ML Interest Tag: shaved-ice

Belmont Park: Your Guide to a Classic Beachside Attraction

by Kelly Powell

Located in the heart of Mission Beach, Belmont Park has been a top destination for family fun since the roaring twenties. You’re probably familiar with the Giant Dipper (the iconic wooden roller coaster that’s called the Park home since 1925), but did you know about all the other awesome attractions at Belmont Park? With mini golf, laser tag, sky ropes, zip lining and so much more, plus tons of new restaurants that are sure to satisfy any and all cravings, Belmont Park should be at the top of your summer bucket list. We’ve got your insider’s guide to this San Diego hot spot, providing endless fun for all ages.

Your Guide to Rides at the Park
You can’t go to Belmont Park without taking a ride on the Giant Dipper. This roller coaster was completely restored in 1990 and is a long-time favorite of any adrenaline lover. Hold on tight (or put your arms up in the air if you dare!) as you coast along this exciting ride of dips and turns. Just keep in mind, kiddos must be 50 inches tall to ride.

The Beach Blaster, Control Freak and Octotron will also get your heart racing with top speeds and spins. Little ones can experience pint-sized thrills of their own on the Crazy Submarine and Liberty Carousel, or pretend they’re a race car driver on the Speedway.

Speaking of driving, the whole family can take to the wheel on the Bumper Cars, or release any pent-up road rage on Krazy Kars. Where else can you crash into other drivers on purpose- no license or registration are required.

The Attractions
Challenge the family to round of miniature golf at Tiki Town Adventure Golf. This 18-hole Polynesian-themed course will weave its way indoors and outdoors with cool features like a talking Tiki man and giant volcano that erupts when someone gets a hole in one. The cost is $8 per person and open to all ages.

Experienced surfers can catch a wave on the FlowBarrel, the 10-foot wave machine inside WaveHouse, or beginner-intermediate levels of all ages can ride an endless wave on the FlowRider. The cost is $20-40 per hour, and must be 42 inches and above.

Experience high flying fun with the Zip Line. Strap in and get ready to soar across the midway. The cost is $10 per person and each rider must be 46 inches and weigh at least 50 pounds. For those that are extra daring, try taking a Leap of Faith aka bungee jumping from atop a sky-high platform. What a rush!

Test your balance on the Sky Ropes Adventure course. You’ll be strapped into a harness as you navigate your way across rope bridges and beams high in the sky. Probably best if you’re not afraid of heights! The cost is $6 and you must be 48 inches.

Get vertical on Sky Climb, the Park’s 30-foot tall rock climbing wall. Fast little monkeys can race to the top on Speedwall, which is a smaller timed climbing course. Each climbing adventure is $6 per person and climbers must weigh at least 40 pounds.

Rent some bikes and take a leisurely ride along the boardwalk. There’s even bikes with attached trailers for little ones and cars seats so kiddos can just sit back and relax as the grownups do the heavy pedaling. At Mission Beach Rentals, you can also rent surfboards, body boards, wet suits, kayaks, and roller blades.

For Indoor Action
As your day heats up, cool off by heading indoors. Belmont Park is home to an awesome arcade featuring all the latest games along with classics like Pac-Man and Skee-Ball. Get your game on with a Powercard and add any dollar amount you’d like, with extra savings when you spend $20 and up. Some games will earn tickets that are added right to your Powercard which can be redeemed for super cool prizes like sticky hands, ninja swords, and giant sunglasses.

Then enter the world of LazerBlast to experience nonstop action at every turn with the new Tron-themed Laser Tag game. Once you’re suited up in a vest and ready to play, shoot your laser gun at the targets, but you better move fast so you don’t get hit! Or try the Laser Maze and see how fast you can duck, dive, and roll through the course without tripping any lasers. The cost ranges from $3-8 per person, or all-day unlimited play is available for $10-20.

Coming soon to Belmont Park is an all new indoor adventure game called Escapology. Teams of up to six players will be locked inside of a game room where they’ll need to find clues and solve puzzles in order free themselves within the set time limit. No pressure or anything!

So Many Places to Eat
From sit-down beachfront dining to food court-style eateries, Belmont Park has lots of options when tummies start to rumble. If you’re there bright and early, head to Dottie’s Pop Shop for grab and go style coffee drinks, acai bowls, pastries and more. As lunchtime rolls around, Belmonty’s Burgers is located in the heart of the midway and offers something for everyone, serving not only yummy burgers, but also pizza, chicken strips, fish and chips and funnel cakes.

