We can all agree that Black History is an important part of American history. February is Black History Month and what better time to learn and celebrate the history of those who paved the way for freedom, equality and civil rights for all. We’ve rounded up a list of places sure to inspire, engage and more importantly, educate our youth about black culture and more. Plan your visits now–you don’t want to miss out!
This year Art of the African Diaspora celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Bay Area Black Artists Exhibition at Richmond Art Center! This vibrant art center has classes, exhibitions and events that cater to schools, community centers and the Richmond Public Library. For Black History Month, they have partnered again with the Art of African Diaspora for a special event highlighting the work of 100 artists that is sure to be fun and educational for families. You can enjoy this programming through March 19.
MoAD, a contemporary art museum, celebrates Black cultures, ignites challenging conversations, and inspires learning through the global lens of the African Diaspora. This month, you can engage in activities including poetry readings by local artists, a special concert in collaboration with SFJAZZ, with Martin Luther McCoy and new exhibits: Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks and Billie Zangewa: Thread for a Web Begun. Checkthe website for details on this and other programs.
The Oakland Museum of California is happy to welcome visitors back onsite. It is also continuing its OMCA at Home program with fun projects and seminars for families of all ages. Check out the virtual tour of Black Power, an exhibition that explores the history of the Black Power movements in California and the Bay Area’s role. COVID-19 Update: Masks and proof of vaccination are required for entry starting Feb.1.
This museum has been dedicated to discovering and sharing the historical and cultural experiences of African Americans in California. The second-floor museum regularly hosts traveling and original exhibitions that highlight the art, history and culture of Black history. Check out their wide variety of online classes and special programming.
Are you a baseball family? A trip to Oracle Park is sure to please as the park boasts a statue of one of the most well-known baseball players: Willie Mays. Mays spent most of his 22-season Major League Baseball career playing for the San Francisco Giants. Learn about his history starting with the Negro American League and visit the statue on your next trip to San Francisco. While you're at the statue, get the kids to count the palm trees in Willie Mays Plaza. Fun Fact: When they find 24, see if they can guess that the 24 palm trees represent Mays' jersey number.
San Francisco Symphony's Educational Video "Musical Heroes: Stories of African-American Composers" This hour long video discovers the lives and achievements of three African-American composers, William Still, Florence Price and George Walker and the lasting impact they have had on the musical landscape: .
History is truly all around us. A visit to the Presidio can teach kids about Buffalo Soldiers, the famous Black cavalrymen who were stationed there from 1902-1903. The Presidio marks a key time in the history of the participation of Black people in the armed forces. They fought with Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders, fighting bandits and patrolling Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
With an emphasis on the power of community, this organization has a mission to empower and connect through culture. The AAACC is a great place for our youth to learn about Black history. They are all about expression with art, education and special programs while supporting local Bay Area artists. Check out some of their virtual programming and exhibits like The Black Woman is God: Reclaim, Reconfigure, Re–Remember.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial at Yerba Buena Gardens | San Francisco
Pretend City Graphic
Peace and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. are often synonymous. Take in the vision of peace and unity at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial at the Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco. You’ll get to see his inspiring words, poems and images from the Civil Rights Movement surrounding a beautiful waterfall.
In 2010, this park was named in honor of Ralph Dewitt House, a park champion who devoted himself to public service. House was a driving force and leader in ensuring open space in the Bayview community. He founded the Bayview Hill Neighborhood Association and was its president from 1985 through 2004. He volunteered his time tirelessly and empowered others to advocate for their communities. Be sure tovisit this park soon and take in the beautiful views of the city's southeast.
Travel back in time to see how African-American artists had the courage to let their art speak on their behalf. Produced by artist Louise Shields, the 8th Annual Black History Month exhibit is on display at the Gilroy Center for the Arts through Feb. 28. Celebrating Black Artists from Around the World; Past and Present is sure to be a colorful and enlightening lesson for all families stopping by. Be sure to check the center’s website for more details and a corresponding virtual presentation that honors female artists/activists.
Now more than ever, it’s important for us all learn a little bit more about Black history. For Black History Month, kids can learn about important contributions by Black people in history, gain new skills from Black educators and creators, and tour some important historical landmarks from home. These classes from our favorite museums as well as educators at Outschool, Airbnb and KidPass are a great way for the whole family to learn something new this month.
Why Do We Celebrate Black History Month?
In this lesson, students will learn about the origins of Black History Month, the importance of why its celebrated and where it's celebrated. Best for ages 6-11.
Cost: $10 Dates: Meets once, various dates in February Online: outschool.com
This class is based on the book Before She Was Harriet. The style of the class is re-enactment performances and it is suitable for all ages.
Cost: $11 Dates: Meets once, various dates available Online: outschool.com
Frederick Douglass: Agitator Exhibit
public domain/wikimedia commons
Originally on view at the American Writers Museum in 2019, Frederick Douglass: Agitator is now available virtually. Visitors can see the original content from the exhibit that explores the later life of writer and orator Frederick Douglass, learn about his use of portraiture, download curriculum and more.
This class details the history of Black History Month in America, including some little-known facts, and why the month was created. Best for ages 10-15
Cost: $15 Dates: Meets once, various dates available Online: outschool.com
The FunikiJam Show Celebrates Black Musicians: NEW ORLEANS Mardi Gras Edition
Last year they were Off-broadway and On-tour with their own original musicals, but now you can dance, sing, play and learn with the FunikiJam cast in online programs that are part high-energy class and part interactive live show (a 2021 Best of NYC Music Class).
This special edition features Zydeco music - a blend of Afro Caribbean Rhythms, Creole Culture and French language, original FunikiJam songs, stories, and rhymes about New Orleans Culture, and adaptations of African American folk songs like This Train is Bound for Glory.
The New York Historical Society invites kids to learn about black women, like Ida B. Wells, and meet other leaders and activists portrayed by historical interpreters.
Every Wednesday in February, Nareissa Smith, a former law professor and a journalist who writes about racial and gender justice issues, will be hosting educational classes on African American History—in partnership with Varsity Tutors, a live-learning platform.
The first class Black History Basics: Life in Africa & the Beginnings of Slavery (2/3) will explore how Africans created vibrant, fascinating cultures, long before ever coming to America. In this interactive lesson, students will learn about these African civilizations and their extraordinary contributions to global trade, technology, and culture. Then students will examine the beginnings of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and the arrival of Africans in the Americas.
The Field Museum will be hosting a variety of online programs throughout February that highlight and amplify Black voices and stories. The live and pre-recorded events include a mix of Black History-themed behind-the-scenes tours, virtual exhibition viewings, and panel discussions with museum scholars for museum fans, educators, and students to enjoy. Find all the events here.
Tour Boston's Black Heritage Trail
iStock
Fourteen historic sites are included in this virtual tour, among them are former residences, schools, businesses, churches of this thriving black community as well as several stations on the Underground Railroad, along which escaped slaves fled from the South to freedom in the North and in Canada.
The FunikiJam Show Celebrates Black Musicians: NASHVILLE MUSIC CITY Edition
KidPass
Last year they were Off-broadway and On-tour with their own original musicals, but now you can dance, sing, play and learn with the FunikiJam cast in online programs that are part high-energy class and part interactive live show (a 2021 Best of NYC Music Class) .
This special edition features country music from Black Musicians like Charlie Pride and Darius Rucker mixed with original FunikiJam songs, stories, and rhymes about farm animals and country culture. Ages 2-7.
Black History Month Camp: Contributions to Society
In this 4 Week Black History Month Camp, your learner will explore the impact and contributions that Black Americans have made in society from technology, to music, to entertainment and sports. Ages 7-10.
Cost: $60 Dates: meets 4 times, various dates available Online: outschool.com
Explore Kenyan Cuisines, Culture & Music
Airbnb
The best meals are home-cooked and thanks to the magic of the Internet, you can learn how to make Kenyan cuisines from scratch with ingredients and materials from your own kitchen! In this interactive experience, learn how to prepare authentic Kenyan cuisines all using the techniques from the chef's family own recipes. A fun family experience!
Cost: $31 Date: various dates available Online: airbnb.com
The FunikiJam Show Celebrates Black Musicians: PARIS JAZZ and ZOUK Edition
KidPass
Last year they were Off-broadway and On-tour with their own original musicals, but now you can dance, sing, play and learn with the FunikiJam cast in online programs that are part high-energy class and part interactive live show (a 2021 Best of NYC Music Class) .
This special edition features jazz, swing & zouk music from black musicians (who lived in Paris to escape oppression), original FunikiJam songs, stories, and rhymes about Paris Culture, and clever adaptations of French folk songs like Free Jacques. Ages 2-7.
Anyika Onuora will take you through an exciting, virtual HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workout that includes a warmup, rest breaks, and a cool down. After the workout, she’ll be sharing her journey in sport and what it took for her to achieve her dreams, including how she won my Olympic medal even after contracting Malaria ten months prior. Wrap up the session with a Q&A and you’ll also see the shiny medals she won.
Cost: $26 Dates: various dates available Online: airbnb.com
The FunikiJam Show Celebrates Black Musicians: MOTOR CITY MOTOWN Edition
KidPass
Last year they were Off-broadway and On-tour with their own original musicals, but now you can dance, sing, play and learn with the FunikiJam cast in online programs that are part high-energy class and part interactive live show (a 2021 Best of NYC Music Class) .
This special edition features music from Motown Superstars like Diana Ross & the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and the Jackson 5 mixed with original FunikiJam songs, stories, and rhymes about transportation and construction. Ages 2-7.
Looking for ways to celebrate Black History Month in NYC? We compiled the following list of NYC museums, cultural institutions, monuments and more that celebrate and honor the history, culture and talents of Black Americans year-round, as well as special events and exhibits taking place to celebrate 2022’s Black History Month. (Many are free to visit, see and attend.) Read on for ideas of places in NYC to see with kids during Black History Month—or any month!
Black History Month 2022
Bronx
Black History Month at the New York Botanical Garden
All month long NYBG is hosting events in-person and online for kids and adults. Children's programming includes storytelling at the Everett Children's Adventure Garden and activity time to discover the cultural influences of the African Diaspora and reinforce the importance of green space and caring for the natural world.
Black Future Festival at Brooklyn Children's Museum
Brooklyn Children's Museum
Join BCM for a week of reflection and future-forward fun inspired by the national celebration of peoples of the African Diaspora and Black History Month. With the help of a curator from Àṣẹ Dance Theatre Collective, the museum will present interactive dance performances and a Genea-Djali workshop, plus storytelling inspired by Crown Heights, quilting and genealogy workshops, local eats and much more. Tickets must be reserved in advance.
African/American: Making the Nation’s Table at Museum of Food and Drink
MOFAD
The Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) presents African/American: Making the Nation’s Table. Displayed within the newly-constructed home of partner The Africa Center at Aliko Dangote Hall, this first-of-its-kind exhibition celebrates the countless contributions of Black chefs, farmers, and food and drink producers who have laid the foundation for American food culture. Highlights include the Legacy Quilt, which depicts, a selection of hundreds of stories; those who wish can contribute their own stories via an online interactive component. Also on display is the Ebony Magazine Test Kitchen—saved from wreckage thanks to preservationists Landmarks Illinois and accessible to the public for the first time in history. Described by The Chicago Tribune as “the most distinctive test kitchen ever created,” it was the site where recipes from Ebony food editors created dishes such as oyster gumbo to sweet potato pudding. The multisensory experience features a soundtrack curated by musician, farmer and chef Kelis, and video interviews with former Ebony food editors.
Opens February 23, Wed-Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 1280 5th Ave. East Harlem 201-371-3550 Online: mofad.org
The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem
Coinciding with Black History Month, Walt Disney’s regional jazz exhibit, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” will open at The National Jazz Museum in Harlem on Feb. 10. Kids will recognize Joe Gardner – the musician, mentor and teacher from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” – on a tour as they discover the rich and surprising history of jazz. The exhibit was Introduced at The American Adventure inside EPCOT at Walt Disney World, and illustrates the many different cultures and creators who influenced this evolving genre. While in Harlem, the exhibit will include a unique collection of artifacts curated by The National Jazz Museum, including a player piano, a working 78rpm Victrola and Duke Ellington’s white grand piano. Additionally, there will be maquettes of characters Joe Gardner and Dorothea Williams, and virtual experiences via the Play Disney Parks app.
Tickets: Free. Tickets must be reserved in advance. Feb. 10-Aug. 31, 2022 Thurs.-Sat., Noon-5 p.m. National Jazz Museum in Harlem 58 W. 129th St. Online: jmih.org
It's an amazing thing that you can visit legend Louis Armstrong's house in Queens, and in honor of Black History Month the museum is offering a special tour highlighting Armstrong’s relationship to civil rights in America from February 10 26. The Armstrong Archival Collections, which are among the most significant Black archival collections in the world and the largest single jazz archives in the world, document Armstrong’s life as a seminal figure in the histories of civil rights, social justice, African-American culture, music, and film. Get tickets for that tour ($12-15/person) here.
Open Thurs. - Sat. Tickets: $12-15/person; free/kids five and under Louis Armstrong House Museum 34-56 107th St. Corona 718-478-8274 Online: louisarmstronghouse.org
Founded in 1914, the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem has been a major cultural force and venue for American music and artists, showcasing genres such as jazz, R & B, gospel, soul and hip-hop. Its world-famous amateur night began in 1934, with many future legends taking the stage early in their career. Other giants of music and entertainment who have performed here include Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Sarah Vaughn and Billie Holiday.
Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
Located in the neighborhood that served as the heart of the Harlem Renaissance, the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling works to provide children with the opportunity to see and talk about art, as well as make art from their own stories. The museum seeks to support kids challenged by poverty by fostering creative and cognitive skills that prepare children for social and academic success.
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is dedicated to the research, preservation, and exhibition of materials focused on African American, African Diaspora, and African experiences. The research library also hosts public programs and exhibitions, as well as events such as the popular Black Comic Book Festival. Check out the Center’s Black Liberation List for Young Readers.
515 Malcolm X Blvd. (135th St and Malcolm X Blvd.) Harlem 917-275-6975 Online: nypl.org/locations
Founded in 1968, The Studio Museum Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. While it is currently closed, you can see more about its educational and community engagement programs here.
The Shabazz Center facilitates thought exchange around racial equity, justice, and cultural production in the spirit of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, his wife. The building was previously known as the Audubon Ballroom, and is where Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965. (The current center opened in 2005 after significant renovation and restoration.)
Founded by trailblazer Alvin Ailey in 1958 with the goal of celebrating black culture through dance, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues that tradition today. In addition to performances by its repertory companies, the theater offers workshops and classes for kids as young as two years old.
405 W. 55th St. Midtown 212-405-9000 Online: alvinailey.org
The largest and earliest African burial ground in the United States and a National Historic Landmark, the African Burial Ground dates from the middle 1630s to 1795. Discovered in 1991 during the construction of a building at 290 Broadway, it was determined to contain, over six acres, the intact skeletal remains of as many as 15,000 enslaved and free Africans. The site is now home to a public monument, where remains of more than 419 Africans are interred; an interpretive center, and research library to honor and commemorate the lives of enslaved and free Africans in colonial New York.
26 Wall St. Financial District 212-238-4367 Online: nps.gov
Before the land became part of Central Park, the area between W. 82nd and W. 89th Streets was home to Seneca Village, a predominantly Black Community. Built on what was previously farmland, Seneca Village existed from 1825 to 1857 and was exceptional in that about half of its Black residents owned their homes, which also provided a pathway to voting rights. You can take a virtual tour of Seneca Village here.
Between W. 82nd & W. 89th Streets Central Park Upper West Side Online: centralparknyc.org
A Great Day in Harlem Stoop
Wikimedia CC
On August 12, 1958, 57 jazz musicians gathered at 10 a.m. on a stoop in Harlem for what would be one of the most iconic images in music history. Among the giants of the form were Count Basie, Sonny Rollins, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Farmer, Thelonious Monk, Lester Young and Mary Lou Williams.
You can find two statues of the famous abolitionist, writer, orator and publisher in New York City. One, at the entrance to the New York Historical Society (you’ll find Abraham Lincoln at the other entrance) and a second near the northwest corner of Central Park. Find the eight-foot Gabriel Koren piece at Frederick Douglass Circle at 110th Street and Eighth Avenue.
170 Central Park West at 77th Street Upper West Side 212-873-3400 Online: nyhistory.org
Frederick Douglass Circle 110th Street and Eight Avenue Harlem Online: nycgovparks.org
This impressive tribute to composer, jazz musician and bandleader can be found at the northeast corner of Central Park at 110th Street and Fifth Avenue. Rendered in bronze by sculptor Robert Graham, the groundbreaking talent and longtime Harlem resident stands next to a grand piano, and the monument measures 25-feet-high.
Duke Ellington Circle 110th Street & Fifth Ave. Harlem Online: nycgovparks.org
Find this powerful bronze statue of trailblazing abolitionist Harriet Tubman at Harriet Tubman Square, located at the intersection of Frederick Douglass Boulevard, St. Nicholas Avenue and 122nd Street. Also known as "Swing Low", the sculpture is by Alison Saar. The figure of Tubman is shown pulling the roots of slavery out of the ground with faces on her dress representing the people she helped gain freedom through her work as the leader of the Underground Railroad.
Located in Central Brooklyn, Weeksville was one of the largest free Black communities in pre-Civil War America. Weeksville is home to the Hunterfly Road Houses, which were purchased by James Weeks and other investors in 1838 to create a community of Black land-owners, and you can visit them today. The Weeksville Heritage Center works to educate the public about Weeksville and similar communities, as well as serve as a center supporting Black culture, community and creativity and social justice initiatives.
Named for Brooklyn-born Shirley Chisholm, the first African American Congresswoman and the first woman and African American to run for President, this New York State Park is a waterside green space that opened in TK. Rising 130 feet above sea level, the park provides visitors with spectacular views of New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay, the Empire State Building and beyond. The park has 10 miles of bike trails and a bike loaner program, waterside access via a pier and patio, environmental education programs such as guided bird-watching and fishing.
Built in 1849 and located in Brooklyn Heights, the historic Plymouth Church was a major stop on the Underground Railroad, sometimes referred to as its "Grand Central Depot." Its first minister was abolitionist Henry Ward Beecher, brother of Harriet Beecher Stowe author of her anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin. Abraham Lincoln also visited and worshipped here in 1860—apparently he sat in pew 89!
The building at 227 Duffield Street in downtown Brooklyn is also an important place in New York's anti-slavery movement. Dating to the mid-19th century, the former residence of abolitionists Thomas and Harriet Truesdell is located on what is now called "Abolitionist Place." The area was a center of anti-slavery activism, containing numerous safe houses and stops on the Underground Railroad. Just this month, it received landmark status.
The world-renowned instrumentalist and vocalist Louis Armstrong AKA “Satchmo” settled in Corona, Queens with his wife Lucille in 1943, and never left. His home, now a National Historic Landmark, has been preserved in all its mid-century glory, and you can learn more about the man, his music and humanitarian work here.
Located in Staten Island, Sandy Ground is the oldest continuously inhabited free Black settlement in the United States. Established by oystermen who migrated from Maryland fleeing restrictive laws, the community also served as a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad. The Historical Society stages exhibits, events and offers tours, and contains the largest collection of documents detailing Staten Island’s African-American history and culture.
Every U.S. President since 1976 has designated the month of February as Black History Month, along with an accompanying theme. This year’s theme being Black Health and Wellness. Also known as African-American History Month, this annual celebration gives us the perfect opportunity to support black-owned businesses in Chicago and recognize the achievements and contributions of African-Americans to the success of our city. We’ve gathered a wide-range of virtual and in-person events, walking tours, exhibitions, activities and learning opportunities to honor Black History Month with kids in Chicago. Let’s celebrate!
MUSIC & FILM
Chicago Children's Choir
Chicago Children's Choir Chicago Children's Choir is presenting a free virtual Black History Month concert, Preserving and Persevering, on Feb. 26. Preserving and Persevering explores how the power of black music has been a cultural key in both preserving African traditions in America and in helping millions persevere in the face of racial injustice. Online: ccchoir.org
College of DuPage Experience two hours of nostalgia and joy with the heartfelt musical journey at McInich Art Center's Whitney Houston Tribute, Feb. 4. Online: atthemac.org
ART
Art Institute of Chicago (ARTIC)
Southside Community Arts Center We Are Here: Women in the Center's Collectionfeatures artworks made by women artists in the Center's collection. The exhibition provides an opportunity to think about the materiality of Black women's art, while also expanding biographical and visual information on Black women artists. Online: sscartcenter.org
The Art Institute of Chicago Artist Bisa Butler's portraits quilts vividly capture personal and historical narratives of black life. Art Institute of Chicago displayed 20 of her works in 2021 and you can watch a video of the exhibit. Online: youtube.com
Cleve Carney Museum of Art The Cleve Carney Museum of Art located on the College of DuPage campus presents Ayanah Moore:I Wish I Could Be You More Often, Feb. 10-Apr. 10. Moor is an artist whose work explores blackness, gender, desire and language. Online: theccma.org/ayanah-moor
MUSEUM EXHIBITS
Field Museum
Museum of Science & Industry MSI's Black Creativity: Juried Art Exhibition is the nation’s longest-running exhibition of African-American Art, presenting nearly 200 works of art from emerging and established African American artists, thru Apr. 14. Online: msichicago.org
The Field Museum The Field Museum is hosting a variety of online programs throughout February that highlight and amplify Black voices and stories. The live and pre-recorded events include a mix of Black History-themed behind-the-scenes tours, virtual exhibition viewings, and panel discussions with museum scholars. Online: fieldmuseum.org
DuSable Museum of African American History The groundbreaking immersive, The March, recreates one of the most iconic moments in American history, the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The video features a selection of noteworthy individuals and activists reading sections of the speech, underscoring the parallels between the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s and the global non-violent demonstrations of today. Online: dusablemuseum.org
American Writers Museum Originally on view at the American Writers Museum in 2019, Frederick Douglass: Agitator is now available virtually. Visitors can see the original content from the exhibit that explores the later life of writer and orator Frederick Douglass, learn about his use of portraiture, download curriculum and more. Online: americanwritersmuseum.org
Monument to the Great Northern Migration At Martin Luther King Jr. Drive & 26th Place, you'll find Alison Saar's bronze figure that stands as a testament to the thousands of African-Americans who migrated to Chicago in the early 20th century in search of greater freedom and opportunity. One of the traveler's hands is raised in salutation to his new home and in his other hand, he carries a suitcase symbolic of his journey, dreams and talents. The statue is oriented to the north to symbolize the traveler's destination. Online: chicago.gov
Victory Monument The Victory Monument is one of the most famous landmarks for Chicago's African-American Community and is part of the National Register of Historic Places. The monument was built to honor the 8th Regiment of the Illinois National Guard, which became the 370th Infantry of the 93rd Division upon the start of World War 1. They saw action in France as the last regiment pursuing retreating German Forces in the Aisne-Marne region just before the war broke. Online: choosechicago.com
Obama's Kissing Rock Black History Month also happens to encompass Valentine's Day. So, in the spirit of marrying the two, visit the sweetest Presidential memorial. On. The. Planet. Barack and Michelle Obama shared their first kiss in 1989 in front of a once-upon-a-time Baskin-Robbins on Chicago's southside and it's been commemorated with a simple rock with a metallic plaque. Online: atlasobscura.com
Home of Emmett Till Emmett Till was a 14-year-old African-American who became an icon of the civil rights movement after he was lynched while visiting Mississippi in 1955. The South Side Home (6427 S. St. Lawrence Ave.) he shared with his mother was granted landmark status this past January to shield it from demolition or alteration. This is the first step for non-profit owners Blacks in Green to convert the home into a museum.
Bronzeville Walk of Fame The honorees in the Bronzeville Walk of Fame have made extraordinary contributions to the African-American community, including Ida B. Wells, Gwendolyn Brooks, and astronaut Robert H. Lawrence. Ninety-one bronze plaques on medians, sidewalks and crosswalks stretch 10 blocks and the Monument to the Great Northern Migration and Victory Monument frame the permanent outdoor exhibit. Online: enjoyillinois.com
FOOD
iStock
Chicago Black Restaurant Week The 6th annual Chicago Black Restaurant Week runs Feb. 6-20 and celebrates the city's black-owned restaurants with incredible food and delicious deals. Check their website for a list of participating restaurants. Online: chiblackrestaurantweek.com
Mariano's Mariano's is honoring Black History Month with a line-up of events celebrating influential members in the Black food community. Online: marianos.com
Chicago Public Libary Join Ms. Anna via Zoom for Preschool Storytime featuring stories, songs and activities honoring traditional African American rhymes, authors and history. Offered Wednesdays in February. Online: chipublib.bibliocommons.com
Chicago Public Libary's monthly craft program will focus on Black History Month with clay model constellations celebrating Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel into space, Feb. 5. Online:chipublib.bibliocommons.com
On Feb. 16, PIck up a Healing Bead Bracelet Grab and Go Kitcomplete with supplies and instructions in celebration of African American Heritage Month and its 2022 focus on mental health and physical awareness. Create the bracelet at your leisure and then join a Zoom presentation with Miss Stephanie on Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m. Online: chipublib.bibliocommons.com
Zoom with Chicago Park District for a one-hour interactive virtual program presenting a variety of art from dance and theater to poetry and music to highlight the achievements of historical African American heroes, Feb. 24.
A celebration at Loyola Park will include black-owned businesses located in Rogers Park, music, spoken words, historical remembrances and a pop-up display featuring artwork by Chicago Public School students and other educational programs, Feb. 27.
Visit the Chicago Park District website for on-demand activities and the "Named in Their Honor" series featuring iconic individuals with namesake parks that contributed to the fabric of our city.
Explore one of DC’s many historically Black neighborhoods and Black historic sites and landmarks in celebration of Black History Month this February. From reflecting on the Civil Rights movement on the National Mall to getting a hands-on education about Black Civil War regiments at the African American Civil War Museum, we’ve rounded up some of the most notable sites and some off-the-beaten path locations to help guide you when exploring Black history here in DC.
Home of the Bison, this historically Black university sits on the edge of the U St. corridor (see below) in DC's Shaw neighborhood. Famous graduates includes our first Black, first Asian and first woman Vice President Kamala Harris, the Supreme Court's first Black justice Thurgood Marshall, author Toni Morrison, the first Black mayor of NYC David Dinkins and more. The university's library, Founders Library, is listed on the national registry of historic places; it's bell tower can be seen prominently beyond campus.
Editor's Note: Founder's Library is temporarily closed to the public.
This memorial depicting one of the first Black Union regiments formed during the Civil War is on permanent display in the National Gallery of Art. The bronze work of art depicts Colonel Robert Gould Shaw parading to the Boston docks before departing for South Carolina with his troop. When you visit, be sure to check out this National Park Service guide that shares the 1,500 names of the men who served this regiment.
Constitution Ave. NW, Between 3 & 9th St. National Mall Online:nga.gov
Stretching two blocks on 16th St. (south of K St.), the Black Lives Matter Plaza feature a boldly painted yellow mural in all caps declaring: Black Lives Matter. The Plaza along with a street sign bearing the same name, were dedicated on June 5, 2020 (the birthday of Breonna Taylor). Originally used as grounds for demonstrations due to the close proximity to the White House, in Oct. of 2021 it became a permanent installation and remains a pedestrian-friendly walkway where people often come to photograph the 50 ft. letters.
Starting at K & 16 St. Downtown DC
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglas National Historic Site
It took two generations to establish and restore this spot as a National Historic Site. Cedar Hill, the Southeast DC home where escaped slave turned preeminent orator and scholar,Frederick Douglass, lived his final years. Now serving as an educational center, Cedar Hill runs tours, and sponsors family-friendly events throughout the year, including Douglass’s birthday celebration.
Insider Tip: You can tour this property from the comfort of your home here.
1411 W St., SE Anacostia 202-426-5961 Online: nps.gov
The U St. corridor was once known as the Black Broadway district. Flanked by Howard Theatre on the east end and 14th St. on the west, this neighborhood was DC's cultural epicenter from the early 1900s to the mid '60s. Explore this cultural stomping ground by starting at Howard Theatre, the iconic stage where legends like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and Nat King Cole got their start and heading northwest and pass the Bohemian Caverns (a former speakeasy hidden by a first floor pharmacy where Duke Ellington was a frequent performer), and continue west to historic Lincoln Theatre; don't forget to stop in near-by DC landmark Ben's Chili Bowl, a black-owned
Pay tribute to the iconic abolitionists Mary and Emily Edmonson. The bronze memorial at 1701 Duke St. in Alexandria (directly across the street from Whole Foods) sits steps away from the former the Bruin's Jail where the sisters, then 15 and 13, were held after they tried to escape the clutches of slavery on a New Jersey-bound schooner, The Pearl. The sisters were later freed by their father (with the help of a abolitionist and minister Henry Ward Beecher) when he paid $2,250 for their emancipation. Bruin's Jail is now an office building, but you can read the historical plague in front of it at 1707 Duke Street.
To honor the most powerful voice of the Civil Rights movement, this memorial has 15 quotes etched in granite to inspire the next generation. From "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope" on the Martin Luther King Jr. statue to "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice" on the north wall, these inscriptions etched in granite offer a chance for families to collectively reflect on some of Martin Luther King Jr's most moving words.
Take a ten minute walk from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and you will reach the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his most famous speech, "I Have a Dream." Step into history; eighteen steps from the top of the memorial is an inspiration dedicated to the very spot Martin Luther King Jr. stood when he addressed the crowd of 250,000 on the National Mall.
Editor's Tip: Take part in history! Download the "I Have a Dream" speech from PBS and listen to it as you stand in the very spot it was delivered. You'll also find educational lessons to do at home on the PBS site.
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir. NW National Mall Online:nps.gov/linc/
This church is the oldest Black church in Washington, DC. Once a slave and tobacco trading site in the early 1800s, it became a church in 1816 and later a station on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It is believed a vault on the Burial Grounds was used to hide enslaved people as they made their way north. You can learn more about the church's history as well as the original Black citizens of Georgetown at the church's Heritage Center (2906 O Street). To note: tours are by appointment only. Other near-by points of interest on Georgetown's African American Heritage Trail include Rose Park Recreation Center, the John H. Fleet residence, the Emma V. Brown residence, and more.
1334 29th St. NW Georgetown 202-234-0148 Online:mtzionumcdc.org
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects—the good and the gut-wrenching—of the African American experience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family. See our in-depth guide here.
Editor's Note: This museum is closed on Mon.-Tues. Get your timed entry pass here.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW National Mall Online:nmaahc.si.edu
For a peek at the first DC statue to honor both a woman and an African-American, head to Lincoln Park to visit the Mary McLeod Bethune memorial (erected in 1974). Bethune is remembered as a civil rights leader, a suffragist and the first African-American woman to head a Federal agency. She may be best known for her contributions to education; she founded the Bethune-Cookman University, which is today’s only historically Black college to have been founded by a woman. What better way to celebrate Bethune’s passion for education than with the game I Spy with sight words. Come prepared with flashcards for the following words, which can all be found in the statue's inscription: LOVE, HOPE, EDUCATION, RESPECT, FAITH, and DIGNITY.
"Spirit of Freedom,' which sits at the corner of Vermont Avenue and 10th Street, honors the 209,145 Black soldiers and officers who served under the Bureau of United States Colored Troops in the fight to free enslaved Black Americans. Across the street, you'll find the African-American Civil War Museum. Tours of the actual museum are by appointment only; this living museum has a number of must-book programs that bring history to life through re-enactments, including the one-hour, award-winning School of the Soldierprogram for elementary and middle schoolers.
Richmond is steeped in important Black history and here are just a few of the ways you can experience it with your kids.
Visit the home of Maggie Lena Walker, a newspaper editor, bank president and champion of civil rights for African Americans and women. Join a tour of her home and an exhibit hall, watch a short film about her life and walk in the footsteps of a great activist of the early 20th century. There's also a Maggie L. Walker Memorial Plaza.
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture and history African Americans people in Virginia and has permanent exhibits that explore Jim Crow, Reconstruction, Emancipation and more.
You can also explore Richmond’s monuments: Virginia Civil Rights Memorial on the Capitol grounds, Slavery Reconciliation Statue, Henry Box Brown, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson monument and the Arthur Ashe monument on Monument Ave. There's also a self-guided Richmond Slave Trail: Walk along and discover seventeen different markers that display the somber truth about slavery in Richmond.
At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts entrance along historic Arthur Ashe boulevard, you'll find Rumors of War, a powerful sculpture by Black artist Kehinde Wiley’s. You'll also currently find the the Marcus-David Peter Circle (Robert E. Lee Monument) where artist Dustin Klein's light projections on the statue of Robert E. Lee include images and videos of Black citizens who are victims of police brutality, including Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, as well as projects of iconic Black leaders like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Billie Holiday, and Malcom X.
Spontaneous city adventures are always a hit with kids. So why not pair an impromptu day out with a history lesson? If you’re looking for a hands-on way to celebrate Black History Month with kids in Seattle, you’ll find it at these local museums, theaters, monuments and playgrounds. We’ve got the spots, you make it count.
25 years in the making, NAAM opened its doors to the public in 2008. Since then, its staff has educated visitors on the experiences of African Americans in the Northwest through art, music, craft, literature and history exhibits. Even the building itself—the former Colman School—is an important landmark. It was the first Seattle school to admit Black students. Before the museum came to be, the Colman School was occupied by community activists, who ran a makeshift museum on the property, for eight years.
Good to know: Although the museum remains closed, families can stay connected to NAAM through a monthly virtual storytime, virtual exhibits and community programs like the recent MLK Day celebration.
2300 S. Massachusetts St. Seattle, WA 206-518-6000 Online:naamnw.org
Just outside NAAM, families will find Jimi Hendrix Park, a wide-open space that includes grassy fields, paved pathways and art that honors the groundbreaking, Seattle-born musician. While the park is a great spot to spy Hendrix lyrics and enjoy a picnic, families should head to MoPOP to get the full story on Jimi and other important African American musicians with ties to Seattle.
2400 S. Massachusetts. St. Seattle, WA Online:seattle.gov
Contact High at MoPOP
courtesy MoPOP
Speaking of important Black artists, you’ll see Salt-N-Pepa, Tupac, Queen Latifah and other musicians that both defined and created the Hip Hop genre at MoPOP’s latest exhibit, Contact High. Immerse yourself in over 170 intimate images chronicling a music revolution that started in the ‘70s and continues to push boundaries today. Race relations, fashion, politics and culture are all part of the movement. You’ll need tickets to see this fantastic exhibit on display through March 2023.
While families can always find intriguing artwork by Black artists at the Seattle Art Museum, there's a new opening that should be on your list to see this month. LA-based artist, Lauren Halsey's solo exhibition just opened at the museum in early February, and it will be on display through July. Winner of the 2021 Gwendolyn Knight and Jacob Lawrence Prize, Halsey works to "address gentrification and disenfranchisement and celebrate Black culture" through her vibrant installations and sculptures. Pro tip: Free First Thursday is a great time to take the kids to see this exhibit.
MOHAI is where you'll find this collection of oil paintings that highlight and honor the black musicians that influenced Seattle's early jazz scene. And there's a small window to see the show; it's only here February 19-21. After you take in the art and learn about the scene, bring the kids to King Street Station for a self-guided Green Book walking tour where the fam can learn about some of Seattle's vibrant Black-owned and Black-friendly businesses (including the Black & Tan Club) that operated in the area over a 40 year period.
Wa Na Wari, or “our home,” opened its doors in 2019 as a hub for Black art and culture in the Central District. It's a place for community members and families to enjoy art exhibits, concerts, film screenings and more. The home it’s housed in has been owned by the same family for five generations, and turning it into an artists’ space has allowed the property to remain Black-owned amid Seattle’s rising housing costs. Visitors can stop by to see the current art exhibits at the house Fridays through Sundays without an appointment. Please remember to review the community agreements before exploring the space.
The next time you’re in Capitol Hill, stop by Seattle’s first Black church—First African Methodist Episcopal Church (FAME). The church was established in 1886, and churchgoers held Sunday School at various members’ homes. It was designated a Seattle Landmark in 1984.
1522 14th Ave. Seattle, WA
Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer
Liz Lauren
A play for older kids and parents (or maybe a date night?), Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer chronicles the life of a passionate American civil rights activist and hero—Fannie Lou Hamer. The story starts with her humble beginnings as the daughter of a Mississippi sharecropper and follows Fannie to co-founding the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and demanding recognition at the National Democratic Convention. It's a story of justice that will make audiences applaud.
Dates: Through Feb. 13, 2022
Seattle Rep Bagley Wright Theater 155 Mercer St. Seattle, WA Event details
After seeing Fannie, check out the August Wilson Way Portal, tucked in behind the Rep. The 12-foot high arch and red door pay tribute to the playwright, who lived out his final years in the Emerald City. Wilson staged many of his well-known plays, that chronicle the experiences of African Americans in each decade of the 20th century, at the Rep.
Also at Seattle Center is the Buffalo Soldiers exhibit—on the second floor of the Armory (above the Bubble Tea shop). The timeline and photos on display tell the story of Black soldiers, part of a segregated army, stationed at Fort Lawson with the 25th infantry during WWI and WWII. The timeline illustrates the meaningful contributions the Buffalo Soldiers (and others) made to Seattle's evolution. It'll be on display through the end of this month.
You might not pay attention to the names of the city parks and playgrounds you frequent, but now is a good time to add a brief history lesson to your play time at one of several parks that honor African Americans who called Seattle home. Some of our faves are Alice Ball Park, named after Seattle-born chemist, Alice Ball, who developed a treatment for leprosy. Families can also head to Flo Ware Park (pictured), named after this community activist who fought for educational equity and organized Seattleites to join the Poor People’s March in Washington, D.C. in the '60s. Or tell your kids about Dr. Blache Lavizzo, the first African American pediatrician in Washington state and Medical Director of Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic. She started her practice in Seattle in 1956 and has a water feature and small park named after her.
If you’ve been to the ACT Theatre, you’ve visited the Eagles Auditorium and possibly not known it. Back in the day, Eagles Auditorium was one of the few places Martin Luther King spoke on his one and only trip to Seattle in November, 1961. Today, the building is known as Kreielsheimer Place, and it houses, in addition to apartments, the ACT’s five performance spaces on its ground floor. The next time you're there, look for the bust of Dr. King (outside the Allen Theatre) that commemorates his visit.
By Kevin Scott, photo courtesy of Community Roots Housing
Pick up dinner from Communion in the Liberty Bank Building and learn about the first Black-owned bank in Seattle. The Liberty Bank opened in 1968 on 24th Ave. & E. Union Street. It was an important resource for African Americans who were denied loans from Seattle’s mainstream banks that followed redlining practices. The courtyard plaque can fill you in on the whole story.
When the grandparents visit, treat them to a day out on the town and share some of the fun things that make Seattle extra-special! Added bonus? You get to play tourist in your own city. Check out these 13 local outings that offer the perfect blend of all-ages adventure and opportunities to connect as a family.
Treat the grands to a sweet ride on the water! Take a spin on Lake Union in a donut boat. Donut boats are an easy, affordable way to enjoy the beautiful, bustling Seattle water scene. Boats seat six people (weight capacity is 1,200 pounds) and have electric motors steered by tiller, so they are easy to operate (no prior boating experience required). You’ll get a quick tutorial and the friendly, helpful staff will have you on the water in under ten minutes. Take in the Seattle skyline, boats and watch float planes take off and land in the lake. There is a small umbrella aboard for shade, but dress in layers and don’t forget your sunscreen. Make a reservation, pack some snacks and drink, and get ready for a fun adventure on the open seas!
Grand Alternative: If non-motorized boating is more your speed, head a couple miles north to Greenlake Boathouse where you can rent a variety of water craft from kayaks to pedal boats and more to enjoy on Seattle’s favorite lake.
Seattle Donut Boat Co. 1001 Fairview Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109 206-719-1773 Online: seattledonutboat.com
Greenlake Boathouse 7351 E. Green Lake Dr. N. Seattle, WA 98115 206-527-0171 Online: greenlakeboatrentals.net
Explore the Amazon Spheres
Photo Library
Do Grandma and Grandpa have a green thumb? Treat them to one of the most interesting experiences in the city. The Amazon Spheres are architecturally stunning and offer a glimpse at more than 400 different species of cloud forest plants from around the globe. The Spheres’ extensive collection of biodiverse flora explore the value of conservation in a unique, urban environment. The plants are organized into a number of collections, including breathtaking vertical gardens and carefully cultivated green spaces with plants of all shapes and sizes. You’ll see flora that you’ve never seen before. Ambassadors roam the area to answer questions and provide more information on the diverse plants. A fan favorite is the rare corpse flower, a plant that takes about seven years to produce its first bloom, which only remains open for about 48 hours.
Good to know: Parties are currently limited to groups of four with a one-hour time limit to enjoy the Spheres. Reservations are required and are released 15 days prior to the date. They fill up quickly.
A friendly game of miniature golf is the perfect activity for family members of all ages. These three outdoor courses provide a little challenge, a little competition and a lot of fun! Redmond’s Rainbow Run putting course journeys through four PNW climate zones and features many defining qualities of our region, including waterfalls and lots of greenery. Fun addition: each hole is named after a Seattle-area destination. Interbay Miniature Golf offers an outdoor adventure in the heart of Seattle. Fun and convenient if you want to add a round of golf to a day of showing Grandma and Grandpa the city. If you’re up for a day trip, drive to scenic Snohomish and visit the quaint historic district for delicious eats (don’t miss Snohomish Pie Company) and eclectic shopping and stop by Snohomish Valley Golf Center for a round of mini golf. Enjoy lunch, dinner or apps at the on-site Valley Grill.
Rainbow Run at Willows Run 10402 Willows Rd. Redmond, WA 98052 425-883-1200 Online: willowsrun.com
Nestled just east of downtown, Bellevue Botanical Garden offers year-round color, beauty and tranquility. Made up of over a dozen cultivated gardens and wetlands covering 53 acres, there is something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate. The gardens and trails are accessible for all, but visitors should dress for the weather and wear non-skid shoes to safely traverse the park. Stop by the The Trillium Store for garden-inspired gifts or take a break at the Copper Kettle Coffee Bar and enjoy a great cup of organic, free-trade coffee or delicious sweet treats from Macrina Bakery. Lunch items are also available. Psst! Dogs, bikes and skateboards are not allowed in the gardens. Families and children are welcome, but it’s not a traditional park with a playground. This experience is best-suited for kids who can stay on paths and avoid disturbing the plants, flowers and fruits.
Good to know: If your family needs to burn some energy after enjoying the beautiful landscape, head up the street to Wilburton Hill Park where there is a fun playground and space to run, jump and play!
Hours: Dawn to dusk Cost: Free
Bellevue Botanical Garden 12001 Main St. Bellevue, WA 98005 425-452-2750 Online: bellevuebotanical.org
So, Grandpa may not be too good at Super Smash Bros., but pinball is another story altogether. And, the Seattle Pinball Museum may not be first on your list of Seattle sights to see, but it is truly unique with over 50 pinball machines from 1960 all the way up this year. A few other classic arcade video games are on hand as well (just in case the tot lot can't figure out how to make those pinball flippers work). And unlike other museums, this one is completely hands on. And you can play for as long as you like–no quarters needed. Psst! This is a great place for families with older kids since you need to be at least 7 years old to play.
Good to know:Admission price is good for as long as you stay in the facility. If you plan to come and go, add $5 more. No outside food or drink is allowed, but there are snacks, sodas, craft beer and cider available for purchase. Parking can be tricky. Try the lot at the end of the block on Maynard to avoid parking headaches.
Seattle Pinball Museum 508 Maynard Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104 206-623-0759 Online: seattlepinballmuseum.com
Ahoy Matey!
Emerald City Pirates
If the grands have always wanted to get in touch with their inner pirate, Emerald City Pirates offers swashbuckler adventures on Lake Union aboard the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Together, on a fully interactive pirate experience, you’ll search for treasure, play games, learn to talk like a pirate and even fire a (water) cannon. Every child will receive a treasure from the ship’s treasure chest, too. Before setting sail, you’ll receive your pre-ordered swag and pirate name tag. Swag selections include a pirate pak (including a sword, bandana, and eye patch), pirate hat, or hook. Psst! Arrive 30 minutes early so you have time to stop by the ship’s store and purchase additional pirate paraphernalia, snacks, and drinks (including adult libations).
Good to know: Boarding activities last approximately 15 minutes; the cruise lasts approximately 60 minutes, with ten minutes of disembarkation time. A total experience of one hour and 30 minutes. Outside food and drink is not allowed.
Hours: Varies. Check the website Cost: $32/Salty Dogs (14-64); $27/Scallywags (1.5-14) and Senior Salts (54 & up); $12/Wee Pirates (0-1.5)
Emerald City Pirates 860 Terry Ave. N. Seattle WA 98109 206-639-8689 Online: emeraldcitypirates.com
Take a Ride on the Wild Side
Unlike any other zoos in the state, Northwest Trek is a like a safari for viewing Northwestern animals. Book a Wild Drive or Keeper Adventure for an up close and personal interaction with Northwest wildlife including moose, bison, elk and many others in their natural habitat. Wander the grounds on the paved path (that is both wheelchair and stroller-friendly) through the forest to find other animal exhibits like bears, wolves and cougars all in naturalistic exhibits. Psst! Before heading home, allow the kids to run off steam at Kid's Trek, the park's huge, nature-inspired playground.
Good to know: If the grandparents are animal lovers, other great zoos and petting farms can be found around Seattle. Click here for a list of our favorites.
Hours: Sun.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. or 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (depending on the season) Online Cost: $22/Adults (13-64); $20/Seniors (65 & up); $14/Youth (5-12); $10/Kids (3-4); Free for kids 2 & under
Northwest Trek 11610 Trek Dr. E. Eatonville, WA 98328 360-832-6117 Online: nwtrek.org
Cruise to Blake Island
Ross Sutcliffe
Want to immerse your visitors in the history, culture and traditions of Northwest Native American tribes? Book a trip to Blake Island. Just 27 minutes from downtown Seattle via the Fast Ferry, Blake Island is a serene and secluded getaway that offers day hikes, guided and self-guided activities, and the Longhouse Café. The Tillicum Excursion, a beloved Northwest tradition, is closed through 2021, but there are plenty of other island activities to choose from. Schedule a guided nature walk to learn about island plants, trees and creatures, or the Coast Salish Cultural presentation to view tribal regalia, masks and more. Wrap up your time on the island by reserving a fire table to dine al fresco and roast s’mores. Psst! New this summer: Blake Island is hosting on-site wineries and breweries on select weekends for tastings. Check the schedule to see who is coming and then book your Wine Flights!
One of Seattle’s coolest attractions is the Wings Over Washington “flying theater” found on Pier 57. Built with the same technology as Disney theme park’s "Soarin’” attractions, Wings Over Washington takes guests on a virtual tour of the Pacific Northwest aboard the wings of a giant eagle. During the full sensory experience, you will fly over a packed Husky football game, glide over Snoqualmie Falls (and feel a gentle spray of mist), zoom over area forests and take in the scent of pine trees as you travel through the Cascade Mountains.
Good to know: Wings Over Washington is located right next to Seattle’s Great Wheel which offers another unique view of the Emerald City. Ticket prices include three trips around the wheel and spectacular views of the downtown waterfront, West Seattle, Magnolia, Pike Place Market, the Port of Seattle and much more. Wings Over Washington is also nestled among many local shops and eateries, including The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar which offers fantastic food and a view to match, plus the Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, Pirate's Plunder and Seattle Aquarium.
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Cost: $17/Adults (12-64); $13/Youth (11 & under); $15/Seniors (65 & up). With the exception of seniors, tickets can be purchased online prior to your ride.
Wings Over Washington 1301 Alaskan Way Seattle, WA 98101 206-602-1808 Online: wingsoverwa.com
Want to share Seattle’s magnificent water views over a scrumptios seafood meal? Here are a few excellent choices:
Duke's is a Seattle gem offering water-side locations around the Sound. Duke's is family owned and their love for multi-generational gatherings shows through their service and commitment to sustainability. Duke Moscrip himself takes pride in his menu, with zero chemicals in the ingredients or dishes of any kind. The kid's menu has the same health qualities that the regular menu offers, and both are 100% sustainable. Don't miss the chowder sampler or the clam strips!
For sunsets it's hard to beat Ray's Boathouse, with epic views of the Olympic Mountains and non-stop opportunities for bird and wildlife spotting, making it a great spot for both the kids and the grands. Ivar's Salmon House has a very entertaining patio, with boats, kayaks and paddle boards sailing by. And a fantastic Native American art collection inside. Psst! If you ask, a host will be happy to go over the impressive carvings with you.
Most visitors will want to check the Space Needle off their to-do lists, and we can't blame them. Just remember that the Seattle Center has so many other exciting things to do once your feet are back on solid ground. And each of these entertaining options can be easily accessed by foot or wheelchair; it's your one stop shop for Seattle fun!
Chihuly Garden and Glass is arguably the most unique and spectacular exhibit of any kind in the city. If you haven't been, it's time to use those visitors to your advantage and make it happen! MoPOP is similarly special to Seattle. Take in the Museum's latest exhibits and listen to the grandparents go on about owning Jimi Hendrix records on vinyl back in the day. After a trip through the two museums, let the kids burn off some energy at the nearby Artists at Play Playground while the grandparents rest at the nearby tables and benches. If the weather is warm, everyone will enjoy cooling off by the International Fountain which presents water shows choreographed to special music selections throughout the day. And don't forget about the variety of food and beverage selections found in the Armory. It's the perfect place to enjoy a great meal and take a load off. If you’re feeling extra motivated, consider adding on a visit to the Pacific Science Center, Seattle Children’s Museum or even a ride on the Seattle Center Monorail.
Good to know: Street parking (if you can find any) is usually cheaper than the parking garages around the Seattle Center. Better yet, go on a Sunday when street parking is free.
Seattle Center 305 Harrison St. Seattle, WA 98109 206-684-7200 Online: seattlecenter.com
Eat Your Way Through Pike Place Market
Alaina Weimer
Chef Traci Calderon runs Atrium Kitchen, an absolute delight tucked inside Pike Place Market. After spending just a few minutes with her, she will feel like part of the family. Atrium Kitchen offers many options to entertain budding chefs and gourmets alike. Schedule a Market to Table Tour for a one-of-a-kind, hands-on culinary adventure. Chef Traci will tailor the tour to your family's dietary and mobility needs and her Pike Place Market stories, which draw on decades of local lore, are fun for even seasoned visitors of the Market.
Market Extra: After picking up all those great cooking tips, let the grands stock up on local delicacies at DeLaurenti Food & Wine. And if your family is looking for an authentic Seattle brewery experience (with a spectacular view of Elliott Bay), beeline it to Old Stove Brewing Co. and let them enjoy 24 taps (brewed on-site) in the MarketFront on Western Ave.
Getting out on the water and fully experiencing our amazingly aquatic city is an absolute must for visiting grandparents. A quick ferry ride to Bremerton, Vashon Island, or Kingston couldn't be easier, especially if you choose to walk on the ferry. The views of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier and Puget Sound can't be beat!
If you're looking for something even more thrilling, consider a whale watching excursion. The only half-day, guaranteed whale watching trip near Seattle, the Puget Sound Express in Edmonds, is a fantastic way to bond with family and experience the joy of being on the water. Voyage through the Salish Sea and the San Juan Islands and spot dolphins, seals, sea lions, sea birds, and of course, whales! The excitement of spotting the first majestic whale is always a major thrill, but seeing the smiles on your family's faces will be priceless. The state-of-the-art boat is extremely comfortable, specifically designed for whale watching and provides indoor seats for all, outdoor decks, and large picture windows for viewing marine life. Psst! We recommend pre-ordering sandwich box lunches with your ticket purchase, so that no one gets hangry. And be sure to save room for Sherri’s famous Blueberry Buckle, made fresh daily.
Good to know: Puget Sound Express is a family run business with three generations of experience. The Puget Sound is their environment and they know and love these waters like their backyard. As members of the Pacific Whale Watch Association, their sound-proofed, hydrofoil jet boats have no propellers, making them the quietest vessels in the fleet. While they also offer bird-watching and photography cruises, the Seattle Whale Watching Tour is a truly iconic Pacific Northwest experience.
Puget Sound Express 459 Admiral Way Edmonds, WA 98020 360-385-5288 Online: pugetsoundexpress.com
Spring is legit springing and these gardens are blooming with vivid colors! Skip the wooded hike and and take a socially-distant stroll through one of these public gardens and parks. These urban gardens offer a change of scenery with an unbeatable admission; all are free! Read on for the best places to see flowers blooming in Washington, DC this spring.
Duck through archways and lounge in gazebos; Bishop's Garden, located on the south side of the Washington National Cathedral, feels like a secret oasis just miles from downtown DC. There are plenty of shaded benches to rest while your little ones stretch their legs. Beyond Bishop's Garden, there are 59 acres of grassy fields, wooded paths and landscaped gardens to explore!
Safety regulations: Masks must be worn while on cathedral grounds. The National Cathedral is currently closed to visitors.
Hours: Daily, dawn-dusk Location: 2112 S St NW, Between N Florida Ave & N 21st St Phone: 202-537-6200 Online: cathedral.org/gardens
The US Botanic Garden is currently closed (see below), but Bartholdi Park, which sits across from the conservatory off Independence Ave., is open and a welcome place to enjoy a tabletop picnic. Bartholdi Park has served as a demonstration garden for over 80 years, showcasing native plants to the Mid-Atlantic region in different gardening styles using sustainable planting practices. Come back at night and enjoy the glow of Bartholdi Fountain!
Hours: Daily Location: 245 First St SW, Corner of Independence & Washington Ave., Capitol South Phone: 202-225-8333 Online: usbg.gov/bartholdi-park
Many say the Arboretum is under utilized, but you’re in the know thanks to us and we say, don’t miss one of the most beautiful gardens in our area. Located two miles northeast of the Capitol building, with entrances on New York Avenue and R Street, DC’s Arboretum is home to more than 400 acres of woods, trails, ponds and display gardens, plus the captivating National Bonsai Museum.
Safety regulations: The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum and Administration is temporarily closed. Masks are required at all times while on Federal lands.
Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: 3501 New York Ave NE, Northeast Washington Phone: 202-245-2726 Online: usna.usda.gov
Franciscan Monastery
Franciscan Monastery
Nestled in the Brookland neighborhood not far from The Catholic University of America, the Franciscan Monastery replicates the shrines and buildings found in Jerusalem. The stunning gardens and grounds are open daily to the public. Guided tours and access to the church and catacombs is currently suspended due to COVID-19. If you and your littles would like to tour the lower and upper gardens without making your way to the Monastery, there is also an online virtual tour here.
Right next to the Yates Field House you'll find this hidden gem of a garden on Georgetown University grounds considered a best-kept secret by many locals. Finding the garden is half the fun! It's located on the east and north sides of the Heyden Observatory. You'll find small ponds and water features, an arch to run under and views of the Potomac River. The peaceful silence is occasionally interrupted by overhead airplanes; small children will delight in seeing their low-flying path.
Hours: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Location: West Rd. NE, Washington, DC 20057 Phone: 202-687-3600 Online:georgetown.edu
Kenilworth is said to be the place where water, wind and land dance, and we say that’s pretty accurate. It is the only national park devoted to cultivated water-loving plants. Kids love exploring the park’s marshes and discovering exotic water lilies and lotus. This is a great place to take your little ones on a nature-loving hike, especially if you have a budding bird-watcher on your hands. The park is rich and varied in natural and cultural history.
The US Botanic Garden is not currently open to the public due to COVID-19, but hop online and you can explore and discover some of the most unique blooms in the world, including rare beauties such as the African Tulip Tree, the Scarlet Rosemallow and the Jungle Lollipop via the Virtual Tour. Once this DC treasure re-opens, be sure to make visit to the outdoor Children’s Garden, where the kiddos can use gardening tools and watering cans for a true hands-on experience, spend time in the conservatory, which offers a showcase of plants from around the world, as well as the national outdoor garden, which is filled with roses.
Safety regulations: The conservatory is currently closed due to COVID-19. You can visit virtually here, or take a moment to smell the flowers at Bartholdi Park (see above).
Perched on the highest hill in DC’s posh Georgetown neighborhood, this breathtaking garden is listed on National Geographic’s top 10 as the sixth most beautiful garden in the world. Sadly, both the house and gardens are currently closed due to COVID-19. You will need to wait until they reopen to visit Dumbarton's 10 acres of lush, sculpted greenery. But while you wait, you can check out the museums exhibits online as well as view photographs and drawings of the gardens. When their doors open again, be sure to let the kids roam through the terraced garden rooms and vistas, and walk down the many meandering brick pathways.
Safety regulations: Currently closed due to COVID-19, but you can still visit virtually.
Hours: Currently closed. Visit online here. Location: 3120 R St. NW, Georgetown Phone: 202-339-6400 Online:doaks.org
Feed a giraffe, hang with a sea lion for an afternoon, get close enough to smooch a coyote. Sounds like bits from a kid’s ultimate bucket list, right? Make their dreams come true with wildlife encounters at Chicago’s zoos, aquariums and an animal rescue park. Read on, take notes and prepare to take a walk on the wild side.
Brookfield Zoo Giraffe Feeding
Brookfield Zoo
Although they spend much of their day grazing, giraffes have never been known to say no to a meal. Twice a day throughout the summer, kids can stop by Habitat Africa: The Savannah to deliver delicious greens the giraffes will take right from their hand.
Covering just over 3-acres, Brookfield Zoo’s Hamill Family Wild Encounters features unforgettable hands-on experiences that include opportunities to touch and feed animals. Purchase seed sticks and play feeder to hundreds of colorful parakeets that happily land on your hand, watch the kids giggle as goats nibble on their shoelaces and experience the friendliness of wallabies as they welcome you into their enclosure. There are also up-close encounters with red pandas, llamas, alpacas and reindeer as well as a rotating selection of animal ambassadors.
Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: general admission plus additional $6/adults, $3/ages 3-11 Online:czs.org
The drive to Milwaukee is worth it to take part in Ocean of Fun's 60-minute Aquatic Adventure experience. You'll go behind the scenes and learn about marine animals, animal adaptations, training techniques and steps you can take to protect animals in the wild. Kids ages 6 and above are given the opportunity to touch, feed, interact with, and train the seals or sea lions.
Oceans of Fun, 10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee Hours: Saturdays, May-October Cost: $300/ages 6 & up Online:oceansoffun.org
Join the ocean's most dynamic and misunderstood predators—sharks—and other marine predators for brunch via a live virtual tour with Shedd Aquarium. During this 40-minute tour, you'll learn how Shedd's aquarists prepare meals, discover how shark and ray species in Wild Reef have been trained to respond during mealtimes and what it takes to feed and care for these amazing creatures.
Virtual with Shedd Aquarium Hours: Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m. Cost: $49.95, discount for members Online:sheddaquarium.org
Cosley Zookeepers take you behind the scenes to visit their coyote up close and observe a training session. Learn about the important role coyotes play in their environment and how humans and coyotes can safely coexist. Sign up in the Wild Side Gift Shop during your zoo visit or call 630-665-5534 to make a reservation.
At Wildlife Prairie Park, you'll find 60 different species and over 150 animals that are native to the midwest region. Many of their animals were rescued and could not be released back into the wild. Walk the 1.5-mile walking trail that will take you through the woods to see wildlife in the natural environments. The enclosures you'll see along the way were made to be as close to their native habitats as possible.
Wildlife Prairie Park, 3826 N. Taylor Rd., Hanna City Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Cost: $9/ages 12 & up & $6/ages 3-12 Online: wildlifeprairiepark.org
The Hot Wheels Legends Tour is back! Now in its fourth year, the 2021 tour will kick off with virtual events and eventually expand into in-person awesomeness.
Presented by Mobil 1, the Hot Wheel Legends Tour is open for fan submissions. This means fans will get their chance to enter their cool cars to become the next 1:64 die-cast toy model.
photo courtesy of Hot Wheels
Ted Wu, Global Head of Hot Wheels Design at Mattel, said in a press release, “Finding time to build isn’t always easy, but with many spending more time at home in the garage over the past year, we expect to see so many more passion-project submissions for the 2021 Hot Wheels Legends Tour.”
The 2021 tour will include regional winners and a Mobil 1 Fan Favorite. These cars are entered into the semi-finals—with 10 finalists chosen. Hot Wheels will reveal the champion in November at the tour’s grand finale event.
Events will span the globe, with live and virtual tour stops starting this spring in New Zealand (Apr. 15), Australia (Apr. 22) and the United States and Canada (Apr. 29). Visit the Hot Wheels Legends Tour website for more information.
