Get ready to head out on a hiking adventure with your family in the best gear around. We’ve gathered up our favorite hiking boots for kids who want to climb, jump in streams and rake in the miles. You’ll find easy-on boots for little ones and even a few short styles for those who want more of a hiking shoe than a boot.
Ridge Flex Waterproof Boot by KEEN
We pretty much love everything about this hiking boot from KEEN including the Bellows Flex technology that bends where other boots crack and weaken over time. You'll love the easy-on velcro top.
These protective hiking shoes from Merrell have waterproof construction with faux-leather uppers and breathable mesh panels. The pull tab at the heel make these easier to get on when you're ready to set out.
These boots come with a TimberDry™ membrane made of 50% recycled plastic bottles that makes these kids' hiking boots completely waterproof. The extra grippy sole will keep your rock jumpers safe.
Sometimes you're just not going to be able to cajole your little one into a boot to go hiking. KEEN gets it and has this awesome low alternative that's both comfortable and waterproof.
We love this option for rainy days when you want to hit the trail. The mid-height gives you extra support but you're still comfortable enough for a full day's adventure. It's waterproof so you don't have to worry about complaints about wet socks.
What’s in a name? A whole lot, especially when it comes to picking one for your baby. Nameberry has been paying close attention to user data and just dropped a list of predicted name trends for 2022, with plenty of outside-the-box options to choose from!
We can all agree that we need more fun and play in our lives, especially after the last two years. New parents agree and will gravitate toward “light, bright, playful baby names.” At the start of the alphabet, names like Baby, Bear, Bee and Birdie are coming in hot. Other top options? Pixie, Moxie, Cricket, Teddy and Ziggy.
Nature names continue to be popular, but not necessarily the classics like Autumn or Sage. Instead, the site says that Prairie, Dune, Ridge and Sequoia are top picks for parents looking to celebrate their love of the outdoors. Other escapist choices include Bali, Meridian, Horizon and Banyan.
Classic and nostalgia are making a comeback too, especially with the return of smash hit show Bridgerton. Trendy choices include Albion, Benedict, Phoebe, Regé and Rupert. Or if you’re really pining for the good old days, names like Betty, Sally, Louie and Ralph are climbing the charts.
Finally, gender neutral names are big and Nameberry predicts parents will be more willing to give their sons traditionally feminine names. Think Holland, Harlow, Indigo or Laurie. You can read the full report on the company’s site and for more inspiration, check out our lists at Bump + Baby!
America’s largest urban forest is located right in Portland families’ back yard, and it is a gorgeous place to be through the autumn months. Located in the heart of the city, Forest Park is brimming with colorful hikes for local families to explore. With almost 100 miles of trails within the park, your crew can hit a different trail each week throughout the fall months. Read on to find our pick of the best Forest Park hikes for families.
1. NW Skyline Blvd to BPA Road (2 miles) This relatively effortless, two mile Forest Park hike is easy to access from NW Skyline Blvd. from BPA Road. Here, look for the signs for Firelane 13 to reach the flat, lookout area with picnic tables. Don't forget to pack in your lunch to enjoy from the overlook! On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens.
Ages: Appropriate for all ages (you can even take baby in a backpack carrier)
2. Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion (5.3 miles) The hike to Pittock Mansion from Lower Macleay Park is a bit of a climb (an elevation gain of nearly a thousand feet), and is more difficult in nature at 5.3 miles round trip—but this hike has it all! You'll find street parking near the park entrance on NW 29th and Upshur, plus the park has picnic tables and restrooms. The hike itself is parallel to a lovely gurgling river bank, and the trail is paved. A highlight is the mysterious Stone House, for a fun photo op, where you can either opt to return on the Wildwood Trail or soldier on. If you opt to continue, you'll ultimate reach Pittock Mansion, with stunning views of the city that are sure to impress along this Forest Park hike.