For casual restaurant-style dining, WaveHouse is located right on the boardwalk and features outdoor tiki bars, firepits and cabanas. Be sure to try a refreshing specialty drink along with one of their fresh salads or sandwiches, while the kiddos have their choice of chicken strips, fish and chips, or grilled cheese, all served with fries. While you wait for your food, watch the surfers hang ten as they show off their skills on the FlowBarrel wave machine. Lunch and dinner is served weekdays from 12 p.m. – sunset, and weekends 11 a.m. – sunset.

Draft is also located on the boardwalk and features 69 beers on tap, because what goes better with the boardwalk and beach than an iced cold beer. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, along with pool tables, shuffleboard, and tons of TV’s to catch the game. Start with a mouthwatering appetizer like shredded beef nachos or yellowtail tartare, then sink your teeth into one of their juicy burgers. The kids menu features not only the usual burgers and grilled cheese, but also fancier options like chicken pasta and shrimp n’chips, all for just $8. Draft is open weekdays for breakfast from 7 – 11 a.m., and the lunch and dinner menu is available until 10 p.m. Weekend brunch is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., along with their full menu until 10 p.m.

Finally, if you’ve got some sushi lovers in your family, head upstairs to Cannonball, a rooftop restaurant and bar with an amazing ocean view. Fresh seafood appetizers like calamari and oysters, along with specialty sushi rolls, nigari, and sashimi, paired with a drink and view of the sunset- what could be better? If the kids aren’t into sushi, don’t worry, there’s also a kids menu with normal kids cuisine options like grilled cheese, burgers, and fish tacos. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Don’t Forget Dessert
One piece of advice: make sure your crew saves room for dessert! Grab a hand-dipped ice cream cone, candy apple or some homemade fudge at the Sweet Shoppe. Beach Treats is located right on the boardwalk offering monster cones (they’re seriously huge!), shaved ice, and other delicious treats.

For a taste of tropical paradise, head over to the Jeep located under the Sky Ropes Adventure for a Dole Whip. Besides Belmont Park, this authentic pineapple-flavored soft-serve frozen dessert is sold only at Disney parks and in Hawaii. You’ve gotta try one!

Insider’s Tips:

  • Parking and admission is free, but parking lots can get really crowded on weekends. So it’s best to come early or on a weekday.
  • If everyone loves the rides, invest in an unlimited one-day ride pass for $17.95 – $28.95, depending on height. It’s a much better deal than paying for each individual ride.
  • It’s a good idea to dress in layers as the beach breeze can get chilly. Also, bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to take a dip in the ocean.
  • Bring your own bikes, body boards or surfboards to save on rental fees.
  • To save money on food and drinks, pack a picnic and enjoy it on the beach. Then just splurge on a Dole Whip or monster cone.
  • Follow Belmont Park on Facebook to find out about cool events like Rhythm & Moves Yoga, Flowboarding Competitions, Movie Nights and more.

Belmont Park
3146 Mission Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92109
858-228-9283
Online: belmontpark.com

What is your favorite thing to do at Belmont Park? Tell us in the comments below!

— Kelly Powell (photos too, unless otherwise noted)

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Off the Grid’s Sunday Presidio Picnic is Back!

by Erin Feher

What says summer more than lounging in the Presidio while feasting on food truck delicacies? Off the Grid’s popular Sunday afternoon Presidio Picnic kicks off again this Sunday, April 3, and families around the Bay are sure to flock here for sun, fun, food and more. Read on for all the details.

New Flavors, Old Favorites
For those who have been picnicking at the Presidio’s Parade ground the last three seasons, you will be happy to see many of your favorite trucks have returned, such as Bacon Bacon, Del Popolo andLittle Green Cyclo. There will also be sweet new vendors, such as Powder, which specializes in the Taiwanese dessert snow—ice-cream-meets-shaved-ice made with filtered water, organic dairy by Three Twins, and fresh, flavorful, locally sourced ingredients.The full list of trucks includes DUM Truck, Beach Brew, Sugarfoot Grits, Grilled Cheez Guy, , Nopalito, Ceviche & Co, El Porteño, Slightly Skewed, Fat Face, Wing Wings, Verde Vivo, Cholita Linda, Cochon Volant, Lucianos, Stateside, Girl Friday Zeppole, SAJJ, Sam’s Chowder, Ruru Soul, Powder, The Crème Brûlée Cart, Fine and Rare, La Marcha, Réveille Coffee Co., Scrappy, Shorty Goldstein, and The Whole Beast.

Awesome Activities
Off the Grid’s Presidio Picnic is so popular with families because from eating to playing to exploring, everyone can do what they want, when they want. When their bellies are full, there are lots of activities to keep kids having fun. This year the Presidio Picnic will have yoga classes, a Green Screen photo booth for “selfies” in front of one of the Presidio’s many iconic landscapes; the “Roving Ranger,” a mobile park visitor center with information about wildlife in the Presidio and free stickers and animal tattoos for kids; and park staff-led nature-based arts and crafts activities using materials found within the Presidio. The Presidio YMCA will also be on site once a month with their free Y Bike Learn to Ride program.

