Kids love jokes and just because the younger crowd is still working on syllables doesn’t mean they won’t get some good old-fashioned corny jokes for kids. The following jokes for toddlers are officially approved by our kids, so we know you’ll get some guffaws. Read on for some hilarious toddler jokes that’ll have everyone giggling.
1. What do you say to a bunny on its birthday?
Hoppy Birthday!
2. What is hairy and sneezy?
A coconut with a cold.
3. Why are fish so smart?
They live in schools.
4. What else is hairy and sneezy?
A dog with a cold.
5. What do you call a fly with no wings?
A crawl.
6. What did the paper say to the pencil?
Write on!
7. Why was 6 afraid of 7?
Because 7, 8, 9
8. What do you call a dinosaur that is sleeping?
A dino-snore!
9. Why did the cookie go to the hospital?
Because he felt crummy.
10. What did the little corn say to the mama corn?
Where is pop corn?
11. What is fast, loud and crunchy?
A rocket chip!
12. Why did the teddy bear say no to dessert? Because she was stuffed.
13. How do you talk to a giant? Use big words!
14. What animal is always at a baseball game? A bat.
15. What did one volcano say to the other?
I lava you!
16. How do we know that the ocean is friendly? It waves!
It’s time to ask yourself the dreaded question “What will I do with my kids this summer?” Luckily, with a little research, we’ve found tons of cool summer programs for kids that keep costs very low or even free. From the Ranger Rick photo contest to Camp Creatology, these affordable summer programs for kids are some of the best ways to stay busy when they’re not in school.
National Geographic's Summer Programs
Photograph by Matthew Rakola
The Planet Possible Family Challenge is a great way to make sure there's minimal summer brain drain. This series of projects and crafts from National Geographic hopes to inspire families to get outside, explore the habitats that surround us, and empower kids to understand why it's so important to protect them. Each challenge has three steps:
MAKE IT! A step-by-step DIY for a tool or craft that will help kids explore the microhabitat
TRY IT! Prompts or activities to encourage kids to explore and learn about biodiversity, using the Make It! craft
SAVE IT! Kid-friendly tips on protecting the microhabitat
Cost: National Geographic Premium With Disney+ is $10.99 a month. You get access to Disney+ in addition to a digital subscription to National Geographic.
If you need an incentive to get the kids to go screen-free every once in a while, check out the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Print out the Summer Reading Journal and have your kids write down which books they've read and why they liked them. Once they’ve read eight books, bring the completed journal to your local Barnes & Noble between July 1 and August 31 to get a free book.
A new national summer program for kids in 2024, Camp Invention is for kids grades K-6. It's a week-long STEM camp where kids will build thinking skills with hands-on challenges and open-ended adventures, enjoy mind-teasing games, and meet new friends.
There are over 1,000 locations nationwide and there's even an at-home camp experience that can be mailed to your doorstep.
Outschool offers dozens of classes and courses for ages ranging from toddler to tween. Do they want to learn another language? There's a class for that. How about beginning hip-hop or even wilderness skills? You can find that too.
Get your whole crew involved with Family Maker Camp—it’s a great way to flex your imagination and create something new. Join in on one of their live streams or pick something that sounds interesting out of their project library. Before you know it, you’ll have built a hovercraft or a musical instrument.
If you’re worried about getting your middle or high school kids up to speed in the new school year, Numerade has a fabulous (and free) solution. They’re offering free STEM summer camps covering SAT test prep, pre-calculus, physics, and more.
Research shows that kids connect when they're participating in an activity with you whether it's cooking, playing outside or being creative. The non-profit organization Marathon Kids, which works to ignite the joy of physical activity in kids, is launching a free summer program in hopes of making this easier for parents. Simply walk a mile and talk while doing it. Each day you'll receive a new prompt, there's a special mileage tracker, and by the end, you'll have walked the length of a marathon (26 miles) while getting to know your child better.
Microsoft normally offers free kids' camps at their stores during the summer, but they've moved online for now. Kids can sign up for free online workshops to tour the Smithsonian, plan a virtual road trip, put their Minecraft skills to the test, and more. Ages range from 6 to 14, and while the camps are free, advance registration is required.
Give your kids an exciting and engaging adventure this summer with one of Brain Chase's 2024 treasure hunt programs. How does it work? Kids will race against other teams in a week-long competition of escape room puzzles and adventures. Each interactive escape room is filled with hidden clues, and there are physical challenges as well. The fun starts on June 3.
From May 9 - Sept. 12, 2024, as kids track their reading streaks, they’ll unlock fun videos, book excerpts, and other exclusive summer content when you download Scholastic's free Home Base app. Kids can play games, meet their favorite book characters, write fiction, and upload art, You can register here, and check out the info for parents here.
If you’ve got a budding Ansel Adams at home, the Ranger Rick photo contest is a great way to keep them busy over the summer. First, head for the great outdoors (or your backyard) and have them take nature photos. Then, select their favorite and send it in with proper sizing (2 MB or smaller, JPG format, at least 600 pixels wide or 600 pixels tall). If your kid doesn’t have a digital camera, no worries! Phone images are also accepted.
Recent winners (this is an ongoing contest) are entered into the running for Ranger Rick’s "Your Best Shots" Magazine Award and are selected three times a year. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and copies of the magazine featuring the winning image!
It's never too early to instill the habit of giving to others. Have your little philanthropists sign up with Kids That Do Good this summer to spend time giving back to their local community. The online (kid-founded!) resource allows kids to get involved with a cause or charity of their choosing—or, if you’ve got real go-getters at home—create their own! Once you’ve created an account and found an organization, kids can track their service hours via social profiles and certificates.
Designed to help spark the imaginations of kiddos ages 8-12, this three-day workshop allows kids to explore and expand on their digital creativity. They’ll choose one of three tracks and spend 90 minutes of each day working on their project. Be sure to sign up here to get an email announcing open registration for the summer program for kids (it usually starts in June)—spots fill up quickly!
The Home Depot offers workshops that are perfect for mini-makers. Simply pre-register online, and then show up on the selected Saturday to build fun projects like a picket fence planter. At the end of the two-hour workshop, kids receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.
Does your artist dream of paint, paper, glitter, and glue? If so, Michael’s Camp Creatolgy is the perfect way to beat the summer brain drain. Information for Summer 2024 will drop in late May, but camps usually run from mid-June to mid-July and are for ages 6 & up. If you don't want to sign up for the in-store classes, online programs are also available.
Cost: The classes are free, but the required materials cost $40 for the entire summer.
Budding bowlers can perfect their technique all summer long thanks to Kids Bowl Free, which allows them to play up to two games a day free of charge. All that's missing is a pair of those sweet bowling shoes. To find a participating bowling alley near you, click here.
Sometimes a dark and cool movie theater is the only way to beat the heat. Your kids can sign up for a punch card or show up at participating Megaplex, Cinemark, and Regal theaters to catch a fun, kid-friendly flick for just $1-$2. Even better, most movies show before noon, making it easy to catch a flick and head home for nap time.
Xanadu your heart out and head for the local roller rink this summer. Whether your kids like to skate or rollerblade, a few laps will get their blood pumping, and the cool, A/C-induced temps are a total bonus. The Kids Skate Free program allows families to take advantage of this offer once a week (during the summer months). Click here to find out if it’s happening at your local rink.
If you’ve got a National Park nearby, be sure to sign up your mini explorers for the NPS Junior Ranger Program. Each kiddo will be outfitted with a handy Junior Ranger guidebook that's filled with historical facts and cool tips about all the National Parks. Every adventurer also gets the chance to complete a series of activities, share answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Click here to learn more.
Insider Tip: Kids can earn badges at home by downloading activity books and information packets. Click here for more info.
If you are a Bank of America or a Merrill Lynch cardholder, you can snag free admission at more than 150 museums, science centers, and botanical gardens across the country on two days every month just by showing your card. Find out if your favorite museum is participating, and on what days, by clicking here.
Keep the summer boredom away with this fun digital learning platform. Kids ages three to seven can learn STEAM concepts while watching videos and participating in interactive online activities. You can try it out with a seven-day free trial; after that, it’s $7.99 a month.
From the creative minds behind Angry Birds, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Ice Age comes a free, interactive camp-style YouTube summer experience for kids. Every day is new, and activities include making food, doing science experiments, singing songs, and more. Counselors will be on hand to lead extra content and be on the lookout for special guest stars including Sparkles and Beaver and Scribbles the Cat.
We searched from the top of skyscrapers to the lowest desert in the U.S. to put together this list of amazing family trips. Whether your kids are interested in history, baseball, or chocolate, there’s gonna be something that’s right up their alley. We recommend visiting these destinations before the high school years (when let’s face it, they are less interested in traveling with you). We’ve included lots of outdoor spaces, like some of our favorite national parks, along with must-visit spots in more metropolitan areas. How many of these can your family check off?
Don’t let your kids’ only sight of Lady Liberty be on TV or in the movies. Let them experience a sense of freedom at Liberty Island, where they can climb the stairs through the statue’s pedestal, explore the crown, or visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. Kids can participate in the Junior Ranger program and earn a badge when they complete the educational activities inside the information center and around the island. Reservations are highly recommended.
The Bean is the main attraction in Millennium Park that reflects Chicago’s famous skyline and the puffy clouds above. Officially called “Cloud Gate,” this public sculpture is a little kid favorite as they can see themselves from all sides thanks to the stainless steel coating of the bean-shaped sculpture. While you’re in the hood, head to Maggie Daley Park or splash around in the Crown Fountain if the temps are warm.
Civil Rights history comes alive for your school-age children at this thought-provoking museum. Through eight galleries, you can explore interactive exhibits and engaging artifacts, and hear stories from people who fought for civil rights in Mississippi. The galleries encircle a reflective space entitled, “This Little Light of Mine” with a dramatic sculpture that glows brighter as visitors gather. Follow the rich history of civil rights together, and learn how it changed the nation.
Do your kiddos dream of going to the moon? The Space Center Houston is their ticket to ride! Inspire their curiosity at this exciting learning center that uses space exploration to create an interest in science and math. Check out the more than 400 space artifacts, exhibits, and experiences related to America’s human space-flight program. Known as the home of NASA Mission Control and the International Space Station, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the U.S. space program. One of your most memorable experiences is sure to be the epic Apollo 17 Command Module. To the moon!
Chances are, your kids have never seen trees as tall as the California Redwoods. With 31 National and State parks to choose from, you can explore these majestic giants all over California. You’ll even find three trees you can drive through! For the easiest access, head to Muir Woods National Monument, near San Francisco. As a part of the National Park System, kids can join the Junior Rangers, letting them care for the national parks and learn new ways to experience the environment. Walk among old-growth coast redwoods, explore the interpretive displays, and hike the numerous hiking trails.
Hit a home run when you visit this museum devoted to our Nation’s pastime. Head to the Hall of Fame gallery to see plaques devoted to baseball greats and then check out uniforms that date back to the inception of the sport.
If you ever wanted to be in four places at once, then the Four Corners Monument is a place you need to visit. This unique spot where the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah intersect is a kid and Instagram favorite. The surrounding area has hiking and a visitor center where you can learn all about the area’s Navajo history.
