Explore one of DC’s many historically Black neighborhoods and Black historic sites and landmarks in celebration of Black History Month this February. From reflecting on the Civil Rights movement on the National Mall to getting a hands-on education about Black Civil War regiments at the African American Civil War Museum, we’ve rounded up some of the most notable sites and some off-the-beaten path locations to help guide you when exploring Black history here in DC.
Home of the Bison, this historically Black university sits on the edge of the U St. corridor (see below) in DC's Shaw neighborhood. Famous graduates includes our first Black, first Asian and first woman Vice President Kamala Harris, the Supreme Court's first Black justice Thurgood Marshall, author Toni Morrison, the first Black mayor of NYC David Dinkins and more. The university's library, Founders Library, is listed on the national registry of historic places; it's bell tower can be seen prominently beyond campus.
Editor's Note: Founder's Library is temporarily closed to the public.
This memorial depicting one of the first Black Union regiments formed during the Civil War is on permanent display in the National Gallery of Art. The bronze work of art depicts Colonel Robert Gould Shaw parading to the Boston docks before departing for South Carolina with his troop. When you visit, be sure to check out this National Park Service guide that shares the 1,500 names of the men who served this regiment.
Constitution Ave. NW, Between 3 & 9th St. National Mall Online:nga.gov
Stretching two blocks on 16th St. (south of K St.), the Black Lives Matter Plaza feature a boldly painted yellow mural in all caps declaring: Black Lives Matter. The Plaza along with a street sign bearing the same name, were dedicated on June 5, 2020 (the birthday of Breonna Taylor). Originally used as grounds for demonstrations due to the close proximity to the White House, in Oct. of 2021 it became a permanent installation and remains a pedestrian-friendly walkway where people often come to photograph the 50 ft. letters.
Starting at K & 16 St. Downtown DC
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglas National Historic Site
It took two generations to establish and restore this spot as a National Historic Site. Cedar Hill, the Southeast DC home where escaped slave turned preeminent orator and scholar,Frederick Douglass, lived his final years. Now serving as an educational center, Cedar Hill runs tours, and sponsors family-friendly events throughout the year, including Douglass’s birthday celebration.
Insider Tip: You can tour this property from the comfort of your home here.
1411 W St., SE Anacostia 202-426-5961 Online: nps.gov
The U St. corridor was once known as the Black Broadway district. Flanked by Howard Theatre on the east end and 14th St. on the west, this neighborhood was DC's cultural epicenter from the early 1900s to the mid '60s. Explore this cultural stomping ground by starting at Howard Theatre, the iconic stage where legends like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and Nat King Cole got their start and heading northwest and pass the Bohemian Caverns (a former speakeasy hidden by a first floor pharmacy where Duke Ellington was a frequent performer), and continue west to historic Lincoln Theatre; don't forget to stop in near-by DC landmark Ben's Chili Bowl, a black-owned
Pay tribute to the iconic abolitionists Mary and Emily Edmonson. The bronze memorial at 1701 Duke St. in Alexandria (directly across the street from Whole Foods) sits steps away from the former the Bruin's Jail where the sisters, then 15 and 13, were held after they tried to escape the clutches of slavery on a New Jersey-bound schooner, The Pearl. The sisters were later freed by their father (with the help of a abolitionist and minister Henry Ward Beecher) when he paid $2,250 for their emancipation. Bruin's Jail is now an office building, but you can read the historical plague in front of it at 1707 Duke Street.
To honor the most powerful voice of the Civil Rights movement, this memorial has 15 quotes etched in granite to inspire the next generation. From "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope" on the Martin Luther King Jr. statue to "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice" on the north wall, these inscriptions etched in granite offer a chance for families to collectively reflect on some of Martin Luther King Jr's most moving words.
Take a ten minute walk from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and you will reach the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his most famous speech, "I Have a Dream." Step into history; eighteen steps from the top of the memorial is an inspiration dedicated to the very spot Martin Luther King Jr. stood when he addressed the crowd of 250,000 on the National Mall.
Editor's Tip: Take part in history! Download the "I Have a Dream" speech from PBS and listen to it as you stand in the very spot it was delivered. You'll also find educational lessons to do at home on the PBS site.
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir. NW National Mall Online:nps.gov/linc/
This church is the oldest Black church in Washington, DC. Once a slave and tobacco trading site in the early 1800s, it became a church in 1816 and later a station on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It is believed a vault on the Burial Grounds was used to hide enslaved people as they made their way north. You can learn more about the church's history as well as the original Black citizens of Georgetown at the church's Heritage Center (2906 O Street). To note: tours are by appointment only. Other near-by points of interest on Georgetown's African American Heritage Trail include Rose Park Recreation Center, the John H. Fleet residence, the Emma V. Brown residence, and more.
1334 29th St. NW Georgetown 202-234-0148 Online:mtzionumcdc.org
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects—the good and the gut-wrenching—of the African American experience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family. See our in-depth guide here.
Editor's Note: This museum is closed on Mon.-Tues. Get your timed entry pass here.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW National Mall Online:nmaahc.si.edu
For a peek at the first DC statue to honor both a woman and an African-American, head to Lincoln Park to visit the Mary McLeod Bethune memorial (erected in 1974). Bethune is remembered as a civil rights leader, a suffragist and the first African-American woman to head a Federal agency. She may be best known for her contributions to education; she founded the Bethune-Cookman University, which is today’s only historically Black college to have been founded by a woman. What better way to celebrate Bethune’s passion for education than with the game I Spy with sight words. Come prepared with flashcards for the following words, which can all be found in the statue's inscription: LOVE, HOPE, EDUCATION, RESPECT, FAITH, and DIGNITY.
"Spirit of Freedom,' which sits at the corner of Vermont Avenue and 10th Street, honors the 209,145 Black soldiers and officers who served under the Bureau of United States Colored Troops in the fight to free enslaved Black Americans. Across the street, you'll find the African-American Civil War Museum. Tours of the actual museum are by appointment only; this living museum has a number of must-book programs that bring history to life through re-enactments, including the one-hour, award-winning School of the Soldierprogram for elementary and middle schoolers.
Richmond is steeped in important Black history and here are just a few of the ways you can experience it with your kids.
Visit the home of Maggie Lena Walker, a newspaper editor, bank president and champion of civil rights for African Americans and women. Join a tour of her home and an exhibit hall, watch a short film about her life and walk in the footsteps of a great activist of the early 20th century. There's also a Maggie L. Walker Memorial Plaza.
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture and history African Americans people in Virginia and has permanent exhibits that explore Jim Crow, Reconstruction, Emancipation and more.
You can also explore Richmond’s monuments: Virginia Civil Rights Memorial on the Capitol grounds, Slavery Reconciliation Statue, Henry Box Brown, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson monument and the Arthur Ashe monument on Monument Ave. There's also a self-guided Richmond Slave Trail: Walk along and discover seventeen different markers that display the somber truth about slavery in Richmond.
At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts entrance along historic Arthur Ashe boulevard, you'll find Rumors of War, a powerful sculpture by Black artist Kehinde Wiley’s. You'll also currently find the the Marcus-David Peter Circle (Robert E. Lee Monument) where artist Dustin Klein's light projections on the statue of Robert E. Lee include images and videos of Black citizens who are victims of police brutality, including Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, as well as projects of iconic Black leaders like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Billie Holiday, and Malcom X.
