Who doesn’t love a surprise? Good ones, I mean. Kids love fun surprises and our family has a great tradition I want to share with you. We call them Mystery Rides. Adults, sometimes with the help of older kids, plan a fun place to take the kids. The mystery? Don’t tell the kids where they are going.
Make it a Mystery Ride!
Our family can thank my dad’s sister, Barbara, for all of it. She has been taking individual members of the family for Mystery Rides for as long as I can remember. In fact, one time, she took the entire family, which filled a large school bus, for a hike and picnic. My kids have great memories of family time thanks to those rides.
Our rides have rules, well, guidelines. It makes for more fun, engages the entire family, makes the best memories, encourages thinking and even builds a sense of direction. I could go on about all the life skills or educational benefits, but I will get on with the rules (no electronics is a must). Here are the basics. The rest is up to you and your imagination.
Choose kid-friendly locations.
Nobody thinks a ride to get the oil changed is fun. Rides to do everyday errands are not good mysteries. Think zoo, park, trip to Grandma’s house (if that would be a big deal). I will share some of our faves later.
Choose free or low-cost venues.
You will be surprised at what you can find within driving distance that costs little or nothing. Not everything is free, but look for coupons or discounts, check online for specials or family events. You don’t always have to go free, but if you’re like me and have literally half a dozen kids, you’re frugal.
Choose locations that build on your kids’ interests and hobbies.
Then choose ones that none of you would ever do. Enrich when possible, then think outside the box and try something totally out of your comfort zone. Auntie Barbara once took my Gram to see cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and if you knew my Gram, that was outside the box! Inspiration could strike anytime, any place.
Kids can ask questions to get hints during the ride.
But our family only allows yes-no questions, so parents give tiny bits of information. Here are some examples: Have we been here before? Is it a public place? Is it a private home? Will we look at objects or people? Will we touch or make something? Kids, even the youngest ones, can get really creative with their thinking and questioning.
Hints may come before leaving home.
depending on your destination, it might come in the form of telling kids what to wear. For example, if you’re going to a park to hike and have a picnic, kids need to wear proper footwear and you might need to pack food. Here is where you make use of your spouse, a discreet older sibling, or another adult helper.
Bring a friend or another whole family.
The more the merrier, really! If you have room in your car, take a friend along. If not, invite the entire family to join in the fun in their own car!
Don’t give it away.
The idea of the mystery ride is, you guessed it, a mystery. It is to build suspense and engage the family in a common task. As the kids ask questions and you answer, one might actually guess your destination. As much as possible, don’t show it, unless you’ve arrived, or you are prepared to give instructions on what to expect and so on.
Obviously, some Mystery Rides work out better than others. If you repeat a ride, that can flop, unless they love it. If you can afford it, make one a family vacation or even a short weekend away. That would be cool, but most of ours are day trips to places we haven’t been before.
Local fairs, seasonal events and places where kids can touch and do are more successful than places kids just watch a show of some sort, at least in my experience. Overall, food destinations have been duds for us, but every family is different. That is the beauty of the Mystery Ride.
Here are my kids’ top few favorite destinations over the years:
Local school playground near our house (not their school)
Roger Williams Park Zoo (you can feed giraffes or sea lions!)
Paint Night (where an instructor does one and you each do your own)
Go Au Pair representative, cultural childcare advocate, Mom to six great kids, I earned my BS at RI College and MEd at Providence College. My hats: educator, tutor and writer of local blog for Go Au Pair families and Au Pairs. Baking, gardening, reading and relaxing on the porch are hobbies.
If you’ve got summer on the brain, we’re right there with you. When it comes to water play, planning your (many) trips to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in 2022 tops the list (psst..we’ve got what you need to know about the park’s opening day too). It’s got all you need to execute an easy day with the kids (think: food, rides, water, even movies) any day you go. Dive into the details on the area’s primo amusement and water park so you can really make a splash this summer.
First things first, Wild Waves will has plans to open for the 2022 season on May 28, over Memorial Day weekend.
The least busy times at Wild Waves are school days, chilly days and wet and windy days. You would think going to the park on a rainy day would be a bummer, but our kid reviewers say the rides are just as fun and with less people, the lines are a lot shorter too. We’ve also had good luck visiting on July 4, since many families are busy at picnics and parades.
The busiest times are, as you may have guessed, long holiday weekends and summer days when school’s out. But even when the park is packed, you can still have a great time—just be sure to pack your patience. On those days, it’s best to arrive right after the park opens to give your family a jump start before the big crowds arrive.
Wild Waves hours vary from day to day. Be sure to check their current schedule online.
We suggest bringing a change of clothes for each member of your family. Of course, you’ll need a swimsuit for Wild Waves. Shoes are not allowed on water attractions, but they are required for the theme park rides. Easy slip on waterproof sandals work well—flip-flops are fine, but you’ll have to take them off on some rides like the Hang Glider and the Soaring Eagle or they may fly off! The park suggests that you wear dry shirts and pants (or shorts) on all attractions and we couldn’t agree more! It’s not fair to make other guests sit in a puddle that you left from your soggy swim gear. You’ll probably be a lot more comfortable too.