The town of Gettysburg is full of history and a great spot for a family visit. You can view living history demonstrations, dine in a period tea parlor, and even experience the area aboard a steam-powered replica train. Head to the Gettysburg History Center to view a diorama of the 6,000-acre Battle of Gettysburg.
Whether you drive or hike to see the sign up close, or you find the perfect selfie spot from a distance, the Hollywood sign is a must-visit for families when they come to Los Angeles. Many families choose Griffith Park as their viewing location as you’ll get some epic views of downtown as well as train rides and hiking trails perfect for kids.
Immerse yourself in history when you visit Colonial Williamsburg. Visit the blacksmith shop to learn what this important trade created for those fighting in the Revolutionary War. Kids will love taking a carriage ride down Main Street and dining on colonial-inspired favorites at the tavern.
The fourth-most-visited National Park in the United States, Zion National Park is now part of Greater Zion, which also includes St. George, Springdale, Hurricane, Washington, and other towns. Take in the breathtaking scenery and surrounding red rock canyons as you head up to the mountains. Bring the kids for year-round outdoor recreation like mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and more. Show them the open road and historic petroglyphs with exhilarating ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours, or a view from an aerial tour. Enjoy a musical performance at the magnificent Tuacahn Center for the Arts with its 2,000-seat amphitheater.
This historic dam just outside of Las Vegas is a road trip must-see when visiting this area of the country. Built in the 1930s to produce hydroelectric power, kids will be awed by its massive size. Make sure you stop at the visitor center to learn all about how it was built. A small number of tickets are available on-site to take an elevator down to see the inner workings of the dam.
The National Civil Rights Museum seeks to open a dialogue about the story of Black Americans who experienced and resisted discrimination—a history that spans slavery through the modern Civil Rights Movement, nonviolent protests to armed self-defense. The museum offers 260 artifacts, more than 40 new films, oral histories, interactive media, and external listening posts that guide visitors through five centuries of history.
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this Chicago skyline landmark offers an epic view from its Skydeck that you won’t want to miss. Daredevils can walk out on The Ledge, a glass-enclosed platform where you are fully suspended above the street from 103 floors above.
The thing about a visit to the Smithsonian Museums in D.C. is that there is literally something for everyone. From historical aircraft to exhibits about narwhals, the kids will definitely have their curiosity engaged on a visit to our nation’s capital.
This sweet stop on the road trip circuit is one that is certain to please even the grumpiest of toddlers. Learn how chocolate is made and sample the wares as you go.
This rugged and beautiful canyon and mesa country was home to humans as far back as 11,000 years ago. Check out cave dwellings, petroglyphs, and other evidence about how people once lived.
18. National Susan B. Anthony House & Museum | Rochester, NY
Learn all about Susan B. Anthony with a visit to her former home. The famous civil rights leader was arrested here when she voted in 1872, and it was the home of the headquarters of the National American Woman Suffrage Association while she was president. Take a tour of the house, learn the story behind her legendary life, and be inspired by her “Failure is Impossible” speech.
From October to March, this is the very first place in the country to see the sunrise, so visiting in winter is well worth it, weather withstanding. In summer, summiting Cadillac Mountain is guaranteed to be as easy as the drive to the top, where kids can explore the granite rocks (a result of volcanic activity over 350 million years ago!), paved paths, and the overall majesty of Acadia National Park.
It’s not every day you can see another country from where you stand! There are several ways to experience the famous falls up close. From the poncho get-up to venturing close enough to get soaked, Cave of the Winds’ 175-foot descent into Niagara Gorge is a child’s delight. If your little captain would prefer a boat-deck view, Maid of the Mist also promises powerful proximity to the thunder of the falls.
Hiking is one of the major draws for visitors to El Yunque, located on the eastern side of Puerto Rico. The new Visitor’s Center has exhibits where you can learn about the plants and animals (and HUGE bugs!) that make up the rainforest and what you can do to protect this essential natural resource.
If thrill seekers are curious to know what it feels like to be suspended 1,200 feet above the ground, one of Royal Gorge’s six aerial gondolas offers an exhilarating way to find out. If anyone prefers to walk, its suspension bridge also straddles the 2,200-foot span of the Arkansas River.
Teach the kids more about America’s fight for independence from Britain in Philadelphia, the cradle of liberty. In 1776, it was here that the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. In 1787, delegates to the Constitutional Convention created and signed an enduring framework of government—the United States Constitution. A visit to Independence Hall (don’t forget to check out the Liberty Bell!) will allow you to share a historic moment. Tickets are free, but you must join one of their tours.
While Disney definitely has lifelong super fans, the magic of the Happiest Place on Earth is strongest in childhood. Even if you do it once, it will be worth the look on their faces when they meet their favorite character, take that first ride down Splash Mountain, or otherwise delight in the fairy tales and fireworks.
Whether you’re heading there in the heart of winter or the full glory of a wildflower spring, there issomething to be said for seeing the tallest mountain in North America with your own eyes. And clocking in at 20,000 feet and change, Mt. Denali has the honors. This is an ideal spot to teach little explorers just how mighty our planet is.
A first trip to the Big Apple is one to remember, as is that ride to the top of the Empire State Building. Nothing beats its 360-degree view of our largest U.S. city—you can see for 80 miles. The grandeur won’t be lost on kids—they’ll feel on top of the world from the 86th-floor observation deck—the highest open-air observatory in the city.
27. Kīlauea Volcano—Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, HI
If you find yourself on the Big Island, you’ll absolutely want to visit the most active volcano in the world! Because of that, be sure to check conditions before you summit Kīlauea, but when the coast is clear, you’ll have a choice of hiking trails. You can also stay close to the action at Volcano House, camp nearby, or easily reach the park during a day trip from wherever you’re staying (it’s less than an hour from Hilo and two-three hours from Kailua-Kona). Aloha!
While several of our national parks made this list, Yellowstone is arguably our country’s most storied (and its first), thanks in no small part to the legendary status of Old Faithful, a geyser so cool it has its own webcam. And did you know you can see it under the stars? Visibility is best around a full moon.
A true wonder of Mother Nature, Homestead Crater and its geothermal spring can be found 55 feet down a limestone rock that’s shaped like a beehive and only took 10,000 years to form. And while you have to be at least 10 to learn to scuba dive, this is the only place in the U.S. where you can do so in warm water—it’s 90-96 degrees year-round.
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial may be more of a somber activity to do with your kids, but it’s an important piece of the city’s history and one that can help you discuss the events that happened there.
31. LEGOLAND Resort—Carlsbad, CA, Winter Haven, FL, & Goshen, NY
If you really want epic fun, consider going big with a VIP Experience—you’ll get priority access to all attractions, a VIP Host who will let you in on some LEGOLAND secrets, an exclusive tour of the Model Shop, along with a personalized building activity, as well as parent perks like valet parking and a photo package.
No need to venture down to the Amazon in order to experience a rainforest. While Hoh’s major hiking trail doesn’t mess around at 17 miles, your kids may prefer two shorter loops, the Hall of Mosses Trail and Spruce Nature Trail that both clock in at right around a mile. You can camp by the river in the old-growth forest or stay in the town of Forks, which is only an hour away.
33. Valley Forge National Historical Park, Philadelphia
Imagine what George Washington and his Continental Army had to endure in the freezing cold winter of 1777. March on over to Valley Forge, where you can tour the park from your car, which features nine audio stops easily accessible from your phone. See Washington’s headquarters, encampments, and barracks that will shed light on important colonial history in this beautiful park setting. When it’s warmer, take a hike or bike through the rolling hills.
When we talk epic, it's the Grand Canyon, or go home, baby. Jaw-dropping views, impressive hiking and camping, and riding a mule to the canyon floor are all must-do activities.
Rocket fans literally can’t get any closer than this without applying to NASA. At a few miles away, spectators can see and feel the rumble of the spacecraft as it reaches Earth’s orbit. But it’s well worth noting that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has more to offer than rockets and launch pads. As part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, you may just spot otters and dolphins swimming around and bald eagles sharing the skies with those rockets.
Did you know that the world’s most famous ice age fossil excavation site is in the middle of Los Angeles? Yup! Long before the Hollywood sign went up (some 11,000 years before), greater L.A. was home to a mecca of mammals. After checking out the observation pit that’s filled with fossils and watching paleontologists in action, the family can walk over to LACMA, another cultural gem in the heart of L.A.
Standing 630 feet tall, this catenary arch is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Head to the top and spy riverboats cruising along the Mississippi River below, or at night to see the city lights.
The story of the Alamo dates back to 1700, but much of its history is tied to the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. Known as one of the most pivotal battles in world history, it signifies Texan identity, the fight for liberty and bravery in the face of impossible odds.
The hottest, driest, and lowest of our National Parks, Death Valley is like visiting another planet. Summer temps reach well above 100 degrees and winter often sees snow-dusted mountain peaks. Kids will be amazed to visit the vast salt flats and see all the stars that this dark sky park brings to the naked eye.
Follow the red line on the pavement around Boston, and you’ll get a 2.5-mile walking tour of 16 historical sites. The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.
So much more than a shopping mall, the Mall of America houses an aquarium, roller coaster, flight simulation ride, and loads of other family entertainment favorites under one massive roof.
For a peek at one of the most pristine and beautiful national parks, head to Glacier National Park. Huge glaciers in the last ice age carved out the valleys and lakes there today.
This beacon in the Seattle skyline is a favorite of tourists and locals alike. At the 500-foot level, you can get a moving 360-degree view of the city below.
For a trip to Angel Island, the adventure begins with a ferry ride from San Francisco, the East Bay, or Tiburon. While you take in stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and that other famous bay island, Alcatraz, the kids can run wild where the Coast Miwok roamed 2,000 years ago. Get more tips about Angel Island here.
Year-round water temps of 72 degrees? Check. Swim, snorkel or kayak with manatees in their home river? Check again (as long as little splashers are three and up). Learn all about the peaceful, grazing “sea cow” of Florida’s nature coast? Check once more. River Ventures offers the perfect way to introduce younger kids to the thrill of water life without contending with ocean swells or surprise sea creatures.
Expose your kids to classic, world-renowned art like Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” Picasso’s “The Old Guitarist”, Hopper’s “Nighthawks” and Wood’s “American Gothic.” Then find their inner child in the Art Institute’s family-friendly programming. With free admission for kids under 14 and Chicago teens under 18, you can make your own work of art in the Family Room or create your own customized family museum tour with JourneyMaker. Check their website for art projects, storytelling, and other activities.
At over 2,500 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest in the country. Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is a paved trail accessible to all ages and takes all of about 30 minutes to stroll so even the newest walkers can hear the power of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls.
48. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—Washington, D.C.
With the rise of anti-Semitism across the globe, it is important to educate your children about past genocides as well as current events. The USHMM is an interactive museum that confronts hatred, works to prevent genocide, and promotes human dignity. For young people and their families, “Remember the Children: Daniel’s Story” features one family’s experiences during the Holocaust from the perspective of a boy growing up in Nazi Germany.
It’s a fact that moms usually focus their purchasing efforts on the rest of the family. Even on days like Mother’s Day, it’s not unusual to find moms shopping for their own moms, in-laws, and friends without thinking of themselves. We wanted to help lighten the load by putting together a list of the best gifts for every type of mom and mom-figure out there. Whether she’s into all things glam, prefers to keep it clean and simple, could spend all day reading (if she had time!), or is the best chef you know, we’ve got something to make her smile. And if you’re the mom in question? Well, you definitely deserve one of our favorites below.