Chances are if you’re a parent, you’ve got a dino lover on your hands. If your kiddos spout off dinosaur names (where’d they learn to pronounce them all anyway?) and know the difference between the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, they’ll want in on these nearby dinosaur experiences that bring their favorite prehistoric creatures to life. From a new drive-thru experience to fossilized footprints that are worth the drive, here’s where to find dinosaurs.
Jurassic Quest Drive Thru
Jurassic Quest
Have you heard? The parking lot at Gillette Stadium is undergoing renovations. Instead of hosting Patriots' fans, it will host over 70 larger-than-life, animatronic dinosaurs (and one 50-foot long Megalodon!) who can't wait to meet your kids. Families can "ooh," "ahh" and gasp over these creatures from the comfort of their car. Plus, you can listen to he audio tour to learn a little something as you explore the immersive experience. Let's just say this is one dino-mite way to spend an afternoon.
Good to know: Parents can purchase add-on packs for their crew to enhance the experience.
Gillette Stadium 1 Patriot Pl. Foxborough, MA Event details
T. Rex Adventure
Zoo New England
Bring your kids to "explore the roar" at Stone Zoo this summer. As they walk the zoo grounds, they'll be greeted by some of the most colossal creatures ever to walk the earth. Among the trees and bushes, they'll find a 42-foot long T. Rex, a 20-foot long Plateosaurus (to name a few) and dinosaur skeleton recreations poised for little learners. Just remember, these amazing creatures are animatronic so keep that in mind when touring with the younger set. The perfect summer destination for budding paleontologists!
Dates: Now through Sept. 6, 2021 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Included with zoo admission
Stone Zoo 149 Pond St. Stoneham, MA 617-541-5466 Event details
Explore-a-Saurus
Lex Piccione
Kids who thrive on dino facts will love this exhibit that's always on display at the Boston Children's Museum. It's as hands-on as it gets, inviting kids and parents to ponder and answer compelling questions about how dinosaurs moved, how big they were and what they may have looked like. Kids will get to sift through fossil evidence and even manipulate a full-size dinosaur model to help suss out their answers. Our favorite part? It's got to be the life-size, animatronic Dilophosaurus who oversees the whole thing.
Hours: Weds.-Sun., 9 a.m.-noon & 1:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: $18/person; Free for babies 12 mos. & under and members
Families familiar with the Museum of Science know there's a whole floor to explore dinosaurs here, starting with Dinosaurs: Modeling the Mesozoic and ending at Colossal Fossil: Triceratops Cliff. Whether your curious cutie is gazing up a a life-size Tyrannosaurus rex model or standing at the foot of a 65-million-year-old Triceratops fossil named "Cliff," they'll have more than enough questions answered about their favorite prehistoric creatures once they've thoroughly explored these two permanent exhibits.
Make tracks to this preserve off Route 5 where you'll find fossilized footprints left by some of the earliest known dinosaurs. The area is known for its fntastic and well-preserved footprints that bring prehistoric creatures to life (psst.. there are over 800 that have been found over the years). This handy map will help you find the ones you're looking for.
Good to know: This park is open daily from April 1 to November 30.
Stay on track when you head out of state (it's not too far) to visit the Dinosaur Dome, find tracks and come face-to-face with oversized creatures at Dinosaur State Park. Under the dome, expect a stunning display of fossilized tracks made over 200 million years ago alongside murals, a discovery room and a dig pit. Then it's on to the trails outside that feature floral and fauna that also existed during the Age of the Dinosaurs. How cool is that? Families may also have the opportunity to cast tracks and mine for fossils too.
Hours: Grounds open daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Exhibit Center open Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: $6/adult; $2/kid, ages 6-12; Free for kids 5 & under
In the United States, events of the past few weeks have given us more of an opportunity to talk about race, inequality and race relations. Protests, marches, and conversations have spanned the globe, from New York to Seoul. Whether your summer travel plans involve a long road trip, staying close to home or even not leaving your home, there is a way to learn and incorporate some of these important conversations with your family.
I understand that vacations are highly prized occasions to break away from the everyday and relax. But, if you want to take a moment out of your summer for an education-based experience, check out the places below. As always, check before you visit a museum or other institution as it may not be open or hours may have changed due to the ongoing pandemic.
African American Heritage
One of the best places to start is with the Smithsonian collection of museums. Located in Washington D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Culture is an incredible institution with interactive exhibits. The NMAAHC is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s name and legacy have been invoked often during this time of heightened discussion about race relations. The King Center in Atlanta promoting King’s message of hope and nonviolence is an excellent place to take children of all ages for an understandable exploration of civil rights in the US.
Headed to Lousiana? A must-stop is The Whitney Plantation in Wallace, Louisiana, which is “the only plantation museum in the region with an exclusive focus on slavery.” The plantation offers the opportunity to honor the lives of those who had been enslaved.
Tuskegee University Legacy Museum in Tuskegee, Alabama is a treasure trove of African American history and includes the Dr. George Washington Carver Museum, The Booker T. Washington Home: The Oaks, and the Tuskegee Airmen Museum. One of the permanent exhibits called the “Tuskegee Experiment” provides insight into health disparities between blacks and whites and the noted distrust many African Americans have of public health officials.
To find places close to home to help learn and grow, check out these 50 places during you can visit, and if you are traveling, check out these13 destinations for African-American history and culture.
First Nations
One of the places my girls love to visit is the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC. They have another location in New York City. The museum houses one of the world’s largest and most diverse collections concerning the indigenous people and first nations. It includes a number of interactive exhibits that entertain and educate children.
The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor, Maine provides education concerning Indigenous people as well, stating that its commitment centers on “Indigenous people in their own histories, stories, and futures, correcting harmful representations of the past.”
To learn about several native nations at once, you can attend the Gathering of Nations. Held in Albuquerque, NM, the Gathering of Nations is one of the world’s most recognized annual festivals. At the festival, Native people come together to celebrate and share culture. The event usually takes place in April if you are making plans for next year.
The Cesar Chavez National Monument in Keene, CA “¡Si, Se Puede!” honors Latin American civil rights activist Cesar Chavez. Chavez was a co-founder of the National Farm Workers Association (which later became the United Farm Workers of America) and was the first national park site to honor a contemporary Latino American.
Little Havana in Miami, FL has been described as the center of Hispanic culture in Miami. The area is replete with cafes, restaurants, markets and cultural venues that exhibit the different backgrounds from Latin America.
The Smithsonian has an impressive collection of museums but has yet to finalize a museum of Latino American history. According to the latest information from the Smithsonian, The Smithsonian Latino Center is building the Molina Family Latino Gallery, which is its first-ever physical museum space, at the National Museum of American History and installing its inaugural exhibition, ¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States sometime in 2022. Definitely keep an eye on this one.
There are many places to learn about Asian American culture in the United States.
Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattle Washington is a National Park Service affiliate and the first Smithsonian affiliate in the Pacific Northwest. The museum tells the stories and shares the authentic experiences and perspectives, of Asian Pacific American artists and Asian pioneers. The preserved historic spaces of the museum are accessible only through daily guided tours.
World War II Japanese American Internment Museum in McGehee, Arkansas may seem like an unlikely place for an internment camp but many Japanese Americans were forced there after World War II. Very little remains of the original camp today but a trip through the museum offers the necessary background for a site visit. Visitors can travel to the nearby site of the former Rohwer Japanese American Relocation Center, where many Japanese Americans were imprisoned.