Sunday Shopping
And now you can even get your weekly grocery shopping done under the sun. Yerena Farms will be there selling its delicious fruits and produce, Happy Moose Juice will be selling cold-pressed juices and nut milks, and Nosh This will offer their inventive chocolates. Off the Grid’s Mobile Retail Marketplace will also be on hand, selling a collection of stylish clothing designs that highlight the Bay Area’s foodie culture. Designed and printed locally, the new collection will include threads to outfit the whole family—baby, too!

An Opportunity to Explore the Presidio
And if you feel like escaping the crowds and heading out for a hike, the options are limitless. Check out our full guide of the Presidio for unlimited options for exploring one of the Bay’s very best parks. See you this Sunday!

Main Parade Ground
The Presidio
San Francisco, Ca
When: Sundays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Beginning April 3
Online: offthegrid.com/markets

 

What is your favorite truck or activity at the Presidio Picnic? Tell us in the comments below! 

–Erin Feher

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

9 Great Reasons to Visit Manassas

by rtkellyannjacobson

Manassas may not be on the top of your list of local cities to visit with  kiddos, but it should be! Offering everything from museums to waterparks, Manassas is a small city rich in history and filled with fun. Load the kids in the car, fill up the gas tank, and start checking off our picks of Manassas must-sees.

Photo: Valters Krontals via Flickr

#1 Nathan’s Dairy Bar
This kid-friendly outdoor soft serve ice cream shop has everything a child could ask for: tons of flavors, dipped cones, and shaved ice for lactose intolerant kiddos. It’s also a great place for dog lovers, and if you bring your own pup, ask for the pup cup with vanilla ice cream and a biscuit inside! In case seating fills up, bring fold-out chairs or a blanket for the family to share, and be prepared—the line gets out to the sidewalk on busy days.

8948 Mathis Ave.
703-335-9051
Online: nathansdairybar.com/

#2 Manassas National Battlefield Park
For the history buffs in your family, Manassas National Battlefield Park offers the Civil War learning experience without the usual travel requirements. The entrance fee is only $3, good for three days, and kids 15 and under are free! Plus, you can make it a day with a picnic lunch and one of the kid-friendly trails.

Henry Hill Visitor Center
6511 Sudley Rd.
Online: nps.gov 

#3 Vertical Rock Climbing and Fitness Center
Your kids are always climbing on everything anyway, so why not bring them to Vertical Climb, where jungle gymers of all ages can conquer the walls? If they love it, older climbers can even join Vertical Rock’s youth teams. Be sure to dress them in comfortable tennis shoes and workout clothes, but avoid shorts so they don’t ride up in the harnesses.

10225 Nokesville Rd.
Online: climb-va.com/

Photo: Brett Deal via Flickr

#4 Manassas Museum
Another stop for the history buffs, Manassas Museum is small but packed with interesting information, especially related to the battles of Manassas. After you tour the museum, head to lunch in Old Town Manassas…then try to convince your kids to check out the quaint stores on the way back to the car.

9101 Prince William St.
703-368-1873
Online: manassascity.org

#5 Urban Evolution
If your kids get excited over words like “parkour,” “breakdancing” and “freerunning,” then they’ll love Urban Evolution. This place is all about functional fitness, which looks like playing on the jungle gym but way more challenging. They use a wristband system to mark the ranks of each student, and girls and boys must master the skills in that rank to rise up to the next one. Get ready for your kids to officially be way cooler than you!

8442 Kao Cir.
Online: urbanevo.com

#6 Splashdown Waterpark
Splashdown Waterpark is a great place to take kids during the last few days of summer vacation or on the early days of September while the weather is still warm. Fun rides like Canon Ball Slides and Lilly Pads will have them giggling and splashing, and for all of the fun the park offers, the prices are incredibly reasonable!

7500 Ben Lomond Park Dr.
703-792-8200
Online: splashdownwaterpark.com 

Photo: Denise Mattox via Flickr

#7 McKay Used Books
McKay Used Books is not your typical used book store. Forget those cramped shelves and limited aisle space; this place is HUGE. Best of all, you can bring old books and trade them for store credit that will buy your kids’ new books, comics, DVDs, or CDs!

8345 Sudley Rd.
703-361-9042
Online: mckayusedbooks.com

#8 Skate N Fun Zone
The name pretty much says it all: skate and have fun! Other activities that boost the enjoyment level for your kids include laser tag, play zone, and arcade games. New skaters can use a skate trainer, then work their way up to roller skates or blades. But prepare yourself for the nostalgia—skating to top tunes might bring back some memories of your own first time in the rink.