Thin, delicate, and easy to wear with her favorite ring stacks, the Threadbare Stacking Ring by Catbird adds just the right amount of sparkle. According to Catbird, a certain American-actress-turned-princess with the initials M.M. who wears the Threadbare Ring every day would agree with us.
For the moms of both kiddos and pets, or pet moms who deserve some love on Mother's Day, too, this adorable pet sweatshirt can be customized with up to 5 of her fuzzy family members. Hand drawn from your photos by real artists, her pet's name(s) can also be included! Available in 4 colors.
Cowboy Carter Limited Edition Exclusive Cover Vinyl
Beyoncé.com
Queens (mom) recognize queens (Beyoncé), and Bey's 27-song album is a 2024 stunner. Paying homage to the Beatles, Chuck Berry, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Linda Martell, and more, we'll be rocking it all summer (at least). The Limited Edition Exclusive Vinyl includes 2 translucent red vinyl discs in gatefold jacket, printed inner sleeves, and unique back jacket image. It's perfection, but we wouldn't expect anything less from Beyoncé.
Crafted by local artists in Spain, these dishes are painted in vivid colors using traditional techniques passed down by generations! They're available in 5 vibrant colors and include a salad bowl, medium bowl, salad plate, and dinner plate. Mix and match or keep it all perfectly matched. (We also made sure they're dishwasher and microwave-safe.)
Based on your favorite photo, this unique watercolor piece is a personalized illustration, hand-drawn by LETTERFEST's artists. Drawn in a freehand flowing line, the black and white portrait is overlayed over a splash of either duck-egg blue, moss green or blossom pink. Add a black, white, or oak frame for a gorgeous keepsake gift!
From beach to brunch, the River Guatemalan Palm Straw Hat by Gigi Pip is oozing with style. It also provides fantastic sun protection and comes in two colors, so we're confident mom will reach for this one over and over again!
'Undiplomatic: How My Attitude Created the Best Kind of Trouble' by Deesha Dyer
Amazon
Deesha Dyer's story of landing one of the most exclusive positions of Social Secretary in the White House under President Obama without any credentials or connections gives us goosebumps. This is an inspiring story embodies imposter syndrome, self-love, and learning innate self-worth. What mom wouldn't fully understand?
"Moved by the election of the country’s first Black president, Deesha Dyer applied for a White House internship in 2009 as a thirty-one-year-old part-time community college student, taking a leap that carried her into a permanent full-time position, followed by three promotions landing her at the epicenter of politics."
Seafoam Retro 80s Pastel Blocking Nintendo Switch Skin
Lux Skins Official
Help the gamer mom in your life protect her Nintendo Switch with this super fun retro-inspired pastel skin set! Choose from the hearts logo, classic logo, or leave it colors only. (Gaming system not included.)
This bag is a stunner! Crafted in smooth, yummy leather with sliding handles, it's the perfect size for mom to keep with her no matter where the day takes her. It's available in Honey (pictured), Chocolate, and Black.
We love that experience gifts are becoming so popular, and Tinggly's Experience Gift Boxes makes giving them super easy. Choose from over 10,000 experience gifts in 100+ countries including private food tours, hot air balloon rides, pottery classes, snorkeling, and so much more.
'Invincible' feels so appropriate for Mother's Day, doesn't it? The Nike Invincible 3 is ultra-cushioned, extremely lightweight, and is wider and taller than the original for even more stepping-on-clouds cushion to take mom from run to running errands. Available in a ton of colors, including the option to customize! Nike's Mother's Day Shop is also well worth checking out.
A unique candle is always a winning gift for mom! Fruity and earthy with scents of ripe tomato, green stem, and soil, this Heirloom Tomato Candle from Linnea is hand-poured with soy wax and double cotton wicks.
Wildflower Caramel Co. Dark Chocolate + Sea Salt Caramel
Wildflower Caramel Co.
If supporting a woman-owned small family business isn't enough, Wildflower Caramel Co.'s Dark Chocolate + Sea Salt Caramels are absolutely divine (and come in low-waste resealable packaging!).
Has the mom in your life jumped on the pickleball bandwagon yet? This customized pickleball set from Recess Pickleball includes 2 paddles, 1 box of pickleballs, and a bag, all designed by you! You can even customize a set of up to 8 paddles.
Let mom create her own little escape with this 3D Book Nook Puzzle Kit! It's such a sweet display that lights up to illuminate the small town filled with bookstores.
Each piece from Bea Bellingham is handmade in her Sydney, Australia studio. Crafted from clay and food-safe glazes, these big mugs are dishwasher/microwave safe and come in lots of different color combinations. You don't get to pick the color, either; part of the fun is seeing what gets picked for you in the design you choose!
We'll say it again: a. cheese. tower. With Quinby from Vermont’s Barn First Creamery, a brie-style goat cheese; silky triple-crème Fromager d’Affinois; and Afterglow, a goat cheese button washed with Wisconsin Red Ale. Just pair with crackers, jam, and a few strategically placed decorations and mom will be so impressed she might even share.
The Onsen Saru, or Hot Spring Monkey, brings with it a blend of sea salts and magnesium flakes scented with Japanese Matsu Pine and Cedarwood. Made in small batches, your favorite mom is going to love sinking into this soak.
Totally different from the chains we're used to seeing, this watchband-inspired anklet lays flat and would also look adorable with an anklet stacks! Also available in silver.
The Mother's Day Quencher H2.O FlowState 40oz Tumbler
Stanley
Colorful floral designs and tropical hues make the Stanley Mother's Day Collection an awesome addition to mom's collection. As with all FlowState tumblers, it keeps her drink cold for hours and is super easy to take with her anywhere!
'50 Years of Ms.' by Katherine Spillar & Gloria Steinem
Amazon
As created by the editors of Ms., this collection includes the best reporting, fiction, and advertising, decade by decade, as well as the best photographs, features, and iconic covers. There's also profiles, conversations with, and features by: Alice Walker, Cynthia Enloe, Pauli Murray, Nancy Pelosi, bell hooks, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Brittney Cooper, and Joy Harjo, as well as fiction and poetry by Toni Morrison, Joyce Carol Oates, Adrienne Rich, Rita Dove, Sharon Olds, and many others. This is such an epic collection that's sure to keep mom flipping pages!
Handmade chocolates from Racchiuti Confections are absolutely divine! They include flavors like Triple Sesame Praline and Tarragon Grapefruit with ingredients sourced from California farmers markets.
There's nothing more universally flattering than tortoise sunglasses, but the Number One Crazy Torts are dramatic and have an aviator green tinted lens that makes them wildly chic. They're effortlessly cool and look great on just about everyone!
This edgy bracelet flows and moves almost like liquid and features a clear hand carved Lucite and gold combination that goes with everything! It's like wearing a sculpture.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Your baby’s first year will be a whirlwind of dirty diapers, meeting milestones, and flashing charming, toothless smiles that’ll melt your heart. Amid all that, it’s hard to know when they’re ready for new experiences, like swim classes or their first airplane trip. That’s where we come in. If you’re trying to figure out how to balance what baby can do with places to have fun (we know you’re ready to get out there), simply pull up this list. It matches fun baby activities with the right age to introduce each.
Places to Have Fun: 0-3 months
iStock
Go on a Walk
Strolls around the block, through a nearby park, or in your favorite neighborhood are great at any age for you and your baby. It’s a chance to get out of the house, breathe some fresh air, and maybe even run into a friend or two. Speaking of, this is one of those baby activities that’s best with another parent. That way you can gab and share and get that support that all new parents need.
Take a Baby and Me Yoga Class
If your two-month-old naps easily in a car seat or stroller, you might be ready for a baby and me yoga class, where you can get some exercise and meet some other new parents, too. Some classes are also designed to include babies in the movements. Just make sure your little one is ready to participate before making the switch.
Meet Up with Family
Whether you head out to a coffee shop to meet up with grandparents, or you bring a picnic to a nearby park to meet up with baby’s uncle, those first few months are a great time for family (near and far) to meet your newest addition. The best part? These folks are going to want to hold your baby, and unlike most who ask, we’re pretty sure you’ll let them.
Join a Parent Workout Class
Finding the time to work out in those first few months can be challenging. But if you can bring baby along with you, you’ve at least got a fighting chance. National programs like FIT4MOM include babies in the workout, so you can get out, get exercise, and meet other new parents.
Good to Know: The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecologists (ACOG) gives the green light to working out a few days after giving birth if you had an easy vaginal delivery. But it’s best to consult with your OB-GYN before starting back into a workout routine.
Places to Have Fun: 3-6 Months
iStock
Visit Your Local Zoo or Aquarium
A trip to the zoo offers loads of new sights and sounds for a stroller-bound five- or six-month-old. A petting zoo can be a great sensory experience and a chance to practice farm animal sounds. If there’s not a zoo nearby, you can get some animal time by heading to a local dog park to watch the puppies play.
Most libraries and lots of independent bookstores across the country offer free storytime sessions for babies and toddlers. Many even have special times for the youngest babes. Starting around four months old, your child will love snuggling with you to enjoy rhymes, songs, and super-short stories.
Go for a Hike or a Run
Simple walks are good for those first few months. But when your wee one is a bit more stable around three to four months, you can head out for longer, bumpier treks into the great outdoors. At that age, babies can ride in a solid, structured back carrier, which makes your adorable load easier to carry on extended treks.
Places to Have Fun: 6-9 Months
iStock
Explore the Beach
Around this time, babies are learning to crawl. If you’re lucky to time this developmental stage with summertime, we couldn’t think of a better place to explore than a nearby beach. Sand works surprisingly well as a surface to learn to crawl. And babies this age love the sensation of sand running through their fingers and squishing under their toes.
You’ve been waiting to take your baby to the playground forever, and now is the time. The baby swings at your local playground are perfect for little ones who can sit up on their own and control their head. Try out a swing at six months to see if your baby enjoys it, and expect them to love it by eight or nine months. To make the seat more comfortable for them, tuck a blanket in front of, or behind, your baby to fill out the bucket swing.
Sign Up for a Music Class
Although baby may be too little for an at-home dance party, that doesn’t mean you can’t make music a part of baby’s life. Around seven months, when kids can sit up and bang a rattle, parent and me music class starts to be extra fun for little ones and their grown-ups. Hint: they’re even more fun when you bring a friend.
Visit a Local Children’s Museum
Most children’s museums have set up awesome, interactive centers specifically for babies and toddlers under three. They’re equipped with soft pillows to scramble across and big blocks to stack. Try this when your crawler needs a safe, fun place to explore, starting right around eight months of age.
Places to Have Fun: 9-12 Months
iStock
Try a Swim Class
The American Academy of Pediatrics says kids as young as age one may be ready to start swim lessons—and research suggests that swim lessons for kids under age four reduces the risk of drowning. If you have a water baby on your hands, your child might enjoy splashing around in a parent and me swim class starting around this age.
Take a Baby Gym Class
Active crawlers, usually between eight to ten months, will get a kick out of a gym class. They can scramble over pyramids of pillows and giggle underneath a parachute, all in a super-cushioned play area. All that activity tires kids out, which usually translates into good, long naps.