If you want to visit more than the museums, take a trip to Chinatown in San Francisco. It is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and the oldest in the United States. I
Angie Stubbs is a mom of two little ones and a wife. She's a travel blogger, agent, cute and quirky, who is traveling her way through her middle age years. Whew! She's authored 2 books, so far, about traveling with her kids as she's seen the positive impact travel has on her family, especially her girls.
Itching for an easy and fun day trip? Look no further than Little Tokyo, a downtown neighborhood home to an eclectic mix of ethnicities, shops and restaurants. Kids will love exploring the colorful local small shops and parents will love that this rich cultural enclave is conveniently located right in our own backyard (goodbye, long car rides!). Whether you spend a whole day here or a just a few hours there’s plenty to see, do, and taste for little ones of all ages.
How to Get There
Little Tokyo is roughly five square city blocks that sit near the eastern edge of downtown Los Angeles and is easy to get to by car or Metro. Located three blocks south of the Hollywood 101 freeway, westbound drivers should take the Alameda St. exit; eastbound drivers should take the Los Angeles St. exit. The Metro station is located near the corner of Alameda and First St.
Parking
There are over 17 parking lots in the area and some offer free parking with a validation including the multi-level lot of the Japanese Village Plaza located at 335 East 2nd St. There is also a lot directly across from the Japanese American Museum adjacent to Senior Fish restaurant that charges by the day.
What to Do & See
Little Tokyo is home to two museums. The Japanese-American Museum is the only museum in the country dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history and heritage of Americans of Japanese ancestry. The museum offers a Free-Family Sat. with extra fun for kiddos like origami or mask making crafts tables every month. It is also home to two permanent exhibits that documents the forced relocation of citizens during World War II including an original barracks from the Heart Mountain relocation camp that housed many incarcerated Japanese Americans. The kiddos will love browsing the gift shop and having tea and finger sandwiches on the beautiful patio of the Chado Tea room.
Right next-door is the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA. This 40,000 square foot facility formerly housed police cars for nearby Parker Center. This spacious facility is child and stroller friendly and offers free admission every Thursday 5:00pm – 8:00pm. Adults $10, kids under 12 are free.
Where to Grab a Bite to Eat
There are numerous great kid-friendly places to eat in Little Tokyo. Suerhiro Café, on First St. is an American style diner that serves Japanese food. The menu is huge and they specialize in Japanese comfort foods such as udon, katsu, tempura, and teriyaki. It’s the warm family-style atmosphere that makes this place so great. There’s hand-drawn artwork sketched on hundreds of napkins that adorn the walls and may even inspire your kids to draw while you sip on a glass of tasty matcha iced green tea.
Across the street in the outdoor Japanese VillagePlaza, not only does the Frying Fish offer great sushi and rolls at a decent price, but an added attraction is the cool conveyor belt that moves around the perimeter of the sushi bar carrying small plates of neatly arranged sushi, rolls, and edename. Not too mention the good-natured sushi chefs that occasionally break out in song and dance. It’ s a fun atmosphere for the kids and the food is reasonably priced.
Next door to the Frying Fish is Mikawaya, a Japanese pastry shop and ice cream parlor that also happens to be the originator of Mochi Ice Cream, a small ball of ice cream about the size of a golf ball wrapped in sweet sticky rice dough. They also serve gelato, but don’t miss out on the mochi. They offer several different flavors that you won’t find in grocery stores.
If you want to take the kids for a short walk, take a stroll to the Little Tokyo Galleria, which sits on the corner of Alameda and Third St. The mall is home to a full size grocery store that carries only Japanese and Korean products and has a small food court and bakery near the entrance where you can order soba, udon, ready-made sushi, and fresh spongy cakes and sweet treats.
Save room for Bliss Bakery, well-known for their scrumptious macaroons.
Editor’s note: We’re making every effort to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, the situation with COVID-19 is fluid and ever-changing. Please be sure to check with these businesses directly for any pandemic-specific closures, safety protocols, rules and procedures before paying a visit. Stay safe!
This could be the most big-on-fun checklist you’ve ever had. Before your kids turn 10, here are a whopping 100 ways to entertain them in Chicago and nearby. It has essential city experiences. It has hidden gems. And it has tons of to-do’s that will find a special place in your heart. Dive into the list anywhere, and take your time — but not too much. The wonder years whiz by!
4. See Mr. Singer perform a free musical story hour at Lincoln Park Zoo all year-round. Until restrictions are lifted, you can find keep up-to-date on his virtual performances via his Facebook page.
5. See the real 1966, 1989 and 2005 Batmobiles at the Volo Auto Museum. In 2021, they’ll be adding Jurassic Gardens, North America’s largest indoor animatronic Dinosaur Park.
6. Jam out at a Concerts for Kids kindie rock show or an all-ages show at Beat Kitchen. Right now they have an all-ages Bluegrass Brunch every Saturday at 11 a.m.
10. Jump yourself into exhaustion at Altitude Trampoline Park, Chicago’s first and only trampoline playspace and activity center.
11. Take the water taxifrom downtown to Chinatown.
12. Shake, sing and be silly at an Old Town School of Folk Music Wiggleworms music class. Right now you can experience the fun online, from the comforts of home. No mask required!
14. Make like a tourist and blaze through downtown on a Chicago Trolley.
15. Stroll the Naperville Riverwalk and stop to take a dip at Centennial Beach. This venue is closed for the 2020 season, but you can rent paddleboats and paddleboards at the neighboring Paddleboat Quarry.
16. Appease your need for speed at Six Flags Great America. As of Jul. 27, the theme park hasn’t opened for the 2020 season, but the waterpark Hurricane Harbor is up and running.
18. Tackle the mega slides at Adventure Playground at Blackberry Farm in Aurora. (Be sure to keep tabs on their website for when they reopen after COVID-19 closures.)
22. Run the bases at a Chicago White Sox Sunday Family Night. Until baseball welcomes fans again, fill your stomachs with ballpark favorites. Get your fix of some of the game’s most iconic bites via the team’s Home Plates recipe page.
23. Watch sharks dart overhead at the Wild Reef exhibit at Shedd Aquarium.
24. Run away and join the circus. . . or just watch family-owned and performed Circus in the Parks (that benefits the parks!).
40. Get drenched at the water park capital of the world, Wisconsin Dells (and don’t miss Paul Bunyan’s for dinner).
41. Meet chefs and local farmers at Green City Marketand have the kids join Club Sprouts, which encourages young people to try new, locally grown sustainable foods.
42. Escape to Lake Geneva for the weekend and take the 2.5-hour narrated U.S. Mailboat Tour that includes a very unique mail delivery to lakeshore residents.
61. Once the largest diesel-powered Fireboat in the world, the Fred A. Busse is now set to share a bit of history with its passengers on a Chicago Fireboat Tour.
85. Show the kids how hot-dog-eating is done (hold the ketchup) at one of our favorite hot dog joints.
86. Sign the kids up for a Hi-Five Sports Camp that’s focus is about so much more than winning or losing, it’s about teamwork, playing hard and fair, making new friends, learning the power of camaraderie and FUN.
88. Have a family fun day the new The Forge: Lemont Quarries(aka The Forge), a 300-acre adventure park with ziplines, hiking trails, mountain biking, paddlesports, and a dedicated kids’ zone.