7878 Sudley Rd.
703-361-7465
Online: skatenfunzone.com

#9 Laser Tag Manassas
For those of you who’ve never played laser tag, imagine that you’re running through a 5,000 square foot space while fog flows over your feet and lights blink off and on around you. This is the environment of Laser Tag Manassas, where parents and kids compete to be the last player standing as laser shots fly.

9686 Liberia Ave.
571-208-1099
Online: lasertagmanassas.com

Have you been to Manassas yet? What were some of your favorite sops

–Kelly Ann Jacobson

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

The Ice Cream Parlor You May Have Missed (Because it’s On a Bus!)

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Snow may not be in D.C.’s weather forecast for a few months, but it’s definitely on the dessert menu. For an icy treat experience the whole family will love, head to Snocream Shavery, an inconspicuous food bus located in an Annandale, Virginia K-Mart parking lot. The coolest thing since the District saw liquid nitrogen ice cream, this is one sweet spot you’ll want to repeat.

Find It
You’d think that a pimped out antique school bus hawking Taiwanese ice cream would be a cinch to find, but this one is actually easy to miss if you aren’t looking closely. It’s located in a K-Mart strip mall parking lot, but not in front. Drive around to the left side of the center where you’ll likely spot the bus, a handful of cube benches and tables, and a small crowed gathering.

Pick It
A cross between ice cream and shaved ice, this dessert features soft ribbons of flavored “sno,” created by using milk, water, and out-of-the-box natural flavors (think: thai tea, mango, and honeydew). After freezing, a machine shaves ribbon-like bands from the ice into your cup. The one-size option is $7 and comes with two toppings (there’s everything from Fruity Pebbles to grass jelly) and one drizzle of condensed milk, caramel, chocolate, or white chocolate.

Eat It
While you might want one all to yourself, the serving size is large enough for two kiddies to share. How it works: After climbing on the bus, you place your order (note: it’s an extra $1 to mix flavors). You give the friendly staff a name (Starbucks-style) and wait outside the bus near the front-side driver’s window for your name to be called. While there is no seating on the bus, there is some outdoor seating and a bunch of parking if you’d like to sit in the car with the bambinos on a cool night. Bonus: When the sun goes down, fun glow colors are lit and it’s like a party on a bus.

Snocream Shavery
4221 John Marr Dr. (Annandale, Va)
202-656-6144
Online: snocreamcompany.com

Have you been to Snocream yet? Tell us your favorite flavor combinations in the comments below. 

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Photos: Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Seaside Adventures in Manzanita, Oregon

by Maura O'Brien

If you live by your schedule and can’t remember the last time you acted spontaneous, fly by the seat of your pants with this idyllic day trip to Manzanita on the Oregon Coast. A trip to this quaint, coastal town doesn’t require much planning and has enough sand for a car full of kids, several fantastic restaurants along its small strip and the best part of all is that it’s less than a couple of hours west of Portland. All you’ll need to do, is grab your kids and bring your walking shoes, your appetite, and a few beach toys for a fun-filled day spent playing on the beach.

photo: Manzanita Beach by Maura O’Brien

Getting There

Manzanita is approximately 90 miles—or a little over one hour—from Portland by car, most quickly reached by following Interstate 26 west to 101 south. But if the kids are napping and you have just a few extra miles to spare, consider following Route 6 west to 101 north, tracing the scenic Wilson River though Tillamook State Forest along the way. One word: gorgeous.

photo: Manzanita by Suzie Ridgway

What to Do

The Beach 
With seven miles of pristine sandy beach, it is little wonder the Oregon Coast Visitors Association has dubbed Manzanita “the third most photographed scenery in Oregon.” But the beach at Manzanita is practical and user-friendly as well, with wind conditions ideal for kite-flying, waves that break far from the shore, and mountainous sand dunes seemingly designed for games of Hide-and-Go-Seek. Kids are, of course, drawn to the water, no matter how cold it feels.

photo: Nehalem Bay State Park by Maura O’Brien

Nehalem Bay State Park
If you walk or drive a few miles south of town, you’ll reach Nehalem Bay State Park, a four-mile spit that protects Nehalem Bay from the greater Pacific Ocean. The park covers an expanse of nearly 900 acres of shore pines, rolling dunes, beach and bay shores, and family-friendly walking trails. Chief among them is the 1.8-mile forest bicycle trail, a flat and paved pathway that gives walkers and bikers the opportunity to view deer, elk, coyotes, and a variety of shore birds.

Care to make this day trip an overnighter? Nehalem Bay State Park also boasts 18 yurts, 265 electrical campsites with water access, and 17 campsites for visitors with horses. Camping spots may be available at a moment’s notice, but  e sure to find a spot before you go because this popular yurt spot often gets completely booked by mid-winter.