Get a New Set of Wheels
At age one, your not-so-tiny-anymore baby should be ready to try a ride-on toy. From trikes to toddler-sized fire trucks, anything with wheels and foot-to-floor action is a hit with toddlers. Hint: it makes a great first-birthday present.
Make sure to capture all of your first-year fun—and share it with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Check out our ultimate guide to daily adventures and gallons of giggles
Summer is in full swing, and you’re going to need an arsenal of activities for kids to fill the long days or open afternoons after camp. This is why it’s the perfect time to make a family summer bucket list. To help you make that happen, we collected 73 ideas that fit the bill for summer 2024. From having a Yes Day to putting together a new LEGO set, here are all the best things to do in the summer with kids.
If you need other ideas, check out our favorite swimming pool games, the best games to play in the dark, sidewalk activities, and backyard science experiments.
With over 400 National Parks in the United States, whether you’re into exploring hiking trails, camping, going on scavenger hunts, or even soaking in hot springs, there’s an open space out there that you’ll love. If you have a 4th grader in your crew, be sure to snag the free national parks pass that’s good for their whole 4th-grade year. Another way to get in free is to visit during free national park days or choose a park that’s always free.
With a huge increase in visitors to national parks in recent years, some have instituted a reservation system during peak weekends and summer months. Be sure to check for this before you visit! Keep reading to see our favorite family-friendly parks, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your visit.
What to See & Do: Located around 4 hours from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, Sequoia National Park is home to the famous General Sherman Tree (the world's largest tree by volume). Also not to be missed is The Congress Trail—a 2.7-mile paved hike that loops through the forest where you'll get up close and personal with other famous sequoias like The President, The House, and the Senate—jaw-droppingly beautiful trees that have called this micro-climate home for the past 2,500 years or so.
Tips & When to Go: Open year-round, there's no bad time of year to see these gentle giants. In the winter, you can snowshoe among the trees (some roads may be closed due to conditions) while in the summer, you can spend more time and camp inside the national park if you desire. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. To help plan your trip, read our insider's guide to visiting Visalia and Sequoia National Park.
From the river bed of the Rio Grande to the peaks of the Chisos mountain range, this remote park runs along the Texas/Mexico border.
What to See & Do: Designated as one of the darkest places in the country, it’s one of the best places to stargaze with your kids. It’s also filled with fossils—be sure to take your dino enthusiast to the Fossil Discovery Exhibit. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities for families: some of the best trails for kids include the Window View, the Basin Loop, the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, and for older kids, the Lost Mine Trail is worth the trek. One of the most popular things to do in Big Bend, however, is to float the Rio Grande. There are several outfitters that offer easy, half-day floats, like this Madera to Grassy Banks option from Big Bend River Tours, which are perfect for families with young children.
Tips & When to Go: Cell service can be spotty, but free, public WiFi is available at the Panther Junction Visitor Center, the Chisos Mountains Lodge, and the Rio Grande Village Store. The best time to go is Sept.-May, as it gets very hot in the summer.
Famed for its granite domes and ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite is a gold mine for families.
Things to See & Do: Filled with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, two favorites include the Tuolomne Grove Nature Trail because you are rewarded with some massive Giant Sequoias, including the one you can walk through, and the Mist Trail as you have the opportunity to see two waterfalls. Make sure you set aside some time to spend exploring Yosemite Village. Grab some lunch and souvenirs at the gift shop (it is huge—perfect to stock up on everything from hot cocoa to wine to grilling supplies). Take a break to watch the Spirit of Yosemite film at the visitor center to give the kids all the background info on Yosemite and how it came to be a national park.
The Yosemite Museum has hands-on exhibits where kids can learn all about the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. If you are lucky, you may even be able to see traditional skills presented by historians. Outside you can walk through a replica Miwok village to see how they lived.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, with seasonal activities, but May and Sep. are less crowded.
Sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and animal wildlife are all part of the wonder of Zion National Park in Utah. You’ll want to give yourselves plenty of time at this scenic destination to take it all in.
Things to See & Do: Try a kid-friendly hike, like The Grotto Trail, Weeping Rock Trail, or the Emerald Pool Trail. While at the Emerald Pool trail, be sure to check out the gorgeous waterfall views. For a fun way for families to learn more about Zion together, head over to the Nature Center. Daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, youth programs specifically for children and families are offered, and last 30-45 minutes, so they're just the right length for your mini explorers.
Tips & When to Go: Zion National Park is open year-round. Some services or facilities may have limited hours at various times of the year.
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers trails along the granite shoreline that seem to rise from the sea. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about lobsters or search for harbor seals, the cool freshwater lakes, and frothy saltwater tidal invite exploring, and there are plenty of yummy lobster dinners within reach.
What to See & Do: Acadia offers families dozens of activities beyond hiking (though the hiking is both excellent and most often very family-friendly), which everyone will love. Pack your bikes for rides along the network of Carriage Roads, and blow their minds at Thunder Hole, a partially submerged cave that booms about an hour before high tide.
Tips & When to Go: While there is plenty to do for visitors of all ages and abilities, much of Acadia’s landscape is very rugged. If you’ve got wee ones in tow, a child’s backpack carrier just might save the trip. Late summer and early fall offer warm days, fewer crowds, and typically chilly evenings, making it the perfect time for a visit.
From mountain waterfalls to ice-cold streams running through rhododendron-laced valleys, the Smokies are full of crystal-clear swimming holes, easy and moderate hikes for all legs, and scenic drives. In addition to being a great national park for kids, this park offers free admission year-round.
What to See & Do: Getting to the Smokies is relatively easy from any place in the southeast, and it’s easily accessible from both Tennessee and North Carolina. Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are both mountain towns just outside of the park and offer plenty of lodging and entertainment options for families looking to neon-light their vacation. A true naturalist would be hard-pressed to find anything wrong with the Smokies, and it’s equally suited for families who prefer to balance their bouts with nature with outlet shopping, live entertainment, and restaurants (all available just outside the park).
Tips & When to Go: It’s rare to have a true off-peak season in the Smokies, so if you’re looking for isolation this isn’t the park for you. However, solitude can be found inside the boundaries of the park, and we recommend going in the early spring to catch the incredible display of ephemeral wildflowers in bloom. Or, go in the fall around the second or third weekend of October to see the brilliant fall leaves.
Explore the coastline and see wild horses on this island sanctuary.
What to See & Do: Since the park is located on a 37-mile-long barrier island, this spot is ideal for beach-loving families. Look for shells, kayak, play in the ocean, or visit one of the centers for a nature program and to experience the marine life touch tanks. Camping is a popular lodging option here, there are several sites, and reservations are required during portions of the year.
Tips & When to Go: Be sure to keep a distance of 40 feet from the wild horses. The park is open year-round, and visitors peak in July, to watch the horses swim the channel, but insects like mosquitos and gnats thrive in the humid summer months. Spring and fall are lovely times to visit.
The third-largest national park in the lower 48 states spans 2,400 miles and offers a respite from cold winter temps elsewhere in the country.
What to See & Do: The dry winter season here means more animals to spot (hello, alligators and manatees!), more ranger programs to attend (think: hikes, bikes, and talks), and way fewer mosquitos than you and the kiddos would find any other time of year. Ride bikes, take a boat tour (most of the park is only accessible by boat), or set up camp before the wet season hits.
The dramatic landscape of Badlands has an otherworldly feel that has to be seen to be believed. With a combination of impressive rock formations and beautiful grasslands, this South Dakota spot is worth a visit as it’s one of our top national parks for kids.
What to See & Do: Drive Badlands Loop Road and stop at a few of the overlooks for jaw-dropping views. Popular with kids, the quarter-mile Fossil Exhibit Trail winds along a boardwalk and features fossil replicas. Along with the Junior Ranger program in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, kids can also check out the interactive exhibits and visit the theater to watch the film Land of Stone and Light. In the summertime, families can get a close-up view of the night sky through telescopes on Friday through Monday nights at the evening ranger program.
Tips & When to Go: Badlands is open year-round, although the visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Summertime offers additional programs such as the Night Sky program, evening ranger programs, guided hikes, and talks.
Although not as well known as some other parks, Cuyahoga Valley is an ideal spot to watch changing foliage, colorful wildflowers and wildlife. Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, this midwestern park may become a new favorite.
Things to See & Do: To see a magical view of Blue Hen Falls, the Blue Hen Falls Trail is an easy hike that the whole family can do together. At half a mile and just under thirty minutes, it’s a great intro trail and leads to the peaceful waterfall. You can also try birdwatching, canoeing and a whole schedule of summer events including train rides on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, ranger-led hikes and wildlife walks.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open every day, although some areas close at dusk for the night. Wildflowers are in bloom in mid to late summer.
If you’ve got a dino lover in your house, then Dinosaur National Monument is a definite stop for your list. Inside the Quarry Hall, the kids can check out over 1,500 real preserved dinosaur fossils that are sure to fascinate them. Next, move on to see some petroglyphs and pictographs as you drive the 10-mile Tour of Tilted Rocks. You’ll also find hiking, river rafting, and ranger-guided programs.
Tips & When to Go: Dinosaur National Monument is open every day all year, but during the winter, some roads and facilities are closed. The Quarry Visitor Center and Quarry Exhibit Hall are only open at certain times, so check the website before heading on your trip. In the summertime, temperatures can easily climb over 100 degrees, so take plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Located only 75 miles outside of Washington, D.C., and with over 100 miles of scenic highway, this park is perfect for families who love a good road trip. Skyline Drive is the main (and only) drag through the park, and the 75 overlooks of the Shenandoah Valley are swoon-worthy.
What to See & Do: The Shenandoah National Park’s Scenic Drive ensures that you will see splendid views and have every opportunity to get out and explore the park since nearly all trailheads are located a short distance from the road. This is the perfect park for families with good car seat travelers!
Tips & When to Go: Because they leave the fields in the Shenandoah National Park unplowed to purposely propagate the wildflowers that bloom there, you are guaranteed to see an incredible show year-round.
Located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the Hot Springs National Park is the only park that had a city grow up around it. Known for its bubbling mineral springs and their restorative and healing powers, you can still bathe in them today in one of the restored historic bathhouses.
What to See & Do: While the springs have been around for ages, the amenities have continued to improve. You can bathe in the mineral waters from the comfort of a modern-day spa after spending a morning hiking one of the park's 26 miles of trails. And did we mention that there’s a diamond mine only an hour away in Murfreesboro?
Tips & When to Go: We like the idea of a nice, hot mineral spring bath on a cool spring day, don’t you? The bathhouses are open year-round, but Arkansas heats up in the summer and we suggest going during one of the cooler months.
You can see beaches, rainforests, and mountains at this beautiful park in the Pacific Northwest. Olympic National Park holds a little something for everyone.
What to See & Do: On the coast, kids four and up can be “Ocean Stewards” and earn a badge for completing activities. You can also explore tide pools, try any number of family hiking trails or spend some time on Rialto Beach. For evening fun, join one of the Night Sky programs, such as stargazing or full moon hikes at Hurricane Ridge.
Tips & When to Go: June through September are the most popular times to visit. Although the park is most crowded during these times, the park also has the most facilities and programs available. The park is still a show-stopping sight in winter, but check the website for weather and road conditions first.