There’s a reason the California Science Center made our list of the all-time best science museums for kids—and it’s not just because general admission is free. It also happens to be the only LA museum where you can touch a starfish, see a chick hatch, catch a 3-D IMAX movie and board a space shuttle—all in one location. And starting Feb. 28, the museum will open its newest exhibit: The Art of the Brick. Read on for the details on the soon-to-arrive Lego extravaganza, plus find out about everything else the California Science Center has to offer.
Art of the Brick
Courtesy of Art of the Brick
See the world’s largest display of LEGO art in this special exhibit that CNN called “one of the top twelve must-see exhibitions in the world.” We’re talking a 20-foot T-Rex skeleton, life-size statues, 3-D recreations of iconic paintings and more. While admission to the California Science Center is free, this special exhibit is $19.75 for adults and $12.75 for children ages 4-12 (kids 3 and under are free). Get your tickets here.
Science of the Brick
Art of the Brick
Admission to Art of the Brick includes access to this awesome hands-on section, featuring nine LEGO brick-building challenges and activities for kids LEGO-loving grownups. Recreate a famous bridges and structures using bricks, build a mystery object inside a covered box using only your sense of touch and more!
Learn about all the wondrous things humans have invented with hands-on activities and experiments. Kids can try building a structure to withstand an earthquake and learn how a car turns on. Added bonus: Currently on display in Creative World: Science in Toyland, where little ones can spin tops, set up dominoes, build a mini roller coaster and more.
Air & Space
California Science Center
The highlight of this part of museum: the Space Shuttle Endeavour in the Samuel Oschin Pavillion. Here, little ones can not only get up close and personal with the shuttle itself, but also learn about the space shuttle program and see artifacts from its voyages. This part cost $3 per person and timed tickets are required.
Stop by this area of the museum to for the hatchery, where—if you're lucky—you might just see some newborn chicks. There's also a chance to see the world through the eyes of a bee, pump blood to the brain of a model giraffe and more.
The Ecosystems Gallery features 11 different environments, including a rainforest, a 188,000-gallon kelp tank filled with marine animals native to the Pacific, and a desert filled with live chuckwallas, tortoises and a flash flood every ten minutes. Be sure to venture outside where there's a touch tank with starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers and more.
Discovery Rooms
California Science Center
Keep an eye out for the Discovery Rooms specially designed for children Pre-K - 2nd grade with age-appropriate hands-on activities, books, and toys. You can find them in the Ecosystems, World and Life, and Creative World areas of the museum.
IMAX
SK Films
See a film projected on the museum's massive-story screen. The latest must-see 3-D movie? The award-winning Turtle Odyssey, following an Australian green sea turtle named Bunji and her incredible journey across the open ocean. Get all the details here.
Tickets purchase at the box office are $8.95 for adults; $6.75 for kids and include admission to Endeavor. Combine IMAX tickets with exhibition tickets for a special discount.
To help make your visit easy peasy, check the California Science Center website ahead of time to see if there are any alerts about events in Exposition Park that may impact parking or your experience. Parking cost $12 but if you’d rather skip parking all together, the Metro Expo Line. Expo Park/USC Station has a stop right in front of the Science Center.
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost: Free, special exhibits and films may have additional costs
Houston, the country’s fourth-largest city, has no shortage of amazingfun things to do with kids, which makes it an ideal vacation destination. The hard part is deciding what you want to do with your time while you’re visiting the most culture-rich metropolis in Texas. To help you out, we went ahead found the top 15 things to do in Houston with kids.
Most importantly, you need to find the right hotel for your families, so we did the research for you! Marriott Bonvoy™, families can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check in and more. Marriott Bonvoy members save when they book on Marriott.com.
Explore the Children’s Museum of Houston
Gabby Cullen
This museum dedicated to kids and play is one of the biggest of its kind in the country. With over 90,000 square feet of fun, be sure to spend a good portion of time in the popular Kidtropolis exhibit, where kids run the city, get a job, earn “money,” and spend it using a “debit card.”
This three-story, indoor “rainforest” is located in the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It has waterfalls, tropical plants, and of course, tons of butterflies. For extra interaction, wear a brightly colored shirt; the butterflies might come to rest on you and the kids!
Image by Trish Badger courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts Houston
Introduce your kids to the fine arts by visiting this important Houston institution. Besides the permanent exhibits (recommended for older kids), there are plenty of opportunities for hands-on art experiences. On Sundays check out Family Days, which run from September through April, and offer free music, games, crafts and guided tours.
The Houston Zoo is known as one of the best in the United States, housing over 6,000 animals from 900 species. Conservation is a major priority for the zoo, and they do all they can for the health and happiness of all the animals. Kids will love the opportunity to get up close and personal with animals like giraffes and seals.
Be in the Middle of Everything at the Marriott Medical Center/Museum District
courtesy Marriott
If you’re looking for a hotel with easy access to Houston’s top attractions, this is it. Close to the Zoo and the Museum District, there’s even a stop on the city’s METROrail system across the street for easy transportation options. Kids will love the indoor pool, too.
This 155-acre space in the middle of the city has plenty of kid-friendly trails and opportunities to learn about nature. Be sure to look for turtles, and don’t forget to make it up the hill for a waterfall and stunning views of Houston.
This 500,000-gallon aquatic attraction is home to over 300 underwater species. Wander through the shipwreck exhibit before wandering over to the Discovery Zone to get up close and personal with animals like a bearded dragon, colorful fish and sea turtles. For any kids who love jungle animals, a stop at the newly expanded White Tiger habitat is a must.
Space-obsessed kids (or anyone else) will love the hundreds of artifacts and exhibits at the Space Center Houston museum. Also home to NASA Mission Control, the International Space Station Mission Control and astronaut training, this is one of the best places in the world to learn about both past and future space exploration. You'll even get a behind-the-scenes tour of the NASA Johnson Space Center!
Jonnu Singleton/SWA Group, courtesy of Buffalo Bayou Partnership
This urban green space is popular with locals and visitors alike. Little kids will want to spend time in the nature play area that boasts a stream, climbing logs, a tri-level treehouse and a slide; you’ll find it near the skatepark, which is perfect for your older adventurers. Be sure to hang out until sunset, and then watch over 250,000 bats emerge from under the Waugh Drive Bridge.
Enjoy the Convenient Lodging at Element Houston Vintage Park
Not only do you get a free breakfast when you stay at Element Houston, but each room has either a full kitchen or kitchenette, which is perfect for families. It’s also near the George Bush International Airport and is pet-friendly, too!
The Kemah Boardwalk is a seaside destination just 20 miles from downtown Houston featuring 15 boardwalk attractions for thrill-seekers of all ages. There are street performers, dancing water fountains, an aquarium featuring stingray and rainforest exhibits, firework Fridays and more!
If you’re going to visit Houston anytime past the spring, don’t forget—it gets hots here in the summer! The best bet (and a huge hit with kids) for warmer months is Hurricane Harbor Splashtown. Rent a cabana, and spend the day riding family- and kid-approved water rides!
Go Back in Time at the George Ranch Historical Park
courtesy George Ranch
Located on a 20,000-acre working ranch, you’ll learn about over 100 years of Texas farming and ranching here. It’s divided into four different periods, there are costumed “workers,” blacksmithing demonstrations, hands-on activities and more! Tip: You’ll need to plan accordingly to visit the ranch, as it’s only open to the public on Saturdays.