Indoor Swimming at the North County Recreation District
Always have a Plan B if the weather takes a turn for the worst. The North County Recreation District maintains an indoor aquatic center with reasonable drop-in swim fees for children and adults. See their website for their fees and aquatic schedule.

North County Recreation District
36155 9th St.
Nehalem
503-368-4595
Online: ncrd.org

photo: wikimedia.org via creative commons

Where to Eat

Marzano’s Pizza Pie
Kid-friendly meals don’t have to be unfulfilling for parents—and Marzano’s Pizza Pie is a prime example. Conveniently located a few steps from the beach, Marzano’s is the go-to place to eat in Manzanita, thanks to its homemade dough, fresh ingredients, and wonderfully casual atmosphere. Picky eaters and pizza connoisseurs alike will find something on the menu to devour, from the decadent spicy Italian to the flavorful roasted vegetable. But be warned: Marzano’s is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and shuts down “around 8:30 pm” all other evenings. So do yourself a favor and arrive early.

Marzano’s Pizza Pie
60 Laneda Avenue
503-368-3663
Online: locu.com

Bread and Ocean Bakery
For years, the menu at Bread and Ocean has been tempting locals and visitors alike with freshly-baked breads, salads, quiches, and savory breakfast and lunch sandwiches. But do not miss out on the sweet and tender cinnamon rolls that are reason enough to plan a trip to Manzanita. Just keep in mind, Bread and Ocean is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Bread and Ocean Bakery
154 Laneda Avenue
503-368-5823
Online: breadandocean.com

Manzanita Farmers’ Market 
In 2014, the Manzanita Farmers’ Market attracted a total of 38 vendors to this small coastal town, selling everything from shaved ice treats for children to Pelican beers for their parents. And the summer market season begins once again on June 12, punctuated by live music performances for the whole family to enjoy.

Manzanita Farmers’ Market
Laneda Ave. and 5th St.
Friday nights, June 12 through September 18
5-8 p.m.
Online: manzanitafarmersmarket.com

What’s your favorite Oregon coastal town? Let us know in the comments below!

—Maura O’Brien

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

S’More Fun! The Chocolate Festival at the San Diego Botanical Garden

by Nikki Walsh

It’s raining chocolate at the San Diego Botanical Garden’s Chocolate Festival. This delightful celebration has bite-sized samples that are perfect for your pint-sized sweeties. A cool chocolate waterfall, lots of kids crafts (keep those little hands busy), a rope-climbing tree fort, splash around stream, and a beautiful botanical garden all make for a day of family fun.

Photo Credit: San Diego Botanical Garden Facebook page

The Tasty Details
This one-day festival takes place Saturday, May 9 — just in time for a Mother’s Day treat! The Festival is free with admission to the Botanical Garden, which will run you $14 for an adult and $8 for kids ages 3-12 (under 3 is free). You definitely want to bring extra cash for the chocolate treats. While the admission gets you into the Festival, the chocolate is extra. The chocolate fun runs from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Chocolate treats range from a chocolate fountain, s’mores, chocolate-dipped strawberries and other delights, truffles, cupcakes and lots more. There are so many treats you’ll want to pace yourself as you make your way through the Festival.

Insider’s Tip: Get $2 off admission by visiting the Botanic Garden’s website.

Photo Credit: San Diego Botanical Garden Facebook page

Gardens for Tiny Tots and Bigger Kids
Toddlers needing to blow off some steam after their chocolate indulgence? All aboard to the Seeds of Wonder Children’s Garden for the smaller set. Choo-choo on over to the miniature train tracks, play with the prehistoric dinosaurs or pretend to be parents in the tiny tots house (filled with fun kitchen utensils). Little ones will get the sillies out and have some fun.

Nestled at the bottom of a beautiful walking footpath your pint-sized explorers encounter the rope ladder entry to Toni’s jungle tree house. Adventure awaits as your swashbuckling sweeties discover a new world — climbing a rope bridge, stepping through elephant trees, and playing in the mountain stream. Fun for kiddos (and relaxing for you) this nature’s playground is a perfect place to explore.

Photo Credit: San Diego Botanical Garden Facebook page

Eats (Besides Chocolate) and Tips
Need a place to nosh when hunger strikes? You can enjoy gyros and falafels at the festival, hot dogs and Rita’s shaved-ice for the little tykes. Want to save some cash? Pack a picnic and eat it in the gardens.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to the garden as there are lots of photo ops around you. Also think about bringing a backpack or small stroller (for easy maneuvering). Hats, sunblock, and water all make for smooth sailing, and fun in the sun.