We suggest you bring goggles, swimsuit cover-ups, swim diapers for your little ones, beach towels, sun screen, sun hats or baseball caps and a personal floating device if your kiddo needs it. (It must be US Coast Guard approved or you can borrow one for free near the locker rentals—first come, first served.) You might also want to bring a few plastic bags to put your soggy swim gear in, a few empty water bottles (you can fill them up with water at the drinking fountains) and don’t underestimate the importance of flip flops or shoes. Those concrete pathways get hot during the summer! A stroller can be nice to have as well. If you don’t want to pack them, single stroller rentals are available for $8, double strollers for $11, wheelchairs for $12 and motorized scooters for $30.
Hint: If you forget anything, you can buy swimsuits, beach towels, sunglasses, flip-flops and sunblock at the park, but it’s going to be a bit pricey!
There’s plenty of fun-filled activities for everyone in your crew at Wild Waves’ water park. From the exhilaration of hurtling down a twisting water slide or catching the big one in the Wave Pool, to cruising down the Lazy River or relaxing in a warming tub.
Young pirates can raid Hooks Lagoon (minimum height is 36″; maximum is 54”), paddle in the shallows, squirt mom with a water cannon and play in the waterfalls. Climb up the stories of a tropical tree house and zip down no less than seven slides (minimum height for the slides is 42″). But look out below! Every ten minutes the Cap’n’s bucket dumps 200 gallons of water onto little scallywags!
Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex
Helen Green
There are lots of slides to discover at the park. Some of the best are found at the Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex—three outrageously fun twisters that will send you racing towards splashdown at high velocity (a slight exaggeration!). Try all three, vote on which one you think is the best and go back for a final run before moving on.
For an adventure the whole family will enjoy at the same time, try the larger-than-life Zooma Falls. This giant slide allows up to four riders to experience large curves and turns before cruising under a waterfall. Other slides include the four serpentine Konga Slides, each one guaranteed to twist, wind and send you flying out of the tube!
Ever wondered what it feels like to be flushed down a toilet? If so, the Riptide’s for you. After a steep drop, you’ll swirl around and around the bowl before being sucked down the drain. Other wet fun can be found on the Raging River Ride (which you can go solo or ride with a friend) and the Activity Pool (for strong swimmers only).
After a hair-raising go on the slides, take a relaxing trip down the Konga Lazy River as it winds its way under the slides. It’s a pretty tranquil ride except for a few sprinklers popping up here and there. And you can go round and round as many times as you like (but we suggest shorter trips during the peaks times in the park.) Both our big and little kid reviewers give it two thumbs up!
Tubes are available for free at every slide, but if you want to skip the line you can choose to rent your own personal tube for $10 per single or $13 per double plus a $2 refundable deposit. We’d only recommend purchasing a tube if it’s a super busy day, as we’ve never had to wait long to get one.
Details for the 2022 line-up have been finalized for the season, and let's just say Thursday nights are even more fun at the Wave Pool as Wild Waves presents its “Dive In” movie theater. The best part of this outdoor movie experience is that the new-last-year LED screen means families don't have to wait for the sun to set to enjoy the movie. Movies start at 5:30 p.m., and the first showing, Finding Nemo, is scheduled for June 23. Dive-In Movies are free for both Season Pass ticket holders and those with a daily park admission ticket. Stay after the park closes, grab a tube, and hop in the Wave Pool to kick back with a new release or fan favorite flick!
Other "waves” can be found across the way in the theme park area in the form of roller coasters. Atop the hill, sits the Timberhawk Ride of Prey—the largest wooden roller coaster in Washington and this park’s crown jewel. The cars take a leisurely climb to the top with amazing views of the park, then whoosh you’re off, plummeting down drops, hurtling through twists and turns dare you not to duck as you go through the mine shaft.
The Wild Thing with its loop-de-loop and two corkscrews is guaranteed to raise your heart rate. And as if one trip around isn’t enough…The Wild Thing goes around twice. (Psst…when you go upside down, keep your eyes open and look straight ahead, so you don’t get dizzy.)
Over at the Klondike Gold Rusher, there are no precious metals to be found, but it’s a fun ride just the same. We have a warning though. This “mad mouse” type ride is quite jarring and quite a bit scarier than it looks, but it’s a thrill if your kids are up for it. There are sudden drops, sharp turns and your cart will seem like it’s about ready to fly off the tracks. Don’t worry though, it won’t.
A big kid fave in the park is Lumberjack Falls—a log flume ride that’ll send you plunging 50 feet into the water. “It feels like a tsunami is washing over you,” said one of our big kid reviewers. You will get wet…but so will the people standing on the bridge, if they’re not careful.
The Brain Drain is perhaps the scariest ride in the park. After getting strapped in you’ll be raised to the top of the 85-foot tall tower that drops with forces equivalent to 3 G’s! Only big kids need apply as the minimum height is 52”.
