Your budding chef wants nothing more than to play all day in the kitchen. While you’ve already nixed the notion of stove-side play, your kiddo is still all-in for creative cooking fun. Here’s where KidKraft’s new Foody Friends line comes in to play!
KidKraft will debut two all-new kitchen-themed activity centers this coming August. With imaginative animal themes, bright colors, and plenty of gadgets to explore, these must-have picks are the perfect addition to your child’s pretend play area.
The KidKraft Foody Friends Cooking Elephant Activity Center ($99.99) features a water spout trunk, a pop-o-matic popcorn pan, color change eggs, a fridge door maze, and so much more! The 360-degree play center is two-feet tall and includes 18 awesome accessories.
Along with the Cooking Elephant Activity Center, KidKraft is also debuting the Deluxe Baking Fun Puppy Activity Center next summer (also $99.99). Like the elephant-themed kitchen center, the puppy-inspired baking center also features 360-play, 18 accessories, and is two-feet tall. This center gives kiddos the chance to cut out cookies, roll dough, stack cake tiers, and “bake” cookies in the oven.
Both kitchen-themed play centers are made for children ages two and up. The sets will be available for purchase this coming August.
Schools back in session and it’s time to hit the books! Do it right at one of our favorite kid-friendly independent bookstores in NYC where the littles ones (and their parents!) can stock up, hang out, or spend a cozy rainy afternoon. Whether it’s for the awesome selection in the stacks or the popping children’s events, these NYC bookstores are the place to be for budding bibliophiles! Find the NYC kids bookstore for your family below!
Are you looking for that one children's book from your own childhood that you sort of know the color of the cover for but not much else? This bookstore can help you find it. The staff here are touted by visitors as being extremely knowledgeable and helpful for finding any children's book you need.
Bank Street Bookstore is specifically intended for kids. On the shelves, you'll find many classics and popular books of today, but you may also snag a locally written or indie gem you might not find elsewhere. On most Saturdays, you can come in and listen to a children's author read their own books for storytime, and lead the young audience in a themed activity.
This quaint independent bookshop in Cobble Hill is a sanctuary for book lovers young and old. Along with a vast selection of children's books, the shop has a little nook for relaxing with a book as well as many chances to hear your favorite authors reading their books at storytime. Books are carefully selected and displayed in a way that encourages kids to pick up a tome they might not otherwise even see (like a cookbook). Its calm and quiet vibes make this a, well, magical place to stop by and find your new favorite book. Plus, the store is open every day!
Book Culture has four stores in New York City—three on the Upper West Side, and one in Long Island city, Queens. (The Queens location's entire bottom floor is dedicated to kids books, games and toys.) The bookstore offers a robust schedule of programming at its shops; examples include musical storytimes, Mozart for Munchkins, TocToc Spanish Class, music with Hopalong Andrew, and storytimes in English, German and Spanish. The store is also a great place to pick up fun and funky gift items. Book Culture is raising money to get them over a financial hump and keep its doors open, with the goal of profitability in 2020. They deserve your support!
26-09 Jackson Ave. 718-440-3120 Long Island City Online: bookculture.com
Books of Wonder proudly declares itself to be NYC's largest independent bookstore and the city's "leading specialist in children's literature," and the stacks are, well, stacked with tons of children's literature. Besides having a large and well-kept children's books section, this bookstore is a hotspot for family-friendly events, author readings, launch parties, and more. Especially worth noting are the regularly held panels, for various ages and covering many different topics, which feature groups of authors talking about their work and taking questions from the audience — a potentially excellent inspiration for kids who are showing an interest in writing or illustrating their own works of art.
This little Upper East Side French bookstore for kids just oozes charm. (Customers report feeling transported to Paris when they step inside.) Head here for classics and new titles for kids in French, as well as games. The store hosts Petites Histoires, a thematic reading program in which kids learn French through stories, songs, crafts and play. Additionally French marionette shows will be coming to the store soon. (Adults can learn French here, too!) You can read our full feature from when they opened, here!