Photo Credit: San Diego Botanical Garden Facebook page

San Diego Botanic Garden
230 Quail Gardens Dr.
Encinitas, CA 92024
760-436-3036
Online: sdbgarden.org/chocolate

Have you indulged at the Chocolate Festival? Tell us your favorite part!

— Monique Walsh

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Renton Rocks: 12 Reasons to Visit the Home of the Hawks

by Helen Walker Green

It’s the 11th largest city in Washington, the Seattle Seahawks train here, Boeing builds planes here, and you can eat as many Swedish meatballs as you like! But there’s so much more to this city by the lake. Read on for a list of Renton’s best kept secrets.

photo: Kristina Moy

1. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
It’s beautiful any time of year but Gene Coulon Park especially shines in those lazy days of spring and summer. Right on Lake Washington, it boasts a swimming beach (with lifeguards on duty), a terrific playground, picnic shelters, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, volleyball, and a boat launch. There’s a fishing pier for your budding angler, walking trails by the lake, and a water walk. When your crew is ready for lunch or dinner, try some tasty fish ‘n chips from Ivar’s and a shake from Kidd Valley, located right there in the park.

Good to Know: There’s always something going on at Gene Coulon Park – Ivar’s Clam Lights over the holiday season, Kids’ Fishing Derbies, annual 4th of July festivities, Moonlight Movies and the always popular Kidd Valley Summer Concert Series.

Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N.
Renton, Wa 98056
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=74

photo: Kirazuri C. via Yelp

2. Henry Moses Aquatic Center
Two super-speedy water slides, a huge wave pool, lazy river (watch out for the bucket of water!), spray play areas, and lap pool make Henry Moses a sure bet for summer! When you’re all splashed out, grab a “bite” at the Shark Bites Café, before hitting the slides again.

Good to Know:  You can catch a movie while floating in the pool when Moonlight Movies visits Henry Moses! Spend the afternoon enjoying the water park, then settle down for some pre-movie family entertainment. Movies start at dusk and are all rated PG. Admission is free with your water park admission. If you’d rather stay warm and cosy out of the water, there are loungers available or you can bring your own low-back chairs and blankets.

Henry Moses Aquatic Center
1719 S.E. Maple Valley Highway
Renton, Wa 98057
425-430-6780
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=190

Open: June 20–September 2015
Cost: $4-$14 (under 1 free)

photo: City of Renton

3. Renton River Days
This summer, get quacking to Renton River Days! This annual festival is three days of fun for the whole family, including the “Duck Hunt” – a scavenger hunt for rubber duckies. Soak up the summer sun (don’t forget the sunblock) while enjoying the hometown parade, arts and crafts, an amazing KidZone (inflatables, climbing wall, putt-putt golf, petting zoo and more). Plus, The Nibble of Renton with lots of tasty eats from local restaurants. Psst… Kids can meet real heroes from the Renton Police and Fire Department.

Renton River Days
Liberty Park
1101 Bronson Way N.
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonriverdays.org

Dates: July 24-26, 2015

photo: Renton River Days Facebook page

4. $3.50 Movies
Perfect for mini movie buffs and thrifty parents – Regal East Valley Stadium shows a huge assortment of movies for just $3.50 per ticket (latest blockbusters included) and $1 movies all summer long. We give it two thumbs up! The movies here start ON TIME – very important to remember if you’re buying popcorn and thinking you’ll only miss the trailers.

Regal East Valley Stadium
3751 E. Valley Rd.,
Renton Wa 98057
844-462-7342
Online: regmovies.com

photo: Alison M. Seward

5. Creative Mom Toys
A finalist in Red Tricycle’s Totally Awesome Awards, Creative Mom Toys takes the guesswork out of choosing toys for your kiddos. Owned by local mom Cheri Saburi, this store is a wonderland for wee ones. Focusing on educational and developmental toys, Creative Mom’s mission is to: “Bring different, fun, and exciting new toys to kids and their grown ups.” Psst! Creative Mom Toys has free craft classes and activity days. Check their website for more info.

Creative Mom Toys
The Landing in Renton
840 N. 10th Pl. Ste. A.
Renton, Wa 98057
206-388-3940
Online: creativemomtoys.com

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

6. Glazed Art
From mugs and plates to piggy banks and mosaics – Glazed Art is messy play day for everyone! To make your one-of-a-kind pottery, choose a ceramic piece and paint it, then leave it for glazing and firing and pick it up seven days later. Or create colorful mosaic artwork you can take home the same day.

Good to Know: You can reserve the party room for birthdays or Moms’ Night Out events or attend one of their weekday happy hour specials, where you get a discount on your work of art!