If that doesn’t scare you, maybe The Ring of Fire will. Our grownup reviewers voted it the scariest ride in the park and it receives stellar reviews from kids. It’s a 360-degree looping coaster that propels you back and forth up the sides of the track until it picks up momentum and spins you right around. Then, halfway through the ride you will reverse and go in the other direction! What’s not to love about that?
The Timber Axe is another gravity-defying stomach churner that’ll swing you back and forth before flipping you upside down.
Hoist the Jolly Roger and board the Pirate Ship if ye dare—this galleon rocks back and forth until it’s almost vertical. According to one kid reviewer, “Each time you go up it feels like you’re touching the sky, but if you’re at the back of the ship it feels like you’re going to land on your face.”
The Disk’O Flashback won’t remind you of John Travolta or the Bee Gees, but it may make you dizzy as it spins on its half-pipe track.
The park offers two extra thrills if you are up for it or are ready to shell out a few bucks more to experience them. (Those with an Annual Pass receive special discounts on these.) The Soaring Eagle zooms you high above the ground for terrific views of the park, before zipping back down again. For the real adrenaline addicts in your fam, the attention-getting I-5 Dive Skycoaster is an exhilarating, high bungee drop that will give you a good view of the park if you dare to open your eyes.
For a more leisurely pace there’s The Hang Glider, where you can take a gentle spin in the air and cool off on a hot summer day. This one is surprisingly fun for both kids and their parents. Kids yearning to go on the Pirate Ship but won’t go because it’s “too scary” may enjoy the similar, kid-friendly Coastal Clipper which but quite a bit tamer. There’s also the mild thrills aboard the giant spinning roulette wheel known as The Gambler, the high-flying Paratrooper and the oldie-but-goodie Scrambler which are all great for breaking younger kids in for the scarier rides. And for some good old fashioned fun, hop aboard the Dodge ‘ems Bumper Cars.
Little pilots will enjoy buzzing grownups in Red Baron biplanes, while budding train drivers clatter down the tracks of the Enchanted Railway. For kids who like to bounce (and who doesn’t?) there are two star attractions: the Frog Hopper and Kang-A-Bounce. After you bounce, take your tiny thrill-seeker for a go on the Kiddie Coaster.
For the littlest members of your family, the Kiddie Combo and Ferris Wheel are a must. On the Kiddie Combo, kids can pick their mode of transportation—a fire engine, moon buggy, antique car, dune buggy or sports car. The mini Ferris Wheel offers a gentle spin and cool views from a not-too-high vantage point. There’s also Safari Jeep (watch out for giraffes and lions!), the Kiddie Boats, The Space Racer, The Wagon Train and the beautiful antique carousel.
Check the website to see how tall (or how small) you need to be to go on each ride. If you have a kiddo between 48″- 54″ tall they can go on everything —these lucky guys and gals are tall enough for the big rides, but not too tall to still enjoy the little kid rides!
What to Eat
Helen Walker Green
Outside food isn’t allowed inside Wild Waves, but we’ve found that packing a few granola bars in your bag to keep everyone going is fine with staff at the entrance gate. You can bring your own non-glass water bottle (or buy an official Wild Waves cup) and refill it with ice water for free from any concession stand.
There’s lots of food choices available in the park including burgers, fries, clam chowder, tacos, ice cream, caramel apples and homemade fudge. The Dipping Dots are very popular and don’t leave the park without trying the Ultimate Elephant Ear (it’s so big, a family of four could share one). Topped with cinnamon, sugar, raspberry jam, whipped cream and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s pure decadence! Find them at the Snack Shop near the main gate, along with cotton candy and other treats.
Like many theme parks, the food here is expensive and not very nutritious. You may want to pack a cooler and leave it in your car. When everyone’s hungry, just head to the car for a quick bite to eat. It’s also a great break away from the crowds. Just be sure to get your hand stamped when you exit so you can come back in.
Regardless of the type of tickets you want, ordering them online is the way to go. You’ll save anywhere from $5-$21 per ticket this way. You can print the tickets at home or save them to your phone. Plus, purchasing your tickets online will significantly shorten your waiting time getting into the park.
If you are a military family, the park offers discounts on single-day admission tickets. In order to purchase a discounted military admission ticket, show a valid, active military ID at any of the front gate ticket booths. And kids three and under are always free.
Wild Waves Season Pass & Parking Info
Wild Waves
If you plan on going to Wild Waves more than twice this summer, consider purchasing a season pass which is currently on sale for $70, but jumps up to $100 for both adults and kids after May 28, 2022. You can save some more if you purchase your seasons pass at a participating Safeway or Albertsons store. Season pass members also receive a bunch of extras too, including three free friend tickets (see specific day limitations), free Dive-In Movies, free Fright Fest admission in October 2022, free parking, a free souvenir bottle, exclusive in-park discounts and more.
Parking is fairly steep ranging from $15 a day (regular) to $25 (VIP Parking). However, you can save $2 when you purchase online in advance and season parking passes ($50) are available, too.