Lava Beds National Monument is a must-visit spot when you bring the family to Siskiyou County in Northern California. Here you can check out free flashlights from the visitor center and explore the many (VERY DARK) caves that were formed when lava flowed through the area thousands of years ago. For the youngest explorers, check out Mushpot Cave just a short walk from the visitor center. This is the only cave that has its own lighting in the tunnel.
What to See & Do: Skull Cave (pictured above) is a popular choice because of its massive size. A good lighting source will be needed if you want to venture all the way down to the cave's ice floor (the flashlights from the visitor center can be pretty dim so you might want to bring your own).
Tips & When to Go: Summer is a great time to visit Lava Beds. Remember that even though it might be in the 90s above ground that it will be very chilly when you head into the caves so long pants/long sleeves are recommended. There's no restaurant at the park so bring in lunch with you when you visit. Check out our guide to visiting Siskiyou County with kids for lots of other tips including where to visit the petroglyphs!
While not an official national park, Indiana Dunes still offers visitors over 15 miles of protected lakeshore and 48 miles of trails—some within sight of the Chicago skyline!
What to See & Do Lake Michigan’s sandy shoreline includes dunes that reach as high as 125 feet tall, and its National Lakeshore status has protected its natural beauty from development and commercialization. If you decide to explore the dunes, just be sure to stay on the marked trails to protect the natural habitat!
Tips & When to Go Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a perfect spot for a picnic, day hike or day at the beach from the moment the sun starts shining in the spring until the last leaves have fallen in autumn.
Located in central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system. Experience the underground adventure with cave tours, trails, and more.
What to See & Do: You’ll find over 84 miles of hiking trails suitable for all different levels, so find the one that works best for your family and get ready to explore. A variety of cave tours are also available so you can see Mammoth Cave up close and personal. The Frozen Niagara is a popular cave tour for families with young kids. Lasting an hour and 15 minutes, the tour is ideal for small hikers at just about a quarter of a mile. Reservations are strongly recommended, but not required.
Tips & When to Go: The cave is open year-round, and the Visitor Center’s hours vary by season.Cave temperatures are between the 50s and 60s but can become much colder in the winter. When touring the caves, flash photography is not permitted. Strollers and child backpack carriers are also not permitted on cave tours, so make sure young ones are up for the walk.
Mountain scenery, glacier-chiseled lakes, and tons of activities greet you at this stunning park in Montana.
What to See & Do: Visit the Apgar Nature Center so kids can play and learn with various interactive activities, ranger talks, and children’s programs. Take in the scenery and look for wildlife as you drive the 50-mile Going to the Sun road. As an alternative, you can use the free shuttle along Going to the Sun Road between the nature center and the St. Mary Visitor Center. You’ll also want to make sure to make time to explore the park with a hike. Plenty of trails are popular with children, such as Trail of the Cedars, Hidden Lake Nature Trail or the Oxbow Trail. After you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t forget to make a stop for a scoop of huckleberry ice cream! A Glacier must.
Tips & When to Go: Glacier is open every day of the year, although hours at visitor stations vary by season. Summer is the most popular season to visit. Weather-related events may affect Going to the Sun Road plowing and opening, so follow the park’s current road status to get the latest information.
Little fossil fans will love imagining past prehistoric days and dinosaurs as they explore the Painted Desert landscape of Petrified Forest National Park.
What to See & Do: Be sure to make a stop at the Rainbow Forest Museum where your kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits and skeleton displays. From the museum parking area, you can find the trailhead for the Agate House trail, a two-mile trek with a paved portion, leading to an old pueblo made of petrified wood. At the Painted Desert Visitor Center, you’ll find an orientation video, a restaurant, gift shop, and plenty of information about the park.
Tips & When to Go: Petrified Forest National Park is open year-round, with the exception of December 25th. However, visitor center hours and park road hours vary by season.
Visiting White Sands feels a little bit like running through a dream. Acres and acres of soft white gypsum sand dunes will have the kids running, rolling and sliding for hours.
What to See & Do: Hit the Visitor Center first to learn all about how White Sands formed, and then head out to experience it! The eight-mile ride down Dunes Drive will take you to the center of the dune field. Sleds can be purchased at the Visitor Center, and little ones (and adults!) will love the chance to take a slide down. Sledding is permitted in the loop area of Dunes Drive. The Visitor Center also has a Junior Rangers program, a gift shop and a native plant garden. Kids can also check out an Adventure Pack for the day, containing binoculars, field guides, a compass and other items to help them explore the dunes.
Tips & When to Go: White Sands is open daily all through the year, with the exception of December 25. The monument occasionally closes for inclement weather or unsafe road conditions. Hours vary depending on the season, so check the website for the latest times. Pack sunglasses and don’t forget the sunscreen, because the sun shining off of those white dunes is bright.
Be wowed by the active volcanoes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii’s Big Island!
Things to See & Do: Start at the Visitor Center and check out the video Born of Fire, Born of the Sea. You’ll want to cruise the main road of Crater Rim Drive, where you’ll find tons of scenic stops to admire, such as Kilauea Overlook for unbeatable views. Swing by the Jaggar Museum where you can learn all about lava, seismographs and everything volcano-related. Finally, take your flashlights and explore the magnitude of Nahuku, the Thurston Lava Tube.
Tips & When to Go: The park is open year-round, including all holidays. The park contains two active volcanoes, so safety is always a priority. Stay up to date on volcanic activity and air quality before visiting by checking the park’s website.
Joshua Tree’s beautiful desert landscapes, nature trails and Dr. Seuss-like trees make this park a consistent favorite for families. It’s definitely worth a stop on your next California journey.
What to See & Do: You’ll find plenty of short trails and nature walks that won’t be too strenuous for small hikers. The Bajada, Cap Rock, Hidden Valley, and Cholla Cactus Garden are loop trails that are all one mile long or shorter and take an hour or less to complete. Let the kids pose for a photo with the appropriately named Skull Rock, located along the main park road. If you’re there at night, don’t miss the chance to gaze up at some unbelievable stars.
Tips & When to Go: Joshua Tree can get extremely hot in the summer, so a spring visit might be more comfortable, weather-wise. You’re in the desert, so plenty of water is also a must!
Yellowstone is definitely one for your national parks list! With geysers, hiking trails, animals, and forests on display, this gorgeous park is a can’t-miss stop on your road trip.
What to See & Do: No trip to Yellowstone is complete without a visit to Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser. Take a stroll on the boardwalks around the geyser, and then stop by the Visitor Center to find out when the next eruption is scheduled to take place! You can get a great look and a photo op from the viewing area nearby. While you’re in the Visitor Center, kids can sign up for the Yellowstone Junior Ranger program, where they can earn a badge after completing a series of activities around the park.
Grand Prismatic is another stunning feature on your Yellowstone trip. The park’s largest hot spring boasts bright colors that almost seem unreal. The boardwalk surrounding Grand Prismatic does get crowded, so hold tight to little hands as you check out this amazing thermal feature.
Driving into Yellowstone, you’ll catch some great wildlife sightings, and maybe even a bison crossing, which is always a thrill for little ones.
Tips & When to Go: Summer offers a ton of available activities but is by far Yellowstone’s busiest season, so expect crowds and a slow drive into the park. Spring, summer and winter offer fewer crowds, but some roads and activities are not available depending on weather, so keep up to date on Yellowstone’s website and plan your trip well in advance. We also love visiting in the winter via snowcoach!
With over 2,000 natural stone arches, beautiful red rock formations, and hikes for all ages, Arches National Park is a treat for the whole family.
What to See & Do: Drive through the park to catch a glimpse of some of the famous arches, and stop for strolls and photos. Kids will love Balanced Rock, a gravity-defying structure with a short loop trail that is perfect for small hikers. Another great spot for your little road trippers is Sand Dune Arch. With a 0.3-mile hike and tons of soft sand to play in, kids will have a blast making a detour here.
Tips & When to Go: March through October is the park’s busiest season, so expect crowds and longer lines to drive into the park. Rangers programs are offered in spring, summer, and fall, and the Visitor Center is open daily, except for December 25.
Kids love volcanos, and they’ll love that this lake formed from a volcano is also the deepest one in America. But there’s more to Crater Lake National Park than just the lake, and you’ll want to hit the trails (and fishing holes, and swimming holes) before you wrap up your visit.
What to See & Do: Trying to spot the Phantom Ship (a rock formation along the rim) is worth the trip all by itself, and Crater Lake National Park also offers boat trips to Wizard Island. With its volcanic past, this park is perfect for littles with big imaginations.
Tips & When to Go: Accessible almost all year, Crater Lake is rarely overwhelmed by visitors, even in the summer. Go between July and September for the best weather (and best chance to get out and explore).
Located just off the coast of Ventura, California, Channel Islands National Park is the perfect family day trip. Accessible only by boat or plane, the Park includes five islands.
What to See & Do: Not only are the islands great to explore by foot or kayak, but the necessary boat ride to get there adds to the trip’s element of adventure. Since these islands are truly remote, don’t take anyone whose needs might exceed what you can carry in a backpack. Tiny tots and need-to-nappers might be better off going when they get a tad older.
Tips & When to Go: While the islands are open to visitors year-round, fall, with warmer water and animal migrations, is a sure bet for the WOW factor. Keep your eyes peeled for blue and humpback whales off the coast, and you’re sure to see dolphins as you make your way to the islands by boat.
Additional reporting by Anna Doogan & Shelley Massey
Make sure to capture all your best travel moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
Find a gentle baby shampoo, body wash, baby lotion, and more with this A-to-Z guide to natural skin care products for babies and toddlers. From skin-soothing, eczema-healing products and cradle cap shampoos to luxuriously scented body lotions and bubble baths, read on for the bathing and after-bath products each brand offers, yucky ingredients they’re formulated without, and more reasons why they’re worth checking out.
Aveeno Baby What they offer: The Daily Care line features baby wash & shampoo, body lotion, conditioning shampoo. The Eczema Therapy line features nighttime balm, moisturizing wash, moisturizing cream and bath treatment. The Baby Soothing Relief line features creamy wash and moisturizing cream. The Baby Calming Comfort line features calming comfort bath and body lotion. Formulated without: parabens, phthalates; some products are fragrance-free Why check them out: With different lines of hypoallergenic baby skincare products, you’re likely to find a regimen that soothes your baby’s dry or irritated skin.
Babo Botanicals What they offer: baby shampoo & wash, hydrating stick, healing ointment, baby wash foam, body lotion, conditioner, face & body wipes, face cream, calming shampoo, bubble bath & wash Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, dairy, soy, gluten or high-allergy nut oils. Why check them out: The products are tested to ensure they’re non-irritating and hypoallergenic. They contain ingredients rich in vitamins and antioxidants to soothe and comfort sensitive skin.
Baby Bum What they offer: shampoo & wash, bubble bath, lotion, coconut balm, calendula cream Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde donors, dyes, sulfates, silicones, glycol, retinyl palmitate, triclosan, talc, gluten, synthetic fragrances Why check them out: The line contains therapeutic and moisturizing ingredients including sea minerals, monoi coconut oil, aloe and cocoa butter to hydrate sensitive baby skin. Some products also come in fragrance-free versions.
