buy something in the children’s section, which features a Spanish language shelf and handwritten book reviews by kids from neighboring schools.
Good to Know: There is a free parking lot in the back of the store.
Platform Park: Bring your nibbles and drinks to this jewel-sized park and set up a picnic with a view that’s sure to delight train-loving kids in LA. Platform Park is a slice of zen at the corner of Washington and National Blvd. and may be Culver City's best kept secret. It’s tucked under the MTA Expo Line, which will punctuate your hangout with the chug-CHUG chug-CHUG of morning commuters, riding overhead. There’s often a tasty rotation of “pop-up” food trucks at the east end of the park and the park itself is connected to Platform Los Angeles, an open-air retail space with trendy boutiques and even more good eats. Fun fact: All the materials for the park were sourced within 100 miles of the site, including the sculptural benches, fashioned from trees that were salvaged from landfills.
Bonus? A fence around most of the park keeps traffic out and toddlers in!
Hang out in the four-block stretch of Culver Blvd. (between Duquesne Ave. and Main St.) that brims with small town charm. Play at The Culver Steps or stroll along the corridor where you’ll encounter historical sites like City Hall (beautifully lit at night) and the storied Culver Hotel (Fun Fact: The actors who played the munchkins during the filming of The Wizard of Oz stayed there!). And if you're lucky, the Lion's Fountain, located outside the Culver Hotel, will be on—allowing the kids to run through the random water sprays until it's ready to say goodnight.
Insider's Tip: Turn your walk into a scavenger hunt and challenge your crew to spot the beloved Lucy and Desi mural (Hint: It’s across from Honey’s Kettle Fried Chicken.); and Moving Pictures, a series of seven unique zoetropes installed throughout downtown to celebrate the origin of cinema and Culver City’s film studio history.
Where to Eat in Culver City with Kids
Your kid-friendly eating options for lunch and dinner are almost endless in Culver City. And if you need help deciding—here are some of our favorite restaurants in Culver City with kids:
While some taco diehards might say Titos Tacos is a must, we think this modern taquería, that offers fresh, healthy takes on SoCal’s Mexican street food scene is the place to go. From the moment you arrive, the Latin beats and fun, retro vibe make you want to dance! Their food is a feast for the eyes and tummy—standouts include slow-braised steak, fish, and even, jackfruit; along with mouth-watering quesadillas and nachos.
They offer “kid style” versions of many dishes; and their Deep Dish Taco, akin to a cheesy Mexican lasagna, is also a popular choice! Your kiddos will love how the food comes neatly packed in their own “chicas chic” pink food trays, which echo the playful palette of yellow, green and pink that fills the space. Round out the family fiesta with a libation from their extensive drinks list and top it all off with some churro bites for dessert!
Iron Teapot Dim Sum & Bar: When it’s time to refuel, head over to Iron Teapot for some dim sum. Dim sum is like Chinese tapas (or small plates), traditionally served with tea. Each dish comes in its own covered, bamboo steamer basket; and opening each course feels like unwrapping a delicious gift! Whether you’ve never tried it or you grew up on the stuff, Iron Teapot is sure to win over the whole family—they even have vegan twists on the classics!
Their shaded patio seating and contactless ordering make this the best time to come feast on rainbow soup dumplings, sweet rice wraps, and steamed dessert buns. Combine this with colorful matching tea sets and a Robot Cat Cart. Yep, you read that right—a cheeky, talking cart that resembles a robotic cat brings your order straight from the kitchen to your table—everyone will be left clamoring for more!
Good to Know: Reservations are required. Visit their website for more info, including how to sign up for a “Parent & Me Bao Making” class!
Honey's Kettle Fried Chicken: If you’re in the mood for some down-home Southern cooking, then you’ve gotta try Honey’s. The gravitational pull of their golden fried chicken and honey-coated biscuits have been drawing crowds to Culver City for over twenty years. Don't miss the vat of warm honey where you can pump that sticky, liquid gold and take it back to your table to drizzle over your chicken and biscuits. YUM.