Single Day Ticket (Valid any operating day in 2022.) Adult: $50 (online) or $55 (at the gate) Child (48” or shorter) and Senior (age 65+): $32 (online or at the gate)
Regular Season Pass :(for Adults and Kids online): $70, before May 28, 2022; $100, after May 28, 2022. Gold Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $90, before May 28, 2022; $135, after May 28, 2022. Platinum Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $140, before May 28, 2022; $200, after May 28, 2022.
Season Pass Dining Plan (for Adults and Kids): $70 Season Pass Parking: $50 Season Pass Locker Add-On: $49.99
Note: Kids ages 3 & under get in free. All ticket prices are plus 10% state tax, and a 5% city of Federal Way admissions tax.
There are two EMT-staffed First Aid stations at the park near the Kong Slides and also near the Timber Axe ride.
It’s a good idea to designate one spot where you will all meet in case you get split up. Also, tell your kiddos to check-in with a staff member if they get lost.
Renting a locker and keeping your valuables in there while playing in the water is the best way to keep cell phones, wallets and other items safe and secure. Lockers can be rented near the water slides and are available for $10 (standard), $20 (large) and $25 (jumbo).
If you plan on carrying your valuables with you while riding the attractions, you’ll be happy to know that every ride has cubbies for purses and cell phones. Just drop them off as you get on and pick them up when you get off.
Note: Cash and debit/credit cards are accepted everywhere (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex), but you must have ID with you. There are four ATM machines available: outside of the front gates, the Shoe Hut, Arcade and Candy Factory. Checks are not accepted. Season pass holders can add “stored value” to their membership EZ Band that can be used anywhere inside the park.
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park
36201 Enchanted Pkwy. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
253-661-8000
Online: wildwaves.com
June is National Gay Pride Month and Washington, DC is one of the most fun places to be to celebrate. What started out as a block party in 1975 has gained momentum every year, adding a parade in the early 80s and now a month full month of activities today. Everyone’s favorite headlining events are back this year— the Capital Pride Parade, the Capital Pride Festival and SAAM’s Family Pride Day —along with a number of small, family-friendly events hosted by DC’s Public Libraries. Sprinkle on some glitter, proudly raise those rainbow flags and add these fun activities to your family calendar.
Head to the F St. Plaza on June 4 (outside of the Smithsonian American Art Museum) for a family pride festival featuring music, performances and crafts. There will be DJs, drummers and an age-appropriate drag show featuring local legends Ruth Allen Ginsburg, Desiree, Tippa Buckley and Molasses. Enjoy hands-on fun with rainbow-themed crafts for the littles. For the youngest ones (3 & up) there will be a rainbow streamer station, for kids 5 & up a multi-colored weaving craft and for the oldest kids (8 & up) pride flag-inspired jewelry making. Event details.
photo: iStock
March Down America’s Mainstreet
It’s time to celebrate! Pride events are back this year in a BIG way. On June 11, march down Pennsylvania Avenue and show off your pride along the 1.5 mile parade route. Come back on June 12 for the return of the Capital Pride Festival. Enjoy a full day of entertainment on three stages, food, drink, and advocacy with over 300 exhibitors. Event details.
photo: iStock
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Youth at this Family Pride Festival
Woodridge Neighborhood Library is hosting a party for LGBTQ+ youth and their families that will feature hands-on crafts, games, food and more starting at 1 p.m. on Sat., June 18. Don’t miss the family story time at 2:30 p.m. All ages are welcome at this festive event. Please note, masks are required. Event details.
Every year, The Smithsonian American Art Museum celebrates Pride Month with a host of activities and special events. This year they are celebrating virtually; access coloring pages featuring LGBTQ+ artists, a tutorial to make a rainbow windsock, instructions to make a rainbow pride flag, the secret recipe for puffy paint rainbow art and more on the SAAM website. Activity details.
Kickstart summer while celebrating Pride Month by hand-dying your own tie-dyed t-shirt. Bring your own t-shirt to create a colorful new garment. All supplies are provided. A handful of white shirts are available on-site on a first come, first served basis. This is an all-age event. Event details.
photo: Autumn Goodman
Spend the Afternoon Making Floral Crowns
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride month by making flower crowns and headpieces with tissue paper and craft supplies. This activity is inspired by the flower crowns and elaborate head pieces made by trans activist Marsha P. Johnson. This is a family-friendly program designed for kids 5-13. Bonus, it’s free!Event details.
At the corner of 17th & P you'll find a crosswalk painted in vibrant, rainbow hues. Created as a permanent installation, this crosswalk pays tribute to the Pride flag, the transgender Pride flag and also includes brown and black stripes representing POC in the LGBTQ+ community. Now a landmark in Dupont Circle, this is a great starting point for a walking tour of this historically gay neighborhood. Activity details.
Everyone is welcome at the Trek Pride Ride on June 12. Starting at 9 a.m., cyclists are encouraged to gather at Picnic Grove #10 in Rock Creek Park for a 2-hour ride celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Come early and score free swag (while it lasts). Haul out the cargo bike, load up the kids and get ready to pedal for pride. Event details.