Glazed Art
The Landing in Renton
827 N. 10th Place Ste. D.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-264-5718
Online: glazedart.com

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

7. Common Ground Cupcakes
For a scrumptious treat that’s sure to leave a frosting mustache – make your way to Common Ground Cupcakes in old downtown Renton. You’ll be spoiled for choice with different flavors to try everyday, including, Double Dutch, Orange Creamsicle, Almond Joy, Sweet Sixteen and the Tiffany (inspired by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s). Beverage-wise, there’s bubble tea, fruit smoothies, Mexican chocolate, espresso and more. At Common Ground Cupcakes, the motto is: “Live well, laugh often, love much…eat a cupcake!”

Common Ground Cupcakes
900 S. 3rd St.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-235-1717
Online: facebook.com/commongroundcupcakes

photo: Helen Walker Green

8. 8 Bit Arcade
If your kids have seen Wreck it Ralph, and they’re wondering who Q*bert is – 8 Bit Arcade is the place to educate them. The 8 Bit has 80’s arcade games at 80’s prices! Your family won’t want to go back to the future after they’ve been playing Galaga, Ms. Pac-Man, Pole Position and the original Super Mario. There’s also a whole room full of pinball machines to keep pinball wizards happy too! The 8 Bit has pizzas, shakes, ice cream, and beer on tap. Save some quarters to play table top Q*bert and Donkey Kong while you eat.

Good to Know: Most of the games are suitable for all ages but there are some grown up games too, be sure to check the rating on the machine. The 8 Bit goes 21 and over at night.

8 Bit Arcade
916 S. 3rd St.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-291-7693
Online: facebook.com/pages/8-bit-Arcade-Bar/434005613350903

photo: Helen Walker Green

9. IKEA
OK, we know you’ve been here, but no Renton roundup would be complete without it. Check the kids in at the Småland Play Area (ball pit, climbing, movies) while you shop for interestingly-named furniture to assemble at home (with a little luck there won’t be a piece left over). Then, it’s time to “release the kids” and head to the restaurant for Swedish meatballs and more. Psst: IKEA Family members get free coffee and tea at the restaurant and 30 mins extra Småland time. And all kids 12 and under eat free on Tuesdays from 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

IKEA
601 S.W. 41st St.,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: ikea.com

photo: IKEA

10. StoryBook Theater
Fairytales come to life in Renton when StoryBook Theater is in town. Kids can enjoy musical performances written especially for children 3-10. There’s audience participation in every performance, which really gives young theatregoers a chance to be part of the show! Each story also includes a positive life lesson for children. And StoryBook Theater promises their stories are never scary and always have a happy ending… ahhh. Psst! You can also catch StoryBook Theater performances at other venues around the city.

StoryBook Theater
Renton Carco Theatre
1717 S.E. Maple Valley Highway,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: storybooktheater.org

photo: StoryBook Theater

11. Cedar River Trail
For an outdoorsy family adventure – cycle, scoot or walk your way along this historic railroad route. Everyone can enjoy the Cedar River Trail – from the tricycle set to mountain bikers. The 4.5 mile stretch that winds through Renton is just right for little hikers and bikers. The trail begins at Cedar River Trail Park – look out for Blue Herons and Bald Eagles; seaplanes too! You may have to stop to let a brand new Boeing plane pass (still wrapped in green plastic). The first part of the trail crosses downtown Renton and may be a bit busy for tiny tots. Try picking up the trail at Cedar River Park instead and heading south along the riverbank. There are plenty of spots to rest your legs and have a picnic along the way. This is a trail you can enjoy a bit at a time, at your own pace.

Good to Know: There is parking at both trailheads and many midway points.

Cedar River Trail Park – Trailhead
600 Nishiwaki Ln.
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=67

Cedar River Park (best starting point for tots)
1717 S.E. Maple Valley Highway
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=72

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

12. Seahawks 12K Run at The Landing
Spend the day with Blitz, Blue Thunder, the Sea Gals and Seahawks players at this annual extravaganza. The Seahawks 12K Run takes place every April and has some really fun events for lil’ twelfies, including the 5K Run/Walk and Play 60 Kids Run (.5 mile). Little ones in strollers and pooches can take part too. And it’s all for a good cause – each year the Seahawks collect donations for a local nonprofit organization. All participants get a t-shirt, and a finisher’s ribbon! Psst! If you’ve always wanted to check out the VMAC, 12K participants run around the Seahawks training facilities.

Good to Know: Parents can participate in the Kids Run with their little 12’s if they are too young to run by themselves.

Seahawks 12K Run at The Landing
840 N. 10th Pl.,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: seahawks12krun.com

photo: Seahawks 12K Run at the Landing Facebook page

12.1 Seahawks Training Camp
Watch the Seattle Seahawks training at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center – and maybe even get an autograph and snap a photo of your favorite player. You need to register online first as space is limited (you can have up to six people in your group). On the day, you and your mini Hawks will check-in at The Landing and catch a shuttle bus to the VMAC. There’s plenty of green and blue fun once you’re there – as well as watching practices and possibly meeting players, plus giant inflatables for little 12s to get their bounce on and youth football clinics for kids 7-14. The Metropolitan Grill is on site each day with a delicious selection of eats fresh off the grill, plus kettle corn, shaved ice and Starbucks iced coffee.