Lots of families discovered hiking this year, and well, we’re thinking the trend will continue into the winter months. After all: hiking is basically free, it’s an outdoor activity you can do with kids and you can even socially distance as you walk. And so, we rounded up the best winter hikes in and around NYC. Some are in the city, some are mellow and stroller-friendly; others are upstate and beyond or a bit more challenging. So put on that long underwear and hit the trails!
MANHATTAN
Central Park
Wikimedia CC
The sheer size of Central Park means that there are many options to choose from when it comes to family winter walks. Plus, the variety of options means you can cater the walk to your family — whether you decide to go off the beaten path or follow a paved and stroller-friendly walkway.
You could walk around the pond in the south, where the trees and bridge make a magical sight after snowfall. Climb to the top of Belvedere Castle for a winter wonderland view or wander around the Ramble for a chance to spot some wildlife like squirrels and birds. In the north, the North Woods are a great place to get a taste of winter hiking without ever needing to leave the city.
Hop on the tram or take the F train to Roosevelt Island for a nice walk alongside the city without actually being in it. You can take your time walking along the East River and see sights of both Manhattan and Queens on either side of the island. Benches along the way and a fully paved promenade make this a very easy walk to take with the opportunity for plenty of stops along the way.
Pay a visit to Lighthouse Park at the northern tip of the island for a photo-up next to the titular lighthouse. After your walk, visit the island's quaint shops along Main Street for a grab to eat!
Prospect Park is an excellent choice for a winter amble. Enjoy a beautiful winter view of the lake as you wind around the park's paths. Follow the official perimeter loop for a 3.68-mile walk around the entirety of the park, or stick to the inner loops for shorter walks. Some views are only visible in the winter — like the excellent view from Lookout Hill, which is mostly obscured by trees in other seasons — and the Prospect Park Alliance even has a suggested path you can take for a winter walk.
When you're ready to end the walk, there are plenty of winter activities to do in Prospect Park, including ice skating and sledding.
For a bit of wilderness right in your backyard, take a walk around the Forest Park Loop. This oak forest path is heavily wooded and it's easy to forget that you're in the middle of the city when you're immersed in the area. It's a great place to see wildlife as well, like songbirds and small mammals, and if you're really lucky, you might even spot a wild pheasant!
There are several trails to choose from, although some aren't as clearly marked as others and it can be easy to get turned around, so keep a map handy — you can get one from a park Ranger at the visitor's center.
Take your walk to the trees with Alley Pond's adventure course, which features rope courses accessible for all ages. If you'd rather stick to the ground, there are plenty of sights to see, including a few ponds, one of the city's oldest trees in an oak-hickory forest, official hiking trails and more. Along your walk, stop by the Environmental Center to pay a visit to Alley Pond's 80+ animal ambassadors (visits are free but a $5 donation is encouraged).
Although Alley Pond is technically in NYC, don't be fooled — the trails are considered moderate difficulty, with some areas providing a bit of a challenge for visitors. In the winter, be sure to stay on the trails as some areas can get muddy and slippery due to the area's marshy nature.
Little Neck Bay to Springfield Blvd, Union Tpke Online: nycgovparks.org
Grab a map at the Nature Center and embark on a walk that'll take you through various types of scenery in the city's third-largest park. The park provides fairly easy and tranquil walks and you may even spot a few horses, due to the nearby stable and much of the path being open to equestrians.
You can stay on a flat, paved track for most of your walk, or choose to veer off into the John Muir trail for a slightly more off-road experience.
For the John Muir loop, enter at Broadway & Mosholu Avenue or Van Cortlandt Park East & Oneida Avenue
Although it's a relatively small park and is much more of a city park than a wild spot in the middle of the city. If that's the kind of walk you're looking for, then this park is one of the best winter spots to visit.
St. Nicholas is a hotspot when it snows, as many people come to sled down its sizable hill. It's a nice place to visit for a brief and pleasant walk, whether you plan to partake in the snowy fun or just watch people having a good time.