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
There’s nothing that motivates a little one for a walk around the neighborhood like a scooter. We’ve scouted out all the best three-wheeled scooters for little ones, scooters that convert to a tricycle and even electric scooters for when you want to up the power. Which one will be your family’s favorite?
Best Scooter That Ages Well: Razor A Scooter
Razor was the first to market in 2000 (maybe you even had one back in the day) and they've managed to stay a step (or a scoot ahead) of the competition throughout the years. Why? The scooter is aluminum, which makes it lightweight, yet durable. Handlebars can be adjusted easily, and while there's no assembly required when you open the box, the scooter does fold down for quick and easy carry and storage.
For Blues Clues Fans: Blues Clues Swinging Blue Scooter
We love this too-cute scooter that comes with three wheels for extra stability. As the child leans in each direction, the scooter and Blue lean with the rider making the scooter a fun and interactive toy for children ages 3-7 years old.
Best Scooter for Toddlers and Beginners: Micro Kickboard Original
Erin Lem
For those first learning to balance and ride on wheels, we suggest the original Micro Kickboard (tried and tested by our Editorial Director's toddler son who picked it up after just a handful of outings). We were impressed with the scooter's engineering: it's stable and easy to balance on without feeling flimsy, simple to steer and tough as nails (or as Mico Kickboard says, they're "virtually indestructible" and we'd have to agree). The design and quality of the scooter mean it'll still be in great condition year after year, which is the type of product we love investing in.
Best Convertible Scooter: Swagtron 4-In-1 Scooter & Trike
Swagtron
It's a scooter! It's a bike! It's . . . both! Swagtron's K6 4-in-1 scooter has a simple-to-use modular design capable of switching between two- and three-wheeled versions of both a balance bike and stand-up kick scooter. It's perfect for growing with kids as their balance and skills increase. With the simple click of a button, the seat of the balance bike rotates to become the deck of a stand-up scooter. Use two rear wheels in either mode for greater stability or swap out for a single wheel. The single wheel features a heel brake for use in scooter mode, just like the big kids.
We love this two-wheeled option from Globber as it is easy to bring along to adventures. The handlebars easily fold down to pack in the trunk and they also extend to four different heights to grow with your child.
The Amazon reviews speak for themselves but the key element to this scooter is the big air-filled tires which provide some natural suspension to ride over multiple terrain options. The scooter also comes standard with hand brakes which are an added convenience not typically seen on standard kick scooters.
Kids ages 9 and up will love the sleek styling of this upgraded scooter that doesn't have any little kid vibes at all. You can fold it in half for easy transportation and the kickstand helps it stay upright when you need a break. We especially appreciated the suspension system when going over bumps on the sidewalk.
When SVOLTA designed their scooters, they essentially made scooters they (adults) wanted to ride, but in kid sizes. They opted for premium materials, so the construction is solid and sturdy. The scooters ride smoothly and have a variety of added style details like matte satin finishes, champagne gold accents and lightning bolt patterns. They've got different scooters for little ones (the 2-in-1 sit and stand convertible), toddlers (3-wheel kick scooter) and bigger kids (2-wheel kick scooter) so you'll be able to find something that works for you.
Tired of having to upgrade your kid's scooter as they grow? The ULTIMUM scooter from Globber solves this problem. Designed to be used from age 5 all the way up to adults, the scooter has a 6-height adjustable T-bar and adjustable steering angle control system. The extra-wide scooter deck supports up to 220 lbs. and comes with an anti-slip deck design. You'll love that the scooter folds down for easy carrying.
Lots of kids are getting into this two-footed style that moves when they wiggle. This one was the first on the market and we love its ability to drift and have a controlled ride.
Your kids will love zipping around in this fun electric scooter with rainbow lights. You can feel good knowing that the speed is controllable by you. It folds up for easy transport and storage, and you can adjust the handlebar height as your kid grows.
Best Powered Scooter: Segway Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8
Segway
If you are looking to add a little power to your scooter, check out this option from Segway. The Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8 has a max speed of 8 mph with 4 hours of charge time. There's a hand-operated brake plus a foot brake for easy stopping. It also comes in 10 mph and 12 mph models.
From our friends over at Radio Flyer comes this new eScooter on the block. With a top speed of 16mph and a 15.5 mile range, you can cruise to the grocery store and back. Designed for adults, the Flyer is available in gray, white and red. It even folds down for easy portability.
Best Powered Scooter for Tweens/Adults: Segway Ninebot KickScooter ES1L
Segway
You'll love the smooth ride from this Segway scooter that has won design awards and is a favorite of tweens, teens and grown ups. Whether you use it to commute or just to tool around the neighborhood, you'll love the front electronic, and rear foot brakes to keep you safe. Headlights make you stand out when the sun goes down and the max speed of 12.4 mph gets you where you need to go.
Family biking . . . limitless fun, but extremely overwhelming at the start, especially for city dwellers. This is why we’re introducing you to Four Star Family Cyclery bike rentals. Whether you want to purchase or borrow an insanely fun cargo bike, they’re here to show you the simplicity of life by bike in a way that removes the intimidation factor. Read on and confidently hit the streets with Four Star Family Cyclery.