Ages: 6 years and up
3. Lower Maple Trail Loop (3 mile loop) From Hwy 30, turn on to Saltzman Road, and follow the winding residential road up to the top. Now, follow the Saltzman Road trail head to the Maple Trail, then go right on the Leif Erikson Trail. Return to the beginning via Maple, and you'll have taken one healthy, three mile loop. While the directions may sound complicated, it's a fun quest and sign exploration game for older children to participate in, plus they'll love the forested paths with birds, slugs and bugs. (Don't forget your bug spray!)
4. The Big Stump (2 miles or 6 miles) Turn on to Old Springville Rd. from Skyline Rd. to reach the parking area and Wildwood trail head. There, you'll follow Fire Lane 7 to the the Hardesty Trail, reaching The Big Stump (which is exactly what it sounds like—kids love it!). To return, either follow your inbound route, or if you're feeling very ambitious, opt to loop to the Wildwood Trail, then Ridge Trail, back to Fire Lane 7. Depending on your course, this will take you either two miles and less than two hours, or a few more hours to do the six mile loop.
Ages: 2 mile loop is appropriate for all ages. 6 mile loop is best for 7 years and up.
5. Audubon Society Hikes (1-5 miles) If you have a novice avian expert in your family, check out the Audubon Society of Portland at 5151 NW Cornell Rd. From here, you can take an easy, 1.3 mile stroll from the Founders Trail to the North Collins Trail to hear and view wild woodpeckers and over 40 species of other birds. The 150 acre nature preserve surrounding the Audubon Society has four miles of hiking paths, plus onsite restrooms and a store to pick up a birding guide.
Ages: All ages
6. The Wildwood–Newton Loop (1 mile) Last but not least, your little tree hugger will love the Wildwood Trail! This round-trip loop is about a mile and easy enough for smaller legs. From Skyline Blvd, turn on to NW Newton Road and park. Then walk right on the first path, to the Wildwood Trail. From here, head south on Wildwood. To return, take a right onto Fire Lane 10. Along the Wildwood Trail, you'll find a hollowed-out tree that little ones will love to tuck inside for a fun photo.
Planning the perfect multi-generational gathering—between the championship playoffs and the sleep apnea studies—can be hard. However, once you nail down a date, these Airbnbs for large groups in Atlanta can make it easy. With big kitchens, gorgeous gathering spaces, and plenty of bedrooms, your next family gathering will only be missing one thing: stress. Just kidding. It’s still a family gathering. Your accommodations just won’t be the cause of it. Keep reading for our favorite large Airbnbs in Atlanta.
Whether you spend your time here fishing on the dock or heading into Atlanta, this lakeside retreat for families will check every box. Don't miss out on the fire pit and pool table while you're there!
Stay at the famous Buckhead “Goat Mansion” that's in walking distance to major shopping, Phipps Plaza & Lenox Mall, AMC theater, restaurants, bars, and public transportation. Close to GA-400, I-85, & I-285, you can quickly get to State Farm Arena, Midtown, Downtown, Ameris Bank Amphitheater, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and SunTrust Stadium.
This huge and beautiful 5000+ square foot home comes with a great view of Atlanta from the Pinnacle of a mountain. It's also only 5 minutes away from the interstate, which means you can be anywhere you need to be in the Metro Area within 30 minutes. The home has two elevators and is handicap-accessible.
Enjoy an infinity pool, hot tub, fire pit, Tiki torches, Lynx grill, and two-story dock with extra boating slip. Inside, you’ll unwind with plasma TVs, Sonos surround-sound speakers, spacious window-lit kitchen, reading nooks, and pingpong table. You can spread out with five bedrooms, an office with sleeper sofa, and three sets of washer/driers. Ample parking, gated driveway, golf cart, and outdoor patio furniture means you can stretch out and enjoy your stay.
Get out of the city and enjoy a heavy dose of nature at this gorgeous Blue Ridge mountain home. Located in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, five miles southwest of downtown Blue Ridge, you'll find several antique shops, plenty of local Southern cuisine, and a terminus of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Go hiking on the world-famous Appalachian Trail, take in the scenic Fall Branch Falls (both less than 10 miles from your door), or spend relaxing days on the waters of Lake Blue Ridge (nine miles northeast). Closer to home, guests are welcome to fish in the neighboring pond, so don't forget your tackle.
With charm galore, this working estate includes a detached workshop, multiple barns, and a pool. Also on the property is a 1 bedroom, 1 bath, full kitchen guest cottage- that has a sun porch perfect an evening cocktail! Watch the cousins roam the grounds of the property and take a deep breath of air outside of the city. .
Atlanta is surrounded by some of the country’s finest whitewater, and we’ve rounded up the most family-friendly runs around. And while all of the rivers listed below are serviced by river outfitters who can take care of every detail of your trip, it’s always a good idea to review some river safety guidelines before you go. Keep reading for some of the state’s most family-friendly rafting options, below.
Odds are, your parents had a wild time shooting the ‘Hooch sometime in the late 70s or early 80s, and some of their memories may not have involved an actual boat. And while the Hooch is still the closest, easiest, and coldest water around, the wild weekends of yesteryear have been tamed considerably. It’s good, clean(ish), family fun for rafters ages 5 and older.
Keep in Mind: The Chattahoochee is regulated by the release of water from Buford Dam, and can quickly change from relatively low water levels to fast-flowing rapids. You can call ahead to find out the water release schedule (770-945-1466), and be sure to check out average float times here.
Make It Easy: Let Chattahoochee Outfitters set you up with the appropriate watercraft for your group, drive you to the put-in location, and feed you (nothing beats concession food after a long day on the water) when you float back to the headquarters at Azalea Park in Roswell.
Chattahoochee Outfitters 203 Azalea Dr. Roswell 770-650-1008 Online:shootthehooch.com
Alpine Helen is home to some of the coolest and most popular tubing adventures in the state. Surround yourself with refreshing forest scenery on a lively tubing trip down the Chattahoochee River. You'll float right through the middle of Helen and have optional waterslides along the way.
Keep in Mind: Helen is Georgia's weird and wonderful Alpine village, which is quite a destination on the weekends. If you'd rather keep to the privacy of the forest animals, this rafting adventure may not be for you.
Make It Easy: Take a one or two-hour-long trip with Cool River Tubing and also enjoy their aerial park, open seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Cool River Tubing 590 Edelweiss Strasse Helen, GA 30545 800-896-4595 Online:coolrivertubing.com
If you're looking for a shorter option, check out the Chestatee river trip in beautiful Dahlonega. You can book kayak or tube trips, and while tubing trips only last around 30 minutes, you can walk 10 minutes back to the launch and ride the river as many times as you'd like for only $5.
Keep in Mind: The minimum age of tubers is 4. Keep in mind the tube has to be carried back up the trail.
Make It Easy: Dahlonega outfitters Chestatee River Adventures offers trips from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
Chestatee River Adventures 2718 South Chestatee St. Dahlonega, GA 30533 770-540-9950 Online:chestateeriveradventures.com
Don’t let the fact that the Olympic rafting competition was held just upstream on the Ocoee deter you from getting your feet wet in these hallowed waters. You can elect to mosey down the river on a gentle half-day float on the Toccoa with the littles ages 5 and older.
Keep in Mind: This river runs through Tennessee and Georgia but has two names depending on the state. In Tennessee, the rapids are referred to as the Ocoee, while in Georgia, the name changes into the Toccoa River (and generally has calmer waters).
Make it Easy: Call the Rolling Thunder River Company to take care of all your needs, from selecting the right craft to hiring a guide to steer you through the more daunting waters.
Ocoee River/Toccoa River Centers 20 Hughes Street McCaysville, GA 30555 706-492-5720 Online: rollingthunderriverco.com
While it's not as dramatic as the depiction in Deliverance, the Chattooga isn’t a lazy river float. In fact, children under 8 aren’t allowed in the boat, and you’ll find that the adventure on the Chattooga is less about dueling banjos and more about keeping yourself in the boat.
Keep in Mind: The Chattooga was federally protected in 1974 so if your goal is to see some breathtakingly undeveloped scenery, this is the river for you. However, undeveloped means undeveloped. Don’t plan on stopping off to grab some ice for your cooler along the way.
Make it Easy: Contact the Nantahala Outdoor Center to set up your guided trip, and ease any lingering post-Deliverance jitters you may have.
Urban myth: All playgrounds are created equal. Not true! Chicago and the ‘burbs have some that really go over the top to show you and your crew a good time. We’re talking unbelievable themes and play structures, plus cool add-ons like rope bridges, tire mazes and even faux Viking boats. Scroll through to discover local playgrounds that will stop you in your tracks.
Why will you go to this Wizard of Oz-themed playground? Because of the wonderful things it does! Walk the yellow brick road and explore the wooden tornado, then cozy up to statues of characters from the movie (you'll find them scattered throughout the park). Play, smell the flowers in the nearby Emerald Garden, and picnic on the lawn. What better way to ingratiate yourself with Dorothy and Toto?
Climbing a tree is a rite of childhood and you can do it here in a fun new way. Not only does this playground offer many play options, but a large climbable tree beckons as you arrive. Scurry on up and be sure to save time to play in the sand and control water flow in the nearby streams.
15 W. 400 Harvester Dr., Burr Ridge; Online: brparks.org
All aboard! The one-of-a-kind wooden climbing structures here riff on both Native American and train themes, and add up to a day of adventure. Pretend to be a conductor as you navigate maze-like tire and wood structures, reveling in new discoveries around every turn. Kids can also cool down in the water spray feature that has dancing bears and spray misters.
Crawl into a web of intrigue. As you make your way up the suspended ropes, you'll aim for the middle where you can jump on a mini trampoline and make the entire structure bounce and sway. There are other playtime gems here as well – the multiple musical instruments and piano embedded into the ground (just hop around on the squares to play notes) will be sure to delight. And just steps away is a splash fountain with multiple water sprayers cooling all ages off in hot weather.
Batter up! If you have a soft spot for peanuts and Cracker Jacks, head here for a playground with a special baseball touch: There's a huge baseball scoreboard chalkboard on the brick wall to the north. Bring chalk and make a game out of who can do the most climbing and sliding.
Adventure Playground at Blackberry Farm in Aurora has it all—a rustic barn-inspired design, fun interactive features, huge slides and tons of maze-like passageways. It’s unlike any other playground we’ve seen. Hours (yes, hours) will fly by.
For Viking Adventures: Veterans Memorial Playground
Pretend that you're setting sail on the choppy seas at this stomping ground. Its claim to fame is a large-size Viking boat structure that you can play on. Look below to see sharks and other sea creatures printed onto the soft play surface. There are also sandy “beaches” with additional play structures. This playground has many more options, including a large zipline that mom and dad can try.
This newly renovated playground has challenging, modern equipment for all ages. From the large dome structure with rope climbing options to the swimming rope bridge over a ravine to the hanging rocking swings, this is climbing like you’ve never seen. Beware of the water sprayer—it looks innocent, but will soak you in just one run-through!
At this playground, you can pretend to be an astronaut and climb great to heights. The curved metal structure and tall climbing wall (with 3 options for different levels) will make kids, and adults, feel as though they are climbing as high as skyscrapers, with great views of Lake Michigan. Hidden water features, access to bathrooms and a beach, make this a playtime imagination destination.
31st Street & Lakeshore Dr., South Loop; Online: facebook.com
Take all other parks, give them a dose of steroids, and you have Maggie Daley Park. It's that cool. While there are certainly areas within the play structure you can climb, the Wave Hill is a 16,530 square foot play area with a rolling topography where kids can climb what feels like a mountain to them, roll down, and do it all over again.
Put a little hitch in your giddyup and try something new with your buckaroos—horseback riding. Whether you’re into trails and terrain or guides and guarantees, the Atlanta horseback riding scene has a bit of everything. Keep reading for our round-up of the best places to saddle up, below.
Fantastic horseback riding close to Atlanta exists at Georgia Frontiers, where you'll enjoy western-style horseback riding in a safe, natural environment. Good for first-timers and experienced cowboys and cowgirls alike, Georgia Frontiers will make sure you get the instruction you need to relax in the saddle, lead you along beautiful horse trails, and can even customize a ride for your group or family.
When to Go: Georgia Frontiers is open daily, but operates on reservations only in order to provide the most personalized ride possible.
Cost: A 1-hr. trail ride will run you $50, and increases in price according to ride time.
Experience the rolling hills and winding paths of Serenbe on horseback. Whether you are an accomplished equestrian or have little experience with horses, Serenbe Trailriding has an adventure to offer you and your family, and skilled staff and gentle horses that makes it a destination for the experienced and novice rider, alike.
When to Go: Available Tues.-Sun. by appointment. Make reservations online or call 770-463-2610.
Price: Starting at $85 for a 1-hr. standard trail ride.
Minimum Age: 12
10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd. Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268 770-463-2610 Online:serenbetrailriding.com
Whether you're a beginner looking for a 1 or 2-hour ride or more advanced and ready for a half-day ride, the guides at Gold City Corral can meet you where you are and help you gain the next comfort and skill level of horseback riding. With trails, mountain ridges, and fields, your ride with Gold City Corral in the North Georgia mountains will be as picturesque as it is fun.
When to Go: Daily through Oct. 1, then on a more limited schedule during winter months.
Price: Starting at $40 for a 1-hr. standard trail ride, they also offer family pricing (for four riders) at $130 per hour long ride.
Minimum Age: 8
49 Forrest Hill Road Dahlonega , GA 30533 706-867-9395 Online:goldcitycorral.com
A one-hour guided trail ride at Rolling Hills Horse Ranch will lead you beside flowing waters, through shaded woods, and across green pastures. With groups of 4 or fewer, you'll enjoy a relaxing and peaceful experience.
When to Go: Trail riding is available by appointment only from Mon.-Sat., with the last ride of the day during summer occurring around 8 p.m.
Price: Starting at $65 for a 1-hr. standard trail ride.
Minimum Age: 13, but younger riders—when guided by a trained staff member of Rolling Hills Horse Ranch—may also ride.
Southwest Atlanta Address provided upon reservation of ride time. 678-421-4591 Online:rollinghillshorseranch.com
While COVID has limited indoor activities for the time being, there’s still plenty of excitement for Portland families to experience in the great outdoors. Take in remarkable views and feel a rush of fresh air on your face as you and your little monkeys zip line through the trees. Whether it’s your first time tethered into a harness, or you’ve sped through the wilderness before, zip lining is a surefire way to inject some adrenaline into your kids’ summer. Read on for six spots with next-level zip line tours for Portland parents and their kids.
Annette Benedetti
Pumpkin Ridge Only 30 minutes from Portland, Pumpkin Ridge is one of the easiest getaways to fulfill your zipping desires. Flying high, you and your kiddos can feel as free as a bird while you all take in the sights. The zip lines in this course get progressively more intense. Starting off only 15 feet off the ground at the beginning and ending with a view from a 120-foot high suspension bridge, your crew will have time to build up a tolerance to the great heights achieved here. Pumpkin Ridge also goes the extra mile to easy your concerns about staying COVID safe. Some of the measures they are taking to make sure everyone stays healthy include: limiting tours to six people. Masks are worn for the duration of the tour. Gloves are also worn throughout the tour.
Rogue Valley Zip Line Adventure If you're ready for more of a road-trip, head on out to the Rogue river for another amazing zip line option. With 5 zip lines on the course, it's a perfect way to spend part of a weekend. With some of the best views of the lot, your little ones can sneak a peek at Crater Lake Rim while zipping high above the trees. If you want to make your time in Rogue Valley a little more fancy, consider the Zip, Dip & Sip package. With the upgrade, you'll get the chance to extend your stay in the enticing area with a river rafting trip on the Rogue River, plus lunch and a chance to relax at Del Rio Vineyards & Winery (and drink wine, obviously).
9450 Old Stage Rd. Central Point, OR. online: rvzipline.com
Crater Lake ZipLine Pack your kids and head to Crater Lake. If your kiddos are over 10, this zip line park is worth the stop. The views are unequaled by any other course, which is easy to do when you're only 30 minutes from Crater Lake itself. Beyond the usual zip lines, the excursion here also has two chances to try rappelling and two sky bridges to cross along the way. If you're looking to add to the fun and extend your day, they also offer their own unique "skyak" adventure package, which puts you in the sky with the zip lines and in the water with a kayak.
High Life Adventures If you love the coast, then head to Warrenton, Oregon and prepare for a family adventure of a lifetime with High Life Adventures. At this zip park, kids weighing in at 60 pounds can zip alone along the eight-line course —but even your littler ones can get in on the fun by tandem zipping with their grown-up. With the highest point reaching 75 feet, it's a little less intense than some of the other lines around.
Traversing around and over a seven acre lake, the children will light up at the chance to dip into the water on the "Maple" line, but fear not, it's not a requirement if you didn't pack a change of clothes for you and yours. Bonus: there's ax throwing opportunities for those of you who want a little extra woodsy fun.
Looking for other things to do around Astoria? Check out our previous feature on the area.
Tree to Tree Adventure Park Accurately calling itself a playground in the trees, this park offers variety for families with varying levels of adventurers including one of the longest zip lines in the area, and some aerial adventures for your youngins who aren't quite ready for the full-blown zipping experience. So if the 1,280-foot-long line is too much to handle, you can choose to try out their Aerial Adventure a set of 6 obstacle courses built into the trees (no need to worry, everyone is safely harnessed here, too). And if you have some really little tykes with you, they can check out the mini adventures instead: Adventure Village, Tree Top Plunge or Monkey Grove.
Skamania Lodge Zip Line Tour The only zip course in southwestern Washington, the tour at Skamania Lodge is an easy 45 minutes from Portland. Tucked into the Columbia River Gorge, you'll be hard-pressed to find a prettier place to spend some time in the sky. There's no age limit on this zippy trip, so all of your children can take part (although those under 10 will need an adult with them). Their lines range from 100-feet long to 900-feet long, and are interspersed with short hikes, ramps and tree decks to take in the view around you. With tours available all year, you can even plan a day trip after summer ends.
Families are passionate about Seattle pizza–and we understand the obsession! Delicious dough and tasty toppings that warm the tummy and soul. Who can resist? Feed your family’s craving at one of these 11 Seattle-area pizzerias that serve up perfect pies for takeout or delivery.
Pick up a delicious pie from Proletariat, the self-proclaimed pizza joint that made White Center famous! Choose specialty pizzas from the menu or create your own with unique toppings like sliced red potatoes, Spam, pineapple, roasted garlic and more. Don’t miss the kids’ appetizer plate with snackable items for the small set. Bonus: Proletariat provides gluten-free and vegan options.
Family-friendy Ridge Pizza is dedicated to the neighborhood it is named for. Since 2012, Ridge Pizza has been a gathering place for neighbors, Hawks fans, and sports teams, serving up food and community. All pizzas are hand-tossed and made to order with high-quality ingredients. Start with a pesto, olive oil, or marinara base and create your pie to fit your tastes–the sky is the limit! Select one of their signature Charity Case pizzas and Ridge Pizza will make a $1 donation to the designated organization. Both their Phinney Ridge and Northeast locations have unique Charity Cases. Try the Lil’ Dragons–a spicy delight that benefits Greenlake Elemenatry School. Eat yummy pizza and support the kiddos–a win-win!
Phinney 7217 Greenwood Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103 206-687-7621
Northeast 3338 N.E. 65th St. Seattle, WA 98115 206-535-6167
With 18 Seattle-area locations, there is a Zeeks in almost every neighborhood! Founded in 1993, Zeeks Pizza pays homage to its local roots with specialty pies including the Puget Pounder, Tree Hugger and Legion of Shroom (go Hawks!). You can also find Collab pizzas on the menu featuring flavor-packed, locally-sourced ingredients from favorite vendors. Build your own pizza with a red sauce or olive oil base or select a more adventurous option like peanut sauce or ranch, and finish it with toppings from their extensive menu. Add a salad (their chop salad is one of the best around) and a side of breadsticks (don’t miss the bacon-pesto flavor combo) and you have an authentic Northwest pizza dinner.
Pizzaiolo has a passion for pizza. Located just outside downtown Kirkland, you’ll discover Italian-inspired pizza with flavors that will transport you directly to Italy (in your mind!). Using organic, quality ingredients in its delicious combinations, Pizzaiolo creates pizza with amazing flavors and freshness that your whole family will enjoy. Choose a house special like the Margherita or create your own. This family-friendly restaurant also serves calzones, salads and delectable desserts.
Serving authentic New York-style pizza from four Snohomish and Island County locations, Brooklyn Bros. Pizza is the North End’s favorite award-winning pizzeria. Order by the slice, choose an authentic NY pie or create your own thin-crust specialty. If you’re looking for a heartier pie, order a Sicilian-style pizza. This 16-inch square pie has a thick, rustic crust, San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella and your choice of toppings. East Coast style!
Various Seattle-area locations Online: bbpmenu.com
Allergies or food sensitivities can make eating out stressful, but Razzi’s Pizzeria makes it easy. With four complete menus: traditional, gluten-free, vegan and gluten-free/vegan, Razzis has multiple options for all dietary needs. Over time, Razzi’s has diversified their menu to fill it with delicious pizza options so diners with dietary restrictions can savor the dish without sacrificing flavor. Families can count on ingredients from local, organic markets and find other food options if you want to branch out (think: paninis, pasta and grinders). Bonus: visit their website to find monthly specials and coupons.
Greenwood 8523 Greenwood Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103 206-782-9005
Downtown 1314 Howell St. Seattle, WA 98101 206-588-2425
Support a local pizzeria that supports local ranchers and farmers by eating at Delancey. Delancey’s award-winning pizzas come from high-quality, local and sustainably-raised ingredients and meats. Its full menu of wood-fried pizzas will delight petite pizzaiolos. If you want to spice up your pie, consider adding housemade pork fennel sausage, Zoe’s bacon, pepperoni or salami, La Quercia prosciutto or more veggies. Follow Delancey on Instagram to find their weekly specials.
1415 N.W. 70th St. Seattle, WA 98117 206-838-1960 Online: delanceyseattle.com
Pagliacci has served up award-winning pizza in Seattle for over 40 years. The original pizzeria opened on the “Ave” in the U District in 1979, with the sole purpose of sharing great pizza with the community. Now, Pagliacci shares its goodness with pizza lovers at over 20 Seattle-area locations. Choose from seasonal menu items, Pagliacci Favorites or create your own masterpiece with local, seasonal ingredients. Not feeling the pizza vibe? Try their pasta or salads…and don’t forget to save room for dessert. Order whole pies or slices to go. You can see what slices are hot and ready via the Pagliacci app.
Good to know: Pagliacci is committed to protecting the environment and actively seeks innovative ways to use less through composting practices, using green power and saving water and energy. Its goal is to ensure that all food containers and packaging are recyclable or compostable.
Various Seattle-area locations Online: pagliacci.com
If you’re craving authentic, Italian-inspired wood-fired pizza, head to Tutta Bella–stat! Tutta Bella was the first pizzeria in the Northwest to earn the highly-esteemed Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN) certification that certifies their commitment to high-quality, fresh ingredients and age-old cooking traditions direct from Naples. Its five local pizzerias offer pizza purveyors the ultimate Neapolitan experience. Choose from a selection of red or white pizzas, shareable appetizers and salads. Bonus: They currently offer bottled cocktails to-go for the parental units.
Good to know: For a quick, grab ‘n’ go option, stop by one of their grocery store locations inside QFC (Kirkland Urban and the University District).
If you bleed purple and gold, you’re most likely already a fan of Varlamos Pizzeria and its delicious Italian fare. Family-owned and operated since 1994, this gem is nestled in the heart of the University District and is a go-to destination on game days. Varlamos is known for its football-sized calzones and house specialty pizzas. There is something for everyone on its lengthy menu including salad, pasta, hot sandwiches and appetizers. Bring the gameday experience to the comfort of your own home!
3617 Northeast 45th St. Seattle, WA 98105 206-522-8515 Online: varlamospizza.com
Farrelli’s Pizza is the proud recipient of multiple local and national accolades for its food and the warm, welcoming environment it provides guests. Their customer service–and pizza–shine! With 10 South End locations, Farrelli’s menu is filled with winners. Try the award-winning Northwest Traditional, a pie loaded with meats, cheeses and a little zing, finished with a drizzle of honey cream cheese sauce, or select the ever-changing Pizza of the Month, a pie dreamed up by the creative staff. Farrelli’s menu also features fresh salads, pasta entrees, appetizers and desserts. You’ll find something delicious for every appetite here.
Good to know: Restaurants are currently closed for in-person dining due to COVID health guidelines, but these pizza parlors offer takeout or delivery via phone or online ordering. Please check with individual restaurants for the most current information, as things frequently change due to COVID.
Head out and get some fresh air and exercise on one of the best hiking trails in Oakland. These spots are gentle enough for budding hikers and often allow dogs, too. Read on to get the scoop on the best kid-friendly hikes in Oakland, courtesy of our friends at AllTrails.
Round Top, Volcanic and Skyline Trail Loop
Leland Franklin/AllTrails
Round Top, Volcanic and Skyline Trail Loop is a 3.5 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Orinda, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Distance: 3.5 miles Difficulty: Easy
Sequoia Bayview Trail
Charlotte P/AllTrails
Sequoia Bayview Trail is a 2.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Oakland, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Distance: 2.8 miles Difficulty: Easy
Huckleberry Nature Path Trail
John Morrison/AllTrails
Huckleberry Nature Path Loop is a 2.4 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Oakland, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round.
Distance: 2.4 miles Difficulty: Easy
Lake Temescal Loop
Nathan Tsang/AllTrails
Lake Temescal Loop is a 1.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Oakland, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Distance: 1.1 miles Difficulty: Easy
Leona and Pyrite Trail
Joel Schantz/AllTrails
Leona and Pyrite Trail is a 4.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Oakland, California that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Distance: 4.2 miles Difficulty: Easy
Piedmont Park Trail
Alice Cheng/AllTrails
Piedmont Park Loop is a 0.8 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Piedmont, California that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Distance: 0.8 miles Difficulty: Easy
West Ridge, Graham, and Dunn Trail Loop
Jim F/AllTrails
West Ridge, Graham, and Dunn Trail Loop is a 3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Oakland, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Distance: 3 miles Difficulty: Easy
Palos Colorados Trail
Quinn Ellis/AllTrails
Palos Colorados Trail is a 3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Oakland, California that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Redwood Peak Trail
rich robeson/AllTrails
Redwood Peak Trail is a 1.1 mile out and back trail located near Oakland, California that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Distance: 1.1 miles Difficulty: Easy
Mullholland Ridge
Evan Wagstaff/AllTrails
Mullholland Ridge is a 1.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Orinda, California that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
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