Intersection of St. Nicholas Avenue, 127th Street, and St. Nicholas Terrace and 141st Street Online: nycgovparks.org
The Staten Island Greenbelt is the closest you'll come to visiting a forest without leaving the city. The large park (the city's second-largest) boasts many forested areas and natural-feeling trails and paths. While many of the other parks mentioned previously constantly remind visitors that they're in a city park because of noise from cars along nearby roads and highways, the Greenbelt is a truly peaceful, scenic oasis, and it becomes truly quiet as you head deeper into the trails. You might even get to see a deer (or a few — the animals frequent the park and are a fairly common sight there). See more info on the many trails here.
There are some hillier and more difficult areas, but nothing too difficult for most kids to handle. The winter months are the best times to see the abandoned Farm Colony in the center of the park, when the vines that cover the structures are stripped of their leaves by the weather. (Just maybe don't share the lurid details of the place's past with your kids!)
We now leave NYC and find ourselves just over an hour away from Penn Station, at the Cornish Estate Trail in Cold Springs. This trail might be outside of the city, but it's still a super easy walk and a great first step toward hiking outside of NYC.
Most of one trail is stroller-friendly and paved, although there are challenges to try as well if your family is up to it. If you're a fan of ruins, the Cornish Estate ruins are a great spot to check out (though they aren't accessible along the main, paved path). This trail is the perfect choice for families who want to try something similar to but much easier than a hike.
This trail is definitely a ramp up in challenge from your leisurely walks. For families who want a bit more of an adventure, the Delaware Water Gap is a fun hike that's still easy enough for kids to tackle. The payoff is worth it: There are spectacular views at the end of the Council Rock and Lookout Rock trail, especially when the land is blanketed in snow.
It's a fairly well-populated trail, so you're unlikely to be entirely alone here. Be sure to stay on the markers and don't follow worn paths away from the main trails, as it can get slippery in the winter.
Delaware Water Gap
Lake Rd. Delaware Water Gap, PA (just off Route 611)
This spot is a great beginner's hike for families, and it's gorgeous in the winter. The trails feature a variety of terrain and scenery, including fairly flat paths, more challenging rocky sections, and, as the name implies, lakes and an old rail trail.
Though there are a few scrambles to tackle here, this is a favorite among parents of young kids. Despite this, it typically doesn't get much traffic, so you can really get out there and enjoy some family time without seeing too many other hikers.
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail: New Paltz to Rosendale
Wikimedia Creative Commons
Located in New Paltz/Rosendale, NY, 1h 30m from NYC
If you want to make your walk a whole day adventure, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a great choice. This bike trail is wide, spacious and mostly flat, so it's a great walk for families with young children and even strollers (in most places).
The entire trail is probably too long to tackle in one go, so we recommend completing the Rosendale portion of the hike. That on its own is an impressive 11-mile path, so only undertake this one if you have some experience and the kids have enough endurance. If you can manage the length, though, be sure to visit the Rosendale trestle bridge, which spans 940 feet and rises 150 miles over a creek — at one time, this was the largest bridge in the states — and features spectacular views in the winter (and all year round!).
At the end of your hike, stop by the hamlet of Rosendale to explore and grab a bite to eat.
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Sojourner Truth Park 55 Plains Rd. New Paltz, NY Online: wallkillvalleylt.org
ALBANY COUNTY
Five Rivers Environmental Education Center Game Farm Road
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Located in Delmar, NY, 2h 28m from NYC
A favorite among hikers with children, this trail is a must-visit in the winter. It's a fairly flat walk throughout, and has opportunities to snowboard and cross-country ski if you're looking for a bit more excitement than just a walk. If you're just walking, make sure to wear grippy shoes as the path does get icy in places in the winter.
This is a top spot to visit if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of some wildlife, like birds, deer, bunnies and much more. Pavilions and rest areas are scattered throughout the trail for a chance to catch your breath. Stop by Beaver Tree trail for a burst of nature — though it's best in the spring and summer, you may still get to see a variety of critters in the winter.
It’s been a year, and we need savvy parents like you to help local families navigate the ups and downs of life in San Diego, CA!
Do you love exploring your city with your family, uncovering local hidden gems, and then dishing to your friends about your awesome weekend? Are you a parent or caregiver living in San Diego with kids between the ages of 0-10? Are you active in the digital writing/blogging community? If you answered yes to these questions, then Red Tricycle & Tinybeans wants you!