The Greenlight Bookstore has everything you'd expect from a great bookstore: Excellent selection (though listed at jacket prices — no savings to be found here), regularly scheduled staff and author storytimes, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. In addition to all that, though, Greenlight has a few special offerings to make it stand out among the rest.
Children ages 9-12 are welcome to join the Greenlight Young Readers Book Group with or without their parents, which meets once a month to discuss the book of the month (which is always on sale at 15% off), eat pizza, and make literary friends. Additionally, Greenlight is a partner of BAM, which means that in addition to 15% off for BAM members, you can also snag some BAM merch through Greenlight's kiosks on-site at the Academy. It also means that the bookstore often hosts events in collaboration with BAM, like author talks and music-infused book readings, on stage. Keep an eye on the events page for kid-friendly BAM performances!
From the same minds behind the home to book happenings in DUMBO, The Powerhouse Arena, Powerhouse on 8th is a cozy store that curates not only an excellent collection on titles for kids and young readers, but an event calendar as well. Storytimes and author appearances are common; you can check out what's coming up here.
You might already love this bookstore — now you can give your children a reason to love it, too. The large bookstore stocks an eclectic selection of books, many of which can be purchased at a discounted price. Visit the space for Family Hour, which includes storytime and readings for kids on Saturdays and some Sundays. You can also find plenty of old and new children's books here, as well as perfect gifts for book lovers like plushies and quirky toys themed around reading and learning.
828 Broadway at 12th St. Greenwich Village 212-473-1452 Online: strandbooks.com
This charming bookstore in the heart of Astoria is a welcoming place for families to browse and relax together. It hosts Thursday storytimes (you can even volunteer to read for storytime, if you want!), as well as unique events like chess lessons for 3-year-olds and a young adult reading book club (which offers 10% off on the month's book).
Many of its other events not specifically created for children are still welcoming to the whole family. Get the whole family in on the 2019 reading BINGO challenge!
Used books, events, and whimsy abound in this Staten Island location. This bookstore also sells coffee, chocolate, as well as records and DVDs, and hosts art and performances in its indoor and outdoor patio space. The space is small and selection is limited but the whole family can enjoy a trip to sip a hot beverage and browse the used books as live music plays.
208 Bay St. Staten Island 718-447-8256 Online: etgstores.com
Ho – Ho – Ho! Kringle Mingle is keeping the traditional Santa Claus visits alive this year through a new virtual experience straight from the North Pole. Families can enjoy time with Santa Claus virtually through different packages — ranging from festive photo uploads and receiving pre-recorded messages to interactive video calls with Santa and Christmas Eve Prep Packs with themed keepsakes and activities that will arrive at your doorstep.
“With our new virtual experience, one of the best Christmas traditions for kiddos won’t be cancelled this year,” said Caroline Connelly, Co-Owner, Clocktower Experiences. “Not only do our virtual visits offer longer one-on-one time with Santa, they are also a unique opportunity for long-distance relatives to join in on the experience with little ones, no matter where they are.”
From Nov. 27 to Dec. 22 families can schedule a time to visit Santa Claus virtually on kringleminglefun.com. Five different offerings, at five different price points, will be offered. These include:
The Kringle Pic (virtual photo booth): For only $2.99, snap a photo or upload your own photo of your child or family, and choose from a variety of holiday-themed photo overlays or GIFs. Your photos will be downloadable for sharing on social media and to print.
The Kringle Message (personalized video message from Santa): For $24.99, families can upgrade their experience with a personalized, pre-recorded video message from Santa; no scheduling necessary during the busy holiday season! This package also includes access to The Kringle Pic virtual photo booth with a downloadable photo, and a printable official “Nice List” certificate.
The Kringle Mingle (interactive video call with Santa): For $29.99, families can chat with Santa, share wish lists and more through a 5-minute interactive video call. Families will have access to The Kringle Pic virtual photo booth and receive a downloadable photo, a commemorative screenshot of the video call with Santa and a printable official “Nice List” certificate.