Baby Dove What they offer: baby shampoo, baby conditioner, detangling cream, body wash, soap bars, body lotion, body cream, baby oil, Formulated without: All Dove products are formulated without phthalates, lyral, triclosan, triclocarban, retinyl palmitate, coal tar, octanoate, hydroquinone, cyclic silicone D4. The company is phasing out parabens, lilial, formaldehyde and formaldehyde donors from their products. Why check them out: The products are affordable and easy to find, and the line features collections for melanin-rich skin, curl nourishment hair products, eczema-prone skin and more.
Babyganics What they offer: protective ointment, shampoo + body wash, moisturizing cream wash, bubble bath, vapor bubble bath, baby lotion, eczema care skin protectant cream. In the tots line, they have shampoo + conditioner (for both straight and curly hair) and a detangling spray Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, cortisone, steroids, mineral oil, petrolatum Why check them out: The Babyganics website is transparent about the company's rigorous testing process before products are released, and the company continues to test and improve formulas based on new scientific research.
BEB Organic What they offer: shampoo & body wash, probiotic serum, protective balm, face & body oil, face & body cream Formulated without: synthetic dyes & fragrances, mineral oil, petroleum, BPA, phthalates, phenoxyethanol, soy, dairy, palm oil, gluten, wheat Why check them out: Safe for even preemies' sensitive skin, this premium, all-natural baby skincare line is cruelty-free and packed with natural and certified-organic ingredients. It was previously only available in hospitals and birthing centers.
Bella B
Bella B Naturals What they offer: bubble bath, hair & body wash, cradle cap shampoo, hair detangler, conditioner, moisturizing lotion Formulated without: parabens, animal by-products, petrolatum, lanolin, harsh chemicals Why check them out: This broad line of baby products is formulated with flower extracts and moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera, avocado and shea.
Bubbsi What they offer: shampoo & wash, body cream, body balm, conditioner (to be released March 2021) Formulated without: Parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oils, dyes, synthetic fragrance, common natural irritants and allergens, nearly 1,400 ingredients currently banned in EU cosmetics Why check them out: Organic coconut oil is the lead ingredient in Bubbsi’s moisturizing skincare products, which come in super cute silicone bottles shaped like animals. Save money by refilling with the value-size refills sold on the site.
Burts Bees What they offer: baby shampoo & wash, bubble bath, body lotion, buttermilk soap, baby oil, multipurpose ointment Formulated without: phthalates, parabens, petrolatum, SLS Why check them out: A trusted name in natural skincare, the Burt’s Bees line of baby products is packed full of good-for-you ingredients such as cocoa butter, royal jelly and aloe.
California Baby What they offer: shampoo & body wash, conditioner, hair detangler, bubble bath Formulated without: petroleum contaminants, synthetic fragrances, parabens, SLS, sulfates, dyes, formaldehyde carriers, phthalates, gluten, oat, soy, dairy, nuts (some products contain coconut) Why check them out: Shop by scent, skin issue or allergy concern to find your favorite bath products from this extensive line. Founded in 1995, this woman-owned brand is committed to safe baby products, even growing its own calendula on a certified organic farm in Santa Barbara.
CeraVe What they offer: body wash & shampoo, moisturizing cream, moisturizing lotion, healing ointment Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, fragrance Why check them out: CeraVe contains three types of ceramides, which are lipids that help restore the skin’s barrier and retain moisture, and hydrating hyaluronic acid.
Dapple Baby What they offer: shampoo & body wash, bubble bath, body lotion Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, synthetic dyes & fragrances, SLS, MEA, DEA or TEA Why check them out: You may know Dapple Baby for its amazing bottle & dish soap, and its bath products are just as good. The bath products use plant-based formulas, with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, and a prebiotic botanical blend for gentle cleansing and moisturizing.
Dr. Bronner’s
Dr. Bronner’s What they offer: castile liquid soap, castile bar soap, body balm Formulated without: synthetic preservatives, petrochemical detergents, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, fragrance, foaming agents Why check them out: The fragrance-free baby line from family favorite Dr. Bronner’s contains organic and fair-trade ingredients such as coconut, olive, hemp and jojoba oils for safe and effective cleaning and moisturizing.
Earth Mama Organics What they offer: body lotion, face balm, baby wash, baby oil Formulated without: artificial fragrance, artificial preservatives, antibacterial chemicals, phthalates, parabens, sulfates Why check them out: The calendula plant, known for being anti-inflammatory and mild for sensitive baby skin and hair, is the key ingredient in this line, which features scented and unscented products.
EllaOla What they offer: shampoo & body wash, baby lotion, massage oil Formulated without: parabens, pthalates, sulfates, oxybenzone, steroids, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, dyes, formaldehyde releasers, propylene glycol Why check them out: This science-based, plant-based skincare brand was created with the help of an advisory board including experts in dermatology, pediatrics and parenting.
EO Products: Everyone for Every Body What they offer: kids soap (3 in 1 shampoo, body wash and bubble bath), body lotion Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, artificial colors and dyes, sodium lauryl sulfate, aluminum, propylene glycol, polysorbates Why check them out: The kids line (and all EO Products) is made from non-GMO ingredients and infused with pure essential oils, making the scents fresh and kid-friendly. EWG Verified, the products are manufactured in-house in a zero-waste Northern California facility. The extra large 32 ounce easy-pump size and 3 in 1 soaps make this an affordable pick both parents and kids will love.
Era Organics What they offer: baby wash, baby balm, body lotion Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, SLS, dyes, fragrance, gluten, harsh chemicals Why check them out: Era Organics’ products are cruelty-free and filled with food-grade nutrients.
Evereden What they offer: shampoo & body wash, moisturizing lotion Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, cocamidopropyl betaine, coca midopropyl hydroxysultaine, phenoxyethanol, the 1,400 ingredients prohibited in the EU Why check them out: Created by Ivy League-educated dermatologists, the line is filled with plant-based ingredients from around the world that have a top rating on Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database.
Exederm Skincare What they offer: eczema wash, eczema lotion, eczema cream Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, SLS, lanolin, propylene glycol, colors or dyes, cocamidopropyl betaine, fragrance Why check them out: The line is devoted to dry, sensitive skin and soothing skin irritated by eczema or dermatitis. Each product has earned the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.
Fairy Tales Hair Care What they offer: shampoo, conditioner and styling products Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, toxic chemicals, dairy, gluten, nuts Why check them out: They have an array of products from non-toxic lice treatment, to hydration for curls to summer sun protection, so there’s something perfect for every hair type and circumstance.
Hello Bello What they offer: shampoo & body wash, baby lotion, bubble bath Formulated without: sulfates, SLS and SLES, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde donors, phenoxyethanol, petrolatum, mineral oil, PEGs, MEA, DEA, TEA and common allergens such as gluten, peanut and dairy Why check them out: Cofounded by actors and married parents Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, Hello Bello offers premium-quality, eco-friendly products at budget-friendly prices, thanks to an exclusive partnership with Walmart.
Healthybaby What they offer: organic cotton diapers, shampoo & bodywash, eco-friendly laundry and cleaning products Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, fragrances, optical brighteners and chlorine Why check them out: Healthybaby was developed for healthy brains and boasts plant-based ingredients for baby’s skin along with food-grade quality standards. Healthybaby’s mantra is “fewer, better things” meaning they focus on reducing waste and clutter and ensure that their products are safe and of high quality.
The Honest Company What they offer: shampoo & body wash, face & body lotion, conditioner, bubble bath, conditioning detangler, all-purpose balm, body oil, bar soap, balm and body wash for eczema-prone skin Formulated without: sulfates, parabens, SLS, silicones, harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, formaldehyde carriers, MEA, DEA or TEA, PEGs, ethoxylates Why check them out: Honest’s baby bath products come in four scents (orange vanilla, lavender, apricot and fragrance free), and you can save by buying bundles of products in a customizable subscription.
Li’l Goat’s What they offer: goat’s milk soap, shampoo & body wash, body lotion, baby wipes, diaper rash ointment Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates Why check them out: Goat’s milk is ultra-moisturizing and gentle on sensitive skin. It naturally contains essential nutrients and vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, B12, and E. Li’l Goat’s collects fresh milk from farmers in Quebec and doesn’t test its finished product on animals.
Live Clean What they offer: shampoo & body wash, body cream, body lotion, non-petroleum jelly, tearless shampoo & wash Formulated without: SLS, phthalates, silicones, petrolatum, parabens, DEA, phosphates, dyes Why check them out: The makers of this line of plant- and water-based ingredients source local organic ingredients and use recyclable packaging for their natural skin care products.
L’Occitane What they offer: foaming cream, moisturizing milk cream, massage balm, fragrance water Formulated without: phenoxyethanol, parabens, phthalates or silicones Why check them out: The Shea Baby Care collection launched May 2019 and is just as luxe as their adult Shea line. 87% of the ingredients in this collection are naturally derived and tested under pediatric supervision and while the products include a fragrance they are hypoallergenic and formulated free of allergens.
MADE OF What they offer: baby shampoo & body wash, body lotion Formulated without: GMOs, soy or other derivatives, nuts and related allergens, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, pesticides, BPA, chlorine, artificial ingredients, gluten Why check them out: The brand promises transparency into their products, formulas and factories, including independent test results of the line. Everything they make is certified to NSF Organic standard, an international certification. They’re also EWG Verified, Gluten Free and Vegan Certified.
Mill Creek Botanicals What they offer: baby wash, conditioning shampoo, body lotion, calendula cream Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, gluten, artificial preservatives, sodium chloride, MEA, DEA, dyes, fragrance Why check them out: The products in this line include soothing witch hazel, aloe vera and calendula.
MiniOrganics What they offer: baby wash, cleansing bar, moisturizer, jojoba oil Formulated without: genetically modified ingredients, petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens, pesticide residues, artificial fragrances, triclosan/chlorophenol, lanolin, nuts or nut oils Why check them out: Many skincare products call themselves organic or natural, but Mini Organics’ line is Certified Organic, meaning each ingredient must be grown, processed, produced and stored without pesticides, fertilizers and synthetic chemicals. The production process is audited by an independent third party to ensure products conform to strict international standards.
Mustela
Mustela What they offer: Four product lines of body lotion, emollient cream, emollient balm, cradle cap cream, shampoo, bubble bath, cleansing milk, cleansing gel, cleaning cream, bath oil, face cream Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, phenoxyethanol, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, cyclotetrasiloxane, p-Phenylenediamine or related compounds, BHA, benzophenone, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, triclosan, alcohol Why check them out: Mustela has conducted continued research in dermatology for more than 60 years; the company partners with dermatology, maternity and childcare professionals to further its skin expertise. The line features products for normal, dry, eczema-prone and very sensitive baby skin.
Noodle and Boo What they offer: bar soap, body wash, shampoo, hair polish, body lotion, bubble bath hair & body wash, baby balm, ointment, cream rinse Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, sulfates, PPGs, dye, GMOs, triclosan, formaldehyde donors, BPA, essential oils Why check them out: This line specializes in bath products for children with eczema and sensitive skin. The company donates a portion of profits to children’s charities.