Red Tricycle/Tinybeans is looking for talented San Diego-based writers to join our team and contribute stories to our San Diego metro market. Ideal candidates must:
• Have a firm grasp of the English language, excellent grammar and punctuation skills.
• Be active in the writing and blogging community with published work (either print or online).
• Possess an intense curiosity and excitement to explore the city and dig deep (both online and in the real world) to find off-the-beaten-path story ideas and insider tips.
Our mission is simple: to help busy parents have more fun with their kids!
Good luck!
To apply Email Us at aimee.dellabitta (at) tinybeans.com your cover letter, resume, and writing sample with “San Diego Writer” in the subject line.
Recently added to your family but still hoping to cover some ground this season? You don’t have to stop hiking just because you now have a baby in the mix. We found lots of stroller-friendly trails and hikes near NYC, to help keep your family active and outdoors. From city parks to scenic waterways, within the city and further afield, these are the best places to take a hike with your baby on board!
Stroller Hikes in City Parks
Prospect Park Loop
Wikimedia Creative Commons
This is less of a hike and more of a nice leisurely stroll that winds around the park. The paved road is wide and perfect for joggers and cyclists, of which there are often many — though there are designated lanes for bicycles and joggers, so you can walk safely. (Still, remain alert!)
Enjoy sights of trees, flowers (in spring) and the lake (and the many water birds that flock to it) and take breaks as needed with the benches that line the loop. Water fountains can also be found along the trail.
Watch out for some hills that may prove difficult with a stroller — cyclists certainly find them a bit challenging! If the loop is too long for you and your little one, you can always cut across the park halfway through to form a smaller circle.
Though Central Park has many trails that you can follow, the path around the reservoir is one of the best choices for parents with strollers who are looking to get fit. The 1.58-mile path, officially called the Stephanie and Fred Shuman Running Track, is a popular choice for runners, though it doesn't get too crowded most of the time. Due to its popularity, the path is well-maintained and smooth all around.
The trail leads all the way around the Central Park reservoir and offers great views of the water as well as the cityscape surrounding the park. It's also a good spot for bird watching, so long as you stay out of the runners' way.
If you visit this path, be sure to follow it in a counter-clockwise direction, to keep the foot traffic all going in the same direction.
If you'd rather walk than run, Central Park has many stroller-friendly paths all across the park.
You can walk around the Great Lawn Oval, a paved path that'll take you around the lawn, allowing for some great people-watching (and some chance encounters with friendly dogs, if that's something you enjoy!).
The 1.7-mile path around the southern tip of the park features a wide variety of views as well as great spots to take a break and let the kids play, like a carousel and playground. You can also follow the path up the sides of the park from the southern end to the reservoir, if you're looking for a longer walk.
The north end of the park is a bit less maneuverable with a stroller — though some paved paths do exist along the perimeter of the park, much of the North Woods is better for actual hiking than stroller walks.
This lengthy and popular path will take you all the way from Pelham Bay Park to Van Cortlandt Park, passing through the Bronx's Mosholu Parkway on the way. Due to the length of the path (a whopping 10+ miles!), we recommend taking just one end of the path at a time.
Whether you start in Pelham or Van Cortlandt, the Greenway offers a paved path for stroller-wielders to follow. You can enjoy the walk itself, across the Bronx's great parks, or use it as a starting point for more adventures, as the trail veers off into playgrounds, golf courses, Orchard Beach and City Island, and much more.
Enjoy a two-mile gorgeous, scenic path through Staten Island's Clove Lakes Park. Although the path is wide and stroller-friendly, it's surrounded by wild flora and fauna, making it a great way to leave the bustle of the city behind for a bit.
The path will take you through winding but accessible paths, bridges, lakes and ponds, as well as some impressive rock outcroppings. The path is fairly flat and easy to maneuver. You're going to want to stop to smell the flowers — whether literally or figuratively. Keep an eye out for turtles and water birds in the park's waters!
While you're here, don't forget to stop by the northwestern part of the park, where a 107-foot tall, 300-year-old tulip tree holds the prestigious title of the oldest living thing on Staten Island.