Christmas Eve Prep Pack: Set the scene for Christmas Eve with this package! At $64.99, families can receive a Christmas-themed activity pack via mail, which includes a festive cookie plate, milk jug, Santa notepad and a children’s Christmas Paint By Sticker book (this option does not include a virtual visit or photo with Santa).
Commemorative Holiday 2020 Ornament: Trim the tree with an ornament depicting Santa on his video calls for $9.99
Sessions are expected to fill up and can be pre-booked now.
Corporations can also reserve time with Santa for their employees and their families. With the North Pole visits being virtual, long-distance relatives and friends can join in on the experience, too. For these full-day reservations, please contact info@kringleminglefun.com.
Radical! Today, American Girl announced the launch of its first historical character in three years, Courtney Moore. She is a total ‘80s girl whose big, bright and bold ideas inspire today’s girls to find their inner hero to accomplish great things.
Growing up in 1986, Courtney’s story reflects the pop culture of the decade from sky-high hair, neon-colored fashions, music television and video gaming to major historical moments surrounding women in government and space exploration, as well as larger cultural shifts around blended families and emerging technology.
Courtney comes to life via an 18-inch doll with curly sandy-blonde hair that can be worn in a high side pony with scrunchie, plus accessories like a pretend cassette player and tape, colorful bangle bracelets, and pretend Lip Smacker lip balm. The Courtney doll arrives wearing a high-waisted denim skirt, a bright blue off the shoulder crop top, plus white faux-leather slouchy boots. Girls can add tons of new looks with Courtney’s 13-piece mix-and-match ‘80s fashion collection and spend hours playing with Courtney’s Bedroom Set with over 25 pieces—including a hot pink bunk bed, two rainbow comforters and pillows, and a see-through phone that lights up and rings.
Courtney’s world also includes several licensed products of ‘80s classics—including Courtney’s Caboodles and Hair Accessories Kit with a real mini Caboodle, plus Courtney’s Care Bears Pajamas for both girls and dolls and Courtney’s Care Bears Sleeping Bag Set. Fans can also level up with Courtney’s doll-sized PAC-MAN Arcade Game that plays like the real thing with multiple levels.
Any 80s girl can tell you how obsessed they were when American Girl launched in 1986. Courtney is no different. She has her own mini American Girl Molly doll, one of the first three historical characters released by the then newly-founded Pleasant Company. Molly comes in a replica of a Pleasant Company doll box, a mini version of the original Meet Molly book, and even a mini 1980s Pleasant Company catalog.
“The ‘80s are back, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this pop culture-defining decade with girls and their parents through Courtney,” says Jamie Cygielman, General Manager of American Girl. “For nearly 35 years, American Girl’s historical characters have helped to bridge the past and present, while providing inspiring role models through immersive storytelling and imaginative play. Likewise, Courtney’s story illustrates how to create positive change by standing up to fear, finding strength in every challenge, and developing empathy for others—qualities that are timeless and more important than ever. And to further our mission to help build girls of strong character and confidence, we’re partnering with Girls Who Code to help change the game when it comes to influencing female leadership in the fields of computer science and technology.”
Written by Kellen Hertz, the two-book series introduces girls to Courtney Moore, an avid gamer growing up with her blended family in the fictional town of Orange Valley, CA. Courtney loves going to the mall, especially the arcade, where she’s one of the top-scoring PAC-MAN players. But Courtney doesn’t only play video games, she’d like to create them and bring more girl characters to the forefront. When given a chance to create her own video game, Courtney looks to real-life heroes—like her mom, who’s running for mayor, as well as the astronauts on the Space Shuttle Challenger—as inspiration to invent a female superhero who’s bold, brave, and gives Courtney the courage to speak up for the people and ideas she believes in.
American Girl is partnering with Girls Who Code, a leading nonprofit that’s on a mission to close the gender gap in technology and change the image of what a computer programmer looks like and does. From now through Dec. 31, 2020, American Girl is matching customer donations dollar for dollar up to a maximum of $50,000 to support the organization’s programming and outreach to girls, including those from historically underrepresented minority groups. In addition, American Girl is providing a $5,000 scholarship to four deserving Girls Who Code members to help further their education in computer science or a related field. To learn more about how American Girl is helping Girls Who Code, visit americangirl.com/gwc.