The Galleria might have over 400 stores to whet your shopping appetite, but it’s also a kid-friendly haven. From the ice-skating rink to an awesome playground and two swimming pools, it’s easy to spend a whole day here, which, especially in the summer, can be a nice break from the Houston heat.
This premiere hotel makes it easy to relax while on vacation in Houston. With a free shuttle to the Galleria Mall, a heated outdoor pool, and spacious accommodations, you’ll never want to leave.
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 on your trip to Houston here!
—Gabby Cullen
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Houston
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Houston events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like sporting events, family festivals and outdoor movie nights.
If you’re looking to make 2020 the year when you show the kids a new part of the world without breaking the bank (which family isn’t?), there are loads of cheap places to travel in the U.S.A. and beyond. Perfect for amazing family vacations, our editor’s picks for top budget travel destinations include everything from money-saving tips to cheap places to travel with kids. Keep reading to see them all, and then get that trip booked!
Greensboro, North Carolina
Annette Benedetti
If you are looking for a family adventure that includes fantastic food, incredible outdoor recreation and a chance to learn more about our country’s history, Greensboro is the ideal destination.
What to Do As the location of the first sit-in of the Civil Rights movement, Greensboro embraces its rich history with an abundance of museums, art centers and preserved landmarks waiting to entertain and educate young historians. But the fun doesn’t stop there. This unique city has a walkable downtown area with fantastic (and unique) shops and eateries as well as parks perfect for the younger set. You’ll even have an opportunity to fit in outdoor recreation that takes you on the water and in the air. Don't miss a stop at the Greensboro Science Center—the kids will love it!
Where to Stay We like the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons as your home base in Greensboro. It's near all the action and with free airport shuttle and rates just over $100/night, it's a great option for families.
If you’re looking for ocean waves, the scent of funnel cake and saltwater taffy, all while trying to find the very best tourist t-shirt, make Ocean City, MD your family vacation destination.
What to Do With beaches for days, Ocean City is full of sun and sand and all that goes along with that. Stroll along the boardwalk to find all these fun options: play skee ball and ride coasters at the Jolly Roger, wait in line for Thrasher's famous fries, get ice cream at Dumser’s Dairyland and stock up on saltwater taffy at Dolle’s.
Where to Stay We love the Hyatt Place, as it has rates starting at $71/night. There are 105 rooms (56 of them are oceanfront), an indoor and outdoor pool, a buffet breakfast serving cage-free eggs, all-natural bacon, steel-cut oats, fruit, pastries and other kid-friendly food. In the summer and shoulder seasons, you'll find make-your-own sundaes on Fridays, and in the summer there's face painting, children’s entertainers and Mermaid Mondays.
With flights from the U.S. averaging around $300 (and even cheaper in the summer), a flight to Mexico should definitely be on your radar. To visit the gorgeous city of La Paz, you'll need to fly into San Jose del Cabo and grab a shuttle from the airport.
What to Do The five-kilometer Malecón, or waterfront promenade, draws families playing in the sand, strolling sweethearts and exercising locals. Admire the many sculptures along the way that tell the story of La Paz, from romping dolphins to the giant pearl—a nod to the area’s pearl trade history. Visit the calm waters of Playa Balandra, a favorite beach made famous by “El Hongo,” a rock formation said to look like a mushroom. Book a tour and swim with playful sea lions and the massive whale sharks.
Where to Stay If you want to be right in town and avoid having to rent a car, Hotel Catedral La Paz is a good option. Rates start at $74/night and it has a large pool with a rooftop view of the city.
Where to Stay This Westin Austin Downtown is unlike any Westin you’ve ever seen; it has spunk and personality that make it one of the coolest hotels in town year in and year out. Just steps away from the beauty of Lady Bird Lake but also near the vibrancy from 6th street, The Westin Austin Downtown is the ideal launchpad for all things Austin. The hotel has the highest rooftop pool and bar in Austin, where sunset cocktails and afternoon sunbathing are just an elevator ride away. Rates start at $179/night.
If you’ve got a family who craves equal parts nature and culture, look no further than Colorado Springs. From hiking, biking and rafting at the edge of the Rockies to the vibrant arts and culture scene to dining on decadent dishes, this is your destination for an idyllic family vacation. Gorgeous in both the winter and summer, Colorado Springs has it all.
What to Do Colorado Springs is a mountain town, located at the base of Pikes Peak and sees 243 sunny days-per-year. It has 7,000 acres of open space to explore, 230 miles of bike trails, 160 miles of park trails, and 105 miles of urban trails, giving families plenty of room to get active in the wild. Take your kids to the “Highest Zoo in America!” Located at an elevation of 6,800 feet, your kiddos can visit hundreds of wild and exotic animals like elephants, giraffes and bears at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Where to Stay Located in the heart of Downtown Colorado Springs, The Mining Exchange is a Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa offering families a charming boutique experience. This restored historic hotel provides guests with modern amenities that are both elegant and cozy. Built in 1902, the building was originally a stock exchange for local mining companies. Now you can spend the night in a well-appointed room or suite where you experience a touch of luxury and a whole lot of much-needed comfort after a day filled with adventure. Rates start at $123/night.
Head south to Panama City for a vacation like no other! With flights on Spirit Airlines around $300, you can get a view of a whole different country without spending a ton. Bonus: they are in the Southern Hemisphere so their summer is our winter!
What to Do Explore the Casco Viejo district, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site that was founded in 1673. It's the oldest continuously occupied European settlement on the Pacific side of the Americas, and history seeps from every cobblestone. Then spend some time at the Panama Canal. You can book a tour bus or even Uber to the Miraflores Visitor Center—it's about 20 minutes outside of city limits. Well worth the trek, you’ll find an entire building dedicated to sharing the facts and fun of what might be one of the world’s most famous waterways.
Where to Stay For proximity to the airport and fantastic views, we recommend The Santa Maria Hotel & Golf Resort. Ideally located 10 minutes from the Panama City airport, the luxury hotel has a variety of room options, including singles and suites. There are three restaurants, one of which is a pool-side spot that does a paella night on occasion. The 40-meter long pool is stunning, and there's a one-foot deep pool just for kids. Rates start at $127.
Historically famous as the birthplace of Elvis, this small northeastern Mississippi town is now emerging as a long weekend escape in its own right. Tupelo has an incredible musical scene, culinary chops and rich history with tons of historic charm. It’s the perfect, secret Southern escape.
What to Do From an exotic animal park to a children’s health museum, Tupelo has everything you need to transform your brood into a relaxed family spending some quality time together. Find out more about Tupelo's history at the Oren Dunn City Museum through permanent exhibits including a model of the 1940’s railroad, tornado history, Hospital on the Hill history, Chickasaw cultural history and the northeast Mississippi fossils. The museum is also located inside Ballard Park; having access to playgrounds, picnic areas and a lakeside walking trail make for a great day for visitors.
Where to Stay The Hilton Garden Inn has rates starting at $104 and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown. Enjoy the heated indoor pool, and spend some time visiting Elvis' birthplace, just a mile away.
Situated in the heart of the Midwest, just 30 minutes north of Indianapolis and a three-hour drive from Chicago, Hamilton County, Indiana includes the iconic Indiana cities of Noblesville, Fishers, Carmel and Westfield, plus charming small towns Atlanta, Arcadia, Cicero and Sheridan. From miles of bike trails to interactive train rides, Hamilton County, Indiana has endless attractions that make the destination ideal for a family getaway.
What to Do If you’ve spent hours in a car or on a plane, the first thing you’ll need to do is stretch your legs. Fortunately for you, Carmel is home to the trailhead for the Monon Trail. The Monon is a rails-to-trails paved path that runs across Central Indiana and connects Downtown Indianapolis with the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. Then head over to Edge Adventures in the nearby town of Noblesville to turn up the fun with an adrenaline pumping aerial adventure. Kids and adults ages eight and up can zip and climb from tree to tree over and through obstacles. It gives your family a unique way to take in the area’s landscape.
Where to Stay The award winning, historic Prairie Guest House is seated on two grassy acres of farmland in Fisher’s Indiana, evoking a true farmhouse retreat complete with homestead hospitality. Featuring beautiful gardens, large native Indiana trees, a rustic barn, lovely common areas and a 1900s cottage across the prairie that houses the kitchen and dining areas, families can enjoy a fabulous home-cooked breakfast or the on-site sunroom for a morning of relaxation. Rates start at $115/night.
What to Do Spend some time exploring the desert flora and fauna at Usery Mountain Regional Park Nature Center. Learn about native snakes and scorpions at educational programs for families and stop at the Nature Center to check out the desert tortoise habitat. The i.d.e.a. Museum is the perfect place to explore imagination through art, science and technology. Just down the street is the Arizona Museum of Natural History, where you can learn all about the prehistoric mammoths and other creatures who roamed Arizona.
Where to Stay The suites at the Marriott Residence Inn provide ample room for families of all sizes to spread out, as well as a kitchen with a fridge, oven and microwave to keep eating out to a minimum. Save your dollars for activities and enjoy the complimentary breakfast buffet (waffles anyone?) that is offered every morning. In the summer months, you can grab a room here for under $100.
What to Do Water sports are king in this lake town, of course. Scoop up a canoe or kayak at the Osthoff Resort or book Jay's Guide Service to take you around the lake for some fishing. Learn about the history of the area at the Wade House Historic Site and Carriage Museum. If you want an activity that includes a whole lot of walking, head to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail where you can hike through the nearby wilderness area.
Where to Stay The landmark Siebkens Resort is owned and operated by the fourth generation of the Seibken family. This Victorian building provides one-, two- and three-bedroom condominium hotel suites with open floor plans, full kitchens, an outdoor pool and so much more. The resort is also home to Sissy’s Coffee Coffee & Ice Cream Shoppe, perfect for beating the heat with its covered outdoor patio.
San Antonio is steeped in history, offers great weather and the countless budget-friendly activities make it a hot spot for families in 2019.
What to Do You can stroll the Riverwalk (eating at the restaurants is the splurge), explore the Japanese Tea Garden and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, among other things—all for free. And of course, don’t forget the Alamo. If you want to go all out and do Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Natural Bridge Caverns and other hot spots, be sure to book a San Antonio Explorer Pass, where you can pick and choose your favorite activities and create an entertainment package at discounted prices.
Where to Stay Avoid hotels on the Riverwalk and look in other areas for budget-friendly lodging. The Hyatt Residence Club Wild Oak Ranch has multi-room suites, an indoor/outdoor heated pool, lazy river, hiking trails, a shuttle to SeaWorld and other awesome family amenities. Prices start at $150 per night.
The golden state’s capital flies under the radar when compared to tourist hot spots like San Francisco and Los Angeles, but there’s plenty of fun to be had year-round at bargain prices.
What to Do The capitol building itself is rich in history and architectural splendor, you can take a free tour and then wander the urban green space known as Capitol Park. The city proudly claims to be America’s Farm to Fork capital and there are dozens of free farmers markets that showcase over 8000 acres of boutique farms that flourish in the surrounding counties. Old Town Sacramento, a 28-acre State Historical Park, is a peek into the past, with old buildings from the Gold Rush era still intact and housing everything from restaurants to wacky gift shops and the free Wells Fargo History Museum. Rent a bike and explore the American River on the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail—over 32 miles of pathway that goes from Discovery Park to Folsom Lake.
Where to Stay The Hilton Garden Inn is just a few minutes away from downtown—which means cheaper rates. It offers adjoining rooms for families of more than four. It also has an outdoor pool that is kept warm well into the chilly winter months.
This small town in northwestern Wyoming outside of Yellowstone National Park offers an authentic Western experience befitting a town that was founded by a legend, Buffalo Bill Cody. Many travelers visit the town as a prelude to a trip to the world’s first national park.
What to Do Summer-season visitors will find an array of affordable fun, including free adventures like watching the antics of the Wild Bunch, who perform six nights a week in front of the Irma Hotel, the heart of the town. Built by Buffalo Bill and named for his daughter, visitors should take a look at the room-long Cherrywood bar in the dining room, a gift from England’s Queen Victoria after Buffalo Bill staged his Wild West Show for the queen. There’s also the Cody Nite Rodeo, the country’s only summer-season nightly rodeo. Families looking to keep their wallets in their pockets can also take a drive east along the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway to Pahaska Tepee, where Buffalo Bill went to relax with friends such as Teddy Roosevelt and the Prince of Monaco. Don’t forget binoculars. Wildlife watching is free, and you must might get glimpse of bison, eagles, bighorn sheep, river otters, elk or even bears or wolves (Don’t forget to practice safe viewing by leaving plenty of distance from the animals.). Don’t miss the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, with five museums under one room. The Draper Natural History Museum explores the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, and it’s a must-see for anyone planning a trip to the park.
Where to Stay Blair Hotels, a collection of three hotels conveniently located on Sheridan Avenue, the town’s highly walkable main street. There’s a Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn plus the Buffalo Bill Village, with comfortable cabin accommodations. Take time to visit the gift shop, with a fun collection of clothing, jewelry, candy and gifts items.
Located on the Florida panhandle, this small beach town lays claim to being home to "the World's Whitest Beaches."
What to Do After spending plenty of time with your feet in the sand, be sure to stop by the National Naval Aviation Museum. Not only is it the world’s largest aviation museum in the country, but it offers free admission daily. Don’t miss Bands on the Beach, which occurs every Tuesday from Apr.-Oct. Pack a picnic, bring the kids and relax to free music as you watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. Explore the 8.5 mile Pensacola eco-trail, where the whole family can learn about local plant life, look for and collect seashells and even keep an eye out for a sea turtle or two! For fresh and local eats and goods, wander through the Palafox Market on Saturday mornings.
Where to Stay There are plenty of budget-friendly offerings, from KOA campsites to VRBO homes and hotels like the Hilton Pensacola Beach Hotel, which has family-friendly suites with kitchen and bunk beds available. Rates start at $116 a night.
This friendly beach town has a much more laid-back vibe (and cheaper prices) than nearby Kennebunkport.
What to Do In Wells, the seven miles that are known as Crescent Beach and Drake’s Island Beach is always a popular tourist attraction, but there are plenty of other cheap activities for families. Head to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and walk the one-mile trail that’ll take you through salt marshes. Go to the world-famous Maine Diner and order a bowl of the clam chowder, and if you are headed there during the winter, Harris Farm is just over 30 minutes away and offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat bike rides for reasonable prices (kids 6 & under are free on the weekends, adults are only $15.).
Where to Stay The Misty Harbor Resort is open year-round and offers lots of family-friendly amenities like an indoor pool, playground, in-unit kitchen, a prime location on the trolley route and proximity to markets and the beach. Current rates start at $119 per night.
What to Do Home to Knott's Berry Farm, families who visit this area of Orange County will enjoy its proximity to gorgeous beaches, parks and all the area attractions like Disneyland. Travel back in time and take advantage of the many historic buildings and museums in Buena Park that offer free tours like the Whitaker-Jaynes House, the Bacon House, the Tice House and the Stage Shop Hotel. Visitors will also enjoy a stop at Knott's Independence Hall, a true brick-by-brick replica of the original in Philadelphia with free admission. Pint-sized paleontologists will definitely want to stop at Ralph B. Clark Regional Park, home to the Clark Interpretive Center that features ice age fossils and local geology exhibits including a nine-million-year-old baleen whale skeleton. Don't forget to stop at Porto's Bakery and Cafe for an out-of-this-world Cuban treat!
Where to Stay At the Holiday Inn Buena Park-Near Knott's, kids 18 and under stay free and eat free all day at the on-site restaurant. After your day of activities, enjoy the massive hotel pool and Jacuzzi. Rooms start at $113/night and they offer suites and adjoining rooms to accommodate families.
Canaan Valley Resort is a four-season mountain destination that’s about 2 ½ hours outside of Washington, DC in West Virginia’s Potomac Highlands. Nearby are the charming mountain towns of Thomas and Davis, West Virginia, where families can go to enjoy mountain music and an authentic Appalachian vibe.
What to Do The Canaan Valley Ski Area is an all-day playground for the entire family, even the little ones who can find their ski legs in beginner ski school and practice on the Critters Crawl trail. This ski area is the highest mountain valley east of the Rocky Mountains, with affordable lift tickets ($39 for adults midweek; $42 weekends) and a variety of other winter experiences. The resort also has a tube park with as many as 12 tube lanes, ice skating rink and cross-country skiing. \
Where to Stay With 160 rooms, 23 cabins and 34 campsites, Canaan Valley Resort provides lodging for families of all sizes. When it’s time to warm up, head to the lodge for a pizza dinner including local brews for the grownups. The resort also has an indoor pool for splashing away any excess energy and an arcade for a friendly game of air hockey before heading to bed in a modern, spacious lodge room.
Visit this charming tourist city at the base of the Smoky Mountains in the springtime, before the staggering summer crowds show up.
What to Do The city is very walkable, there’s a low-cost trolley, mountain access via the Ober Aerial Tramway and there are plenty of free activities including miles of hiking, fishing, the 8-mile Great Smoky Mountains Arts & Crafts Community Loop, walking along the Little Pigeon River, visiting Cades Cove for breathtaking views and more.
Where to Stay There’s no shortage of lodging in Gatlinburg, and in the off-season, deals abound. Take advantage of the prices and book a cozy cabin via VRBO, where some of their top cabin rentals start as low as $101 a night.
One of the most cost-effective vacations can be had in Albuquerque—this city was awarded a spot in the “Top 10 U.S. Value Destinations” by Hotwire and has also found itself in many "Top 10 Cities for Families" lists.
What to Do You’ll only pay between $4-8 for admission at one of the 19 museums in the city. And, if you visit the Rio Grande Nature Center you can enjoy a free walk and birdwatching along the stunning Rio Grande Bosque Trail. This lovely family-first city boasts 310 days of sunshine and blue skies per year, which is probably why it’s the ballooning capital of the world. Additionally, families can enjoy hiking, jeep tours, bike outings, whitewater rafting, rock climbing and horseback riding.
Where to Stay From campgrounds to bed and breakfasts to hotels to ranches, Albuquerque has it all. Visit their website to find the accommodations that are ideal for your family’s budget and needs.
This southwest Missouri spot is nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains offers outdoor experiences and old-time charm.
What to Do With three area lakes, dozens of attractions and a vast array of lodging, families of all ages and sizes choose Branson as their destination of choice for fun. Get up close and personal with tons of different animals at the Promise Land Zoo and then enjoy some entertainment with your dinner at Dolly Parton's Stampede. Spend some time on the water at Table Rock Lake where you can go tubing, jet-skiing, fishing and even scuba diving on the lake's 43,000 acres of water.
Where to Stay Wyndam Mountain Vista has suites that sleep up to 10 people with rates starting at $71/night. Families will especially love the game room, basketball courts, swimming pool, hot tubs and in-room washer/dryer.
If you haven’t visited The ATL with your family yet, you should most definitely add it to your vacation to-do list.
What to Do There’s a ton to see here for everyone in your family, including the Children’s Museum of Atlanta for younger kids; Centennial Olympic Park, where you can watch a synchronized water show; the Center for the Puppetry Arts, where you can see Jim Henson’s Muppet collection; the World of Coca-Cola and Stone Mountain Park. To soak up some culture, visit the Atlanta History Center, where 33 acres are waiting to be explored (military is free and Bank of America customers have free admission the first weekend of every month).
Where to Stay If you’re looking for a straightforward hotel to rest your heads, take a look at The Inn at the Peachtrees. Here you’ll find free WiFi and breakfast and, most importantly, you’ll be located near the CNN Center, Centennial Olympic Park, World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium. Plus, Piedmont Park is not too far away. Room rates start at around $96 per night.
Portland has long been a haven for families looking for good food and outdoor fun at a cheap price.
What to Do From hands-on science activities at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry to loads of beautiful parks (hello, Washington Park!), public fountains and open-air weekend markets—Portland has loads of free things to do with your kids. Young kiddos under five will love Portland Children's Museum, and kids ages six to ten will find the Portland Art Museum, Oaks Amusement Park and Children's Theater interesting. A bike ride along the riverfront is perfect if you want to explore on two wheels.
If your family wants to "Keep Portland Weird," you may want to check out Voodoo Doughnuts or make your own pancakes at Slappy Cakes. And, if you're trying to save a penny, check out the Chinook Book app, which has discounts at hundreds of restaurants and attractions around the city.
Where to Stay One of the best travel planning resources is the Travel Portland website. Here, you can find up-to-date scheduling info for concerts, family-friendly events and fun happenings around the city. Also, you can book lodging based on a specific neighborhood or level of "alternativeness."
Elvis' hometown has been ranked a top budget-friendly family vacation spot for several years. The recently-completed 137-million-dollar expansion means there's even more to do.
What to Do Go on a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland Mansion, explore the Woodland Discovery Playground at Shelby Farms Park, watch the Peabody ducks make their daily trek and don't forget to take the monorail to the free Mud Island River Park, where the popular Riverwalk—an exact scale model of the lower Mississippi—will give kids a bird's-eye view of the famous river.
Where to Stay A great Memphis lodging option is Hyatt Place Memphis Primacy Parkway, located near the Memphis Botanic Garden and Memphis Zoo. Here you can park for free, hop on the included WiFi, splash in the outdoor pool and enjoy complimentary daily breakfast.
What to Do Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, a free zoo with an interactive farm. Chicago also has free and discounted days at many of their world-class museums: Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago History Museum, The Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, and more.
Visit Millennium Park, which has countless fun free events and activities for families such as live music and yoga at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, art exhibitions throughout the park, a huge playground with views of Chicago’s skyline, Crown Fountain (kids can splash and run through this art installation), and of course, the ever-popular Cloud Gate aka “The Bean.” Be sure to check out the official Chicago CityPass to book admission to top attractions at a fraction of the cost.
Where to Stay Built in 1929, the Intercontinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is like walking into a slice of Chicago’s rich past. It's also located right on the Mag Mile, making it easy to get your family to all that Chicago has to offer. If you book their Parking Package, you’ll get free valet parking. For the most fun, book the Snuggle is Real package that includes a blanket and teddy bear for you to take home, hot cocoa turndown service, unlimited in-room movies, a $50 in-room dining credit and late checkout. Prices start at $118 per night.
Does your kid’s curiosity sometimes surprise even you? Is he more interested in exoskeletons than X-box? If you’re searching for the perfect venue to celebrate your little explorer’s birthday where she can step into a bug’s shoes, party with dinosaurs and mummify her friends, look no further. Read on to find out how Chicago’s Field Museum offers a birthday party experience that’s as special as they are.
How ’bout those birthday parties?
We all know that Field Museum is home to SUE, the largest and most well-preserved T-Rex ever found, but it’s a little known fact that they also host birthday bashes for kids from one year to pre-teens, using different spaces within the museum to make each party age-appropriate.
What’s included in my package?
All-day admission is included for up to 25 kids, as well as access to the super-cool “Underground Adventure” exhibit where you can step into a bug’s (12) shoes and learn about the ecosystem under our feet. You’ll get two hours in a reserved space, where the kids can enjoy doing a craft and, of course, the usual birthday festivities (cake and ice cream, anyone?). All this AND a free parking space for you, which almost makes it feel like your birthday too!
Also included is a “personal party host,” who will work with you to create an unforgettable and seamless day for you and your special adventurer. This birthday party fairy will meet you at your car to help transport items to the party space, set up, decorate, assist with the craft, answer any questions you or your guests may have and remain with your party until every last leftover paper cup is loaded into your car.
What if I want to feed these animals?
For an additional cost, the museum’s on-site caterer will work with you to create a meal package that includes a snack, main course, drinks and something sweet. Alternatively, you can bring in your own dessert or work with their caterer to create a custom birthday cake. Mummy – er, yummy!
Supersize the fun
Want more? The museum offers enhancement activities to make sure no stone is left unturned by your future archaeologist. Add tickets to one of the museum’s temporary exhibitions or book a special presentation by a Field Museum bug expert if the birthday boy or girl is into creepy crawlies (and you have the stomach to sit through it).
To make the most of your all-day admission, you can choose to enhance your experience by taking a guided tour through the museum’s permanent exhibits or make a game of it with a fun self-guided scavenger hunt. Done solo, in pairs or as a large group, the 1-1.5 hour hunt takes guests through the museum’s permanent collections and is a fantastic way for kids and adults alike to learn something new about a lot of old things.
Sounds good. How much?
Parties are offered daily with two time slots to choose from: 10 a.m.-noon or 1 p.m.-3 p.m. (but remember, all-day admission is included). Base cost for a small party package is $600 and enhancement costs vary. Bonus: Museum members get 10% off the cost of the party!
Home of the original Reuben sandwich and Top 40 hits radio format, Omaha, Nebraska, is famous for its pioneering spirit and adventurous attitude. With a bevy of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, old meets new in an attractive mix of cultural heritage and contemporary architecture. Find out our top picks for the family-friendly attractions you don’t want to miss on your next Omaha visit and swing by our Omaha events calendar for today’s happenings.
Omaha Zoo Explore 160 acres of the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium on foot, via the Omaha Zoo Railroad or Skyfari. Children of all ages enjoy the prairie dog feeding and goat training sessions on the Bay Family’s Children’s Adventure Trails. The Desert Dome, which is the largest indoor desert in the world, is an immersive experience for plant and reptile lovers. This is one of the Omaha attractions you should allocate an entire day to.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park The state park is the ideal kid-friendly Omaha destination. There’s something to do for everyone in the family. In fact, you could even make a reservation and stay at the Peter Kiewit Lodge inside the park if you want to make it the base for your vacation adventure, staycation, or long weekend. Everyone’s favorite is the Go Apes ropes course that takes about three hours to navigate and combines zip lines with fixed rope bridges. Younger kids adore the Arts and Crafts Center at the Owen Marina as well as the Venture Climb inside the Activity Center.
Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Safari If you prefer to enjoy a view of local wildlife from the comfort of your car, the Wildlife Safari Park off the I-80 is a must-see. Encounter bison, wolves, deer, and elk. Of course, you don’t have to stay in your car. Venture into the eagle aviary to catch a glimpse of the majestic bald eagle. Every child’s favorite is Prairie Dog Town, which lets youngsters see the little animals frolic, eat, and call to one another.
Omaha Children’s Museum If you’re looking for hands-on Omaha attractions that get kids involved in exploration, then the Children’s Museum is the right destination. Closed on Mondays, it’s open the other days of the week. Permanent exhibits include the Imagination Playground and the Tinker Lab. Another favorite is the Splish Splash Garden. This is an excellent adventure for younger children.
Durham Museum For the fan of trains and railroad-related history, it’s fair to say that the Durham Museum is the ultimate destination. There’s the Union Station’s main waiting room recreation that amazes with Art Deco architecture and charm. A model train diorama with push-button functions for visitors is a favorite. Kids play at The Platform, which is a STEAM center with plenty of hands-on activities.
Joslyn Museum Families with older children have an opportunity to soak in artworks from around the world at the art museum. Its displays range from ancient art over European styles to American Indian and Latin American works. If your youngster is a fan of sculptures, don’t miss out on the sculpture gardens. Besides that, there are temporary exhibitions that change frequently and introduce additional works of art to the visitor.
Fontenelle Forest The conservation facility and private nature center is a kid-friendly Omaha favorite. It’s an excellent opportunity for a family hike. During the winter, you can rent snowshoes to enjoy some of the trails. In the spring, borrow binoculars for a better view of the birds at the wetlands. Acorn Acres is the famous one-acre nature playscape that is perfect for little ones with plenty of energy to burn off. There are also digital displays that let kids explore the area with touch screens.
Lauritzen Gardens Omaha’s Botanical Center Something always blooming at this urban oasis. Well-behaved dogs are welcomed on certain afternoons during the Leashes at Lauritzen events. If you’re planning ahead, consider attending one of the many themed family events. Examples include garden yoga or the learning events for families with children younger than six years of age. Of course, you might just stop by for a leisurely stroll among the garden beds.
Zorinsky Lake and Recreation Area Just south of West Center Road, this lake is a day-use area where soccer, football, baseball, biking, and hiking take place on 255 acres. When you’re looking for things to do in Omaha that include fishing, camping, and water sports, this is your destination. Catfish, bluegill, and walleye are yours for the taking. The largemouth bass is another favorite. A notable honey hole is near the boat dock.
Old Market Round out your trip with a visit to Omaha’s Entertainment District. In addition to established stores, you might see sidewalk performers and street vendors. They add plenty of charm to the Old-World atmosphere of this venue. Explore unique shops, introduce the kids to French cuisine, or reward them with a fresh slice of tasty pizza. This is a great opportunity just to hang out as a family, and go for a stroll that drinks in the location’s atmosphere.
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Omaha, NE events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms.