This paved, relatively flat path is fairly long at 5.6 miles, but multiple access paths make it easy to start and stop your walk at any point in the park.
Though this is a nice scenic path to take with a stroller, there are a few things to watch out for: There's often some flooding near the water after it rains, the bridge near the Unisphere, the park's famous globe, is a bit steep for stroller wheels, and some sections of the path are cracking or bumpy, so watch your step.
Aside from those caveats, this is a path on the wilder side that isn't that heavily trafficked and has some opportunities to explore the history and culture of the area, mainly the site of the 1964 World's Fair.
Though it's a fairly small park (even by NYC standards), we'd be remiss not to mention the 1.45-mile High Line. This elevated park is situated on a piece of an old NYC railway and is now home to plenty of greenery and artwork.
The High Line can be reached via elevators, making it easy to access with a stroller. Although the straight boarded path is well-maintained and even, note that it's very narrow in many sections and you might get caught in foot traffic.
Though a wildlife refuge may seem like it would be too, well, wild to navigate with a stroller, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is actually suitable for a stroller-accompanied walk on the wild side.
Grab a map and borrow a pair of binoculars at the visitor's center at the start of the refuge, then head down the under two-mile West Pond walk. This path is paved with even gravel, making it the easiest to traverse with a stroller. You can also ask a park ranger at the visitor's center for their advice on the best path to take.
Along your walk, you'll encounter, of course, many birds — the large variety in the vegetation and landscape type means that nearly half the bird species in the northeast can be viewed at the refuge throughout the year. Depending on what season you visit, keep an eye out for nesting ospreys and, if you're really lucky, some baby turtles making their journey to the water!
Be sure to cover the stroller with a bug net, wear long pants and bring bug spray in the warmer months, since the many plants along the trail make this spot pretty buggy.
Little Island opened in May 2021, making it NYC's newest island. This man-made floating park is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers (though strollers aren't allowed in The Amph, where many shows are held).
The island features gently sloping pathways, many plants and flowers to enjoy, as well as performances and artworks by local artists.
Please note that through September 30, Little Island requires a timed entry ticket after 12 p.m., with times available every half an hour.
Governors Island
Trust for Governors Island
Just a seven-minute ferry ride away from the city, Governor's Island is a car-free getaway. Once you get off the ferry (at either end of the island), extremely wide paved paths wind their way around the entire island with plenty to do along the way. The streets are specially designed with bicycles and pedal buggies in mind, so they're incredibly easy to navigate with a stroller — even on crowded days, there's still plenty of space to move around.
There are some gentle slopes, though nothing too difficult for a stroller. If you're willing to step off the path, there are many attractions to visit, like little museums and art houses, three-story-tall slides, unique play spaces, a historic fort and military prison and much more. There are also often events and music playing in Nolan Park, which you can enjoy as you stroll through the area.
For a spectacular view of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty, as well as a bit of challenge with the stroller, head to the long ramp up to the outlook point in The Hills.
Another one of the city's accessible islands, Roosevelt Island is a nice place for a quiet walk. The paths are wide and paved, and though some areas do have some unpaved spots, there's always a way to stick to the pavement with your stroller. Be ready for some uphill climbs, as the path gets hilly in some sections — though it's easy going for the rest of its span.
As the main walkway winds around the perimeter of the island, you'll have a chance to see some spectacular water and city views. The path will also take you through a number of parks where you can take a breather, one of which features a historic lighthouse from the late 18th century! You'll also pass by the equally historic Smallpox Hospital, for a beautiful — if somewhat sinister — view into the city's history.
This particular island is a very different style from the other two. Walk through wide roads along a very flat pathway, featuring views of meadows and a salt marsh. You'll also encounter a number of sports fields and great picnic spots. You'll also get a chance to walk under the
This path feels less "wild" than many of the others that we've mentioned in this post, so it's a nice option if you want to enjoy a walk in the city but don't want to be surrounded by buildings.
There are a few dead ends in this very long path of nearly nine miles, so be sure to bring a map if you intend to tackle it.