Peach Not Plastic What they offer: shampoo and conditioner bars, facial cleansing bars, deodorant, 2-in-1 shampoo + body bars, hand + body bars Formulated without: parabens, phthalates, SLS, SLES, silicones and artificial colorants Why check them out: Vegan and cruelty-free natural skin care products, made with 100% natural fragrances, packaging features interactive games printed on the inside of cartons for a fun way to reuse
Pipette What they offer: shampoo + body wash, baby oil, baby balm, baby lotion, eczema lotion Formulated without: mineral oil, oxybenzone, sulfates, polyethylene glycol, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, phthalates, talc, retinyl palmitate, synthetic fragrance Why check them out: Pipette’s products feature squalane, a version of squalene that restores skin’s natural balance. This deeply hydrating ingredient is derived from sustainably harvested Brazilian sugarcane.
Pleni Naturals What they offer: hair & body wash, baby balm, baby oil Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances or other harmful chemicals Why check them out: Cute, cartoony packaging shows off the organic fruit and vegetable ingredients in this line of natural skin care products, from apple & broccoli body wash to a berry and olive baby balm.
Puracy What they offer: shampoo & body wash, bubble bath, body lotion Formulated without: harsh chemicals, petroleum, animal-based ingredients Why check them out: The line was created by a team of Ph.D. chemists, using plant- and natural mineral-based ingredients. To save money on your purchases, buy sets of Puracy’s products or sign up for a recurring subscription.
Shea Moisture What they offer: bar soap, ointment, body lotion, shampoo, body wash Formulated without: parabens, mineral oil, formaldehyde, phthalates, DEA, propylene, petroleum Why check them out: The products from this family-owned company are ethically traded, sustainably produced and contain certified organic, natural and fair-trade ingredients.
TriDerma What they offer: cleansing gel, moisturizer, eczema itch and dryness healing cream Formulated without: fragrance, parabens, cortisone, steroids, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, phthalates Why check them out: Founded more than 25 years ago, Triderma’s products are based in a healing aloe vera complex.
VIVAIODAYS What they offer: face & body lotion, balm gel, cleansing water, body wash & shampoo, leave-in conditioner and detangler Formulated without: gluten, animal ingredients, animal-derived ingredients, BPA, dibutyl phthalates, BHA, heavy metals (lead, cadmium), chemical fertilizers and pesticides Why check them out: The ingredients for the products in this line are inspired by centuries-old remedies from around the world, from conditioning tsubaki oil in the leave-in conditioner & detangler (inspired by Japan) to nourishing apricot oil in the face & body lotion (inspired by India). The line is rated COSMOS ORGANIC, the European equivalent of USDA certification. For each product sold, the company funds educational initiatives around the world.
Wash with Water What they offer: shampoo & body wash, body lotion, hair detangling spray, balm, bubble bath, eczema cream, foam cleanser Formulated without: petrochemicals, phthalates, sulfates, GMOs, PPGs, synthetic colors, formaldehyde donors, TEA, DEA, silicones, PEGS, dairy, egg, oat, lactoperoxidase, citrus seed extract, triclosan, synthetic dyes Why check them out: The products in this line are made in small batches, tested by a third-party independent laboratory and packaged in eco-conscious containers.
Weleda What they offer: shampoo & body wash, bar soap, body lotion, face cream, baby oil Formulated without: parabens, chemical preservatives, preservatives, SLS, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, GMOs Why check them out: Founded in 1921, Weleda creates natural skin care products produced using sustainable production processes and environmentally friendly practices. Its baby products feature calendula and mallow, both known for their soothing properties.
Zoe Organics What they offer: baby bath tea, baby oil, body wash, balm, body cream Formulated without: synthetic chemicals, fragrances, dyes, parabens, surfactants, phthalates, GMOs, fillers, gluten Why check them out: The organic line prides itself on combining luxury and wellness with social responsibility.
Zoey Naturals What they offer: body wash, body lotion, body butter, body oil Formulated without: parabens, sulfates, phthalates Why check them out: Created by a skincare pioneer for his baby daughter, this line is free of harsh chemicals, made only with gentle fragrances and made in the USA.
Make sure to capture all pics of your cleaned and creamed little cutie—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Fads come and go, but dinosaurs are here to stay! Kids just can’t get enough of them, and lucky for you, there are plenty of dinosaur attractions from coast to coast. From silly cartoons to serious science, we’ve found over 20 of the best dino-mite places to discover with your little paleontologists including state parks, theme parks,children’s museums, and even a dinosaur-themed restaurant that features its own “Build-A-Dino” center.
Children’s museums are fun regardless of where you go, but the Chicago Children’s Museum gets a lot of praise for its “cool” Dinosaur Expedition. Among other things, it features a recreation of the real Saharah expedition where Chicago paleontologist Paul Sereno discovered a new type of dinosaur. It also features a life-size skeleton of Suchomimus (sue-co-MY-muss), an excavation pit to dig for bones, and an opportunity to learn what it would be like to be part of Paul’s expedition team.
Dino Valley at LEGOLAND California Resort | Carlsbad, CA
This brand-new land just opened at LEGOLAND California Resort and we are super excited! Here you can ride two new rides, the Explorer River Quest and DUPLO® Little Dino Trail, as well as the beloved Coastersaurus dinosaur ride. Build your own dino in the interactive dino build and play area, and meet all the new characters.
Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site | Republic, WA
What’s better than getting to dig for your own fossils? This spot in WA lets fossil diggers of all ages look for and even take home fossils they find while they are there. Just wait until you see their eyes light up when they discover something that’s 50 million years old!
Tate Geological Museum | Casper, WY
Casper, WY is home to this awesome (and free!) museum that the whole family will enjoy. Little paleontologists will be amazed when they spot Dee the Mammoth: Discovered nearby in 2006, Dee is part of the museum’s Pleistocene Exhibit where kids can learn the difference between mammoths, mastodons, and elephants. Little visitors will especially love visiting the Dino Den where they can explore touchable fossil casts, do fossil rubbings, and play with dinosaur toys.
Dinosaur National Monument | Jensen, UT
Welcome to a dino digger’s dream. Over 1,500 prehistoric bones are still encased in the rock at Dinosaur Quarry exhibit hall on the Utah side of Dinosaur National Monument, and visitors can view reconstructed dinosaur fossils—like Allosaurus and a baby Stegosaurus. The quarry gives kids a view of the fossils in their natural state (instead of removed, cleaned, and reassembled), and when you’ve checked out the dino-box there are plenty of other activities (including hiking and kayaking on the Green River) to explore.
Burke Museum | Seattle, WA
Unlike other museums that house their dinosaurs in the basement, the Burke Museum features their dinos proudly on the top floor. Exhibits focus on fossils from Washington state including giant whales, creatures from the ice age, and more. Visitors can get an up-close look at what the researchers are working on every day with large glass windows looking inside their laboratories.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom | Orlando, FL
Most people are familiar with Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which is one of four Disney theme parks in Orlando, but not everyone is aware that the park features an entire land dedicated to Jurassic animals. What DinoLand U.S.A. lacks in science, it makes up for in the form of fun. This “land” is home to the thrill ride, “Dinosaur,” where riders will travel back in time, ride in a Jeep, and attempt to rescue a dinosaur before a meteor strikes. What could go wrong?
DinoLand U.S.A. also features a replica of the T-Rex “Dino-Sue” which is pretty amazing. However, Mom and Dad might be more impressed with the open-air “fossil fun site” known as The Boneyard, a place themed around a dinosaur dig giving the little explorers time to burn off some energy.
Field Station: Dinosaurs | Derby, KS and Leonia, NJ
With two dino-mite locations, the Field Stations take families on tours full of mystery, surprise, and over 40 life-sized realistic (and moving!) dinos. Get up close and personal along the trail and take part in over 30 live shows, games, and activities in the parks. Here you can dig for fossils, learn about a dinosaur’s diet during a live musical show, and play a game of Dinosaur Discovery miniature golf. As they say, “Science had never been this fun, this scary, or this big!”
The Natural History Museum in Los Angeles boasts a 14,000-square-foot Dinosaur Hall to show off their dinos. You need that much space to present the world’s only Tyrannosaurus rex growth series, and you’ll also find a Stegosaurus and the 25-foot tall Triceratops making their debut here, too. The museum is also home to a Dino Lab, where you can see their staff working on real fossils and get your hands on some other ones that are said to be between 66 and 120 million years old! Of course, what will really thrill your kids is the Dinosaur Encounters, where large-scale puppets (think huge) come “alive” to give a better sense of what living with prehistoric creatures would be like.
National Museum of Natural History | Washington DC
The David H. Koch Hall of Fossils–Deep Time allows guests to travel through ancient ecosystems to witness the evolution of life and see firsthand over 700 fossil specimens including early insects, reptiles, mammals, a Tyrannosaurus rex, Diplodocus, and a woolly mammoth. The exhibit shares how the choices humans make today will affect our future (a good lesson for us all).
Arizona Museum of Natural History | Mesa, AZ
Located in the center of Downtown Mesa, the 80,000-square-foot Arizona Museum of Natural History offers plenty to see, learn, and explore for young dino enthusiasts and historians of all ages. Strongly referred to as the “Dinosaur Museum,” here visitors can admire their collection of nearly 60,000 objects, snap a selfie with a T-Rex, pan for gold, and discover so much more. To simulate some of the perilous encounters faced by these ancient beasts, a “flash flood” sends rushing water cascading down a three-story mountain full of life-size animatronic dinosaurs every 23 minutes.
Dinosaur World | Cave City, KY
With more than 150 life-size replica dinosaurs, this outdoor museum is the perfect place for kids to be kids, while they learn about paleontology. What’s more, the museum’s “boneyard” offers them a chance to uncover a life-size stegosaurus buried under the sand. If the weather isn’t cooperating, Dinosaur World has an indoor Prehistoric Museum that features displays of cast and real fossils.
The world-famous roadside attraction may not be the most scientific of spots, but it sure is fun! Climb up Dinny the 150-foot replica Apatosaurus, or take a peek out of Mr. Rex’s mouth. Check out the animatronic dinos in the open-air museum, pan for gold, or spend time in the totally diggable sand pit. Oh, and snapping that iconic pic of the fam, the mountains, and the dinos? A must.
Dinosaur Valley State Park | Glen Rose, TX
Follow the path of a dinosaur battle from millions of years ago. The Paluxy River is home to over 1,500 dinosaur tracks, the newest one being exposed in summer 2023. The extremely popular, and fairly easy hike takes dino hunters along the creek bed, in search of the tracks under the water. One of the most famous trackways ever discovered, a section of it can be seen at the American Museum of Natural History.
Jurassic World Ride | Universal Studios Hollywood, Studio City, CA
Universal Studios Hollywood recently upgraded the Jurassic Park ride into something bigger and better and inspired by the Jurassic World movie franchise. Many of the dinosaurs featured in the original ride have returned with all-new technology. You’ll love entering an immersive land and coming face-to-face with the Indominus rex as she stalks you through the jungle. Get caught in the fray as she’s confronted by her archrival, the Tyrannosaurus rex, in an epic battle for the ages.
The Field Museum of Natural History | Chicago, IL
The Field Museum was already a hot spot for dino fans even before SUE—the most complete T-Rex skeleton ever discovered—arrived in 2000. Evolving Planet takes guests on a journey through four million years on Earth; there are videos, hands-on interactive displays, and an expanded dinosaur hall. SUE, of course, is the highlight and doesn’t disappoint.