Four Star Cyclery’s Mission
This local mom-owned business, launched by Elsbeth Cool, rolled into Logan Square with a mission of providing innovative and functional urban transportation for families. Four Star Cyclery knows those first rides for city parents can be a bit unnerving. As a result, they want to help parents imagine and experience what life with a family bicycle can be by offering flexible rentals of the best cycling products on the market. For those who are already comfortable with the idea, or renters who fall in love, you also have the option to purchase.
Four Star Cyclery’s Offerings
Liveside Media via Four Star Family Cyclery
Four Star operates on a concierge service model. This means they offer consultations to assist parents in selecting which bike setup and accompanying accessories best meet their unique needs and budget. Also included is one-on-one coaching sessions to acclimate riders to large cargo bikes and navigating urban streets with young riders. Since they know this is a financial commitment, they allow a test ride before investing. They also have a team of trained mechanics who can make house calls for basic service needs . . . selling point numero uno for anyone who's had to stuff a large bike in the back of an SUV for service.
The Rentals
Liveside Media via Four Star Family Cyclery
Cargo bikes are no small change, so you're encouraged to give them a go before dropping the dough. Check out their website to scope out the rental options. All bikes come equipped with locks, lights and there are helmets available for the whole family.
Photo: Kidical Mass
Become a Part of the Biking Community
Elsbeth also co-founded a very active grassroots community group called Chicago Family Biking, which organizes family-focused events, like Kidical Mass rides, advocates for safer streets and offers educational resources for families interested in biking. The Educational section of their website includes information on choosing a bike helmet, Chicago bike maps, riding with children and more. To get involved now, follow their Facebook page to stay on top of scheduled events.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
Looking forward to your big upcoming vaycay? Packing up the kids can be an unbearable task, but with our picks of adorable little luggage options, it doesn’t have to be! Before you head to the airport or start packing up the car, be sure to check out our roundup of adorable kids luggage, including everything from child-size duffles and suitcases, to backpacks that are perfect for little hands. Now you can focus on an awesome and memorable trip!
Coordinated luggage never looked so cute! This adorable Unicorn Kids Hard Shell Carry On Rolling suitcase ($70) and backpack duo is lightweight and the perfect size for littles. The spinner suitcase makes for easy maneuvering and the telescoping handle means your kids can stow the matching backpack easily.
This simple set of fabric travel bags is perfect for kids or even adults heading on a short trip. Coming in over 20 patterns (we think this camo one is adorbs for boys!), the Rockland 2-Piece set ($41) is great for budgets and comes with a detachable shoulder bag. Use the telescoping handle to keep the bag and suitcase together and make traveling a cinch.
Wildkin's Overnighter Duffle Bag ($30) not only comes in tons of adorable designs like mermaids, unicorns, chevron prints and boho chic but it's functional too. The kid-sized duffle bag is ideal for weekend getaways, coming with a moisture resistant lining, easy carrying handles and an exterior pocket. Traveling never looked so cute!
This American Tourister Star Wars R2D2 spinner suitcase ($100) is so cool, we want to use it. The soft side spinning luggage is designed to fit most overhead compartments so it's ideal for kids. Each case comes with coordinated zipper pulls and amazing interior lining. Choose from your fave Star Wars characters, like C3PO, Darth Vader, BB8 and a Storm Trooper.
Stephen Joseph's Classic Rolling Luggage comes in eight adorable prints and is perfect to use as a carry-on. It's colorful, whimsical and functional, coming with several exterior pockets, a telescoping handle and wheels.
We might, just might have made it through the crazy February weather in North Texas, which means those of us living in the metroplex will be lucky to enjoy spring weather for a month or two before the summer heat arrives. Now is the time to get out and enjoy all that Big D has to offer. We’ve picked our top 12 spots for the best things to do with kids in Dallas, so keep reading to see them all.
***Some of these spots might still have COVID restrictions, so be sure to check the website before planning your adventure!
This article is sponsored by Little Tikes®, which offers a variety of toys that’ll turn your backyard into a springtime playground. From water and outdoor kids’ toys to playhouses, ride-on cars and so much more, children two to six years old will be entertained for hours. To learn more about Little Tikes®’ products, visit littletikes.com.
Gabby Cullen
Wander Through the Dallas Arboretum
Quite possibly the most lovely spot in all of DFW, the world-renowned Dallas Arboretum is a favorite with locals and tourists alike. Calling over 66 acres in East Dallas home, this outdoor museum is a breath of fresh air for anyone who visits. There are rotation exhibits like Dallas Blooms, Autumn at the Arboretum, the Cool Thursday Concert Series, and the very popular 12 Days of Christmas. Kids will love Rory Meyer’s Children Garden, where you’ll find 17 living galleries created specifically for kids.
Insider Tip: Unless you have a membership, it’s a fairly pricey day. Be sure to buy tickets online, invest in membership or brave the Texas summer heat, when admission is only $1.
One of the most iconic buildings in the Dallas skyline is Reunion Tower, and the GeO-Deck offers jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of Dallas and its surrounding areas. Wander the glassed-in open-air observation deck. Get interactive with large touch screens, and check out the famous JFK assassination spot—Dealey Plaza—with one of the zooming cameras. As a bonus, Reunion Tower is located near DART’s Union Station, so you can ride the train in for the day!
Downtown Dallas is having a renaissance, and AT&T headquarters is a big part of that. The Discovery District has two restaurants, an AT&T experience store, the Globe (an interactive light and sound experience), a 104-foot media wall that wraps around headquarters, and a lush plaza that has a tree-lined outdoor seating and is home to “Golden Boy,” AT&T’s iconic century-old statue.
The oldest zoo in Texas offers 106 acres of outdoor fun! From the Children’s Zoo with a splash creek to the Giants of the Savannah exhibit, you can spend a whole day here, and you might not see everything. Feed the giraffes, play on the elephant statues, walk the gorilla trail, watch the hippos swim and wander through the reptile house. There are numerous family programs throughout the day including shows at Wonders of the Wild amphitheater and getting up close and personal during a Wild Encounter. Popular year-round events like Safari Nights and Dallas Zoo lights make this a great place for families. Don't forget to ride the carousel before you leave!
This hidden outdoor gem is just 10 miles away from downtown Dallas. With five miles of hiking trails, a nature exhibit chronicling the history of the Great Trinity Forest, a gift shop and even a bullfrog named Jeremiah, this LEED-certified center is a great way to learn about the natural landscape of Dallas. Bring plenty of water and a picnic lunch, and enjoy the 120 acres of space. Be on the lookout for native birds, otters, beavers and other critters.
Even when it isn't Texas State Fair season, there's plenty to see at Fair Park. Take in the largest public collection of Art Deco architecture in the United States, visit the African American Museum, Children's Aquarium at Fair Park and Texas Discovery Gardens before taking a short drive over to Deep Ellum for food and incredible wall art.
Gabby Cullen
Play in Klyde Warren Park
Located in the heart of Dallas, Klyde Warren Park is a gathering place for both Dallas residents and visitors alike. The 5.6-acre park is built over Woodall Rogers Freeway and offers sweeping views of the Dallas skyline. Food trucks line up daily, the Dallas Museum of Art is across the street, and from the stretch of lawn to the playground that has a climbing web and water features, a few hours will go by in a flash. You can often find dancers or musicians performing on the stage, there are outdoor movie nights on the weekends, fitness classes during the week and even a dog park. Mi Cocina, a popular Tex-Mex local chain, is set to open in the adjourning restaurant space, and the organization in charge of the park is currently working on several improvements, including expanding the children’s park, installing a new fountain and adding a 1.7-acre expansion.
Thought San Francisco had the monopoly on trolley rides? Think again and then grab a ride on the M Line Trolley from Uptown to the heart of the Arts District. It’s a 365-free-to-all ride that yes, comes with air conditioning for those crazy hot summer days. Park near or walk to any of the frequent stops in Uptown and be on the way.
Learn Cool New Things at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
This museum is five floors of WOW, so choose wisely. You can challenge a T-Rex to a foot race, create an earthquake beneath your feet, view jaw-dropping crystals and gems, or take your littlest ones to the Children’s Musem, where they’ll be able to play in a Farmer’s Market, dig for dino bones, or climb the iconic Dallas skyline. Be sure to leave extra time to hang out in the water zone and frog park, which is at the front of the museum, but best left as the last stop.
It wouldn’t be Dallas if you didn’t explore NorthPark! A high-end mall, NorthPark has not only designer shopping but also Bread Winners Cafe and Bakery, which overlooks a lovely green space in the middle. There is a movie theater, LEGO and Disney stores, Bookmarks, a branch of the Dallas public library system, an indoor fountain that is the home of ducks and turtles, and even fine art like a few Andy Warhols and fantastic sculptures. The trains at NorthPark a must for the holiday season!
This historical district in Dallas has seen a renaissance in recent years. If you've got older kids, pay a visit to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Older kids will also like the Sixth Floor Museum, along with Dealey Plaza and the grassy knoll—the area in Dallas where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. Younger members of the family will enjoy the Dallas World Aquarium, and everyone will love the Museum of Illusions. Grab some grub at Burger IM and finish with a treat at Kokopelli Candy. There's also a new park where families can rest and enjoy the sunshine.
Between finding the right car seat, installing it correctly and making sure it fits, keeping your little one safe on the road is a big task. We teamed up with Nuna, the creators of parent-approved car seats like the Nuna PIPA lite rx, and car seat expert Bob Wall, a leader in the Child Passenger Safety field for over 30 years, to answer your questions.
First up, “How do I pick a car seat?” Here’s what Wall had to say:
The short answer to this question is, read the specifics of the seat you’re looking at and match it to your child’s weight and height and their developmental level. There is a car seat out there to fit all sizes of children, you just need to match the seat to your child.
This sounds easy, but there are several other considerations.