“Girls are constantly online, using apps, playing games and more, that’s why it’s so important that they also see themselves on the other side of those products, actually building them,” says Reshma Saujani, CEO of Girls Who Code. “It’s our goal to show girls the power of learning this skill set so that they can code the future they want to live in and, ultimately, change the world.”
Other Courtney-themed activities and events include the following:
A 25-minute stop-motion “Meet Courtney: An American Girl Movie;” a new Courtney ‘80s-inspired music video; new Dolled Up episodes—featuring all the big hair fun Courtney and friends can handle; plus rad ‘80s DIY crafts on the brand’s popular YouTube and YouTube Kids Channel.
Visitors to American Girl retail stores on September 25 will receive a free Courtney craft and giveaway. And in early October, fans can “relax to the max” in an all-new ‘80s-themed immersive experience at American Girl Place-New York, featuring a Courtney-inspired bedroom with bunk beds and a revolving closet that mixes-and-matches her outfits, plus an ‘80s arcade with two real PAC-MAN video games to play.
A dedicated Courtney play site, goes live on Oct. 1, and includes free games and activities, like Courtney’s Mall Madness interactive experience; an ‘80s-inspired dance challenge tutorial; Courtney wallpapers and much more.
The Courtney collection is available Sept. 15, 2020, at americangirl.com, and starting Sept. 25, 2020, at all American Girl retail locations nationwide. Courtney products will be available on Oct. 1, 2020, at American Girl specialty boutiques at select Indigo and Chapters locations in Canada and online at Indigo.ca. The Courtney doll and book retails for $110 and the Courtney books ($7.99 each) can also be purchased through retail and online booksellers.
Editor’s note: We’re making every effort to provide you with the most up-to-date information. However, sometimes closures occur at the last minute due to circumstances beyond our control, such as the spread of Covid-19. We highly recommend that you call ahead before you pack your kids pack your kids (and all those snacks, and diapers…) and haul them across town. Stay safe!
Spring break is on the horizon! There are tons of things to do with kids in Dallas during spring break and we’ve got a bunch of our favorites here. Head to the movies, make it a scavenger hunt day, walk through the tulips and more—find your DFW adventure below!
Let's Roam
1. Explore the biggest and boldest landmarks around Downtown Dallas and race against the clock with a family scavenger hunt.
5. All aboard the Forest Park Miniature Railway! Throughout its five-mile journey, the train travels under the highway and proceeds into the tranquil Trinity Park.
6. Head to Geppetto's Theater for a marionette performance of Happily Ever After. This one-hour show is great for little ones!
10. Have you see the Apollo 11 exhibit at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History yet? It's here through March 22 so check it out now!
11. Any day is a good day to visit the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame where you can learn about women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience and independence that helped shape the American West.
12. Spring break is a great time to visit your local library for story time or crafts!
13. Kids will love cheering on your local sports team at the American Airlines Center when the Dallas Stars are in town.
14. Have a PAW Patrol fanatic in your posse? You are in luck as they are in town!
Kids are spending more time on screens. The LEGO Group wants to help keep them safe online.Their new initiative Small Builds for Big Conversations offers a series of creative challenges for families to engage in conversations about being a good digital citizen and the importance of online safety.
According to Kaspersky, parents spend just 46 minutes talking to their children about online risks throughout their entire childhood as they find it difficult to express the risks in a relatable way. Small Builds for Big Conversations has been created to address such barriers by giving parents simple, fun ways to talk to children aged six to 10 about digital safety and wellbeing while they play.
The ‘Build & Talk’ challenges are based around characters built from LEGO bricks, who represent both the positive and negative aspects of life online. Parents and children are encouraged to build similar characters with LEGO bricks they have at home and use play and conversation prompts to talk about digital wellbeing, safety and potential dangers.
Anna Rafferty, Vice President Digital Consumer Engagement, said: “As a parent I know it’s not always easy to talk to your children about being a good digital citizen in a way they understand, as they are often influenced by peer pressure and exciting digital experiences. We have a long history of creating safe digital play experiences for kids, so we wanted to give parents the confidence to connect with their children on this important topic.
“We understand the power of learning through play, which is why we’ve made the conversations playful. LEGO bricks are great for sparking imagination and storytelling, so building characters while talking will make the experience more memorable and enjoyable for parents and kids. Today’s young children will live their lives online and many have their first digital experience before their first birthday. Being a good digital citizen is critical for their development.”
The builds are available in three themed activity packs that include two character categories: ‘The Online Explorers,’ like ‘The Giggler’ who loves to watch and make online videos, and The ‘Watch-Outs,’ like ‘The Chameleon’ who represents strangers that pretend to be friends. Each activity pack includes inspiration on how to build the characters, as well as talking points and questions to help guide the conversation between parents and their children, helping them have a natural conversation, that leads to learning while they play. The content has been developed in line with UNICEF digital safety guidelines.
“Spending time with parents and talking openly about experiences on the internet is key to keeping children safe and happy online,” said Andrew Mawson, Chief of Child Rights and Business at UNICEF. “We welcome this timely initiative by the LEGO Group to facilitate these conversations through play.”
Building inspirations for all of the characters are available on www.LEGO.com. Each takes around 10 minutes to construct using existing bricks, and their physical features reflect the different aspects of being online.
While Denver kids are home from school, you can still tour lots of your favorite museums, visit the animals at the zoo and check out the local art scene. We’ve got a bunch of our favorite Denver virtual events for kids below and you can head over to our massive virtual events calendar for more. We’re here for you, parents!
Virtual Safari with the Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo may be closed, but animal care staff is still providing vital care for nearly 3,000 animal residents. They're here to keep you informed, entertained and engaged with daily videos, wildlife-themed activity ideas and much more!
Join the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver Instagram community for daily inspiration. Practice gratitude, tap into your creativity, learn, laugh and more.
The Colorado Symphony will be sharing videos from their incredible musicians as they #PlayOn during this difficult time. They'll showcase projects they've been working on and what they're up to while they strive to keep the community safe and healthy. Hopefully these videos give you a moment of peace, a brief distraction from the grind, or just a small smile as you go about your day.
Dig into Nature at Home with the Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens
While Denver Botanic Gardens may be temporarily closed, there are still plenty of ways to engage your family in fun and educational activities. Go on a scavenger hunt, play garden BINGO, study seeds and more.
Denver public art staff and their families suggested their favorite local works of art. You can also find some coloring pages to go along with your art tour.
For more virtual fun every day of the week, head to our virtual events calendar. You'll find dance classes, scavenger hunts, animal encounters, drawing classes and MORE!
Did you know International Unicorn Day falls on Apr. 9th each year? If you have a unicorn lover at home, what better way to celebrate their favorite mythical creatures than by hearing stories about them. Whether you have books at home or are looking for a virtual event to attend, we have you covered.
The Unicorn Quest author Kamilla Benko, is hosting a virtual party for families staying home to enjoy fun and educational unicorn-themed activities, as well as connect with their favorite unicorn authors and illustrators through live readings and demonstrations.
Bloomsbury Children’s Books
International Unicorn Day is live with a full schedule of readings on Thursday from 17 authors and illustrators, including several bestsellers! The program includes a couple of exclusive reveals of upcoming May books and ends with a bedtime story from Adam Wallace as he reads his #1 New York Times bestselling picture book How to Catch a Unicorn.
Also, check out this list of magical picture books and middle grade novels:
Uni the Unicorn by Amy Krouse Rosenthal; illustrated by Brigette Barrager
Random House Children’s Books
In this clever twist on the age-old belief that there’s no such thing as unicorns, Uni the unicorn is told there’s no such thing as little girls! No matter what the grown-up unicorns say, Uni believes that little girls are real.
Pacy Packer Unicorn Tracker by J.C. Phillips
Random House Children’s Books
Pacey’s little sister Mina believes that unicorns exist. When Mina’s stuffed unicorn leads her to a mystical unicorn land, Pacey tracks them down.
I Love my Llamacorn by Danielle McLean
Random House Children’s Books
The cutest half-unicorn half-llama you can possibly imagine comes to life in this rainbow-colored confection of a board book!
My Magical Mermicorn by Danielle McLean
Random House Children’s Books
It’s a mermaid! It’s a unicorn! No, it’s a Mermicorn!
Unicorn Academy: Layla and Dancer by Julie Sykes
Random House Children’s Books
Imagine a school where you meet your own unicorn and have amazing adventures together! That’s what happens for the girls at Unicorn Academy on beautiful Unicorn Island.
Unicorn Academy: Olivia and Snowflake by Julie Sykes
Olivia hopes her sweet unicorn, Snowflake, will discover her magic before graduation day!
Unicorn Academy: Ariana and Whisper by Julie Sykes
Random House Children’s Books
Ariana loves her unicorn, Whisper, but hopes that their differences don’t get in the way of their bond.
Truth: Big time memories that stick around for a lifetime are made when littles spend time in the kitchen. Kids love getting in there and learning the tricks of the trade — it’s like one big science experiment for them. Why not arm them with skills that’ll take their helper skills to the next level during this quality family time? Read on for our picks for classes that help kids build confidence and learn to just roll with it in the kitchen.
photo: The Kids’ Table
The Kids’ Table
Parents can sign kids up for weekly classes, each exploring new tastes and techniques that involve the season’s favorite ingredients. From the Babies Can Cook series starting at 18 months to the Teens Can Cook programming that takes them to age 14, kids will start with gaining an appreciation for good food by first smelling, touching and tasting as babies and walk out as pre-adults who have the confidence to work independently in the kitchen.
The whole gang can get in on the meal-time action with Family Dinners. Your crew will have hands-fun learning a new recipe and sitting down to enjoy a delicious and meal created together.
Good to know: Everyone deserves a night out every once in a while, especially the munchkins! Kids Nite Out gives parents a little free time in the no-kid zone while the instructors at The Kids’ Table help your little ones make dinner and enjoy a post-food-coma activity like food-themed crafts, games or a movie. Kids have a day off school? Sign them up for a Day-Off Camp and they’ll stay busy cooking, eating and playing from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
2337 W. North Ave., Wicker Park & 2864 N. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview. Online: kids-table.com
photo: Oui Chef
Oui Chef Chicago
Oui Chef’s owner, Laura Ragano, got her start teaching Pastry Chef wannabes at The French Pastry School in Chicago. She figured out a way to marry her professional life with her parenting life by creating a business that focuses on arming kids, ages 18 months to 18 years, with real culinary skills. Classes are broken into 2 groupings, one for 18 mos.-4 years and the other for ages 5 & up. The classes for the littlest chefs focus on teaching adults helpful methods to get kids interested in cooking time and teaching students about food and food preparation. Older kids participate in a 75-minute weekly class with a core topic that rotates every 10-15 weeks. For example, in the Tools of the Trade series, a specific tool will be demonstrated and a delicious recipe will be prepared. The goal is to teach proper use of kitchen equipment that will result in a better final product and a safer cooking environment . . . skills they can take into adulthood.
For those who can’t make recurring classes work in their schedule, there are one-off opportunities for ages 2-5 on Wednesdays (10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m.). These one-hour classes explore various culinary preparations and skills that span from the sweet to the savory.
Good to know: Kids ages 5 and under participating in a class must be accompanied by an adult. Although they can’t guarantee that the ingredients used are prepared in nut-free facilities, Oui Chef is a nut-free environment and their core curriculum is also meat-free to ensure they are as inclusive as possible.
photo: Sur la Table, credit Josh Grenier via Flickr
Sur la Table
While Sur la Table definitely focuses on classes for the grownups, they give kids a fair shake at opportunities to wash-up and dig into the culinary scene.
Good to know: Whenever a big holiday rolls around, be sure to check their online calendar for classes. They’re almost always hosting something special for the kids that coordinates with the day, like cupcake making or gingerbread building.
Locations in Naperville, Old Orchard Mall, Northbrook Court & 900 N. Michigan. Online:surlatable.com
Chopping Block Class details: This is another one that caters to the adults, but sneaks in a class or two for the littles every now and again. Surrounding holidays they offer themed activities, as well as summer camps to combat boredom. Be sure to check their calendar for opportunities.
Good to know: Looking for a unique birthday party idea? Search no more! The Chopping Block will host your 2- to 2.5-hour gig for kids ages 6 to 16. During that block of time, your group will make a meal together while learning about ingredients, kitchen safety and organization.
The Merchandise Mart Plaza, Ste. 107, River North & 4747 N. Lincoln, Lincoln Square. Online: thechoppingblock.com
Parents, remember the joy of sleeping over? When nobody actually slept…but that wasn’t the point, was it? When it comes to one-of-a-kind overnight stays for your kid’s next birthday bash or a different type of family vacation, we’ve got you covered. From sleeping alongside sharks, to sleeping in a navy ship above them, read on to discover nine of the best places in the Northwest for a unique overnight stay.
Zoo Snooze
Oona Copperhill/Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
A wild night awaits you at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium where you can experience what few others get to—the secret world that goes on there when it get dark! It’s where sleeping with the fishes is a good thing. Group Snoozes, for large groups of a dozen or more participants, is one option to consider (plan about a year ahead if you're eyeing this one). However, we recommend signing up for one of three Family Snoozes, designed specifically for parents and kids. The Pacific Seas Snooze (Apr. 17 & 18) lets families sleep with hammerhead sharks, spotted eagle rays and green sea turtles in the new Pacific Seas Aquarium. At the Rocky ‘Snores’ Snooze (Sept. 4 & 5) families set up camp in front of the windows that look into the sea otter, seal and sea lion and walrus pools. Finally, Boo Snooze (Oct. 23 & 24) is a local Halloween fave. Enjoy spooky snacks, animal encounters and other Halloween-themed activities.
Good to know: Zoo members save $10. Snoozes fill up fast and have a maximum of 20-40 participants.
Times: 7 p.m. Fri.-9:30 a.m. Sat. Ages: 5 & up Cost: $80/adult & child pair; $30/ea. additional family member
5400 N. Pearl St. Tacoma, WA 98407 253-404-3800 Online: pdza.org
Overnight at the Museum: Superheroes!
The White River Valley Museum
The White River Valley Museum is a fun and inexpensive place to learn and be entertained any time of the year with city replicas of downtown Auburn from the 1920’s, and special exhibits like the History Kids Clubhouse. They offer overnight events from time to time that feature adventures with scavenger hunts, crafts, games and more. The next one is focused on superheroes where your little Clark Kents and Diana Princes can become Superman and Wonder Woman for a night, so to speak. Be sure to check their website for other upcoming events.
Have you every visited a U.S. Naval ship and wondered what it would be like to live on one? The Bremerton Historic Ships Association provides overnight stays on the USS Turner Joy where you can imagine being stationed on the bridge during combat, experience eating meals in the crew’s galley, and sleeping in the crew’s quarters all while being considered shipmates. While on board, you’ll tour the ship, learn the evacuation orientation, have your living quarters inspected by the staff, experience "Taps" before turning in for the night and more.
Times: 5 p.m. Fri.–9:30 a.m. Sat. Ages: 8 & up Cost: $650 for up to 10 crew members
300 Washington Beach Ave. Bremerton, WA 98377 360-792-2457 Online: ussturnerjoy.org
Wolf Haven International is what it sounds like–a sanctuary for wolves--and Midsummer’s Night is their most popular summer event. It's an opportunity for you and about 18 other guests to get up close and personal with the wolves and experience the sanctuary at night in a truly intimate setting. It's also a chance to camp with your kids, hear fascinating stories and wander native prairie lands, lit only by the moon. Dinner and a continental breakfast are included with the sleepover package, as is a morning sanctuary visit before you pack up to leave. Although 2020 dates aren't set yet, they sell out fast, so watch the website if this is one you and the kids can't wait to try.
Dates: Summer TBD Ages: 4 & up Cost: $100/adults; $90/kids 4 & up
3111 Offut Lake Rd S.E. Tenino, WA 98589 360-264-465 Online: wolfhaven.org
They say that every building at Fort Worden has a story and they are not kidding. Every building on the former Army Corps base is at least 100 years old. Located right on the beach of Puget Sound, Fort Worden is rich in history and a great option for the family's next getaway. The 439-acre property features a variety of cottages and officers quarters to stay in, as well as a museum, a huge grassy play area, gift shops and three restaurants (one is located in a former jail!). You can even stay in former officer’s quarters. Of course, you can spend hours just roaming around the old abandoned military forts, too. The possibilities here are endless.
Cost: $143-$399/night
210 Battery Way Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-344-4400 Online: fortworden.org
And now for something completely different. Described by some as the “base camp for your Mountain Loop adventure,” the Paca Pride Guest Ranch features rustic yurt camping (think “round tent”), a log cabin guest room and tent camping–with a side of alpacas! Your kids will love staying in a round room, and you’ll enjoy the furnished queen-sized bed with fresh linens. Staying in the log cabin is a step up. Not only does it have a bathroom in-house, but it's got a Mount Pilchuck view that can't be beat. Nearby activities include hiking trails, old railroad tunnels, ice caves and more. Open all year. Call or email info@pacapride.com for current rates.
28311 Mountain Loop Hwy. Granite Falls, WA 98252 360-691-3395 Online: pacaprideguestranch.com
Grab your bestie family friends and book a stay at The Gate Keeper's Castle, Troll Haven's magestic centerpiece. It's one your family will never forget. This huge 4,000-sq.-ft. medieval fortress, with its own private beach, is pure fantasy, with rooms that look like they came from a movie set. It features five full-size bedrooms, a full restaurant-style kitchen, a spiral staircase, stained glass windows and antique décor that brings the experience to life. The owners say it’s a, “dream getaway for anybody seeking a refuge from the mundane," and we have to agree. The house sleeps 10, and if you've got a larger group, onsite camping is allowed, too.
950 Gardiner Beach Rd. Sequim, WA 98382 360-808-4717 Online: trollhaven.org
The Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight
You are now free to move about the cabin...imagine having The Museum of Flight all to yourself. Okay, maybe you and a few friends. Their sleepover program is everything aspiring pilots and astronauts need to learn while having fun. Each package includes a personalized after-hours tour of the museum galleries and a rocket-building activity that bring STEM concepts to life. Add to that a choice of a 1-hour Flying Gizmo Show, a 1-hour Planetarium show or an interactive space or flight program and you've got the right stuff to make this the most memorable sleepover ever. So grab your group and make a flight plan now.
Good to know: Guests earn a free adult admission when they make a program reservation.
Dates: Thurs., Fri. or Sat. nights (plus the following morning) Times: 6 p.m.–9 a.m. Ages: 5 & up Cost: $60/youth, 5 & up; $25/adult for groups of 19 or fewer people. Add $5/child for groups of 20 or more.
9404 E. Marginal Way S. Seattle, WA 98108 206-764-1384 Online: museumofflight.org
This YMCA Family Camp provides a unique getaway where all you have to do is pack and show up. The hard-working staff takes care of everything else. They provide activities and meals so families can focus on growing closer through fun challenges and team building activities. And did we mention the cabins situated along a forested inlet on the South Sound? They're cozy, comfy and have some great views. Throughout the weekend, families can try their hand at rock climbing, archery and canoeing. They can also stop in at the science center or get messy at the arts & crafts table. The best part? Family Camp is open to all families and caregivers, so bring on your aunts, uncles and others. Choose from three different Family Camp weekends in 2020. Spend Mother's Day (May 9-10) having a blast at camp, or make this your family Memorial Day Weekend adventure (May 22-25). Labor Day (Sept. 4-7) is another option for the upcoming season.
Ages: 4 & up Cost: $149/adults; $129/kids, 4-12; Add $50/adults and $10/kid on Labor Day Weekend.