Great Plains Dinosaur Museum & Field Station | Malta, MT
The Great Plains Dinosaur Museum may be small, but it’s mighty. Home to Leonardo, the world’s best-preserved dinosaur, it’s also one of the best places for those who want to get dirty, dino-style. Kids ages 5-11 can sign up for the Junior Paleo Field Experience: three hours at a real dinosaur dig with the pros, then back to the lab to process, analyze, and write up their finds. Not to worry— there’s plenty of hands-on stuff for the smaller set, including their own dig pit outside the museum.
The Prehistoric Gardens | Port Orford, OR
If you’re up for a road trip to the Oregon Coast and want a fun pit stop that is more Pee Wee’s Big Adventure than Smithsonian, this place is for you. It’s a campy, cool dinosaur attraction with dinosaur sculptures looming amid a gorgeous, lush Pacific Northwest forest. In short, it’s awesome. While the dinos aren’t real, the ancient Oregon forest is.
What a great idea! The T-Rex Café is part restaurant, part museum but all fun—and very popular. Throughout the restaurant, you’ll find large animatronic dinosaurs (“Honey, we’ll find a table over by the T-Rex…”), exotic plants, aquariums, hands-on educational activities in the Paleo Zone, a Discovery Dig fossil sandpit, the Discovery Creek water mill where kids can pan for precious gems and stones, and “meteor showers” that take place every 20 to 30 minutes. They even have a “Build-a-Dino” by Build-A-Bear Workshop. Parents might want to check out the Octopus Bar (with moving tentacles and jellyfish) too.
Dinosaur State Park | Rocky Hill, CT
200-million-year-old Dilophosaurus tracks—2,000 of ‘em. That’s what, in 1968, was discovered in Rocky Hill, CT. Today, the trackway is a protected National Landmark, and visitors can check out some 500 tracks in the Exhibit Center’s geodesic dome. Little visitors will dig in fossil boxes, investigate rocks and crystals, work on puzzles, read books, or make a Dinosaur Tracks bookmark in the Discovery Room, while nature nuts will love the flora and fauna-filled (only two miles!) trail around the center.
Dinosaur Park | Rapid City, SD
Dinosaur Park in Rapid City has celebrated the state’s paleontological history since its opening in 1936. The public (and free) space boasts life-size concrete dinosaur figures the kids can climb, and the 360-degree view of the Badlands is worth the uphill trek necessary to reach the park. The park is a must-see spot if you are in the area!
Wyoming Dinosaur Center | Thermopolis, WY
There are over 30 mounted skeletons and hundreds of displays and dioramas in the museum, all designed to educate and thrill even the tiniest dino fans. It’s hard to say exactly what the star attraction, “Jimbo” the Supersaurus is, or the real-life dig action that happens from late spring into early fall. Families are encouraged to sign up, and if anyone finds a fossil, it’ll be labeled with their name and displayed at the museum!
Nash Dinosaur Track Site | South Hadley, MA
Billed as the best place in North America to see dino tracks, this Western Mass. wayside dinosaur attraction was started in 1939 by Carlton S. Nash and is still in the family today. Formerly known as Nash Dino Land, think more of a roadside stop than a museum. Though it’s not exactly a state-of-the-art facility, very little has changed in 70+ years, which is part of its indelible charm. Since the 1930s it has produced thousands of dinosaur track impressions, many of which are now housed in museums. The Nash Dinosaur Track Site and Rock Shop will delight all your rock hounds and pint-sized paleontologists.
Who wouldn’t want to meet “Rexy” from the Night at the Museum movies? Not only that, but you’ll also find the 122-foot-long Titanosaur, a Velociraptor, and the Triceratops, among thousands of other super cool specimens. Families with kids ages 5-12 should stop by the Discovery Room, an interactive, behind-the-scenes look at the museum, where visitors can assemble a life-sized cast skeleton of Prestosuchus, handle real fossils, and even unearth an Oviraptor nest in a re-creation of a paleontology field site.
Jurassic Park at the Islands of Adventure | Orlando, FL
“It’s lunchtime and you’re on the menu,” teases the Jurassic Park River Adventure ride. Sure, the water cruise starts innocently enough, but soon, your family will be bumped off course and will float toward the restricted area of Jurassic Park. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the hands-on activity center, where kids can test their DNA to see what kind of dinosaur they would be, answer dino trivia, examine dinosaur eggs, and, if they are lucky, watch a baby velociraptor “hatch.” There’s also Camp Jurassic, a prehistoric playground perfect for families with kids of all ages. You can also let the kids navigate suspension bridges, slides, and Thunder Lizard Trail and even try their hand at the water cannons in the containment paddock.
Additional reporting by Gabby Cullen & Amber Guetebier
If there’s one thing we know to be true, it’s that kids will keep outgrowing their shoes, whether you get out to the store or not. If you’re anything like us, it feels like the very first thing that gets too small is a pair of kiddo’s shoes. How does that happen?! There’s actually a pretty good explanation (thanks, science!). From ages 1-3 years, kids need a new pair of shoes two to three times a year on average. For older kids, ages 3-10, twice a year. Babies’ feet can grow up to half a shoe size every two months until they hit the 15-month marker! Not only are their feet growing in size, but they’re also changing shape rapidly. No wonder we’re always on the hunt for new shoes!
In hopes of making shoe shopping easier, we’ve found some of the best shoes for kids, and all of them can be bought online. These kicks are from our favorite brands and retailers, so you’re sure to find the right pair for your growing little ones. And, if you’re looking for weather-appropriate shoes for kids, check out our favorite water shoes for kids and the best boots for kids.
Toddler Sneakers
Smallbirds Wool Runners
Allbirds
Comfy, machine-washable, and ready-for-anything, these wool runners from Allbirds come in a ton of different colors. They're not itchy at all and they're sustainable, too, so you can feel good all-around when you snag these. Sizes 5T-10T
Whether your kiddo wears them as part of their school uniform, or just throws them on with shorts on the weekend, these little ballet flat sneakers are perfect for active little ones! As a bonus, the neutral color goes with everything. Toddler sizes 7-10 and Youth sizes 3-12
As part of Stride Rite's Project Fit Right line, these sneakers are APMA approved, have Ortholite® memory foam footbeds, are machine washable and are easy for them to put on and take off. Little Kids sizes 5-10, Big Kids sizes 10.5-6
Ten Little’s vegan shoes were designed in collaboration with world-class physicians, in hopes of creating a product that supports natural development and movement (think flat, flexible soles). Each pair also comes with fun stickers, so kids can have shoes that are unique to their style and personality. Little Kids sizes 4-13
Plae shoes are designed with the super active kid in mind. The TY is a knit design with velcro straps that makes for a super-light sneaker, which means your kid can run, jump and swing without missing a beat. It's offered in two fun color combos: Amped Aqua and Hyper Blue. Each pair is washable with removable insoles, and every pair comes with the option to sign up for a Growth Spurt Guarantee®. Little Kids sizes 5-13.5, Big Kids sizes 1-4.5
This shoe from Saucony was designed with features that specifically support growing feet. They are made from a machine-washable material, memory foam footbed for added comfort, increased flex grooves for added flexibility and have been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. Available in lots of different color options! Toddler Sizes 4-10 (Regular, Wide, and Extra Wide)
These sweet high-tops are part of the collection from Billy Footwear, shoes that are designed for kids including kids with autism and sensory issues. They're like Converse and VANS having a perfect shoe baby, and they are easy on and easy off, with side zips. Created by Billy Price, who himself is paralyzed, and wanted to invent a shoe that any kid could rock. Toddler Sizes 5-10, Little Kid Sizes 11-3, Big Kid sizes 4-7, Medium and Wide widths.
We love KEEN for their durable and colorful shoes that will last even the most rough-and-tumble playtimes. Pictured here is their best-selling toddler Chandler Shoe, available in multiple colors. Toddler sizes 4-10, Little Kid sizes 8-13, Big Kid sizes 3-7.
ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with On/Off Squeaker Switch
ikiki
Choose from 26 adorable different animal shoes that come with names like Sascha Narwhalski (the narwhal) to Leo Longfire (the dragon). Each pair of shoes comes with ankle support for new walkers, and the squeaker, which is located in the heel, is an orthopedic aid for kids who are prone to toe walking. The best part? You can turn the squeaker off if the sound isn't appealing. Toddler sizes 2-9, Little Kid sizes 10-13
Air cushioning makes these Nikes so light (perfect for little feet) and the grooved bottoms create extra stability. They come in 12 colors. Baby and Toddler sizes 2-10.
If your kiddos have feet that are on the wider side, New Balance sneakers are a huge hit. They're incredibly comfortable, come in so many colors and prints, and are rated super high. Our Managing Editor raves about them for her kids, too!
Glitter and twinkly lights? These cuties have everything your sparkly kiddos could possibly want. Plus, new VIP members get all shoes for $5, and free shipping on orders $10+.
Function meets style with any Kizik shoe. It's the first sneaker that is basically hands-free! All kids need to do is step on it as their putting their food in, then the heel pops down, you foot goes in and the heels is back in action and ready for the day. We love that Kizik's use no-tie stretch laces, have easy match left and right icons so your kids put the right shoe on the right foot, and are made with breathable materials.
Canvas sneakers are a closet must-have, especially for little ones. They're easy and lightweight, and these slip-ons from Blowfish Malibu Kids come in a bunch of different colors and prints.
Nike Air Zoom Crossover Basketball Shoe Big Kid at Famous Footwear
Famous Footwear
Kiddos love color and these Nikes are perfect for everything from the classroom to the court. They're lightweight, roomy, and offer ankle support, too.
The Kids Ace from Palladium is the mini me version of the adult Palla Ace, so you can match (if you're into that). They have a cool-kid vibe that's the definition of street style, plus the straps make them adjustable for maximum comfort and easy for kiddos who are just learning to put on their own shoes.
This gender-neutral slip-on sneaker from Rothy's, your favorite sustainable shoe company, has been tested out by active, busy kids. The sneakers are washable and offered in 10 different colors and prints inspired by the bright colors of the 1970s. Like all Rothy’s shoes, the sneaker has an athletic outsole, and the stretchy knit is made out of recycled water bottles.
The newest spring styles from Toms don't disappoint. We especially love this Alp Platform Slip-On that's easy-on, easy-off. The canvas textile holds up to rough playground play and its cushy insole means your kiddo's feet will stay comfy as she jumps, runs, and climbs.
If you have a kid who hates getting their socks wet, Vessi has you covered. These 100% waterproof shoes are totally comfortable and totally cute as well so we love them for the playground. They're breathable, easy-off, and machine washable, too.
Sperry Little Kid's Spinnaker Washable Junior Sneaker
Sperry
Offered in three colors, the washable Spinnaker sneaker has velcro straps, memory foam footbeds, and non-marking rubber outsole with grip and traction that are perfect for climbing and running, whether it's during recess or after school.
This all-terrain sneaker from Merrell comes in several different color combos, is machine washable and has an easily managed hook-and-loop closure for young kids.
There's nothing like a basic sneaker to get your kid off on the right foot. This one from Under Armor has over 15 different colors, has durable leather overlays that lock in your midfoot to help with stability and an EVA-liner that provides step-in comfort.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.