How easy is the car seat to use?
Does it fit in your vehicle?
Does it fit your personal lifestyle and family’s needs?
"How Do I Know If My Car Seat Is the Right Size for My Child?"
The different types of car seats are designed to target specific weights, sizes, and ages of children. The primary categories are infant-only, convertible, harness to booster (combination) and booster. Some of these categories have child-size and direction overlaps, and choosing the correct seat could be confusing.
Infant-only seats start at 4 or 5 lbs and are rear-facing only. Convertible seats also start at approximately 4 or 5 lbs and can be forward-facing after the child uses it in the rear-facing mode until its maximum weight and height, and the child is at least two years of age. Harness to booster (combination) seats are forward-facing only seats that can be used right after the rear-facing seat has been maxed out by the child's height or weight. The child would use this seat forward-facing with the harness until the child outgrows the seat and can be placed in a booster. Booster seats vary in size but most start at 40 lbs and an age minimum—typically age four or five). The booster would be used with the vehicle’s seat belt to ensure the child fits the belt correctly.
"At What Age/Weight Should I Change My Child’s Car Seat from Rear-Facing to Front-Facing?"
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommend that infants rear face as long as possible until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car seat manufacturer. Most convertible car seats have limits that will permit children to ride rear-facing for two years or more. Having your child rear-face as long as possible is the safest way for them to ride. A rear-facing car seat will support the child’s extremely vulnerable head, neck, and spine. When children ride forward-facing, their heads—which are disproportionately larger and heavier for babies and toddlers—can jolt forward, possibly resulting in spine and head injuries.
Remember: When your child has outgrown their rear-facing seat, secure them in a forward-facing car seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height limit allowed by the car seat manufacturer.
"If I Was in a Car Accident, How Do I Know If My Child’s Car Seat Is Still Okay to Use?"
If you have been involved in a minor crash then we recommend you follow the NHTSA guidelines: NHTSA recommends that car seats be replaced following a moderate or severe crash in order to ensure a continued high level of crash protection for child passengers.
Car seats do not automatically need to be replaced following a minor crash.
A minor crash is one in which ALL of the following apply: • The vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site. • The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged. • None of the passengers in the vehicle sustained any injuries in the crash. • If the vehicle has airbags, the airbags did not deploy during the crash; and • There is no visible damage to the car seat.
NEVER use a car seat that has been involved in a moderate to severe crash. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
"What’s the Safest Place to Put the Car Seat? Behind Driver, Middle, behind Passenger?"
All seats in the rear are safe if the child seat is installed correctly and you can install it correctly on every trip. The discernment of “center is safest” originates from the center location being the farthest point from any intrusion into the passenger seating area during a crash. Generally, the safest location in the vehicle is the center rear of the vehicle. However, this is not always the case, the center seat may not be compatible with the seat you are using or there could be a practicality issue depending on your situation. An example would be: If you want the youngest in the center because it's “the safest”, but to get the baby in the center you have to lift the infant carrier over the other seat or child. Or it could be as simple as you are unable to install it as well in the center as you can on the sides. The center seating location is only the safest if you can use it correctly every time the child is in the vehicle. To say the center rear is the “safest” is not saying the other seating positions in the back are not safe—they are.
"What If My Child Is in the Height Range to Switch to a Booster Seat but Not Out of the Weight Range?"
Boosters main job is to ensure the child can sit securely using the lap and shoulder belts in the vehicle by lifting the child up so the belt fits correctly. These are called belt-positioning booster seats, and to ensure your child is meeting the criteria to move to a seat belt, you should follow the 5-Step Seat Belt Fit Test.
1. Shoulder belt crosses between the neck and shoulder.
If the shoulder belt is too close to the neck, kids can be tempted to put it behind their back for comfort. A shoulder belt that sits off the shoulder can slip off during a crash, reducing its ability to protect.
2. Lower back is against the vehicle seat.
If the child is sitting with their bottom forward to allow their legs to go over the edge of the seat to feel comfortable, a gap is created between their back and the seat. This will cause the seat belt to ride up out of position onto their belly. It can also introduce slack in the seat belt, allowing the child to move forward more during a crash. Both of these can cause increased injury in a crash.
3. Lap belt stays on the upper thighs across the hip bones.
If the lap portion of the belt is across the soft tissue of the abdomen (like will happen if their back isn’t against the vehicle seat), it can damage internal organs in a crash.
4. The knees bend at the end of the seat.
Kids will scoot their bottom forward to let their knees bend comfortably, increasing their risk of injury because the seat belt rides up off of their hips and onto the soft part of their belly. They need to be tall enough to have their knees comfortably bend at the edge of the seat.
5. The child can ride like this for the entire ride.
We don’t expect the child to be perfectly still while riding in the car. And their movement or readjustment to stay comfortable cannot lead to the seat belt getting out of position. When children get uncomfortable, they tend to slouch, lean to one side or put the shoulder belt behind them. When the seat belt is out of position, it cannot properly protect the child during a crash.
Photo: Kidical Mass