Good to Know: Spring Training Camp costs $7 per person; 2 and under free; kids 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Fans with disabilities do not need to take the shuttle and may park at the VMAC.

Seahawks Training Camp
July and August 2015
Online: seahawks.com/schedule/training-camp

photo: Seattle Seahawks Training Camp website

Do you have a favorite Renton hot spot? Tell us about it in a comment below (unless you want to keep it secret).

— Helen Walker Green

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Buses, Trucks and Trains That Bring the Party to You

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Of course we lovelovelove celebrating our kids’ birthdays; we just don’t always like the messes that come post-party. Enter: the party bus (and truck and limo). The DMV is full of parties-on-wheels that bring the festivities to you, and cart it all away when it’s over. Here are some of our favorite four-wheelers.

Xtreme Game Experience
Gaming extraordinaires might get heart palpitations when they see this birthday truck roll up. For starters, it’s more limo than truck, offers 50+ games (rated E to M) and has stadium seating for 26 people!! Twenty kids can play simultaneously while outdoor game stations handle another eight gamers. Mom and Dad can pick which games they want the partygoers (and parents) to indulge in. Who’s up for a round of Dance Dance Revolution?! Bonus: They even send out invitations for you!

Cost: $200 and up
866-941-4263
Online: xtremegameexperience.com

Squeals on Wheels
You will win Mom (or Dad) of the Year when Squeals on Wheels delivers a barnyard to your backdoor. Whether your mini-farmer loves goats, chickens, pigs, rabbits, llamas or anything in between, Squeals has just the right friends for your event. Junior might have to share the miniature piglet, but we bet he’ll be pretty happy when Sergio the hedgehog snuggles up for a bit. Pony lovers can even have a pony decorating party where feathers, beads, stickers and glitter are used to doll up “Captain Jack Sparrow,” “Tinkerbell,” or “Prince.”

Cost: $175 and up
301-765-0270
Online: squealsonwheels.us

Bubbaville Fire Unit
Fire truck fans will sound the alarm when they see the Bubbaville Fire Unit outside their house. After calling out the birthday boy or girl and setting up a “safety zone,” recruits line up to try on bunker gear, sit in the captains seat and help work the lights and siren. Depending on the party, the Bubbaville Fire Truck also takes little ones for a ride around the block, complete with “firemen” on board. If it’s really hot out, the fire hoses come out and all the revelers can help “flow” the water and hose down the fire (i.e., the party!).

Cost: $250 and up
443-829-2575
Online: bubbasfiretruckparties.com

Safari Ice
Non-bakers rejoice. The Safari Ice truck brings shaved ice and snow cones (year-round) to Little Miss’ birthday so there’s no need to fuss over baking a cake (errr, picking one up!). Safari guides come ready to help little ones at the “watering hole” choose from over 12 flavors to make the most delicious birthday snowcones! The watering hole comes complete with jungle music like Hakuna Matata, The Circle of Life and The Lion Sleeps Tonight. Roooarrr!

Cost: Call for options
240-765-7627
Online: safariice.com

Fun Bus
Fans of jumping, bouncing, sliding, swinging, climbing and more will be so tuckered out after a run through the fun bus that they’ll have to slide down the chute at the back of the bus to hurry home for naptime (just kidding…sort of). This real life school bus has been filled with padded and safe equipment (no seats!) to help kids of all ages have a funtastic time. Goodie bags, T-shirts and surprises are all part of the party—including a Fun Bus T-shirt for the birthday boy or girl. This is one bus stop they’ll be wide awake at.

Cost: $300 and up
703-652-2511
Online: funbuses.com

Bear Bus
Ladies and gentlemen, kids of all ages…get ready to board the Bear Bus! This all inclusive bearriffic bus pulls out all the stops to build cuddly, lovey, super sweet bears for each partygoer. Each kid can make his or her own bear starting from the “bear skin” to the stuffing to the “bear wear and accessories.” This is sure to get all of the little ones ohhing and ahhing over which bear is their favorite while you sit back and enjoy the ride.

Cost: Call for options
703-277-7033
Online: bearbus.com/nova

Have you booked a kids party with any of these vehicles? Tell us about it in the comments section below.  

—Hilary Riedemann

Photos courtesy of Bubbaville Fire Unit via Facebook, Xtreme Game Experience via Facebook, Fun Bus via Facebook

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement