We’ve gathered all the Seattle Christmas events in one spot so your fam can get into the holiday spirit with ease
After a couple of quiet years, Seattle is buzzing again this holiday season with returning and new favorite holiday events to explore. In fact, with so many things to do in downtown Seattle, you and the kids don’t need to go anywhere else to find (or spread) winter cheer. Our list (don’t worry, we checked it twice) includes everything from Santa sightings and steamy cups of hot cocoa paired with carolers to festive music, dancing nutcrackers, and a lot more. So get out your calendar, it’s time to schedule the Seattle Christmas events you really want to make time for this season.
Seattle holiday events you won’t want to miss
Kringle's Filling Station
Kringle's Filling Station
Part arcade, part neighborhood hangout, Kringle's Filling Station is perfect for families with older children. This pop-up event has set up shop along Aurora Ave. at an old gas station. Legend has it that the Kringle Family has come to offer hot chocolate out of the old gas tanks (don't worry, it's completely safe and sanitary!), let guests play unlimited rounds of "Ski-Ball", play "Reindeer Games" or sing holiday karaoke. You even have exclusive access to the Kringles' private office. Add-ons include the brand-new Speedway Slot Cars and photo booth aboard Santa's new-and-improved sleigh (you'll have to see it to believe it).
Insider Tip: Santa's scheduled to visit the Filling Station December 1, 9, 16 and 22. And Krampus will be making an appearance on December 20 and 21.
Good to Know: Be sure to order your tickets online to reserve your time.
We are beyond thrilled to see that the annual Gingerbread Village is back at the Sheraton Grand Seattle this year. If you've never been or if it has been a while, this really is a must-see event. Now in its 28th year, the event matches Seattle's top architecture firms, master builders, and the Sheraton Grand Seattle's culinary teams to create amazing works of edible art. This year's theme is focusing on Buzz Lightyear, but don't be surprised if a few other Toy Story characters show up too. Some of the gingerbread creations have great names like "Courage Against Zurg," "The Future is Bright," and of course, "To Infinity and Beyond!" While the exhibit is free, donations will be gladly accepted to go to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDRF).
Dates: Nov. 22, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023
Sheraton Grand Seattle 1400 6th Ave. Seattle Online:jdrf.org
Seattle Center is doing it up for the holidays starting the day after Thanksgiving and running through the New Year. If you're looking for free and affordable holiday activities and entertainment, head to the heart of the city. Kids can marvel as a miniature locomotive makes it way through a turn-of-the-century village inside the Armory and complete a scavenger hunt while they're at it (you'll find sheets at the train station). Follow it up with a weekend ice sculpting demonstration or a live performance at the Armory (hint: we're looking forward to the School of Rock Seattle performance on December 10, SANCA's youth performers on December 17, and the KlezKids performance on the 24th) before grabbing something tasty for dinner. Wander through the Campus Luminata light display and end at the International Fountain where things are always hopping before heading home.
Holiday highlight: Take a trip to the top of the Space Needle to grab a picture with jolly old St. Nick in his glass sleigh. Seeing the city's Christmas lights below are totally worth the trip. As for New Year's Eve, plan an evening of music at Seattle Center, or if your kids won't last that long, plan to spend the day at the Seattle Children's Museum for their Winter Market Event featuring a "Noon Year's Eve" pj party and a sock skating rink.
While you're at Seattle Center, be sure to swing into Chihuly Garden and Glass to see Winter Brilliance. The display features over 700 hand-blown glass sculptures and combines glass art, video projection technology, and music for a full-sensory experience. One of the newest Seattle Christmas events, it celebrates the magic of the season in a whole new way. Catch the show in Gallery 1 into the new year when you visit.
With lavish sets and costumes designed by Ian Falconer (of Olivia fame) and the ever-mesmerizing choreography of Balanchine, Pacific Northwest Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a forever favorite for many Seattle families. This full-length show is best suited for school-aged kids, but theatergoers of all ages will be glued to their seats for the entire two-plus hour show, basking in the care and craftsmanship of this delightful production. The 40-foot-tall Christmas tree, snow flurries on stage and Mother Ginger’s magical skirt (it weighs more than 60 pounds!) are all part of what makes this production one of the best around.
Insider Tip: A sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for December 21 at 2 p.m.
Another theater production you won't want to miss is SCT's latest. Even the tiniest theater lovers will be able to enjoy this holiday show, starring their favorite clumsy Bear, Paddington. With his telltale red hat and blue coat, they’ll fall for Paddington’s innocent antics as he works to save Christmas from being a total disaster. It all starts out simply enough—with Paddington and Mrs. Bird making the holiday marmalade (for Paddington’s sandwiches, of course). But oops!—they’ve run out of sugar. A trip to borrow some from grumpy neighbor, Mr. Curry, turns into more than Paddington bargained for when he agrees to help out with household chores in exchange. Things sort of snowball from there, leaving poor Paddington to fix it all before December 25. The show runs for 70 minutes with no intermission.
Insider Tip: There is a sensory-friendly performance scheduled for Dec. 11 at 11 a.m.
Dates: Nov. 15-Dec. 31, 2022
Seattle Children's Theatre 201 Thomas St. Seattle Event details
Ride the monorail from Seattle Center to Westlake Park to take advantage of this larger-than-life holiday display that features over 80,000 lights. All season long, enjoy memory-making moments with Holiday Lights & Delights and enjoy free, family-friendly activities at Westlake Park and Occidental Square each weekend. Don't forget your phones! In addition, enjoy live music by local artists on Fridays (Dec. 9 & 16) from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. at Westlake Park. This is where you'll also find Family Fun featuring crafts, characters, and snow flurries on Saturday, December 10 and 17. Or you can head on over to Pioneer Square on the same days to hear live carolers while sipping free cocoa and munching on cookies from noon-3 p.m.
For one weekend only, families can enjoy this pop-up ice skating rink in downtown Seattle. Free for everyone, the ice rink will be filled with skaters of all ages and abilities. If you’ve got your own skates, bring them along. If not, they’ll have skates on hand to borrow. Just remember to bundle up—this rink is totally outside.
Big bears, lil’ bears, brown bears, white bears! This beary special holiday event is a must-see for kids of all ages. Located inside the elegant Fairmont Olympic Hotel, the Teddy Bear Suite is exactly that and so much more. See teddy bears galore along with beautiful holiday decorations and Christmas trees. The Teddy Bear Suite is also the perfect spot to grab a holiday photo of the kids (think: cute, cuddly holiday cards) or chillax and enjoy a teddy bear-themed book. Psst! After visiting the Teddy Bear Suite on the second floor, stop by the lower lobby to check out the hotel's magnificent gingerbread display made out of 4,000 real gingerbread bricks.
Good to know: Donations are appreciated to benefit uncompensated care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Seattle Children's Autism Center.
Did you know that when Santa isn’t supervising elves and delivering toys, he's scuba diving? Come see for yourself when he dives in the Seattle Aquarium’s Window on Washington Waters exhibit this holiday season. While you're there, enjoy live holiday music, story times with Santa, marine mammal meet and greets, and more. Santa and pals will be taking to the water on three different dates this year. Catch him at noon or 3 p.m. on December 17 and 18 or at noon on Christmas Eve.
Urban Craft Uprising at South Lake Union Winter Market
Families can shop 'til they drop at Urban Craft Uprising's annual outdoor winter show, held outside the Nitro Building in South Lake Union. It's the easy way to shop small and local this holiday season. The event is free and family-friendly, and it will feature different vendors on different days, so you can go twice to see all the goodies.
Hop on board the holiday season with these magical train rides in the San Francisco Bay Area that’ll keep your winter festivities on track
It’s the time of the year to start thinking about booking your family’s holiday train tickets. Sure, your winter schedule is already packed with experiences like picking out your Christmas tree or catching a merry show nearby. But the holiday trains are just waiting for you to jump on board. The magic of these festive rides—from twinkling lights to hot cocoa to Santa himself—will get the entire family in the spirit and could even become one of those traditional can’t-miss local events. However, holiday train rides in the Bay Area are super popular, so be sure to book early so you don’t miss out, and then get ready to bring on the cheer.
It’s a true Californian Christmas when Santa is at the beach. St. Nick will join your family aboard this vintage Bay Area train decorated with thousands of lights. Once you embark on this 60-minute round trip, your family can enjoy refreshments, a holiday sing-along, and, of course, a visit from Santa. And the fun doesn’t stop when the train pulls back into the station. For just $7 you can purchase a pass to take advantage of the attractions and arcade at Neptune’s Kingdom.
Good to Know: There is also a Holiday Tree Walk where you can take a steam train from Roaring Camp’s Felton location to Bear Mountain and view a tree-lined walk of decorated trees. Stick around in town after the ride for winter-themed activities.
Dates: Nov. 25-26, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-23; Times vary. Cost: $44/adults; $33/children ages 2-12. Parking in lot across the street is $10.
Neptune’s Kingdom on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk 400 Beach St. Santa Cruz Online: roaringcamp.com
This train brings the holiday fun to you. A tradition since 2011, this free family event is a chance to check out special Caltrain cars decked out with over 70,000 glittering lights. The Holiday Train stops at nine Caltrain stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara. Come to one of the Bay Area stations to take in the beautiful train, listen to holiday entertainment, and bring a donation for Toys 4 Tots, as they will be collecting there. This is a great option for those looking to experience the magic of a Holiday train, without committing to an hour-plus ride. Not to mention, the price is right.
Good to Know: This is not a ride and no passengers are allowed on the holiday train. The public is invited to join in the celebration at each of the stations 30 minutes before the expected arrival time.
Dates: Dec. 3-4; Times vary Cost: Free
Caltrain Stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara Online: holiday-train.org
3. Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Holiday Train
The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad offers all of the holiday fun on a smaller scale. The sweet little open-air train winds through part of Vasona Park’s Fantasy of Lights spectacular. The 1.5-mile loop is just enough to get that festive fix and get to bed on time. If you’re up for a little more action after the ride, there are plenty more light displays in the park to check out, which aren’t visible from the train (a separate ticket is needed).
Good to Know: Dress warmly: The train is small (roller coaster-style seats) with no roof or windows. You can also walk or drive your car through Vasona Park to see the Festival of Lights. Avoid University Avenue when arriving: Take Los Gatos Boulevard to Blossom Hill Road and turn right into the Oak Meadow parking lot.
Dates: Thurs.-Sun., Dec. 8-30; 6-9 p.m. Cost: $7/person for one train ride and one carousel ride. Children under age 3 ride free with a paying adult.
Oak Meadow Park 233 Blossom Hill Rd. Los Gatos Online:bjwrr.org
The Oakland Zoo transforms into a shining spectacle with hundreds of illuminated, larger-than-life lantern animals lighting the way on a mile-long journey. Ride both the gondola and express train and end the evening with Santa himself. New displays this year include creatures such as whales and otters from the California coastline and a walkabout with kangaroos and koalas from the land down under.
Good to Know: This event often sells out so reserve your tickets in advance. Parking is free, children under 2 get in free and zoo members receive a 10 percent discount. Meet Santa from 6-9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday in November and every night Dec. 1-23. Animals will not be visible, as they’ll be in their night houses.
The River Fox Train becomes the Magical Christmas Train as it chugs along a storybook wonderland. Santa's elves will be on board to join the passengers in holiday sing-a-longs and festive games. The one-hour train ride will include hot cocoa, a cookie, and an opportunity to send a letter to Santa.
Good to Know: A souvenir mug is included in the ticket price. Seating is assigned, so make a note when purchasing tickets if you want to sit with another party. Christmas jammies are encouraged.
Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18, daily Dec. 19-23; Times vary Cost: $55/adults, $45/children ages 3-12, $10/ages 2 and younger
River Fox Train 18095 County Rd. 117 West Sacramento Online: riverfoxtrain.com
Travel through a storybook wonderland in the redwoods aboard a newly-imagined Christmas experience out of Willits on the Skunk Train. This two-hour journey takes you to Mr. Skunk's Giant Christmas tree, a decorated redwood along the line that Santa Mr. Skunk uses as a workshop. Come dressed in your finest holiday jammies and join in the holiday cheer. Seating is unassigned so board with your buddies if you'd like to sit together.
Good to Know: Purchase a copy of Skippy the TrainDeer for $7 when you order your tickets so that you can read along on the ride. While tickets are non-refundable, you may contact the Skunk Train at least 72 hours prior to your ride to reschedule or receive a voucher for another ride.
Willits Station 299 E. Commercial St. Willits Online: skunktrain.com
7. Western Railway Museum
Santa arrives at the museum in late November. There, he joins guests on one of the lovingly-restored rail cars for a 50-minute ride through the golden hills. Cookies and hot chocolate are included. The trains run during the day, so this is a great option for kids (and adults) who can’t stay up late.
Good to know: The train is usually comprised of one or two cars which run on electricity. So no giant locomotives here. There is a huge barn of rail cars in various stages of repair, which is super fun to check out before and after. The railway museum is all volunteer-run. Older kids will especially enjoy hearing the history of the trains and cars.
Dates: Nov. 26-27, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18; trains run every hour from 12-5 p.m. Cost: $27/adults; $25/children/$12-$15 members
It’s like the pages of “The Polar Express” come alive on this one-hour journey. Many of the book’s characters join riders, including the Conductor, the Dancing Waiters, and the ghostly Hobo. It’s no wonder these tickets seem to sell out as soon as they’re available. Each coach and first-class car has a different theme, so you can book the exact one you want. All riders will get a magical first gift of Christmas from Santa—that beautiful silver bell.
Good to Know: Museum members get first crack at tickets for this wildly-popular event (remember that for next year), but it’s worth checking the website frequently as tickets are occasionally available as the museum processes returns. Commemorative photos with Santa are also available for purchase. No strollers on board; stroller parking area near the boarding platform.
Dates: Wed.-Sun.,Nov. 25-Dec. 21; 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. Cost: $60/person for coach class; $80/person for first class; children under 2 are free if sitting on lap.
They pull out all the stops each year, as the Wine Train fills with the sounds of the season. Guests will be treated to three all-new Jolly Journeys after they arrive at the station to cheerful carolers, a welcome cup of hot cider or cocoa, photo opportunities with Santa, and a merry mailing station for postcards to the North Pole. Jingle and mingle in Santa's Cookie Car, have a three-course kid-friendly dinner on the Gourmet Holiday Express, and indulge in 360-degree views of wine country from the Very Merry Vista Dome. It's a fun-filled, action-packed journey, suitable for all ages.
Good to Know: Make your reservations NOW. This train sells out very early. They'll be collecting new, unwrapped gifts for Napa foster children. Regular seating at a table, no booster seats available. Food and drink are available for purchase on the train, including a kid-friendly menu.
If your holiday plans take you to Nevada, then you’ll want to grab a ticket aboard the Christmas Express Train that leaves from the town of Ely. Passengers aboard Santa’s Reindeer Flyer will enjoy a comfy ride in their pajamas with hot chocolate and cookies as they listen to the story of how this year’s Christmas Train came to be. Santa Claus himself will board the train and personally present each child their own special gift to remember the spirit of the season.
Good to Know: Discounts are available for military, AAA members, and groups of 12 or more. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis so arrive early. The train is pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive.
Nevada Northern Railway Museum 1100 Ave. A Ely, NV Online: nnry.com
11. Polar Express Railtown 1897
***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***
Experience a Polar Express that is off the beaten track when you head up into the California foothills to Jamestown, a historic gold rush town perfectly preserved for your holiday photo backdrops. Head to the Jamestown 1897 Railpark where you can embark upon your official Polar Express train with several cars pulled by a vintage engine from Railtown 1897’s collection. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate and yummy cookies as they ride along to the North Pole, where the jolly old elf—Santa himself—will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleighbell, the “first gift of Christmas.”
Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18; 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Cost: $60/seat; children 2 and under (on laps) are free.
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park 10501 Reservoir Rd. Jamestown Online:railtown1897.org
12. Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights
***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***
The Niles Canyon Train of Lights is an extremely popular East Bay tradition. Volunteers meticulously adorn all of the train cars with twinkling lights, garlands, and bows—inside and out. Santa and Mrs. Claus make the rounds as the train winds through the canyon wilderness. Sit in an open-air car to get the best view of the decorations outside (or just go out for a peek as the train rounds one of the bends). A concession stand offers treats like cookies and cocoa but families are also allowed to bring their own refreshments.
Good to Know: Get your tickets early: This event is very popular and sells out quickly. They sell some day-of at the station, however, so get there early if you haven’t booked or check for cancellations online. The ride lasts a little over an hour and runs rain or shine. No strollers are allowed on board.
Dates: Wed., Fri.-Sun., Nov. 18-Dec. 28 (except Dec. 24 & 25); train departs Niles at 4:30 p.m. and Sunol at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $35/person, $65/person in the first class dome (children 3 and under are free if on a lap)
The best Boston Christmas lights are turning on soon. You won’t want to miss these dazzling holiday lights
It may seem like you’ve barely finished your turkey dinner, but it’s definitely time to celebrate the winter holiday season with some serious wattage. Boston is full of epic holiday light displays (and tree lightings to go with them), most of which are going live soon. So grab your best scarf, put on those woolly hats and warm mittens, and head out to catch some of the best Boston Christmas lights in town, after heading out to get your Christmas tree, of course.
The official holiday season is underway, and lighting the City of Boston's official Christmas tree and trees throughout Boston Common and the Public Garden, is one of the main events. Generations have enjoyed, and continue to treasure, Boston's tree lighting celebration. Twenty-five thousand people of all ages attend the event, which has grown to include a festive stage show with nationally known talent. The Lighting of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall follows the Boston Common Tree Lighting, two of the best places in the city to see holiday lights, Boston families.
This family-friendly event is sure to get you and the kids in a festive mood. There will be refreshments and giveaways, and a special line up of local talent to keep the crowd singing classic holiday hits until the lights turn on. Come for the lighting, return to enjoy the holiday lights Boston residents love all month long.
Tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights make up this winter wonderland at Stone Zoo. Yukon Creek is where the Boston Christmas lights shine bright at this display. It's home to black bears, Canada lynx, reindeer, and arctic foxes. Add in this year's large-scale lantern displays and we know these holiday lights will make your winter's night bright. Grab tickets to this favorite display while you still can.
Insider Tip: Get over the mid-week hump when you visit ZooLights on a Wednesday, from November 30-December 21. That's when the kids can bump into Mrs. Claus. Psst...we hear she's pretty good at delivering holiday wishes to Santa.
Get into the winter spirit with Night Lights 2022 at Tower Hill Botanic Garden. It’s a celebration of light that includes thousands of lights, new experiences, and enchanting landscapes. Enjoy an outdoor walking experience through roughly 15 acres of formal gardens and surrounding woodlands, including illuminated plants, paths, sculptures, fountains, and a magical model train. The Boston Christmas lights scene is enhanced with fire pits for warming up, making s’mores, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa (or an adult beverage).
Pack the kids into the car and head to Gillette Stadium for a drive-thru display of lights that rivals no other. Magic of Lights is a dazzling display with a drive-through experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and some of your favorite characters of the season. Lit using the latest LED technology and digital animations, kids will squeal with delight as your car makes its way along the route. Get tickets online before driving down.
This tree lighting will definitely be lit. Join Martin’s Park in celebrating the holiday season with their annual Ship Lighting. Your kids will love seeing Santa arriving by boat. Enjoy Martin’s Park with hot cocoa, caroling, and holiday fun of all kinds.
Drive to Sommerville with the aid of the Illuminations Tour Map to find the town's most festive houses. Decked in lights from porch to rooftop, these folks go out to create holiday light displays Boston folks return to see year after year. Holiday caroling in planned for December 15, and the map is expected to release on December 8.
8. Winterlights at Stevens-Coolidge House & Garden
Winterlights is back with some of the best holiday lights Boston has to offer. And the Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens is just one of three beautiful properties that will sparkle with thousands of shimmering, artfully designed Christmas lights. The Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate and Naumkeag are the other two festive spots to display this dazzling show. Bring the whole family for a magical and fun outdoor experience, with food, refreshments, and more.
Insider Tip: Tickets always sell out quickly for this event (in fact, some weekends are completely sold out now), so grab yours soon if this trip is on your winter wish list.
Take in the gorgeous views of the city when this trellis is lit with blue lights for the duration of the holiday season. The family will love the music, hot chocolate, and dazzling lights at this amazing event.
The Winter Light Show is an annual spectacular that features dozens of dazzling, larger-than-life holiday themed displays to delight the entire family as they drive through the gorgeous display. Bundle up the kids, pack your favorite holiday cookies, and pour creamy hot cocoa into the thermos; then sit back and listen to the holiday music on your car's stereo. The synced light performance will make your kids smile. The drive is one mile. Be sure to plan ahead as you'll need tickets for this one.
Dress the kids in their very best and head to one of our favorite places for Santa photos, Seattle parents
It’s that time of year again, Seattle families. Time to dress the kids in their holiday best (be it a festive dress or plaid jacket) and head out in search of the cutest Seattle Santa pictures around. Here’s how to plan your annual holiday photo shoot at one of our favorite places to snag a Santa photo in Seattle, holiday wish list in hand. Say cheese!
1. Nordstrom Downtown Santa - Santa Lane
Your annual pilgrimage to see Santa at his ornate shop at the downtown Nordstrom is back on for 2022. That's right, after three years, Santa will once again return to the Downtown Nordstrom window on 6th and Pine to greet fans and take gift orders from kids of all ages. Photos will be printed on-site, and reservations are not available.
Good to Know: If waiting in line downtown isn't your speed, kids can also see Santa over brunch at Nordstrom stores throughout Washington. Make reservations soon for this area favorite.
Insider Tip: Get there early in the season or on a weekday, if you can, to avoid the long lines (you know they'll be big this year).
There are more than a few ways to celebrate the holidays on the Eastside this year, and Bellevue Square Santa pictures are just the beginning. Schedule your sit down with the Big Guy at Snowflake Lane Factory on the second level. It's by appointment only, and you can count on Santa spending QT with the kids while checking his list. Plan your Santa appointment in the evening to enjoy the nightly parade and occasional snow showers that add a touch of magic to the season at Snowflake Lane. If you're able, stop by the Holiday Wishing Tree in center court to pick up a tag and support a local family in need.
Get out your grins because the 14th Annual Magnolia Santa photos are back. Families (including your fur babies) can book an appointment on the weekend or Thursdays to have a sit down with Santa. He'll take the time to figure out whether your kids are on the naughty or nice list before striking his jolliest pose. You can do a few different poses, so you can mix things up a bit here and when all is said and done, you'll get 10-20 images sent over in matter of days. Don't forget to stop at the Nutty Squirrel for gelatto when you're done! Masks are optional here.
Jolly St. Nick returns to the Space Needle in his all-glass sleigh! Venture out onto the world's first and only revolving glass floor to meet Santa and the Needle’s professional photographers will snap your free digital photo for the ultimate holiday photo op. Here’s when Santa will be at the Space Needle.
If a chance to shop for great local products and snag a free Santa photo while you're at it is part of your holiday to-do list, head to Pike Place Market for some holiday Magic. Santa will be under the iconic Market clock taking pictures with visitors before he heads off to help light the tree. Then he'll be back on Dec. 3 and 4 with Crafty in tow (the magical snow monkey, of course) to take more pictures with his fans.
In his own cozy cabin near Room & Board, the University Village Santa is a Seattle favorite for a reason. Not only do families get to visit him in a private, cozy cabin that makes kids feel extra special, but parents can sneak off to do some covert holiday shopping while they're there. Schedule time to visit online and plan to arrive with about five minutes to spare before your appointment. While you’re there (and if you’re able) families can give a Winter Wish to a child in need. How? Just pull a tag from a Winter Wish tree. Then return your purchased, unwrapped gift to the house.
Families can find St. Nick at a his cabin in the Cafe building at Swanson's this year. He’ll be waiting to meet your little elves and have a quick convo with your crew before snapping that holiday photo you came for. Families will need to schedule online before heading over. While you're there, enjoy watching the train make its rounds (this year's theme is a Child's Imagination) and check out the great light displays, including dinosaur Humphrey who looks great in photos.
Asian American Santa is back at the Wing Luke Museum for 2021! While he was safe at home last year, he's happy to make his way back to sit with children and put on his best smile. You'll need to schedule photos in advance and things will move quickly (time slots are 3 minutes long!) when you get there. Please remember to bring proof of vaccination for anyone over 12 (negative tests will not be accepted) and masks for anyone over the age of 2. Spots are filling up quickly, so grab yours soon!
Black Santa is back and will be safely chatting with kids on December 19 and 20 at the Northwest African American Museum. Reservations will be part of the safety protocols in place, so make yours as soon as information is available. While you're there, be sure to check out this holiday market too. Keep up the joyful tradition this year!
Date & Time: TBD for 2022 (usually the first week in Dec.)
10. Kirkland Urban - Frostival
All those in favor of pictures with Santa in a snow globe raise your hand. Then head to Kirkland Urban on a Saturday afternoon to snap one starting the weekend after Thanksgiving. That’s when families will find Santa ready to take pictures with your best-dressed kiddos. Our favorite part? The lifesize Gingerbread Suite kids get to walk through to get to the Big Guy in Red.
Your mask won’t hide your smile when your kids get to meet Santa at this favorite spot on the Eastside. You'll find this jolly old elf at Redmond Town Center where he sets up shop in the Center Street Plaza. There are five Santas to choose from this year, each with a belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly and a twinkle in his eyes. So pick the Santa (and day) that works best for your family and make your reservation soon.
Two Christmas icons will be waiting to greet your kids at this new-this-year interactive display at Pacific Place downtown. Jolly Old St. Nick will be there to greet kids with open arms and a joyful laugh. But so will reformed Christmas bad guy, the Grinch. Schedule your photo online with one of these icons for the perfect holiday remembrance. They take the picture, you find the frame.
Dates: TBD for 2022
13. Alderwood Mall
According to local parents, the Alderwood Mall Santa wins for "most authentic” and we couldn't agree more. They’ve had the same Santa here year after year, which is really convenient for taking those holiday photos as the kids get older (and wiser). And who can resist Santa's awesome and adorable outfits? Book time with this popular Santa online (recommended). They also have a pet night and sensory-friendly Santa experiences here.
If meeting Santa and seeing his reindeer sounds good to you, reserve your spot to do both at the annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival at Cougar Mountain Zoo. Picture this: Santa sitting atop his festive sleigh while your cute kiddos, dressed in their holiday best, perfect that winning smile. Sounds like a holiday card in the making to us. Be sure to visit with the other animals while you're there too. Although the Reindeer Festival goes through the end of December, Santa will only be there for photos through December 23.
Good to Know: You can still visit with Santa's reindeer at the zoo from Dec. 26-30, 2022.
Santa isn't the only thing you'll see when you head south to the Victorian Country Christmas at the state fair grounds. In fact, you and the kids can enjoy more than 500 exhibits decorated to look like Victorian shops with thousands of unique holiday gifts, handcrafted items and great specialty foods items. Professional entertainment is featured on two stages, and kids will flock to Santa’s Village. Why? Because it's where they can have their photos taken with Mr. Claus and send wishes in the Magical Mailbox.
Arthur & Associates, the local photographers behind santaphotos.com are working hard to make Santa photos safe this year. In addition to spots listed above, you can find them at the Commons at Federal Way, Lake Forest Park Town Center, Renton Landing and the Everett Mall. The best part? You can check out photos and schedules of all of the Santas online. Just like online dating, but better! So if you really like the look of Santa Bob, you can book accordingly. And here’s a special note for nostalgic natives: the original Frederick & Nelson Santa displays can be found at Town Center at Lake Forest Park, so if you were one of those kids who had a series of F&N photos lined up at Grandma’s house, here’s your shot at keeping that holiday tradition alive.
Kids can also climb aboard a vintage train car to visit with Old St. Nick. It's a clickety-clack excursion they won't soon forget. Book your ticket on the Yuletide Express that departs weekends from Snoqualmie. It’s an abbreviated train ride (just 25 minutes), but kids will get to see Santa and receive a little gift too. It's ho ho ho awesome. For a real adventure, we're talking overnight, put Leavenworth on your winter travel list. can’t go wrong visiting Santa at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, where kids can meet his friendly reindeer (and feed them by hand, too!). Reserve your Farm Tour with a side of Santa starting in December to get that picture.
Dreaming of a traffic-free trip from LA that still delivers fun, sun and then some? Look no further than easy-to-navigate Santa Barbara
Kids who are ‘loco’ for locomotives will go off the rails for this unforgettable train journey to Santa Barbara. The great walkability of this coastal town makes leaving the car at home a total breeze. From trolley rides and whale watching to museums and marine life, explore the sights via the Santa Barbara Car Free ‘Take the Train’ promotion which includes discounts on hotels, restaurants, and more kid-friendly activities. There are plenty of exciting activities to do with your kids in Santa Barbara that’ll give your family unforgettable memories.
The Best Way to Travel between SoCal & Santa Barbara
Train-loving kids will be over-the-moon to get out of the car and onto the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner or Coast Starlight. With multiple trains per day departing from many Southern California locations, taking the train sets the mood for untethered travel. Instead of being locked into car seats, timing traffic, and stopping for bathroom breaks, the train allows your family to engage face-to-face, relax and hit the snack bar or bathroom anytime. This scenic route gets even better as the Amtrak Surfliner and Coast Starlight hug the California coast, giving a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets and ocean views.
Even the animals have an ocean view in Santa Barbara. Enjoy peek-a-boo views of the Pacific Ocean while you admire the giraffes feeding and watch the palm trees sway over the pink flamingos. The Santa Barbara Zoo has an impressive array of 500 animals on 30 beautifully-landscaped acres. From penguins and foxes to leopards and lions, this laid-back zoo is a must for animal-loving families.
Car-Free Tips: The Santa Barbara Zoo is just under 2 miles from Stearns Wharf. The Waterfront MTD bus and Santa Barbara Trolley Company both have a stop directly in front of the zoo—or do a half-day bike rental and enjoy the scenic 2-mile ride along the boardwalk.
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation
The innovative MOXI has been getting rave reviews since it opened in 2017 and for good reason. Thoughtful exhibits ignite curiosity and creativity through interactive play on three beautifully-designed floors. Build and race Automoblox race cars, create movie soundtracks, and engage in tons of STEAM fun for all ages. Check out the rooftop Sky Garden for breathtaking views of Santa Barbara. We give this brilliant and bright children's museum an A+.
Car-Free Tips: The Museum is conveniently located on State Street, next door to the Santa Barbara Amtrak train station, and easy walking distance from many hotels.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, Sea Center
Small but mighty, the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf includes interactive touch tanks with a beautiful array of sea stars, sea urchins, and sharks. Take a turn with the oceanographic tools, including a bucket that kids can lower down into the ocean, and come back with a scoop full of marine life to look at under the microscope. A super-cool hands-on experience for future marine explorers.
211 Stearns Wharf Santa Barbara Online:sbnature.org
For families with kids ages five and up, Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers a kayaking Harbor Fun Paddle around the Santa Barbara shoreline. This 2-hour guided tour loops through the harbor and near Stearns Wharf. Kids sit in the front of the double-kayak with a pint-sized paddle and a parent in the back, as you look for sea stars, seals, and sea lions to the narrative of a knowledgeable guide. Gentle waters make this mellow paddle perfect for parents and kids.
Climb aboard the Condor Express for a memorable 2.5-hour cruise in search of whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions. This high-speed jet-powered catamaran cruises from Sea Landing to the Santa Barbara Channel looking for Humpback whales and pods of dolphins to the delight of passengers of all ages. Large viewing decks outside, onboard bathrooms, a snack bar, and indoor seating options make this whale-watching trip a great choice for families.
Hotel Santa Barbara is full of historic charm in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, a short 8-minute walk up State Street from the train station. A hotel has been on the site since 1876 and its traditional style is complemented by modern comforts, including oh-so-comfy pillow-top beds, plush robes, and modern bathrooms. Gourmet coffee, waffles, and locally-baked pastries are free to guests during the complimentary continental breakfast, including decadent almond and dark chocolate croissants from Renaud’s Patisserie. The super-convenient State Street location makes it a great middle point between the beach and downtown Santa Barbara.
Across the street from the train station and directly in the urban Funk Zone is the hip Waterman Hotel. The hotel has a modern vibe mixed with a European hostel state of mind, welcoming travelers of all types, from families with kids of all ages to global backpackers, retirees, and wine-trail revelers. Bring your own groceries to utilize the hotel's full-size community kitchen or just enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast. The hotel has 27 modern rooms with ensuite bathrooms and a few shared bunk-bed rooms typically for single travelers, but parents have been known to rent them out for a kids' bunk-bed room.
12 E. Montecito St. Santa Barbara Online:marriott.com
Located conveniently near the beach and MOXI, Finney’s Crafthouse is a great spot to take a break from the day’s activities and refuel. With a kids menu and coloring page for the little ones (try the pizza with a side of berries!) and salads, gourmet flatbreads, burgers, and a craft-brew list for the adults, it’s a win-win for the whole family. Grab a spot on the patio and soak in the sunny views.
With refined industrial decor and a welcoming, family-friendly vibe, Helena Avenue Bakery wows guests with made-from-scratch bread, gourmet sandwiches, and delectable pastries. Located in the Funk Zone, Helena Avenue Bakery offers seat-yourself communal tables and takeaway breakfast and lunch in a modern, yet casual industrial space. Watch the working bakery in action as you savor artisan sandwiches like the California Turkey on fresh-baked baguette and the Cuban on toasted sourdough. Be sure to save room for a decadent chocolate chip cookie.
After a day taking in Santa Barbara’s many seaside activities, take a break at local-favorite FisHouse. With a sunny patio overlooking the ocean and Stearns Wharf, enjoy seafood specialties like Crab Cakes and a Seared Ahi Tuna Club for you and the kids-menu fish and chips and strawberry lemonade for the little ones.
101 E. Cabrillo Ave. Santa Barbara Online:fishousesb.com
From the train station, many hotels are within a short walking distance. The Wayfarer Hotel is just across the street and Hotel Santa Barbara is a short 8-minute walk up State Street. Bring a stroller if you have little ones who tire easily and make sure you can effortlessly manage the luggage you're bringing. A mixture of backpacks and rolling suitcases works best.
Bonus points: Let your little one bring their own pint-sized rolling suitcase. They'll love feeling grown-up and you'll appreciate the extra hands-on help. Once you're checked in to your hotel and you've dropped off your luggage, getting around is easy. Most activities are within a 10-minute walk, but there's also the MTD bus service and bikes at Wheel Fun Rentals.
Hop on and off the Santa Barbara Trolley for a fun way to travel around town. A knowledgeable driver takes you past the Santa Barbara Zoo, Sea Landing, the Santa Barbara Mission, and many stops in between. Stay on board for the whole 90-minute narrated tour or jump on and off at select stops. If you arrive at the Visitors Center with some extra time before your Trolley Tour departs, walk across the street to Chase Palm Park with a playground and pond with turtles and ducks.
We searched every borough to bring you the complete list of family-friendly events and exhibits happening this month, and they have one key thing in common: they’re all free!
November might mean cooler temps and fewer outdoor activities, but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop. In this list, you’ll find dozens of free and low-cost events in November 2022 for families and kids throughout the five boroughs of NYC.
Join NYC as it transitions from fall into winter with beloved seasonal events and fun one-off activities: Visit the yearly winter markets, most of which are returning in November, see the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree, celebrate Thanksgiving by giving to the community, and much more. Plus, check out fun and free events for kids and families in November that will educate, engage, and entertain everyone in the fam. And as always, discover all the museums in New York City that offer free admission to visitors, whether it’s all the time or on special days.
Drag Story Hour for Neurodiverse Kids at Bronx Library Center Nov. 5: Drag artists read to kids in an extra-special readalong designed specifically for kids with autism and other disabilities. The event aims to introduce kids to the idea of gender fluidity, and generally put on a fun and bright performance they’re sure to enjoy. Event details.
Bronx Night Market at Fordham Plaza Nov. 26: Good food and a friendly atmosphere make an evening at the Bronx Night Market a fun experience for the whole family. Purchase noms from local food vendors, or check out the kid zone, educational booths on food and nutrition, and a Instagram Wall-O-Fame. Event details.
Free Soccer Sessions at Williamsbridge Oval Throughout Nov.: Head to the game room at the WBO for free soccer sessions for kids. The sessions are beginner-friendly and teach everything from footwork, passing, and basic drills to teamwork and a positive attitude. Event details.
Brooklyn
Bulb Planting on West Street Nov. 5: Help beautify the new Greenway at West Street and Greenpoint Avenue in this volunteer event. Plant bulbs next to the new trees and bring even more green to the street. All tools and gloves will be provided—just bring yourself, some water, and layers in case of a chill. Event details.
FAD Market Fall Pop-up at Empire Stores in DUMBO Nov 5 and 6: Over 30 artists and small businesses make the FAD Market a great place to browse for unique gifts—after all, it’s almost time for the holidays! While you’re there, you can explore the parks under the bridge, go for a spin in Jane’s Carousel, or stick around in Empire Stores for lunch at Time Out Market’s 20+ food vendors. Event details.
Thursgiving Holiday Giving Event at the Brooklyn Navy Yard Nov. 17: Give back to the community by bringing coats and clothes, and wrapped, unopened gifts for kids this holiday season. The donation event is a whole party, complete with a DJ, snacks, and raffles. The more gifts you bring, the more the community gets, but there are also prizes given out for donations, including a private tour of the Yard for families, groups, or businesses that donate 25 items. Event details.
Weekend Nature Exploration at Prospect Park Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: The Audubon Center is leading kids on weekend adventures through the wild side of Prospect Park. Every weekend in November, stop by 10-12 to borrow a discovery pack—a backpack filled with tools like binoculars and nature activity ideas, 11-12 for live animal encounters, and 12-1 for a volunteer cleanup session. Event details.
BAM Kids 2022 Throughout Nov.: Foster a love for movies, music, and the arts at the annual BAM Kids festival. Join the Brooklyn Academy of Music for kids concerts and animations. Featured this year are the music and performance of Fyütch, and the whimsical animated movies “Joyful Adventures” and “Follow Your Dreams.” While the BAM kids festival isn’t completely free, most tickets are either pay as you wish or very affordable. Event details.
Manhattan
Jazz at One at Trinity Church Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 22: Catch the final three jazz performances of the season at Trinity this month. Featuring performers The Coleman Hughes Sextet, Samara Joy, Theo Walentiny Trio, and Edmar Castañeda Quartet. Visit the space in person at 1 p.m., or watch for free online on the website. Event details.
Image from 2021 Mexico Week courtesy of Tishman Speyer and Rockefeller Center.
Mexico Week: Día De Muertos at Rockefeller Center Leaving Nov. 2: Rockefeller comes alive with the colors and artwork of Mexican culture during Mexico Week for this year’s Day of the Dead. The event, which is leaving on November 2, will feature sculptures by Cesar Menchaca, including a huge jaguar and Quetzalcoatl, as well as some very well-dressed (and familiar!) skeletons. For more Day of the Dead fun, check out our list of Día De Muertos events in NYC this year. Event details.
Concert at One: ChamberQUEER at Trinity Church Nov. 2: Part of their “Performances at One” series, this extra-special performance features ChamberQUEER. The artists will highlight queer figures from the history of classical music. As with their other performances, this one can be watched in person or online. Event details.
Image courtesy of Chris Lee and Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall Family Day: String Fling
Nov. 5: Kids ages 3-10 are invited to get up close and personal with string instruments. Billed as a “musical adventure,” this hands-on event lets participants create a small performance, relax to peaceful music, jam along with an Afro-Brazilian capoeira band, learn about West African stringed instruments, and more. Event details.
The Rink at Rockefeller
Nov. 5: The rink at Rockefeller is reopening on November 5, officially ringing in the winter season. While a spin on the rink isn’t free (tickets start at $11), watching the skaters on the ice is a cozy winter activity for the family. Explore the area—make sure to stop by the family-favorite Nintendo Store—or get a hot chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat and sit by the rink and people-watch. Event details.
Wellness in Harlem Nov. 5: Sample free food at this party, held at La Placita (at 116th and Park). The event will feature music, giveaways, drinks, and free food from beloved restaurants and brands, including vegan donuts from Planet Back, a Caribbean version of Caesar Salad from YAYB, and much more. Event details.
Breakaway Hoops Trial Class in Harlem Nov. 5: Breakaway Hoops is offering a free trial class for kids ages 8-12. Get a sneak peek at what you can expect from the program, and have some fun with drills and fundamental skill development. All participants must bring their own basketball. Event details.
Seaport Kids: Pumpkin Decorating and Pumpkin Arch Nov. 5 and 6: Drop in and decorate some pumpkins for Thanksgiving. Led by Private Picassos, this free crafty workshop will have foam pumpkins, markers, and plenty of pom-poms for kids to get creative with their pumpkin creations. While you’re there, check out the Pumpkin Arch on Pier 17, which is leaving on November 7, for a seasonal photo-op. Event details.
Sensory-friendly Mornings and Evenings at the Intrepid Nov. 5 and Nov. 18: The Intrepid is opening its doors early for young kids on November 5, and closing them late for teens and adults on November 18. These special openings are designed specifically with people with autism in mind, and feature sensory-friendly activities led by experts. This month, the children’s program will introduce them to airplane design, while the teen and adult program will focus on the museums’ exhibit, “Women Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Era.” Event details.
Garden Volunteer Session at Jefferson Garden and Mad Fun Farm Nov. 5 and 19: Join other volunteers from Concrete Safaris in making the gardens and parks around the city even more beautiful. Activities vary, but some things you may find yourself partaking in include weeding, planting flowers, fruits, herbs, or veggies, shoveling topsoil, spreading mulch, picking up trash, and more. Event details.
Closing Day at Hester Street Fair Nov. 6: Hester Street Fair is leaving until next year, and they’re going out in style: with a shopping party! The event will have a live DJ, and will be your last chance to check out local vendors, delicious food, and more fair fun. Event details.
Silent Clowns Film Series: Charlie Chaplin at NYPL for the Performing Arts Nov. 12: The New York Public Library pays tribute to the great star, Charlie Chaplin. Catch a screening of Chaplin’s movies from 1915, with a live piano accompaniment by Ben Model from MoMA and an intro and Q&A by film historians Model and Steve Massa. This event is free, but seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so show up early if you want to sit. Event details.
ConEd Family Day at the Morris-Jumel Mansion Nov. 12: Visit Manhattan’s oldest house-turned-museum for their monthly family day. This month, visitors will make their own colorful suncatcher ornaments. Note that masks are still required for attendees ages 2 and over. Event details.
Adventures from The Shed at 14th Street Y Nov. 12 and 19: Kids 2-5 years old are invited to Liondown’s Birthday—but first, they’ll need to help Mary-Jo and her friends come up with a present for him in time for the party. This puppet adventures feature singing, dancing, and storytelling that’ll have kids singing along and participating in the experience. Event details.
Poster Kids: Junior Fashionistas at the Poster House Nov. 13: The Poster Kids is taking on Air-India’s Maharaja mascot, and this time the focus is his wonderful fashion sense. Kids ages 5-11 are invited to learn about the Maharaja’s style, and make their own art that they can wear using recycled textiles. Event details.
Architecture for Animals at The Skyscraper Museum Nov. 19: The city might be home to humans, but it’s also home for many animals. In this family program from The Skyscraper Museum, participants will learn about architecture in the animal world, like beehives, dens, and bird nests. Then, kids will design an apartment with one animal’s needs in mind. This program is recommended for ages 4-8 and RSVP is required. Event details.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Nov. 24: Whether you plan on attending or you prefer to watch it from the comfort of your own home, no list of free events in NYC in November would be complete without the world-renown Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Joining the lineup for the first time this year will be the Baby Shark family (don’t get the song stuck in your head!), Bluey the dog, and Geoffrey the Giraffe, in celebration of the return of Toys”R”Us in Macy’s stores. Plus, walk by the area in the days leading up to the parade to see the floats being inflated. Event details.
Eldridge Arts & Learning: Stained Glass at the Museum At Eldridge Street Nov. 27: Learn about the beautiful stained glass windows at the museum, as well as the history and purpose of stained glass windows. Then, make your own design for a window by creating a collage. This event is free for holders of a Cool Culture Pass or a SNAP benefits card. Event details.
Tree Lighting at the Rockefeller Center Nov. 30: The spectacular Christmas Tree is making a comeback to Rockefeller Center Plaza. Standing at close to 100 feet tall and topped by a nine-foot Swarovski Star, the lighting of the tree is a huge event every year. Visit to watch over 50,000 lights light up in a spectacular display. Event details.
Canstruction NY at Brookfield Place Nov. tbd: The annual Canstruction exhibit is coming back to Brookfield Place this year. The event features spectacular structures made from cans, as well as a chance for visitors to donate canned goods for charity. Stay tuned to the website for dates and more details as they become available. Event details.
Queens
Making Music With Friends at Church in the Gardens Nov. 19: Learn how friends make music together and join in the fun with this 45-minute interactive concert for kids. Kids of all ages are invited to hear chamber music and engage with the performers. If you want to attend the paid concert after this event, you can present your free ticket to get 50% off the ticket price. Event details.
Hands on History: Queens Hip-Hop at King Manor Nov. 19: Celebrate national Hip-Hop Month at this month’s free family day at King Manor. Learn about some key 90s rap and hip-hop legends, with a special emphasis on those who come from Queens. Then, make your own trading cards and microphone for your future performances. Event details.
Buckets for Blue: Volunteer Cleanup Sat. and Sun. throughout Nov.: Help clean part of the Raritan Bay’s shoreline by collecting the trash and plastics that litter the shore. Visitors can borrow buckets and grabbers from the park’s visitor’s center. Event details.
Tues. throughout Nov.: Bring your toddler (ages 0-4 are best suited for this activity) to the nature center at Clay Pit Ponds for a morning of fun and exploration. The The day begins indoors, as kids explore a different nature theme each week. Then, if the weather’s nice, the group moves outside for a short hike. Event details.
Various and Other Locations
Pumpkin Smash Events Do you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween? Bring them to a pumpkin smash! This is chance to destroy your old pumpkins before they go bad in a fun way, but also recycle them for fertilizing! Check out all the places that are hosting pumpkin smash events.
Libraries Around the City Throughout Nov.: Libraries all around the boroughs have something going on basically every day! Stop by your local library and enjoy their free programming. There’s something for everyone, from baby singalongs and toddler craft times to teen tech time, and more.
A few highlights for November include the Children’s Film Series at the NYPL for the Performing Arts on Nov. 10, where you can watch a classic children’s movie on a 16mm projector, and the Solar Race Cars workshop at Allerton Library, where kids will build their own solar-powered vehicles, then race them against each other (if there’s time):
November might bring in the cold, but it’ll also bring in the welcoming warmth of the city’s holiday markets. These holidays feature vendors from the city and beyond as well as delicious and comforting food. Check out these seasonal markets arriving in NYC for the winter this month:
Seeds (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 1: Just one final day in November to see this massive roots transformed into a seed sculpture by artist Jaime Miranda-Bambaren. You can view this statement on humanity encroaching on nature at Thomas Paine Park.
The Great Debate (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 13: Standing at 16 feet tall, this fiberglass sculpture depicts artist Hebru Brantley’s character, Flyboy. The character is a take on the superhero genre by the artist, who drew inspiration from the Tuskegee Airmen—WWII’s first African-American military pilots—to create his vision of what a black superhero might look like. Flyboy stands proudly at The Battery.
The Giving Tree (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: The colorful Giving Tree by Haksul Lee, located at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is more than just an art piece: It’s a functional piece of architecture. The installation uses wind power to generate electricity, which has powered some of the lights in the park and allowed visitors to charge their devices. It’s departing from the park in November, but hopefully its message stays on.
Going Back to The Meadows (Queens) Leaving Nov. 23: This tribute to Queens native LL Cool J by Sherwin Banfield is fun and functional, as well: The speakers are solar powered. Visit the piece before it leaves at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Faces of Harlem (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This community-centric outdoor photo wall in Morningside Park takes a look at Harlem residents private indoor spaces, highlighting the themes of connections and isolation. There are over 100 photos to look at, taken by 10 modern artists as well as three youth photographers.
Good Neighbors (Manhattan) Leaving Nov. 30: This photo wall commemorates community members from around the Anibal Aviles Playground, by displaying their images along with short interviews. Created by J Maya Luz, this installation shares a wall in the playground with a number of other artworks, inclkuding a memorial for the park’s namesake.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Located a stone’s throw away from Yankee Stadium, this museum displays modern art with a focus on urban experiences and culture. Explore what it means to be a part of the NYC community, and specifically the demographic in the museum’s neighborhood.
The museum is always free, and has a permanent collection as well as rotating special exhibits.
1040 Grand Concourse
Concourse Village Online:bronxmuseum.org
Wave Hill
This gorgeous garden has 28 acres of carefully cultivated plants, flowers and woodland. Take a stroll through the indoor Alpine House, stop for a photo-op of the Hudson River and the Palisades at the Pergola, or sit and relax by the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens. The space frequently hosts family-friendly programs so be sure to check their calendar before you head out.
New York Botanical Garden
With over 250 acres to see, the New York Botanical Garden can definitely be a whole-day affair. The Garden is open rain or shine, and has a mix of indoor and outdoor gardens to explore. See seasonal flowers and native plants, a peaceful rock garden, an entire forest, and much more. The Garden also conducts research, hosts family and child-oriented events, and has online seminars — including one where experts will answer your questions about why your potted plant is looking a little droopy.
Free admission is available for NYC residents on Wednesdays.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is like an educational playground for kids. Find exhibits created specifically for little ones to view and learn with, as well as many hands-on activities that teach through fun and play. Don’t miss the NEST, an organic playground located on the museum’s roof, the water-based play space, or the newly opened Jurassic Mini-golf.
The museum’s Amazon Free Hours grant free admission to all visitors on Thursdays from 2 to 5 p.m.
American Folk Art Museum
The American Folk Art Museum explores the joys of self-taught artists from the 1800s all the way through today. These artworks symbolize authentic American culture and experience through time and provide a snapshot of life in different time periods. Along with beautiful photographs and arts on canvas and board, the museum has some unique collections like weather-vanes. The museum has a number of coloring and activity pages that kids can enjoy from home, as well.
National Museum of the American Indian
Part of the Smithsonian Institution family, this museum honors American Indians. It displays modern and classic art by people of American Indian heritage, and teaches visitors about their cultures and traditions. It also frequently has performances, educational programs, and more.
The Skyscraper Museum
Look to the skies at the Skyscraper Museum where NYC’s iconic skyline is explored and celebrated. The museum’s exhibits look at the architecture of the city’s buildings, the literal rise of skyscrapers in NYC, and all other things related to the city’s buildings and their history. The museum also often hosts free family events both at the museum and in different locations around the city.
Admission to The Skyscraper Museum is free through December.
The Jewish Museum
View a celebration of Jewish culture, heritage and artwork at this museum. Exhibits highlight art and photography by Jewish artists, from modern artists working today to key historical figures who helped shape the way art and Jewish culture intersect. The museum also hosts free special events, from museum tours for people with memory loss, to art-making workshops for children and families.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library, which was started by Pierpont Morgan and is now continuously growing, hosts a collection of rare and unique books. While the books in the library itself aren’t available for visitors to browse, you can marvel at the beauty of the library and visit the exhibits, which often show old books, newspaper clippings, and other historic artifacts.
Entry into the Library is free on Tuesdays and Sundays from 3 to 5 p.m., no reservation required. Free Friday programs take place every Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. and these do need a ticket, which are released for reservation a week in advance.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
This museum examines the history of Jewish people, the hardships they’ve overcome, and the hope for a brighter present and future. The museum has exhibits that discuss the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and accounts of the time, as well as artwork and sculptures by Holocaust survivors.
You can visit this museum for free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 p.m. A ticket is required, which you can get by choosing the Thursday 4 p.m. slot on the museum website.
Edmond J. Safra Plaza
36 Battery Place
Financial District Online:mjhnyc.org
Museum of Modern Art
The MoMA is an iconic institute, displaying modern artworks, sculptures, and media / performance pieces created from the 1880s and beyond. The art here will make you feel and think — and, although most exhibits aren’t interactive, the many bright and striking colors and interesting shapes make a great entry point for kids to talk about and explore art.
Thanks to a sponsorship by UNIQLO, the MoMA grants NYC residents free admission on the first Friday of every month, from 4 to 8 p.m.
11 West 53 St.
Midtown
Admission to the MoMA PS1 is always free to New Yorkers, thanks to The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
9/11 Memorial Museum
This museum is a tribute to the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 (as well as the February 26, 1993) attacks on the World Trade Center. Visit to learn about the horrific event through media, personal narratives, and a collection of artifacts telling the many stories of that day.
Free admission is offered on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This museum encourages exploration and learning through hands-on exhibits. These often mix fun movement and bright colors with conversations about serious topics like women’s voting rights. Kids can also go on quests featuring their favorite characters like Dora, use their imagination by pretending to be superheroes, discover new cultures through interactive experiences, and much more. Exhibits change often, so stop by at various times of year to see what’s new.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is free to enter on Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m.
Queens County Farm Museum
Get away from the city for a farm visit! Meet and greet farm animals (and even get to pet some at the petting zoo), engage with the sensory wonders of the children’s garden, embark on a cute scavenger hunt for the smallest tots, and more. For a small fee, visitors can go on a hayride, and parents can browse the Farm Store for farm-fresh produce, eggs, teas, wool, and other goods created and harvested right on the farm.
The Farm Museum is free to enter every day, except on special ticketed days.
73-50 Little Neck Parkway
Bellrose Manor Online:queensfarm.org
Socrates Sculpture Park
Founded in 1986, this park is a place where visitors can have a picnic among incredible sculptures. The artwork on display is always changing, so this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to. Currently on viewing are sculptures like “Steel Bodies” by Maren Hassinger and “Broadway Billboard” by the park’s teen group, Socrateens.
The Socrates Sculpture Park is a public park and admission is free.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Snug Harbor is a must-see if you’ve never been. It’s a beautiful, sprawling grounds have a collection of gardens and plants, while special locations like the Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art have their own atmosphere (as well as hours and admission prices).
The Scholar’s Garden is free for Staten Island residents, and the main outdoor grounds and gardens are always free to the public from dawn to dusk.
Our guide to kid-friendly things to do in Seattle is here to help when you need a last-minute plan
Are you in search of activities to keep your kids entertained when they’re not in school ? We’ve rounded up the best places around Seattle to get their wiggles out. Pull out these kid-friendly things to do in Seattle whether you need playdates for little tikes or destinations for those school in-service days that pop up on the calendar when you least expect them. Whatever the reason, you’ll want to bookmark this list. Here are 15 kid-friendly places guaranteed to delight your little one and (hopefully) help bounce, climb, jump, run, paint, or skate away your kiddo’s boundless energy.
The Museum of Flight
Kathryn Muelller
Are you ready for takeoff? The Museum of Flight will have your aviation enthusiast taking to the skies with joy. There are more than 175 aircraft and spacecraft to explore. Did you know The Museum of Flight is the largest independent, non-profit air and space museum in the world? With interactive experiences and educational galleries, kids will learn about the history of flight while also getting up close to planes of all shapes and sizes. Test out your piloting skills in a cockpit or walk through a 737–there’s no boarding pass required to step foot on these planes. After you’ve toured the expansive museum, stop at the café to refuel.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum offers an abundance of STEAM-based, hands-on learning opportunities. Geared toward kids ages birth to 10 years old, the museum is full of activities that will keep kids engaged at every twist and turn. Each exhibit gives children the opportunity to work on new skills, from gross motor to problem solving, engineering and more–opportunities are limitless. Climb a two-story work of art, explore machines, including a blue big rig, play make-believe at the mercantile, or get wet in an exhibit all about water. There is so much to explore!
Tucked away in the quaint downtown corridor of Edmonds, is a cute pottery shop with shelves of figurines waiting to be painted. Glazed and Amazed provides the perfect space for your little ones to unleash their artistic talents. The family-friendly studio has hundreds of pottery options available–from unicorns to dragons, mugs to jewelry boxes–choosing a canvas is half the fun. They offer paints of all hues and arrays as well, even glittered and speckled paints, to help bring your creation to life. The process is easy. Choose your pottery, pick your paints, create your art, and leave it with them. Glazed and Amazed does all the hard work. They clean up when you're done, and fire the pottery in their kiln. In five days, your masterpiece will be ready for pickup. All you have to do is decide where in your house you’ll display your work of art.
Insider Tip: Would you rather paint at home? They also have paint-to-go kits to add some creativity and fun to your day.
Lions and tigers and bears–oh, my! Find your favorite animals at the Woodland Park Zoo–rain or shine. The expansive 92-acre zoo features different natural habitats ranging from the African Savanna to the Northern Trail. Discover all the Zoo has to offer by exploring the many meandering trails around the spacious enclosures. Don’t miss out on Zoomazium, an indoor facility geared toward kiddos 8 years old and younger, that features fun, interactive, nature-themed areas devoted to play and learning. Inside, you’ll find a gigantic 20-foot climbing tree (with a slide), caves, and a rope bridge. Zoomazium is a wonderful place to let your imagination run wild.
Good to Know: The Historic Carousel will be closed for annual maintenance Oct. 17-28, and the Butterfly Garden exhibit is closed for the season.
Flatstick Pub located in South Lake Union is a hole in one. The family-friendly mini golf course and restaurant is a fun, colorful environment to cultivate a child’s love of golf. The 9-hole course centers around a giant sasquatch who takes center stage. Each hole has various obstacles and elevation changes, so be prepared for a challenge. After you’ve worked up an appetite shooting for par, head over to the restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal. There is an abundance of children’s games to pick from while you wait for food. Our favorite is Candy Land. At Flatstick, fun and food await.
Insider Tip: Flatstick is 21 and over after 7 p.m.
The newly expanded Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett is full of engaging, interactive exhibits that will have tots so enthralled they won’t want to leave–literally. (Please don't blame us if they want to play all day.) Kids can climb and explore a towering, sprawling tree house, hop aboard a transit bus, milk a cow, pretend to be a train conductor, or dig for dinosaurs. The outdoor rooftop space is truly unique, featuring 9,149-square-feet of adventure. Kiddos will love climbing, crawling, running, and jumping on the massive play structure.
Insider Tip: If you plan to spend less than 90 minutes at the museum (which honestly might be hard with so much fun to discover inside the museum), you can opt for free parking on the street.
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium lets animal adventurers explore the wonders of wildlife. Exhibits include the Arctic Tundra, Red Wolf Woods, Rocky Shores, Asian Forest Sanctuary and more. You can meet zookeepers, have animal encounters, gently touch sea creatures at the Tidal Touch Zone, feed goats, or you could spend the day playing on one of the many playgrounds. There’s so much to do, see, climb, and discover. One of our favorite new additions is the Little Explorers Nature Play Garden. The immersive play garden is designed to cultivate a sense of excitement and appreciation for nature.
Want to learn to ski or snowboard? You don’t need snow at Mini Mountain. If you’re looking for an out of the box activity, check out this indoor mountain. Mini Mountain Indoor Ski Center has been teaching generations of families to ski since opening in 1983. Learn to carve some turns from the comfort of an indoor facility, and gain confidence before hitting the slopes. Kiddos as young as 18 months can earn some turns.
1900 132nd Ave. N.E., Suite A3 Bellevue, WA Online:minimountain.com
Flip, turn, roll, bounce, and climb around a gym designated for little ones for a whole hour. Seattle Gymnastics Academy gives kids 5 and under a place to play in a space just for them. With three different locations in Seattle (and another coming soon to Burien), you can find a gym near you. Gymnasts can use equipment like a Tumbl Trak, foam pits, trampolines, and balance beams. The indoor playground helps kids get energy out while also honing their gross motor skills.
Insider Tip: Indoor playground times vary by location, so check the website to see what's offered (and when) at the location near you.
The Seattle Aquarium brings a beautiful teeming world under the sea to your fingertips. From wading tide pools where little ones can gently touch sea stars to the deep, dark depths of the ocean, the aquarium helps little ones uncover their inner marine biologist and allows you to "sea" it all. Don’t miss the playful sea otters or the harbor seals. You can also immerse yourself in the Puget Sound without getting wet—through a short tunnel you’ll enter a one-of-a-kind undersea dome with a 360-degree view into a 400,000-gallon habitat. It’s an exciting and unique way to view the waters of the Puget Sound.
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to save.
Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park has activities and attractions for all ages. Jump on trampolines, explore tunnels suspended in air, bounce on inflatables, scale tall climbing walls or play a round of high-tech mini golf. Also available at the activity center is a café to recharge once your little jumper has bounced their energy out. Toddler Time is now available during all operating hours for children 6 and under for only $14 for one hour of jump time.
Insider Tip: Packages for toddlers and family punch cards are available so you can save cash.
Located in the heart of Seattle, the Pacific Science Center will ignite your child’s curiosity. The mission of the Pacific Science Center is to fuel a passion for discovery, experimentation and critical thinking, and each exhibit does just that. Surround yourself with hundreds of beautiful butterflies in a tropical habitat, explore the outer most reaches of the universe, walk with dinosaurs or step into the Laser Dome, and experience a brilliant, immersive laser show.
Insider Tip: Looking to extend your playdate? Check out the playground at Seattle Center. Located in the plaza between the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and Seattle Center Armory, the Artists at Play playground is a wonderful, imaginative place to place for kids of all ages.
Bounce your way into the inflatable FunZone! At Arena Sports, kids can run, jump, bounce and slide to their heart’s content. Each location offers a variety of kid-friendly activities for kids ages 18 months old to 12 years old. Kiddos love the Magnuson location because of the giant inflatables, but all the locations provide epic playtimes your little ones won’t forget.
Locations in Issaquah, Magnuson, Mill Creek, Redmond and SODO Online:arenasports.net
Kraken Community Iceplex
Skate where the Seattle Kraken skate! Public skates are available throughout the week. You don’t have to be an NHL hopeful to glide around the rink–public skating is open to all ages and abilities. Hop on the ice during lunch, or plan an afternoon skate date with friends. Looking for the best time to take your skating tike? Every Friday (from 10:30-11:30 a.m.), little skaters can hit the ice and enjoy open play at the Kraken Community Iceplex. Rent skates and aid seals (or join the fun in sneakers and boots) and spend an hour on the ice. Balls and piles of snow are provided. Helmets are recommended and parent supervision is required. After you skate, head up to the Starbucks on the second floor for a hot chocolate or grab lunch at 32 Bar and Grill. The 5,000-square-foot pub and grill gives lunch goers expansive views of Starbucks Rink where the Kraken practice and the Smartsheet Rink.
It’s fun to be a tourist in Seattle. Especially when you and the kids head to Pike Place Market during the weekday. Beat the crowds and snap some truly Insta-worthy pictures. The bustling streets, beautiful bouquets of flowers, decadent donuts, and fresh produce break up the monotony of the typical go-to parks and neighborhood destinations. Making a trek downtown makes for a fun day of sightseeing. Our suggestion? Stop at Daily Dozen (one of our favorite donut shops) and then pick up the biggest, brightest bundle of flowers you can carry. Strolling through the iconic market and exploring all its hidden artisan treasures is an exciting way to spend a day.
Autumn’s vibrant colors are the perfect excuse to hit the road with the kids.
The days are getting shorter and there is a refreshing nip in the air. Welcome to fall! It’s time for everyone’s favorite season in the PNW—complete with cider and apple picking, pumpkin patches, Seahawks’ wins, a Mariners pennant chase (we can hope), and the glorious colors of autumn. Locals know Washington state rivals New England for fall foliage fireworks, with eruptions of bright red, orange, and gold from the Olympics to the Cascades. Here are nine dazzling drives to see fall colors near Seattle that will mesmerize the family, along with delightful detours for your little ones.
Distance: 15 miles from Seattle, with a scenic ferry ride.
Best foliage spotting: Bloedel Reserve
“Nature can do without man, but man cannot do without nature,” said Prentice Bloedel, whose former residence is now Bainbridge Island’s Bloedel Reserve. Fall is a magical time at Bloedel. The larch trees change color and provide a perfect photographic backdrop filled with deep crimson and gold. Another autumnal surprise is the sweet scent that drifts off the Katsura trees in the Japanese garden. The fragrance comes from the leaves themselves as they turn colors and float to the ground. Take a moment with your littles to enjoy this sensory experience. Your family can explore the collection of 12 gardens, over 150 acres, for hours and discover diverse environments such as their award-winning Japanese Garden and their lush, green moss garden. Timed entry tickets must be purchased in advance. Food, pets, and beverages (other than water) are not allowed in the garden so be sure to feed the troops before you go.
Don’t-miss detours: After walking through Bloedel Reserve bring the pack to Via Rosa 11, where it feels like you’re in Italy from the very first bite. Savor their homemade gnocchi, secret pesto sauce, bruschetta with Genovese basil, pasta, and pizza. Via Rosa 11 is family-run so they understand that kids have great taste too – all pasta dishes can be ordered in smaller portions. Keep the little explorers happy and head to Battle Point Park - 90 acres of play space to frolic and play. A new all-abilities kid’s structure provides hours of amusement, plus roller hockey, pickleball, and more. If the night skies are clear, consider attending the programming at Battle Point Astronomical Society home to the PNW's largest public observatory.
Pumpkin picking is always fun for the fam, so stop by Suyematsu Farmto grab your gourds, as well as berries, flowers, and organic squash.
Extend the fun: Stay at the elegant Inn at Pleasant Beach. We recommend the townhouse suite for families with views of gilded leaves reflected on the water. Check pool hours for swimming, fall hours TBD. Another lovely option to stay on island is Dahlia Bluff Cottage with water views, an expansive deck, and a hot tub.
Best foliage spotting: Blackbird Island in Leavenworth, Carne Mountain, Tronsen Ridge and along Highway 2.
The drive along Highway 2 to Leavenworth is an astounding display of neon red, gold, and orange. The colors seem to cascade down the hills and mountains like flowing streams. Have your camera ready and be prepared to stop frequently to take it all in. Carne Mountain just north of Leavenworth has a plethora of larches. Here, you’ll find incredible forest color bursts along the eight-mile-round-trip trail but note—this hike is for advanced trekkers. We recommend strolling around Blackbird Island, a small piece of land surrounded by the river in the middle of the town. It’s a perfect place to take wee ones to commune with nature and enjoy the fall kaleidoscope.
Don’t-miss detours: Take a drive along scenic Icicle Road or head to Waterfront Park for more foliage views. Budding X-Games athletes will get psyched at Leavenworth Bike Pump Park nearby. For more adrenaline highs go rock climbing or ziplining 200 feet above the forest floor for an aerial view of golden and crimson leaves. Horseback riding through the Cascades is a treat or take it slow with a leisurely horse carriage ride through town.
This year’s Oktoberfest will be better than ever, with a bigger emphasis on family-friendly fun. So after all that activity, raise a stein with a divine slice of pizza at Blewett Brewing. Icicle Brewing Company and Doghaus Brewery also serve up enough pilsen and kölsch to pretend you're in Bavaria. Lederhosen and dirndl not included.
Don’t forget the sweets! New to town, Crepe Café Sisters offers savory and sweet mouthwatering crepes, or celebrate the season with baked yummies at The Gingerbread Factory.
Extend the fun: Leave the kiddos at home and treat yourself to a stay at Posthotel, a gorgeous alpine resort with scrumptious spa services and pools. It’s nestled next to Blackbird Island so you can enjoy the fall foliage from your balcony with a champagne toast. Families love Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort with fun loft or bunk beds for kids and cabins next to a roaring river. The pool is open through October 15, but the hot tub is open year-round for outdoor soaking and splash play.
Distance: 60 miles from Seattle, including a ferry.
Best foliage spotting: Fort Worden Historical State Park
Port Townsend is a welcoming escape from the city with its preserved Victorian architecture and slow-paced nautical lifestyle. The charming town is fun to peruse and explore, but for fall leaves head straight to Fort Worden Historical State Park. Once a U.S. Army base, it is now a beautiful getaway with camping, cafés, and curving beaches after it was donated to the state. The former barracks once provided the setting to a famous film.
Don’t-miss detours: The čičməhán Trail (also Anglicized as Chetzemoka) features 16 sites organized into three loops to educate visitors on the Jamestown S’Klallam people who lived in the area for hundreds of years. Walk to a few easy monuments or bike around to see more.
Port Townsend is packed with options for hungry little eaters. Doc’s Marina Grill has all the yummy fish, chips, and chowder one would expect from the aquatic surroundings. Water Street is chock-full of choices, including must-lick local institution Elevated Ice Cream Company.
Further afield, Finnriver Cidery in nearby Chimacum makes for a perfect fall experience. The kids will love the simple, satisfying menu (burgers, pretzels, and brats) and the lawn games (cornhole tournament, anyone?) will keep them running around for hours. Adults will appreciate the lovingly crafted hard cider from the local orchard. Finnriver is all about connecting with the land, engaging with the community, and empowering the local growers on the Olympic Peninsula. Take a tour of the orchards to feel the fall vibes of our state’s proudest export: the apple.
Extend the fun: Stay in town at Port Townsend Inn, with an indoor pool and hot tub the whole family will enjoy. A possibly spookier option is Manresa Castle, with epic views of Port Townsend Bay. Some say the rooms on the top floor are haunted.
For a fall escape that mixes in magical hauntings with a taste of New England, consider a trip to Whidbey and Camano Islands. Coupeville was the actual setting for the movie Practical Magic, about two sisters who use their magical powers against evil in a small New England town. Coupeville embraces Halloween and the town’s “spooky” past. Enjoy the local businesses' scarecrow contest as you walk around town—have the kids pick their favorite stuffed friend.
Don't-miss detours:The Haunted Fort at Fort Casey runs October 22-23 and 29-30. There are two sections—Battery Kingsbury for those who love a good scare, and Battery Valleau with smaller spooks for kids of all ages. We recommend a trip to the Coupeville Visitor’s Center for friendly tips and a variety of helpful brochures. Grab the 24 Trails Off The Beaten Path guide to frolic among the foliage. Barnum Point on page 6, Iverson Spit Reserve on page 18, and Garry Oak Tree Tour on page 32 are good fall trails. Don’t leave without also acquiring the Practical Magic Walking Tour of Coupeville and A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Historic Coupeville.
Whidbey Island has wonderful parks and charming towns like Coupeville and Langley to explore. Deception Pass State Park and Bridge, Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, and Fort Casey Historical State Park and Admiralty Head Lighthouse are all highlights. Sightseeing tots will need sustenance—Callen’s is scenically situated with views of Keystone Ferry, Ciao has Italian imports and gourmet grinds, and Little Red Hen Bakery provides sweets and snacks. Then embrace the kitsch, with lotions and potions from Praktical Magik the store.
Camano Island embraces island life. Don’t miss Cama Beach State Park and the Center for Wooden Boats, which houses a build your own boat workshop on Saturdays for kids. Kristoferson Farm is a kids haven with zip-lining, a pumpkin patch, and farm dinners. For more nosh try Tapped Camano—with local cider, beer and wine, and yummy food. The bakery at Camano Commons Marketplace has the most sinful pastries and cookies; also good shopping and an art gallery upstairs. Brunch at the Cama Beach Café usually ends with families bringing home a whole pie.
Extend the fun: Stay at historic Fort Casey Inn, once the officer quarters. Request the Doctor’s House and don’t forget the scary story books to read aloud by candlelight on the porch. Captain Whidbey Inn has cabins and lodge rooms but the real draw is their lobby and restaurant, where guests feel as if they are sitting down with old friends in simpler times. The cabins at Cama Beach State Park are historic and great for families as they are located right on the water.
Distance: 70 miles from Seattle, including a ferry to Kingston or Bainbridge Island.
Best foliage spotting: The Olympic Peninsula is one big fall foliage tapestry. It’s hard to go wrong when the entire drive along the Elwha River between Highway 101 and the Olympic Park entrance is renowned for fall color explosions. From Hurricane Ridge, with its magnificent mile-high, 360-degree views, visitors can spy Mount Baker, Victoria BC, the San Juan Islands and what seems like millions of trees. Once on top, hiking trails and picnic spots are yours for the taking. There is a café with food but we suggest bringing a picnic or snacks to enjoy the day at your leisure—the drive takes about 40 minutes to get to the top.
Lake Crescent looks like an alpine postcard, fed by glacial water famous for its clarity and cerulean glow. Grab a kayak or canoe and tuck in the whole family for a lake view of the golden and copper color show. Lake Crescent Lodge has an elegance reminiscent of the golden age of travel. Stop in to feel a part of the decadence – enjoy drinks on the sun porch or savor delicious PNW fare in the Singer Tavern Lounge or the lakefront dining room. Littles will love the gift shop with plushies, books, and games to take home.
Don’t-miss detours: Grab the bikes for a lazy afternoon on the Olympic Discovery Trail. Once completed, the route will span 130 miles of non-motorized transit, from Port Townsend to La Push, now open to non-tribal members. In Sequim, bike to Railroad Bridge Park. The historic bridge was rebuilt in 2015, which means it’s safe and sturdy. Then roll through Sequim’s legendary lavender farms and check out the 5.5-mile Dungeness Spit, home of the tasty namesake crab.
Locals love the drive into Sol Duc for prime maple tree gawking along the roadway. Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort has simple but comfortable rooms. Stay the night and enjoy the natural hot springs pumped into convenient pools, free for hotel guests. Kids love the shallow, temperate pool and the larger cold pool for splashing (the cold pool closes sporadically, check ahead). The sundries shop has excellent wine, cider, and beer to-go and the café serves up yummy nosh.
Extend the fun: We highly recommend staying at Lake Crescent Lodge. The lodge has many accommodations but we prefer the Roosevelt Fireplace Cabins, available only on weekends in the winter. The unmatched view plus fireplace equals cozy family time—mix in games and hot chocolate for maximum hygge. Or groups can stay at Holiday Inn Express in Sequim. It is perfectly located for enjoying the region, well-suited for families, and has some of the most comfortable beds around.
Olympic Peninsula: Hoh Rainforest to Lake Quinault
Allison Sutcliffe
Distance: 147 miles from Seattle to Lake Quinault. The rainforest is another 71 miles away.
Best foliage spotting: Surrounding Lake Quinault & inside Hoh National Rain Forest.
Lake Quinault is a majestic, glacially carved lake where families flock yearly for summer fun, but locals know the best time to visit is in October. The air is crisp, the fire’s blazing and the trees around the lake reflect crimson and gold in the glassy water. Miles of hiking trails serpent and crystal waterfalls cascade just feet from the winding main road.
The Hoh Rain Forest is part of the Olympic National Park and requires a park pass to enter. The drive to the entrance is magical, conjuring images of woodland creatures and fairy tales. A variety of hikes inside the park suit even the tiniest hiking shoe (a three-year-old could crush the Mini Trail, which is 0.2 miles long and flat). The friendly rangers will assist with choosing the right trail for your group. Be sure to ask which trails have the most maples and alders for prime fall foliage photos. Bring food and water or stock up at the Hard Rain Café—there are no provisions inside the park for hangry hikers. Of note, Hard Rain Café has campsites as well, if your group wishes to sleep within the trees.
Don’t-miss detours: The Quinault Valley is also known as the Valley of the Rainforest Giants, with six world champion trees to admire. Some, such as the world’s largest Sitka Spruce (191 feet tall!) or Western Red Cedar, are easily accessible on foot from the main road. The 31-mile Quinault Rain Forest Loop Drive makes for a lovely day, to stop and leaf peep along the way.
Ruby Beach will not provide as many rust-colored snapshots, but the magnificent Pacific Ocean never disappoints. The wild surf and jagged rocks are well worth the drive. Sit on a driftwood bench and watch the rock cairns struggle to withstand the tides, then build your own family rock stack. Numbered beaches along the way (Beaches 1–5) offer picture-perfect picnicking. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy the rare (for Seattle) sight of the sun setting over the Pacific.
Extend the fun:Lake Quinault Lodge is a true gem. We recommend staying here and taking a mini-vacation to welcome autumn’s arrival. Kiddos splash in the indoor pool and play in the game room while adults steam in the sauna. The lodge is part of the Historic National Park Lodges and was built in only 53 days, with crews working around the clock. The windows are mainly the original glass and the Totem Pole Rain Gauge was made by a master carver, positioned perfectly to watch over the property. The Roosevelt Dining Room serves delectable fare, named after the president who enjoyed lunch in that room in 1937. After a meal, repose on the stunning front lawn in one of the many Adirondack chairs and enjoy the lake and forest views.
The Thurston Bountiful Byway is a U-shaped drive that extends from Olympia to the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, looping around on small roads and state highways 12, 507 and 510. All along the drive, gold, red, and copper leaves line the roadway, as well as a plethora of activities and charming stops. In the refuge try some bird watching along with leaf peeping to see songbirds, peregrine falcons and bald eagles. Another fall color explosion is at Tolmie State Park with a view of Mount Rainier.
Don’t-miss detours: Bundle up and enjoy fall activities, like getting lost in the Rutledge Corn Maze, wandering the Monarch Sculpture Park, or snacking on cider doughnuts at Schilter Family Farm. Biking along the Byway and trails is a relaxing way to take in the fall colors. Most trails are flat, such as the Chehalis Western trail that runs 22 scenic miles south of Olympia. Don’t miss a unique PNW nature show—the Chinook Salmon Migration—as the Chinook aka king salmon return to their spawning grounds along the Deschutes River.
Craft beer, wine, and spirits abound in this region. Farms and farmer’s markets provide apple cider and other goodies to sustain your group. Hunter Family Farm is the place for fall treats and fall-themed activities for the whole family. At Pigman’s Produce the littles will love to pick their own pumpkins. And Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm hosts the Pumpkin Festival in October with games, wagon rides, and award winning cider.
Extend the fun: Stay at the Prairie Hotel, a charming and hospitable place. It’s also close to the some of the best pizza in the state, Pizzeria La Gitana, which is a bonus. Another option is the Swantown Inn and Spa for unique, cozy rooms and spa services.
Distance: 186 miles from Seattle. Plan for frequent foliage detours.
Best foliage spotting: Cutthroat Lake, Diablo Lake, Washington Pass, Methow River & Patterson Lake
The North Cascades Highway is an iconic drive and each autumn the trees put on a natural fireworks show. The east side of the Cascades provides the native habitat for the elusive larch tree, the deciduous conifer that turns electric gold for a few short weeks every year. For aficionados, Cutthroat Pass and its namesake lake are the holy grail of Larch Madness. The hike to Cutthroat Lake from the highway is surprisingly doable, even for smaller children, at less than four flat miles round trip.
“Adventure In the Air, With a Certain Western Flair,” sums up Winthrop’s appeal. Designed from necessity, the town was dwindling in size and importance when the highway was completed in 1972. Building on their rugged mining past, the town decided to go full steam ahead on the rodeo theme to entice tourists to saddle up and ride in. Today it is a Wild West fantasy come to life with wooden sidewalks and saloon-style store fronts. So put on your ten-gallon hats, hook your pony to the hitching post and get ready to explore.
Don’t-miss detours: You won’t want to rush through the vistas, so bring provisions. East20 Pizza makes out-of-this-world yummy pies. Bring one along for lunch or dine onsite after a day of leaf collecting. Methow Valley Cider House serves BBQ and burgers, and their refreshing cider should be sipped on their outdoor picnic tables to properly enjoy the fall views.
Get your sugar rush at Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe. This old-fashioned candy shop is almost impossible to avoid, your nose will lead you there with its sweet temptations and sugary aroma. The Old Schoolhouse Brewery is family friendly, with a relaxing location by the river. Trail’s End Bookstore is a gem filled with books, games, and locals. The shiny, new Winthrop Public Library welcomes young pardners and families, so trot on in!
Don’t forget your giddy-up! Horseback riding is a quintessential Winthrop experience. Sun Mountain Lodge has an arena and trail rides available through mid-October, with some of the best views in the valley.
Extend the fun:Sun Mountain Lodge sits perched high above the valley, with stunning views and sunsets. The rooms are decorated with just the right touch of dude ranch, and the main lobby opens to even more tree gawking possibilities. With over 40 miles of trails on property, hikers and mountain bikers of all skills will find thrills. The restaurant serves delicious fixin’s for all tastes. Kids of all ages love the year-round outdoor hot tub and indoor game room with pool table and foosball. We recommend the Patterson Lake cabins with full kitchens for families. The trees surrounding the lake will glimmer and turn colors outside the windows. This is a special place to unwind and connect with your inner Walden Pond.
Best foliage spotting: Washington Park Arboretum, Kubota Garden, Ravenna Park, Woodland Park, Discovery Park, Green Lake
Seattle is known for its surprisingly diverse and welcoming parks. The fall season brings more surprises with our city parks’ foliage grand finale! The Arboretum’s Seattle Japanese Garden has a stunning collection of Japanese maples which produce a dramatic palette of reds and oranges to delight the entire family. The garden is open every day except Monday, children under five are free, and this fall they welcome their Garden Tours back at 12:30pm daily. In Rainier Beach, Kubota Garden possesses 140 different varieties of maple—filling each fall with fireworks of foliage.
Finding your fall favorite is as easy as a walk in the park. Ravenna Park and Woodland Park contain several highly prized larch trees, with the glowing golden needles beloved of leaf peepers everywhere. Discovery Park—Seattle’s largest—contains 11 miles of scenic tree-topped trails with ocean views. Walk the easy three-mile path around Green Lake surrounded by natural urban beauty. Or check out the well-kept secret that is Gasworks Park parking lot. The surrounding trees burst into flame each fall. After taking a few Insta-worthy pics walk into the park for the famous skyline and Space Needle view.
From mini mazes for little ones to mystery mazes you might never escape, these farms know how to do the fall season right
If you happen upon a farm that grows corn this fall, chances are really good that it’ll be turned into a corn maze—but beware, not all are created equal. That’s why we’ve scouted out a few of the very best destination corn mazes in the country. From themes like “Hope” to mystery mazes and even haunted mazes, you and your super-sleuths will be left with a map and your navigation skills; can you make it out before closing time? Add on some leaf peeping and your fall dreams will come true.
Yesterland Farm is huge with lots to do after you conquered the regular three-acre corn maze during the day or the separate “Creepy Corn Maze” at night. (Farmer Chuck and Kama Bozeman make a point to make it “spooky” not “gory” so that it is still very family-friendly.) In addition to the things you would expect to find here, they also have a bunch of unique attractions like the Cow Train, Santa's Runaway Sleigh Roller Coaster, the apple cannon, pig races, and more.
Dates: Sept. 17-Nov. 6 (weekends only, plus Fridays in October)
Cost: Prices start at $22.95 and it's cheaper if you purchase online than in person
This year, Bella Organic has a corn maze with the theme “HOPE” complete with the word woven seamlessly between acres of corn and coupled with the number for Lifeline, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (Dial 988). You can expect seven acres of vertigo-inducing fun to explore and 2.7 miles of paths to navigate. (Tip: Bring your flashlight for evening adventures). With food and beer vendors and a variety of additional autumn activities including hayrides, a cow train, and a petting zoo, you’ll be happy to get lost in all of the festive fun.
Dates: Sept. 3-Oct. 31
Cost: Prices start at $6 for kids and $8 for adults
For the "World's Largest," get lost in the corn maze at Richardson Farm. Little ones will love the farm's play area, pedal trikes, and the goat walk. There's a show featuring live pig races, as well as pumpkin picking and a zip wire. If 28 acres of corn is intimidating, rest assured, that there are multiple checkpoints throughout the maze and three bridges to help you find your bearings with a map.
Dates: Sept. 10-Oct. 30
Cost: Tickets start at $16 and under are 2 are free
Part art installation, part outdoor game, part social experiment, the Treinen Farm corn mazes are designed and cut entirely by the staff at the farm. Each year they pick a theme and create an entire experience around it. There's even a maze within the maze for those who have expert-level skills (there's no map!).
Dates: select dates Sept. 3-Nov. 6
Cost: Admission starts at $12.95/person. Buy online and save.
The corn mazes created at the Pumpkin Valley Farm over the years have been truly incredible. Also incredible is the amount of entertainment found here. Your admission to the festival includes the corn maze, the Jumping Pillow, two shots on the ball launcher, one ride for kids (age 12 & under) on the Cow Train, all play areas, and farm animals visit. Stop at the Cow Lick Cafe for kettle corn, cotton candy, hot dogs, and cider, or the horse trailer bar, The Rusty Bucket, for brick oven pizza, beer, and wine.
40 minutes outside Seattle, the 10-acre maze at Bob's will have you twisting and turning through geometric paths to find the exit. While going through the maze during the day is a lot of fun, we suggest making a night by attending one of the "Night Maze" sessions and reserving one of the fire pits carved into the perimeter of the maze. You don't have to worry about any creature jumping out to scare you. It's just a challenge to overcome with only your flashlight to guide you (be sure to have fresh batteries!). For those with young ones visiting during the day, don't miss the two kids' mazes created just for them.
Dates: Sept. 17-Oct. 31
Cost: $16.95/person and up, save when you purchase online
This is the black diamond of corn mazes. It's the largest maze in New England, and with towering 12-foot walls of corn, visitors come for the challenge. Hardcore mazers might take up to four hours to find their way out, without the help of clues or a map. The big maze is 24 acres and includes several bridges, an underground tunnel, and a 28-foot cabin cruiser. Little ones will enjoy the shorter scenic maze that takes you through all the neat features of the big maze but without all the frustration. There are hours of fun to be had outside the maze with a play area, kid village, underground gopher tunnels, hay bales, climbing tower, rodeo, barnyard golf, and friendly goats.
Dates: select dates July 10-Oct. 30, not open in the rain
Cost: $10/person and up, free for ages 4 and under
Seventy miles north of downtown Atlanta, experience a quest through six acres of corn. In addition to the large maze, Jaemor Farms also offers a mini-maze that should take guests between 15-20 minutes to complete. There are also a lot of other things to do here too including the new farm tricycles, skeeball, a pumpkin train, hayride, petting zoo, skeeball, apple cannon, duck races, and farm slide. You can pick your own pumpkins during maze hours until dark.
Dates: select days Sept. 10-Nov. 6, closed when it rains
Cost: $15 and up/person, ages 2 and under are free
Celebrating over two decades of maze fun, Long Acre Farms' mazes require some logic. Upon your arrival, you'll be given a game board and even though it's usually solved in 60 minutes, if you need help, there are staff members inside the maze to give you a hand. Once you're out of the maze, don't miss the smaller Animal Tracks Maze. There's also an activity area for little ones, an ice cream shop, a farm market, a wagon ride, and a cow train ride. On fall weekends there are also wood-fired pizzas, cider donuts, candy apples, and other fall faves.
Dates: weekends Sept. 17-Oct. 30
Cost: $12/person and up, under 2 and 80+ are free. Tickets cheaper online.
There are two mazes to conquer at Rutledge Farm: the regular corn maze during the day and a "haunted" version at night. However, there's plenty of stuff to do even if you're not that brave including story time with Spookley the Square Pumpkin, corn hole, and swings! There is also ladder ball, a calf roping station, a cow train, and a corn cannon! Book a firepit and plan to stay for a while.
Dates: Sept. 17-Oct. 31
Cost: $11 and up/per, ages 4 and under are free. Free to visit the pumpkin patch.
Enjoy getting lost in NYC’s only corn maze! The adventure begins during the day with a stalk talk to prepare you for the three-acre challenge of finding clues, solving puzzles, and making your way out of this interactive maze. Come back to navigate The Amazing Maize Maze by the starry night! Bring your flashlight and enjoy the fun.
You'll be wishing you had a longer neck to look above the 33 acres of corn at Liberty Mills because there are four trails in one and the farmers have added to the Mystery Maze (no map provided), making the corn maze adventure the largest east of the Mississippi. Want something tougher? Try the Mystery Maze at night with only your flashlight as a guide.
How long does it take to get through the maze at Connors Farm? They say it should take you about an hour to complete. Then again, when asked what to do if one gets lost in the maze, they say, "That's all part of our maze experience!" Seriously though, they have a number of interactive games planted throughout the maze that will help guide you out easily and when worse comes to worst, their "corn cops" will get you to the exit with ease.
If there were ever a one-stop shop for fall festivities, this would be it! In addition to a corn maze and pumpkin patches, you will find pig races, a hay jump, gem mining, bouncy houses, a jumping pillow and…. beer! Still looking for fun? Try the family-friendly Trail of Lights & Field of Frights which is a magically light journey through the farm.
Set on seven acres of corn, Long and Scott Farms describe Scott's Maze Adventures as "It's a maze, it's a game, it's educational, and it's FUN!" Follow the paths, answer the questions and collect picture rubbings along your journey. This place includes three mazes, a castle-themed playground, a zipline for kids, games, and hayrides. You can also stock up on fresh produce at the farm's store.
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm has been offering fun adventures since 1996. The a-maizing-maze features 2.5 miles of paths of twists and turns and is even more challenging in the dark and can be explored with a flashlight (on Friday and Saturdays). This year's theme is the National Parks. In addition to the maze, there are over 50 more fun activities. For little ones, there's a playland with a mini village equipped with costumes and props big enough so the whole family can jump in and play! Tip: Save a few bucks if you order your passes online.
This maze is definitely a challenging one but there's a video orientation before you enter the cornfield as well as Maze Masters on the inside who come to the rescue of anyone who is lost. Other attractions include gemstone mining, hayrides, a kids’ playground, and a farm store. Do the maze at night (most Saturdays in October) for a different challenge. Don't forget your flashlights.
Dates: Sept. 3-Nov. 6
Cost; $10.99/person and up. Save when you purchase online.
Conquering this eight-acre maze starts with a stop at the CORNcierge booth. Petite puzzlers can grab game sheets and tackle the CORNnumdrums word puzzles found on signs throughout the maze. There are dozens of attractions once you've puzzled your way out of the maze, including a 26-foot tall slide mountain, a corn box, a play fort, a train, a climbing wall, a vintage carousel, and a walkthrough of over 600 carved pumpkins.
Visitors get to play two games in this four-acre maze as they hunt for the exit. The first is a trivia game, and in the second, Farmer Brown is missing, and there's a crime to solve. These twin challenges make for plenty of family fun. The farm festival also includes a giant pumpkin jumping pad, play areas, and a pumpkin cannon.
This year's maze theme is Legendary with a sasquatch included. In addition to pumpkin picking, hayrides, and a whole array of on-the-farm activities, those who venture into the cornfield will inch their way through the twists and turns among the one-million stalks of corn ultimately destined for cattle feed. There's also a mini maze for little ones.
Autumn is truly showing off at our favorite places to find fall colors in Portland
Summer is waning, school has started, and its Pumpkin Spice Latte season again. While summer hikes make fond memories, fall means piles and piles of colorful leaves to gather, collect, throw, jump in, and admire. Soon the colors will be popping, and we’re ready to celebrate nature’s fireworks. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best places to view fall foliage in Portland. It’s time to get outside, enjoy the show, and play with the kids. Don’t forget your camera for the best shots.
Originally built in 1909, the Pittock mansion is perched on top of a Forest Park hill, just waiting to burst into fall color. If you’re a history buff you’ll enjoy the indoor mansion tour, but strolling through the grounds to find a prime picnic spot makes a fine day, too. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Hood. For a more active day under the trees, hike down through Forest Park to the Stone House, or combine a driving tour with a visit to the Audubon Society.
Portland’s biggest arboretum is a clear choice to watch the fiesta of fall colors explode across the trees. Over 12 miles of hiking trails span 190 acres, and 6,000 trees like the color-changing birches, maples, oaks and magnolias. A stop at the visitor center will help direct you to which trail offers the most colors, whether you want red hawthorn berries or fiery yellow maples. They offer miles of stroller-friendly paths, a scavenger hunt for the kids, and plenty of great views.
Hidden away in Washington Park, this garden is perfectly coiffed and bursts into color every year. Japanese maples and other fall show-offs were planted to expertly frame certain areas, like a pond, waterfall, or statue. Leave the stroller at home, as many areas use steps. Strap the little ones into a carrier and let older kids pick the path—it’s not too big to get lost in, but big enough that they’ll have fun exploring. Afterward, stop in the teahouse for a meal or a mochi ice cream treat. Get your tickets online for timed entry before you head out.
Fun is a main attraction every fall on this farming island! Besides pumpkins, apple cider, and corn mazes, you’ll also be able to soak in some beautiful fall color from all the oaks blanketing the land. For a perfect picnic spot, head to Howell Territorial Park and spread your feast under the oaks. In the apple orchard behind the house you’ll find trees that were planted from cuttings carried by wagon over the Oregon Trail.
Tucked near the forested hills of Johnson Creek, Leach Botanical Garden is a hidden gem of Southeast Portland. A collection of over 1,000 native and non-native plants is spread over 16 acres. In 2021, the Upper Garden expansion was completed, with a new canopy tree walk, a pollinator meadow, new pathways and many more plantings. It’s a beautiful place to wander, letting kids lead the way—see if they can find the maple trees for some fall glory. Reserve tickets in advance online before heading over.
The views from this park anytime of year are nothing short of stunning. Add a blaze of red and yellow and roll in some fog over the river and you’ve got yourself a fairyland to play in for hours. Bring a picnic blanket and a thermos of hot cider and let the kids go wild! A frisbee, a pile of leaves to jump in, or even some games of tag are perfect against such a beautiful backdrop.
For bonus colors an hour outside of Portland, hop in the car and head to Silver Falls State Park near Salem and Silverton. This enchanted forest offers a myriad of waterfalls along with fiery colorful trees set amidst green pines. The Trail of Ten Falls is an 8.6 mile trek that has, you guessed it, 10 waterfalls, and is easily cut up into smaller sections for little hikers. After hiking, enjoy a picnic by the river or check out the nature playground at the North Falls Group Camp parking lot.