For the ultimate scenic water route, why not walk over the water? A stroll along the pedestrian section of the famous Brooklyn Bridge is a truly New York experience.
Along the way, be sure to take in the view, but also keep an eye out for "love locks" attached to the sides of the bridge, especially around the Manhattan tower area.
Crossing the bridge does present a bit of a challenge, as the path is very straight and unshaded, making it feel longer than its 1.1-mile length. We recommend making this walk on weekdays, as the bridge tends to get crowded with foot traffic on weekends.
This gentle walk along the west side of Manhattan has a very wide paved path perfect for strollers. The greenway spans the entire length of the island, so it's not feasible to walk its entire length in one go.
We recommend the Battery Park section for a beautiful and very green walk, with plenty of chances to veer off the path and enjoy a day in the park itself. Another good spot to enjoy the greenway is along Riverside Park, for similarly spectacular views and scenic spots. As an added bonus, both parks are often hosting special events, many times especially for kids, so they're great spots to visit along your stroller hike.
Parts of the path do get very crowded, so keep this in mind when you plan your trip.
Stretching in two parts between Queens and Brooklyn, this greenway is another chance to enjoy a nice walk along the water, stroller in tow. The northern part of the greenway isn't consistently stroller-friendly, but the bottom portion of the trail, the western edge of Brooklyn from Owl's Head Park to Bensonhurst Park, is an excellent route for strollers.
Though there's some sloping, the walkway is wide and meant for both pedestrians and bikers.
The trail has beautiful views of the water and Verrazano Bridge(which is always further away than it looks!) and some great opportunities for bird watching. Though there are benches along the way for a break, note that there's little shade.
For a very different kind of stroll, visit one of the city's boardwalks, where you're just a stone's throw away from the water. Smell the salt in the air!
The main boardwalks in NYC are located in Bridgton Beach / Coney Island and Rockaway Beach, though you can also find a partial boardwalk along the water in DUMBO's Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park.
All the boardwalks feature flat boards great for strollers (though Coney Island's can get rickety in the older parts of the walk). They do tend to get crowded in the summer and cold in the winter, but the lively environment makes for a unique power walk by the water.
Located a little under two hours from the city, the Cornish Estate Trail is a perfect day trip spot for a stroller hike. This trail is often called one of the easiest hike in the Hudson Valley, as most of the path is composed of the fully paved road leading up to the old estate.
The ruins of the old mansion and its accompanying buildings, and the surrounding forest make this an interesting walk, while the path makes it a fairly easy hike with a stroller.
This path is a partially paved and gravel-lined stroller-friendly walk around a beautiful lake in the Rockafeller State Park Preserve. It's located just about an hour from the city and is manageable for any level of hiker, with or without a stroller. The area might be a bit too uneventful for older kids, but it's perfect for a leisurely walk if you just want to enjoy the scenery.
As this is a popular path, it does sometimes get crowded. There are also plenty of paths you can follow off the lake loop, some of which are also stroller-friendly. For a further adventure in the area, check out the Thirteen Bridges loop, which does, indeed, have 13 bridges.
Calling all Barbie fans! America’s favorite doll is headed off on a new adventure in Netflix’s newest film.
Debuting Sept. 1, Barbie: Big City, Big Dreams follows Barbie Roberts across the country to New York. Excited to spend the summer at the Handler School for Performing Arts, no one is more surprised to run into another student named Barbie Roberts, than Barbie herself!
The music-packed film brings Barbie and Barbie together as the two share their dreams of making it big on Broadway. With new nicknames to set them apart, Malibu and Brooklyn both set out to win the program’s Spotlight Solo with their own unique talents.
While Malibu Barbie is self-taught, Brooklyn Barbie has been trained for years in music, dance and singing. The duo demonstrates that there is never one single path to success, and that anyone can succeed if they bring their A-game!
The newest Barbie film celebrates the potential in every child to succeed and that sometimes a competition is more about bringing out the best in each other, rather than winning.
Barbie: Big City, Big Dreams will debut on Netflix Sept. 1. Keep an eye out for a new line of dolls, playsets and accessories all themed after the film this fall.
